University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The programme combines core business studies with specialised financial planning subjects to build technical knowledge and client-facing skills. Typical study areas include accounting and finance fundamentals, micro- and macroeconomics, business law, taxation and quantitative methods. Specialist units focus on investments, superannuation, retirement and estate planning, risk and insurance, and personal taxation.

Students also study professional practice topics such as ethics, regulatory frameworks, client communication, and financial planning processes. The degree commonly includes a capstone or professional practice unit that integrates technical knowledge into real-world scenarios, and offers electives that allow students to broaden expertise in areas such as corporate finance, financial modelling, or entrepreneurship.

• Core business foundations: accounting, finance, economics, business law, quantitative methods
• Financial planning specialisms: investments, superannuation, retirement planning, estate planning, risk/insurance
• Professional practice: ethics, regulatory environment, client communication, practice management
• Applied learning: capstone projects, case studies and opportunities for work-integrated learning or industry placements

Entry requirements

Entry is typically offered to applicants who meet the University’s undergraduate admission criteria. Domestic applicants usually require a successful secondary school qualification, demonstrated competence in English and a relevant level of mathematics (for example Mathematical Methods or equivalent). The University also considers alternative pathways such as vocational qualifications, recognised tertiary study, and mature-age entry.

International applicants are assessed on comparable secondary qualifications (for example the International Baccalaureate or other country-specific certificates) and must meet English language requirements. Selection may take account of academic performance, statements of purpose and any relevant work experience where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across the wealth management and financial services sector. Common entry-level positions include paraplanner, financial adviser support roles, client services or product administration in banks, superannuation funds and financial planning practices. With experience, graduates progress to roles as financial planners/advisers, wealth managers, retirement specialists, or compliance and risk officers.

The degree also provides a pathway to further study and professional accreditation. Graduates often undertake specialist postgraduate qualifications or professional certification to meet industry requirements and to advance into senior advisory, portfolio management, or corporate finance roles.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide is a research-led institution with a long history of teaching business disciplines. Studying there gives access to experienced academic staff, guest lectures from industry professionals, and resources that support applied learning. The business school emphasises small-group learning in professional practice subjects and offers connections to Adelaide’s financial and corporate community for networking and placement opportunities.

The programme is structured to combine theoretical rigour with practical, client-focused skills, preparing graduates to enter a regulated and client-centric profession with confidence.