University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Accounting covers core accounting disciplines together with supporting business subjects. You will study financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation alongside corporate finance, accounting information systems, business law and ethics. Quantitative topics such as statistics and business mathematics are included, and many programs now incorporate data analytics or spreadsheet modelling to reflect contemporary practice.

Typical modules and subjects include:

• Financial Accounting: preparation and interpretation of financial statements for different entities.
• Management Accounting: costing, budgeting, performance measurement and decision support.
• Auditing and Assurance: audit processes, risk assessment and professional standards.
• Taxation: income tax for individuals and businesses, GST and tax planning basics.
• Accounting Information Systems: systems for recording and reporting, controls and basic IT issues.
• Corporations and Business Law: legal framework for business, corporate governance and ethics.
• Quantitative and Analytical Skills: statistics, econometrics or quantitative methods, and an emphasis on business analytics.
• Capstone or Integrative Project: applied cases or industry-linked projects that integrate accounting knowledge.

The degree is designed to meet the subject requirements of major professional bodies when combined with any specified elective choices. Students can usually tailor study with electives in finance, economics, marketing or information systems, and there may be options for an honours year or honours stream for research-focused study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are admitted on the basis of academic achievement and additional requirements for international students. Typical entry pathways are high-school completion with a competitive selection rank (such as an ATAR or equivalent) or recognised tertiary study for mature-age applicants. Applicants are expected to have competency in mathematics or a related quantitative subject at senior secondary level.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or equivalent documentation. The University also considers alternative entry pathways including foundation programs, bridging studies and recognised diplomas. Specific prerequisite subjects, selection ranks and any alternative entry schemes are published by the University and should be checked before application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Accounting typically move into roles such as graduate accountant, tax adviser, internal or external auditor, management accountant, financial analyst, and corporate accountant. Employers include public accounting firms, industry and commerce, financial services, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations.

The degree provides the academic base required (when combined with required electives or postgraduate study) for membership of professional bodies such as Chartered Accountants and Certified Practising Accountants, and supports pathways to specialist roles in forensic accounting, financial planning, corporate treasury and consulting. Many graduates enter structured graduate programs or pursue further study such as a professional honours year or a master’s to meet professional accreditation requirements.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers accounting education through a research-active business faculty with strong links to the profession and local industry. Students benefit from a curriculum that emphasises technical competence, ethics and real-world application, with opportunities for industry projects, internships and career development services located in the university’s capital-city setting.

Facilities and learning opportunities include access to accounting and finance software, data analytics tools, workshops and professional development sessions. The University’s engagement with employers and alumni networks helps students secure workplace experience and graduate employment pathways while providing a supportive campus environment and academic mentorship.