University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This double-specialisation degree blends accounting fundamentals with financial planning topics. In the early years you study core commerce subjects such as financial accounting, management accounting, economics, business law and quantitative methods. Accounting stream units typically cover intermediate and advanced financial accounting, auditing, taxation and managerial decision-making. The financial planning stream introduces personal finance, investment principles, superannuation and retirement planning, estate planning, ethical and regulatory frameworks for advice, and risk management.

Typical modules and themes include:

• Financial Accounting: accounting principles, preparation and interpretation of financial statements, consolidation and reporting issues.
• Management Accounting and Finance: costing, budgeting, performance measurement and corporate finance basics.
• Taxation: income tax for individuals and businesses, tax planning and compliance.
• Auditing and Assurance: audit procedures, professional standards and ethical responsibilities.
• Financial Planning: client fact-finding, retirement planning, superannuation, investment products, insurance and estate considerations.
• Regulation and Ethics: professional conduct, regulatory environment for financial advisers and compliance obligations.
• Quantitative and Analytical Skills: statistics, data analysis and use of financial modelling tools.
• Capstone/Industry Project: applied project or practicum working on real-world client or business problems.

The degree structure allows elective choices and opportunity to complete professional accreditation requirements. Practical learning is emphasised through case studies, software labs and industry-linked projects.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on recognised senior secondary qualifications or equivalent tertiary study. Domestic applicants are usually assessed by a university entrance score (for example an ATAR) or completed university-level study. Recommended subject background includes high-school mathematics (Mathematical Methods or equivalent) and competent written English.

International applicants can apply with an equivalent secondary qualification (for example the International Baccalaureate) or recognised overseas credentials. All applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to meet the University of Adelaide's English language requirements via an accepted test or prior study in English.

There are also pathways into the program through foundation or diploma programs, and credit may be granted for recognised prior learning or relevant tertiary study.

Career prospects

Graduates follow diverse careers in accounting, financial advice and corporate finance. Typical roles include:

• Accountant in practice or industry (financial reporting, management accounting, tax)
• Financial planner or paraplanner within advice firms, banks and wealth management businesses
• Tax adviser, superannuation consultant or compliance officer
• Corporate finance analyst, risk analyst or treasury officer
• Audit and assurance practitioner in public practice or internal audit roles

The programme provides a pathway to professional accreditation bodies (such as CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants and financial planning associations) when combined with the relevant postgraduate study and supervised experience where required. Graduates often move into graduate programmes in accounting firms, financial institutions and government agencies, or establish their own advisory practices after gaining professional registration and experience.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers this commerce degree within its established business faculty, combining rigorous academic teaching with industry engagement. Students benefit from experienced academic staff, specialist accounting and finance facilities, and opportunities to work on live projects with corporate and community partners.

The university maintains links with professional bodies and employers in Adelaide and nationally, helping students access internships, mentoring and graduate recruitment pathways. Student clubs, industry events and practical labs support development of professional skills and networks that help graduates transition into accounting and financial planning careers.