University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This double-major commerce degree pairs a full accounting sequence with property and real estate units. Core commerce subjects build a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, business statistics, corporate finance, business law and management. The accounting strand covers introductory and intermediate financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems, alongside a capstone course that integrates reporting, regulation and professional practice.

The property major focuses on the economic, legal and technical aspects of land and built assets. Typical topics include property law, property valuation and appraisal, property investment and finance, property development and planning, property market analysis, asset and facilities management, and urban economics. Students also study research methods and can choose electives in areas such as construction economics, sustainability in the built environment, or real estate analytics.

The programme structure emphasises applied learning: lectures and tutorials are complemented by case studies, valuation projects, industry guest speakers and a final-year capstone or major project. Opportunities for internships, work-integrated learning and cross-disciplinary electives are available, and high-achieving students may proceed to honours or postgraduate professional qualifications.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 secondary qualification or an equivalent international qualification recognised by the University of Adelaide. Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement; applicants from different countries should meet equivalent senior secondary thresholds. Mathematics (Mathematical Methods or equivalent) is recommended given the quantitative content of the accounting and commerce subjects.

Domestic applicants from non‑traditional pathways (such as mature‑age or vocational routes) are considered on a case‑by‑case basis. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to the University’s required level through recognised tests or prior study in English. Credit for prior tertiary study or professional experience may be available through credit transfer or recognition of prior learning.

Career prospects

• Accounting and finance roles including accountant, auditor, management accountant, tax adviser, financial analyst and corporate finance officer.
• Property and real estate careers such as residential and commercial valuer, property analyst, property developer, asset manager, leasing manager, facilities manager and property consultant.
• Advisory and transaction roles in banks, funds, property consultancies, valuation firms, real estate agencies and government planning and property departments.
• Pathways to professional accreditation: graduates who complete the specified accounting sequence may meet the academic requirements for professional bodies such as CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (subject to those bodies’ assessment processes). Property graduates can pursue membership and professional pathways through industry organisations and certification bodies relevant to valuation and property management.
• Further study options include honours in commerce, specialised masters degrees (e.g. accounting, taxation, property, or real estate finance) and professional postgraduate qualifications leading to chartered or accredited status.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s business and commerce programs are delivered by staff with strong industry links and research expertise in accounting, finance and property. The Adelaide Business School and affiliated departments offer structured support for professional development, including career services, industry projects and networking events with local and national employers.

Studying in Adelaide provides access to a dynamic South Australian property market and a concentration of government and private sector organisations involved in planning, valuation and property investment. The curriculum emphasises practical skills, ethical practice and contemporary issues such as sustainability and data analytics, helping graduates enter the workforce ready to add value in accounting and property roles.