University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Accounting and Finance builds a foundation in economics, statistics and business law, then moves into specialist units in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, corporate finance, investments and financial markets. Typical topics include:

• Financial Accounting: preparation and interpretation of financial statements, accounting frameworks and reporting standards.
• Management Accounting: budgeting, cost analysis, performance measurement and decision-making tools for managers.
• Taxation: fundamentals of income tax and GST for individuals and businesses, and tax planning considerations.
• Auditing and Assurance: audit frameworks, assurance standards, risk assessment and internal controls.
• Corporate Finance: capital budgeting, valuation, capital structure, dividends and corporate funding decisions.
• Financial Markets and Investments: portfolio theory, asset pricing, derivatives and market microstructure.
• Quantitative and Econometric Methods: statistical techniques for business decision-making and empirical finance.
• Business Law and Ethics: legal environment of business, corporate governance and professional ethics.

Delivery typically mixes lectures, tutorials and workshops, with assessment through exams, group projects, case studies and assignments. The program commonly includes a capstone or integrative unit that synthesises accounting and finance knowledge in applied projects. Students may also choose electives or a minor to broaden skills, and there are opportunities for internships, industry projects and study abroad through the Adelaide Business School.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on satisfactory completion of a recognised secondary qualification (or equivalent), with competitive selection based on the applicant’s academic record. Applicants without a direct school pathway can gain entry via recognised diplomas, TAFE qualifications, foundation programs or through mature‑age and work‑experience pathways. Strong numeracy is beneficial; secondary study in mathematics is recommended but not always mandatory.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent. Additional documentation such as certified transcripts and evidence of prior study will be required for assessment. Some applicants may be considered for advanced standing or credit if they have relevant prior tertiary study or professional qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed to pursue accounting and finance careers in the private and public sectors. Common roles include:

• Chartered or certified accountant (audit, tax, financial reporting)
• Corporate finance analyst or treasury analyst
• Financial analyst, investment analyst or portfolio analyst
• Management accountant or business analyst
• Internal auditor, risk and compliance officer
• Financial planner, wealth adviser or banking professional
• Forensic accountant, taxation consultant or advisory roles in consulting firms

The program also provides a pathway into graduate programs run by major accounting firms, banks and corporate finance teams, and supports further professional study toward membership of bodies such as CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants ANZ, or postgraduate finance qualifications.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s Adelaide Business School delivers commerce education with a strong research and industry focus. Students benefit from teaching by academics active in research and professional practice, industry engagement through guest speakers and projects, and access to career services and employer networks in Adelaide’s commercial centre.

The school’s accounting and finance offerings are structured to meet the academic requirements expected by major professional bodies, and the program emphasises practical, applied learning with opportunities for internships and exchange. Studying in Adelaide offers a compact, well connected city environment with a vibrant business community and pathways into government, corporate and professional services roles.