Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Master of Professional Accounting combines core accounting subjects with applied professional skills to prepare you for practice and for meeting the academic requirements of professional accounting bodies. The programme typically covers financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, corporate reporting, and accounting information systems, together with subjects in business law, corporate governance and research or professional practice.

• Financial Accounting and Reporting — principles and standards for preparing and interpreting financial statements.
• Management Accounting — cost behaviours, budgeting, performance measurement and decision support for managers.
• Taxation — fundamentals of income tax for individuals and businesses, tax planning and compliance issues.
• Auditing and Assurance — audit process, risk assessment, professional ethics and assurance engagements.
• Accounting Information Systems — design, control and use of information systems in accounting processes.
• Corporate Finance and Governance — corporate structures, finance decisions, governance frameworks and regulatory compliance.
• Research Methods or Professional Project — applied study or a project addressing a practical accounting problem.

The programme is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials and case-based learning. Assessment commonly includes assignments, case reports, exams and a final capstone project or research subject. The duration and sequence of subjects vary by prior study: graduates with limited accounting background may complete preparatory subjects before core units.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised bachelor's degree in any discipline or equivalent qualification; those without an undergraduate degree but with substantial relevant professional experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Candidates who have not completed prior accounting or business study may be required to complete bridging or foundation subjects as part of the course.

International applicants must meet CQU's English language requirements for postgraduate coursework study; evidence such as an approved English test score, previous study in English, or other accepted documentation is required. Specific academic entry thresholds are set by the university and may vary between intakes and campuses.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of accounting and finance roles across public practice, industry, government and the not-for-profit sector. Common career outcomes include:

• Graduate accountant or generalist accountant
• Management accountant or cost accountant
• External or internal auditor
• Tax adviser and tax compliance officer
• Financial analyst, reporting analyst or corporate finance assistant
• Positions in payroll, budgeting and financial systems administration

Completion of the Master of Professional Accounting can also form part of the academic requirements for membership of recognised professional accounting bodies, facilitating progression to professional accreditation once practical experience requirements are met.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers flexible delivery options, including on-campus and online study, which suit both domestic and international students and professionals balancing work commitments. The programme emphasises applied learning with case studies and industry-relevant projects, and is taught by academics with professional and industry experience.

CQU provides student support services such as career advice, academic skills workshops and industry engagement activities to help graduates transition into the workplace. Multiple campus locations and a focus on vocational outcomes make it a practical choice for students seeking a career-oriented accounting master’s degree.