Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This program brings together accounting and finance to give you a rounded understanding of financial reporting, management decision-making and capital markets. Typical subjects include financial accounting and reporting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, corporate finance, investments and financial markets, accounting information systems, and business law. You will also study quantitative skills such as financial modelling, statistics for business and econometrics, together with professional ethics and governance.

The degree is delivered through a mix of lectures, tutorials, case studies and practical workshops. Many students complete capstone projects or work-integrated learning units that apply technical skills to real-world problems, such as preparing financial statements, performing audit procedures or developing investment recommendations.

Structure and special features

• Typically structured over three years full-time (part-time options available), with a sequence of core and elective units.
• Includes applied learning opportunities such as industry projects, simulations and professional practice units.
• Designed to meet the academic requirements for professional accounting bodies, providing a pathway to professional membership and postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Entry to the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance is generally based on successful completion of secondary school qualifications (such as the Australian Year 12 or equivalent) or recognised tertiary study. Domestic applicants are selected using their senior secondary results or other university pathways; international applicants are assessed on equivalent academic qualifications.

Recommended preparation includes sound numeracy and business-related subjects. Mature-age applicants and those with relevant work experience may be eligible through alternative entry schemes. English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers and can be demonstrated through recognised tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, or alternative ACU-accepted evidence.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program are prepared for a wide range of roles across public practice, industry, government and not-for-profit organisations. Common entry roles include graduate accountant, tax associate, audit junior, financial analyst, management accountant and credit analyst. With experience and professional accreditation, graduates progress to senior roles such as financial controller, auditor-in-charge, tax consultant, finance manager or CFO.

The degree also provides the academic foundation for professional pathways such as CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants ANZ and the Institute of Public Accountants, and for further study at postgraduate level in accounting, finance, taxation or business administration.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises ethical practice, social responsibility and professional readiness within its business programs. The accounting and finance curriculum integrates practical skills with ethical and governance perspectives, preparing graduates to work in complex organisational environments.

Students benefit from smaller class sizes, applied learning opportunities and connections with industry through guest lectures, networking events and placement options. The program’s alignment with professional accreditation bodies supports a clear pathway to professional membership and career advancement in accounting and finance.