Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting

The Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting is a graduate diploma that builds on your existing knowledge of the accounting profession. This 1-year full-time course will prime you with the skills and knowledge to enter the CPA program to become a Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA).

Through a combination of face-to-face and virtual learning, you’ll cover the key knowledge required for membership to Australia’s primary recognised accounting body. With support from top UNSW academics and tutors, you’ll develop a thorough understanding of financial reporting, ethics, leadership and strategy to round out your skill set.

This degree is also a great option if you are wanting the become a Certified Practicing Accountant or CPA. A CPA is a special qualification to mark a high level of professional competence and is managed by an external body, CPA Australia. We've got more information about what is a CPA and how this relates to your study and professional opportunities once you've graduated.

You’ll study at UNSW Business School, ranked #1 in Australia for Accounting and Finance.* You’ll join a diverse community of students, academics and industry professionals.

You’ll grow your business knowledge, communication and problem-solving skills, and build leadership and cultural competence – attractive qualities for any professional entering the workforce in Australia or abroad.

At UNSW, we provide additional support for international students who want to study and work in Australia after graduation. If you’re an international student you’ll also have access to professional development opportunities to help you understand workplace culture in Australia and get a foothold in your chosen industry.

^{*QS World University Rankings by subject, 2023}

For entry into most courses at UNSW, international students may need to meet minimum academic and English language entry requirements.

To study the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CPA), you must have an internationally recognised undergraduate or postgraduate degree in a relevant field. You must also meet the foundation competency requirement for entry into the CPA program. You can contact CPA Australia to request an eligibility assessment, which you’ll then submit as part of your application.

In exceptional circumstances, applicants with extensive professional work experience in relevant fields may be considered.

Relevant fields

Examples of relevant fields include, but are not restricted to:

• accounting
• taxation
• auditing
• financial reporting
• financial data analysis