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Bachelor of Accounting
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2024
Start Date
January, April, June, September
Duration
3 year(s) full-time
Mode
Online
Time Commitment
10 - 15 hours per week per course
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View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result:
Higher education study
- Successfully completed equivalent to a minimum of half a year of full-time study of a higher education program at a recognised higher education provider
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience (for domestic students only)- Passed a UniSA Online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience, or
- Completed a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Qualify for Special Entry
OR
Recent secondary education- Completed a secondary education qualification equivalent to SACE, such as an interstate year 12 or international qualification
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
None
Degree overview
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UniSA is one of the largest leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia and Asia.
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Build a strong foundation of accounting knowledge and develop skills in business, taxation, auditing, law, finance and sustainability.
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Focus on the economic, legal and political influences that affect global business.
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Explore the latest developments and current issues in the accounting profession.
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Understand how business intelligence and analytics can be used to solve organisational problems.
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UniSA Business is in the top 1% worldwide and awarded five stars.1
- Study a degree informed by world-class research in finance and accounting.2
1UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings.
2Results in Accounting and Banking – 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
Study On Demand – a 100% online Accounting degree designed specifically for online learning. Take full control over your study – access support seven days a week, plan your study to fit around your life, view learning resources 24/7, and log into the interactive online environment anywhere, any time and on any device.
Ranked in the top 1% worldwide1, UniSA Business is one of the largest leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia and Asia.
This degree will develop your strong business knowledge, and skills in financial and management accounting, taxation, company law, and auditing. You’ll learn about the current economic, legal and political influences affecting global business.
You’ll graduate as a strong communicator, with important reporting, analytical, decision-making and problem-solving skills, which will be invaluable to launch or advance your career.
1UniSA Business is one of just 13 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2024.
What you'll learn
You will start with core courses in business. These will give you a solid grounding in important areas including:
- accounting and quantitative methods for business
- business law, finance, business intelligence and data management
- economics and marketing principles.
You’ll then move into your accounting specialisation, learning skills such as:
- financial and management accounting
- taxation and company law
- auditing
- sustainability accounting
- global and contemporary accounting issues
- strategic financial analysis.
Learn more about what qualifications accountants need >
Study hours
Studying 100% online means you can engage with course materials at your own pace, whenever it suits you – there is no need to be online at a particular time. It’s flexible around your life so you can control your study schedule week by week. As a general rule, we recommend 10 to 15 hours of study a week for each course.
Assessment
All assessments, including exams (if required) are 100% online, meaning you’ll never need to travel to submit an assignment or find an exam venue.
Some of your assessments may include:
- an industry-relevant project
- an online presentation
- essays and reports.
Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.
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Electives
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Rules & notes
Rules
Go here to the see the complete UniSA Online electives list.
1. Assessment requirements for this degree include at least one online exam. The online exam software has system compatibility requirements, specifically that tablets, hybrid devices and mobile devices are not supported. Please refer to the online exam requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer and software is compatible to undertake the exam.
Notes
1. This degree offers a total of 5 elective courses. All but one elective must be a Business course and you may choose one non-Business elective. You need to meet the prerequisites listed to enrol in a given elective. Please speak to the Student Adviser regarding the selection of these courses. Go here to see the complete UniSA Online electives list: https://online.unisa.edu.au/electives
2. This course is recommended for students who are new to university studies or require development in academic and research skills.
3. Students who have completed a qualification in a business discipline at AQF Diploma level or equivalent and assessed to receive 36 units block credit, will be granted credit for this course.
4. View available Virtual Industry Internships, Overseas Study Opportunities and Study Tours at https://www.unisa.edu.au/global-experiences/study-overseas/student-exchange/
Study Accounting on demand
Program Director Scott Copeland gives an insight into what you can expect from the Bachelor of Accounting, and how the degree has been designed to prepare you for a fast-paced career in finance.
Why Bachelor of Accounting
As a UniSA graduate, you can be confident this is a globally competitive degree respected internationally for its quality and relevance to industry.
We work closely with industry and peak professional bodies to ensure that your studies are relevant and respected in the workplace.
As a graduate, you’ll be eligible for membership with CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, the global Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Association of International Accountants (AIA), and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
As a UniSA Business student, you'll be eligible to join the Business Career Mentor Program (BCMP), an initiative designed to provide students and recent graduates with networking opportunities and career mentorship. You'll be paired with an experienced industry mentor to support your career development and transition after graduation, and be invited to professional development workshops and networking events.
UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.
Your career
From corporate accounting to government and not-for-profit – there are a variety of career paths available, across all industries. Depending on your interests, you can also choose to specialise in tax, healthcare and environmental accounting. Accounting can also serve as a launching pad for careers in business, consulting, law, education, government, and small-to-medium businesses.
To become a fully qualified accountant, you need to be qualified as a Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practising Accounting (CPA). UniSA Online graduates will be eligible to undertake the CA or CPA program. While you can commence working in an accounting role with an undergraduate degree, professionals with a CA or CPA qualification are highly regarded by employers.
A UniSA Online accounting degree can help you pursue the following careers:
- Auditor/risk consultant: ensure financial and operational integrity and compliance; evaluate and report on financial, operational and managerial processes and systems; and work on business process reviews and risk assessments.
- Business adviser: work with new or established businesses; analyse business plans and financial statements; advise on investments, marketing, funding and financial trends; and understand consumer needs to meet business objectives and improve profitability.
- Forensic accounting: work in a corporate or regulatory environment to investigate fraud and similar crimes; provide expert evidence, and prepare forensic reports for courts.
- Insolvency and reconstruction adviser: work with stakeholders in cases of personal and business financial distress; administrations and liquidations; and restructure under-performing businesses and turnarounds.
- Management accountant: assist senior management make critical business decisions; prepare forecasts, budgets and risk analysis; and advise managers about the financial implications of business decisions.
- Practising accountant: work for the private sector, government or individuals; prepare tax returns; keep accounting systems up-to-date; maintain financial records, and advise on business structures.
- Tax accountant and adviser: compile business and individual tax returns, and provide tax planning advice and strategies.
Learn more about your career in Accounting >
Industry facts
Your study experience and support
Study On Demand
Our online career-focused degrees give you full control and ultimate flexibility over your study. It’s Study On Demand, on your schedule, on your terms.
- Study 100% online - no need to come onto campus
- Choose from four start dates in January, April, June and September
- Learn in 10-week blocks
- Get support seven days a week - including on weeknights
- Access learning resources 24/7
- View course content before your term starts
- Work while you study
- Plan your study schedule ahead of time
- Fast-track your studies and receive credit for past study and/or work experience.
Why UniSA Online?
Our graduates get jobs
UniSA is ranked as the number one university in Australia for graduate employability.1 Join a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA Online degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career or take it to the next level.
Specifically designed for online learning
Our team of academic and online experts have created interactive and media-rich course material using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources. Every degree has been specifically designed for online learning to ensure you graduate with the skills and knowledge for your future career.
Backed by industry
Every UniSA Online degree is overseen by an experienced industry advisory board. We've also consulted with industry experts with a wealth of experience to design course content that reflects the most cutting-edge developments in your field. Our industry connections will enrich your online study experience - you'll be presented with industry problems that real organisations face. You'll also gain the skills and knowledge that industry are telling us they need in graduates.
Expand your professional network from wherever you are
Online study doesn’t mean studying on your own. You’ll connect with a community of other like-minded students – you’ll be able to share, debate and collaborate ideas through virtual classrooms, online chat, video conferencing, and online communication tools.
1 QILT Employer Satisfaction Survey, 2020-22 – Employability Skills Indicator. Public universities.
Student support
Studying can be challenging, especially when you’re also juggling work and other life commitments. You’re not studying 9-5, Monday to Friday, which is why we provide personalised, extended hour support services – including on weekends – so you can get help when you need it.
Dedicated Student Adviser support
Our Student Advisers will be an important part of your student journey – they’ll help you enrol, discuss your study goals, communication preferences, and will be your first point of call for all your general study questions. They’ll link you to an extensive range of support services and resources across the University and will help schedule appointments with specialised services if required.
Online academic support seven days a week
You’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing as well as answer any other course-specific queries. You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
24/7 tech support
Our IT Help Desk is available 24/7 to provide assistance with your computer set up, student email, software requirements and other UniSA apps and student applications. You’ll be able to get support no matter what time it is.
24/7 digital environment
Our interactive online environment is a one-stop shop for all your study needs. You’ll be able to track your progress through the student dashboard, plan your study schedule, receive reminders on due dates for tasks and assessments, as well as collaborate and network with a community of other like-minded students.
Using innovative technology in online education, your study experience will be highly personalised based on your learning activities throughout your degree. Just like your own personal study coach, you’ll get tailored feedback to enhance your learning outcomes and ensure you’re successful in your studies.
What others are saying
Online study was perfect for me. I set my own study times and listened to lectures at my own pace. Completing my degree has given me the confidence to make suggestions, implement changes and make important decisions along with the rest of my senior management team.
Jacqueline Lavis
Bachelor of Accounting
IT Requirements
As a general rule of thumb, any desktop or laptop computer purchased in the past three years should be capable of meeting your online learning needs. While mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones will be able to access most of your online course content, there are likely to be elements of most courses where we recommend you use a desktop or laptop computer. Your computer should be able to:
- run a modern browser (Microsoft Edge, Firefox 24, Safari 5, or Chrome 32 or later versions)
- run Java
- run programs to create documents, spreadsheets and presentations
- use a web camera and headset (or ear pods with microphone)
- Some UniSA Online degrees require an online exam. The online exam software – Remote Proctor Now – has specific capability requirements. Please refer to the system requirements prior to conducting your exam to ensure your computer is compatible.
Access free IT software and resources
As a UniSA Online student, you'll:
- Get free access to the full Office 365 ProPlus suite, which includes full versions of Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access and Lync software. Install the full suite on up to five different devices (PC and Mac compatible).
- Get 1Tb of personal storage that syncs with your PC or mobile device through OneDrive - it's like an extra hard drive that allows you to open any of your files from any of your devices, whenever you need them.
- Get free access to LinkedIn Learning - Access more than 5000 video courses on a broad range of topics such as: the Microsoft Office suite, time management and study skills, health and wellbeing, communication and presentation skills, photography, film making and designing your own games or mobile apps.
- Be able to connect with others using Microsoft Teams, Yammer and the Outlook Web App.
There are some degrees that have specialised software requirements. We've made this software available to students to access for free - you'll be able to download and install any of the required programs on your own device anywhere and anytime. See if your degree requires specialised software.
Check your device
Our computer system test will determine if your device has the base system resources and software required to study online. It'll also check the speed of your internet connection.
See if your computer, laptop or device is all set up and ready to go – it takes just a few seconds.
The application process is easy – just follow these simple steps:
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Check your eligibility
Take our eligibility checker and answer a few short questions to see if you’re eligible. You’ll be given an option to continue your application, save it for later or request a call back from a Degree Adviser if you have any questions. -
Gather your relevant documents
If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.
In order to verify your academic qualifications, you'll need to upload relevant documents like your official parchment, certificates or transcripts. If you have work experience, you will need to upload your CV as well as any other documents like work references, professional recognition or accreditation or your training certification.
Your email will contain information on the specific documents you need to provide as well as a link to log in to your application. You'll be asked to create an account and set your own password. -
Complete your application and send through your documents
In order to proceed with your conditional offer, you’ll need to complete your application and provide required evidence of your previous study or work experience.
Alternative Pathways
- complete the Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
- complete the UniSA College Diploma in Business
Online Course Facilitators
Recognised by a number of the world's most respected professional bodies, this degree will help you to prepare for a career in accounting and business. Throughout your online study, I encourage you to focus on developing skills that are sought after by employers and maximise any opportunities to build up your professional network.
Throughout my accounting career, I’ve had a strong interest in technology advancements and I believe the application of traditional teaching philosophies and standards within a dynamic and innovative learning environment is the future of education. My approach focuses on encouraging students to actively engage in activities to get the most out of their education, and also developing the valuable skills that are increasingly important in the online world and their career.
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When should I apply?
UniSA Online degrees start four times a year in January, April, June and September. There are key application dates for each term. If you're looking to apply for credit, there are different closing dates you need to be aware of, so it's always best to double check. Key dates can be found at unisaonline.edu.au/key-dates.
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Do I have to be online at set times?
All of our courses are asynchronous, meaning you choose when to study, whenever it suits you. However, if your degree has online exams, you will need to sit these at a designated date and time. Some courses may also require you to speak to your academics via phone or online communication channels at a mutually agreed time as part of your assessment.
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What academic support is available?
Our academics are available seven days a week, including weeknights. Throughout your degree, you’ll be supported by our highly experienced academic team of Online Course Facilitators and Online Tutors. Our academics will guide you through your learning and ensure you have an outstanding, high-quality education.
They can help you with your course materials and assessments, provide feedback on your work, assist you with referencing, and can answer any other course-specific queries.
You’ll be able to contact your academics via email, online discussion forums and live messages in the online learning environment. You can also communicate in real-time and chat face-to-face with your academics online.
If you need after-hours learning support, Studiosity is a great resource that can help you with your writing, academic language, grammar and referencing. You’ll also be able to chat online with a Studiosity online adviser.
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How is my degree structured?
Full-time students study two courses each term. It makes earning a degree completely achievable, especially if you’re working. Your degree is delivered over four terms each year. Each term runs for ten weeks with two-week breaks in between each term.
You’ll also have the option to go part-time, or switch between the two. If you need to take a break in your study, that’s an option too. We recommend speaking to your Student Adviser who can help you update your study plan and check when your courses are offered.
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What career prospects do I have with my university qualification?
Our degrees are designed in conjunction with industry experts, employers and professional associations, and informed by the latest developments in your field. You will graduate with in demand skills and up-to-date knowledge required by industry.
You will be studying with a university known for its employment outcomes. Your UniSA degree is more than just a piece of paper – it will prepare you to start your career, or take it to the next level. UniSA's online students have graduate employment rates well above the national average.*
UniSA Online qualifications follow the same Government Higher Education Standards Framework as our on-campus degrees. The parchment you receive at the end of your degree will be the same as any other University of South Australia student.
*UniSA External UG full-time employment rate 83% Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018
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What are the main differences between online, on-campus and distance education?
The knowledge you gain from each mode of study is the same – it's how you get there that's different. When you study online, everything from your course material to weekly activities and assessments are fully online. You'll communicate with academic staff and students via live messages, online discussion forums and email.
Studying on campus requires students to physically come on to campus at specific times to attend lectures, tutorials and practicals. On-campus students have face-to-face contact with academics and fellow students and also communicate via email and online discussion boards.
Distance Education involves physical course material packages being sent to students, usually print based but occasionally audio or video. Communication is usually via telephone, mail and email. In today’s digital era, distance education has been superseded by online education.