Master of Accounting

About the course

The Master of Accounting at ANU is a two-year coursework degree that builds strong accounting capability alongside critical thinking and analytical skills. It is designed for students with limited or no prior accounting study, while allowing those with relevant background to progress into more advanced coursework. Teaching is informed by research-active staff and connects professional practice with contemporary accounting research in a Master-level accounting and finance discipline.

What you might learn

Students develop core competencies in financial reporting, management accounting, corporate accounting, auditing, taxation and the legal and economic context of business. The program also strengthens quantitative and analytical skills through foundations in finance and business statistics, and offers options such as data analytics, sustainability and forensic accounting. Graduates are prepared to meet entry study needs for Australian professional accounting bodies within a Master coursework accounting pathway.

Career outcome

Graduates may pursue roles across public practice, corporate and government settings, including accountant, auditor, taxation or business advisory roles, financial reporting and analysis positions, or governance and compliance-related work. Electives in analytics, sustainability and forensic accounting support careers in emerging specialist areas. The degree is suited to those seeking professional accounting recognition and progression in Master-level accounting and finance careers. Preparing graduates for accounting, audit, financial analysis, and corporate finance leadership roles.

Entry requirements

Applicants need either a recognised bachelor degree (or equivalent) with a minimum GPA of 5.0/7.0, an ANU Graduate Certificate of Accounting with a minimum GPA of 4.5/7.0, or at least 10 years’ full-time equivalent relevant work experience at ANZSCO Skill Level 1. Applicants must also meet ANU English language requirements and are assessed competitively; meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

Living Costs in Canberra**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 23	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,584 - 2,095	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,253 - 1,657
Transportation (Daily) A$ 4 - 10	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 264 - 348

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)