Professional Accounting

Entry requirements

Every applicant must either

• be a graduate and normally have achieved an average grade of B+ in the relevant 300-level papers, or
• have equivalent alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Commerce).

In considering an applicant’s qualifications, regard will be had to the detail of the course of study followed to gain the qualification, as well as the applicant’s performance in the programme.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English you need to meet our English language requirements as follows: IELTS score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); we also accept a number of other English language tests. Due to COVID-19, we currently accept Duolingo English Test (DET), IELTS Indicator Test, and TOEFL iBT Special home Edition.

Don’t meet the English language requirements? The University of Otago Language Centre English for Otago programme offers a pathway for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to meet the English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Months of entry

February

Course content

In recent years, the nature of accounting in the global business workplace has moved from being principally the preparation of financial reports to now include the role of business adviser and consultant. Most students seeking graduate placements in the field of accounting will have completed a standard three-year undergraduate degree in this subject.

Otago’s Master of Professional Accounting provides an opportunity for graduates with little or no experience or qualifications in accounting to pursue professional accreditation through an intensive course of study and applied research over a period of 18 months. On completion of the degree students can gain professional accreditation and membership to industry associations such as CAANZ and CPA Australia.

Master of Professional Accounting students will be required to gain mastery of the subject matter and skills at an accelerated rate that is considered appropriate, challenging and manageable for a graduate.

Information for international students

Otago offers students an unrivalled campus experience and a vibrant, social student culture. The majority of Otago’s 21,000 students live, work and play in Dunedin - New Zealand’s only true university city. Otago is home to over 3,000 international students, from over 100 countries.

Fees and funding

New Zealand is a relatively affordable country to live in. Dunedin, being a student-focused city, has living and entertainment options for all budgets.

Students are eligible for the Otago International Excellence Scholarship.