bachelor of business (financial planning and advice)

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Financial Planning and Advice – Bachelor of Business

Help people make the best financial decisions for their future. Join a growing industry and study the only university financial planning and advice specialisation in New Zealand.

Planning information

Entry requirements.

• Fees & scholarships
• Careers & jobs

International students

Where you can study.

International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.

Definition of New Zealand citizens and residents

Specialise in Financial Planning and Advice for your Bachelor of Business at Massey

The skills taught in the Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) will help those who wish to develop knowledge relevant to this important and growing sector. The qualification can be configured to assist you if you are either wanting to become a financial planner, or those already in the industry that are looking to gain further certification. Please note that this qualification does not satisfy the educational requisite established by the Financial Markets Authority under the current Code of Professional Conduct for Financial Advice Services. A student seeking to be licenced as a financial adviser in New Zealand should consider taking the  Certificate in Financial Advice  which does grant such status. It will be possible to cross credit some of the credits from the certificate back into the bachelor’s degree as part of the elective schedule.

You will develop your numeracy, logic and analytical skills.  A financial planner or adviser works with people to help them make the best financial decisions for their situation – whether it is mortgages, term investments, shares or insurance options.

You’ll learn about the components of the personal financial planning process. You’ll study financial institutions and markets as well as instruments. You’ll get a sound theoretical foundation, on which you can build practical applications.

At a more advanced level, you can choose from courses in advanced tax and estate planning, property finance, investment analysis, personal risk management and banking. You’ll have access to our state-of-the-art Trading Room, where you’ll gain real-world experience in fund management with Massey’s dedicated student fund.

The Bachelor of Business will give you the leadership, communication and critical thinking skills that will make you a sought-after employee. These skills can be used in many different types of businesses, in New Zealand and around the world.

Further study

You may wish to consider going on to postgraduate study once you have finished your degree.

A Bachelor of Business in Financial Planning and Advice is a good fit if you:

• have an aptitude for maths, finance and economics
• like working with numbers and people
• are a financial adviser who wishes to upskill and gain professional certification with Financial Advice New Zealand.

If you study full-time, in your first year, you’ll take eight 15-credit courses, making a total of 120 credits.

If you wish to study over two semesters, you should aim for 60 credits per semester. You may be able to take some courses at summer school. Make sure you include courses that are prerequisites for the next level of courses you wish to study.

Core business courses

There are ten core business courses and you must pass at least eight of them. The core courses are  115111 ,  115112 , 115113 , 115114 , 115115 , 115116 ,  115211 ,  115212 , 115230 and 115340 .

You must pass at least 60 credits of 100-level core courses within the first 120 credits, and and at least 30 credits of 200 or 300-level core courses within the first 240 credits of study towards the degree.

These are courses which cover topics across the business spectrum. They are designed to give you the leadership, communication and solid business skills that you will need in your career.

For this Financial Planning and Advice major we do recommend that you choose one of the following first year courses for your elective choices in your first year: Applied Statistics or Statistics. These courses will assist with your numeracy abilities.

Completing a minor is optional. Minors increase the breadth of your degree. They give you extra knowledge, attributes and capabilities.

A minor must be in a different subject from your major.

A Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) with a minor

You may choose a minor from any university undergraduate degree that has recognised minors. If the minor is from another undergraduate degree, the regulations of that qualification will apply.

A Financial Planning and Advice minor (for students who are studying a different degree)

If you are not studying a Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) and wish to complete a minor in Financial Planning and Advice, see the BBus regulations for the requirements of this minor.  

• More on minors

Meeting requirements for industry membership

If you wish to meet the education requirements for becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER CM professional you must take the seven compulsory courses for the Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) major and 125340 as your elective paper of the major.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER CM is a common law certification mark owned outside the U.S. by Financial Planning Standards Board Ltd. Financial Advice New Zealand is the marks licensing authority for the CFP Marks in New Zealand, through agreement with FPSB.

Please note that this qualification is not designed to map to the content required in the Code of Professional Conduct for Financial Advice Services as set out by the NZ Financial Markets Authority. A student seeking to be licenced as a financial adviser in NZ should consider taking the  Certificate in Financial Advice , which does grant such status.

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations or this qualification .

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Courses you can enrol in

Course planning key, compulsory courses.

Practical issues arising in estate and tax planning for investors and small business in New Zealand.

Prerequisites: 110274 or 110289 or 125211 Corequisites: 125211

This course introduces students to the theories and processes relating to Financial Planning and Advice.

An overview of the operation of institutions, products and markets which make up the financial system and discusses the role of governments, both domestically and internationally, in the management of our financial system.

Prerequisites: 115114

An introduction to the fundamental and practical concepts of the investment process. Investment products, including equity, debt instruments, and derivatives are discussed as well as basic portfolio concepts.

Prerequisites: 115114 Restrictions: 125240

This capstone course deals with the implementation of the financial planning process, including the formation of a comprehensive financial plan.

Prerequisites: 125351 and either 125240 or 125241 Corequisites: One of 110380 , 125340 , 125342

An examination of the issues and potential solutions pertaining to individual personal financial management decisions.

Prerequisites: 125211 Restrictions: 125212

This course provides an overview of personal risk management, and the methods of mitigating potential impact including the role of insurance.

Prerequisites: 125211 Corequisites: 125211

Compulsory Course Selection

An introduction to the basic principles of taxation, the elements of taxation and the concepts that govern tax practice. The course will also provide an awareness of the economic implications of taxation at both local and global levels.

Prerequisites: 110100 or 110230 or 115102 or 115112 Restrictions: 10283, 110274

Provides an individual practical experience in business, linking theory to practice. It consists of a period of supervised study and practical experience in an area related to individual disciplinary and professional interests.

Prerequisites: Appraisal Required

This course provides an individual practical experience in business in which students deliver a set project in a business, linking theory to practice.

The application of analytical techniques to investment decision-making.

Prerequisites: 125241 Restrictions: 125342

An application of finance and economic theory to the financial management and operation of banks globally, from a risk and regulatory perspective.

Prerequisites: 115114 or 115105; and 125220 Restrictions: 125360, 125361, 125362, 125363

Introduction to property investment analysis, the role of property finance and the evaluation of property financing decisions.

Prerequisites: 115114 or 115105

A study of location theory, planning and the economic dynamics involved in the development of cities, using analysis of property space and asset class.

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

•  Massey University English language requirements .

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Can't meet the entry requirements?

If you need to do a course before you start your qualification, there may be options for you in Summer School.

• Summer School

Fees and scholarships

Fees, student loans and free fees scheme.

Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.

There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.

• Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
• View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable

Already know which courses you're going to choose?

You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.

• Course search

Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.

The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme and your eligibility on the Fees Free website. To use the site's eligibility checking tool, you will need your National Student Number.

Current and returning Massey students can find their National Student Number in the student portal.

• Student loans ( StudyLink )
• Student portal

Scholarship and award opportunities

• McEwan Pacific Student Scholarship

Fees disclaimer

This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice .

Careers and job opportunities

Employment opportunities in the financial advice area are predicted to rise faster than average in the next few years.

A qualification in financial planning and advice offers opportunities in a wide range of careers, from banks or companies that specialise in finance to a financial planning specialist in a small to medium-sized company. Many financial advisers are self-employed. Further professional certification may be required in New Zealand and other countries.

Careers may include:

• financial planner
• financial adviser
• wealth manager
• insurance adviser
• mortgage adviser.

New Zealand is a great place to study. Massey University’s reputation is supported by our international rankings, accreditations and associations. We are rated five star plus by the QS World University Rankings.

Massey University has small class sizes, and our lecturers and staff are friendly and approachable.

As an international student, there are entry requirements that will apply to you. We recommend that you apply at least three months before your anticipated start date so your application can be processed in time. There are additional steps you will need to take. These include obtaining a visa and travel bookings if your study is to be in New Zealand.

• Find out more about life as an international student at Massey, applying to Massey and getting help .
• Entry requirements for international students .

Accreditations and rankings

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Massey Business School is rated in the top 5% of global business colleges by AACSB International.

Financial Advice New Zealand

This qualification satisfies the education requirements for becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER CM professional with the professional body Financial Advice New Zealand (other non-educational requirements are required).

QS Ranking - Business Management Studies

Massey University is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 350 universities for business and management.

ShanghaiRanking – Business Administration

Massey University is ranked #1 in New Zealand for business administration by ShanghaiRanking.

Related study options

Certificate in financial advice – certfinadvice.

Gain introductory specialist knowledge and financial advice skills to prepare you for entry into the financial advice industry.

Finance – Bachelor of Business

Join Massey University’s finance programme to gain superior decision-making skills and a career advantage.

Finance – Master of Business Studies

Massey’s Master of Business Studies (Finance) will give you the business and finance skills to take your career to the next level.

Financial Advice – Diploma in Business Studies

With Massey's Diploma in Business Studies (Financial Advice) you'll gain introductory specialist knowledge and financial advice skills to prepare you for entry into the financial advice industry.

Financial Analytics and Research – Master of Finance

Massey’s Master of Finance (Financial Analytics and Research) combines the study of advanced finance theory and research to complete the qualification.

Personal Financial Planning – Graduate Diploma in Business Studies

Keen for a career in financial planning? By studying Massey’s Graduate Diploma in Business Studies (Personal Financial Planning) you can change the direction of your career.

Risk Analytics – Master of Finance

Massey’s Master of Finance (Risk Analytics) combines the study of advanced finance theory and completes the qualification with professional inquiry.

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BS in Business Administration – Financial Planning

Transfer credits, next start date, help others achieve financial freedom with a bachelor’s degree in financial planning.

Liberty’s online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and Data Analysis – Financial Planning can equip you to help meet the need for professionals who know how to set and achieve financial goals. With the knowledge you will gain in this program, you could go on to help companies, nonprofits, and individuals make wise financial decisions and become good stewards of their resources.

In today’s society, finances are a common source of stress among people, businesses, and organizations. You can help reduce this anxiety by becoming a financial planner. Whether you want to work as a corporate finance manager or help individuals with their personal financial planning, Liberty can help provide the tools you need to accomplish your goals.

What degree do you need for financial planner jobs?

Many financial planner jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree. With affordable tuition rates, quality academics, and a flexible online format, Liberty University stands out among higher education institutions. We can help you prepare to take the next step in your professional journey.

What is financial planning in a business setting?

Financial planners provide assistance to all types of companies, from small start-ups to large corporations. As a financial planner, you can help a business set specific goals, determine the amount of resources needed to achieve those objectives, and create an effective budget that will help the organization succeed in the future. Most importantly, you can help ensure that the company’s fiscal plans align with its mission and values.

What is the difference between a financial planner and a financial advisor?

While they have much in common, a financial advisor is not the same as a financial planner. Financial advisors are trained to help people manage all of their money and investments. For example, they may help clients with wealth management. In contrast, financial planners help clients achieve long-term financial goals by developing realistic fiscal plans.

Why Choose Liberty’s BSBA in Financial Planning Degree Online?

Liberty’s BSBA in Financial Planning is designed to help you stand out in the competitive business industry. Our business degrees are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and our courses are taught by professors who have years of experience in the world of finance. You can be confident that our BSBA program provides quality training from industry experts.

To fulfill our mission of Training Champions for Christ , we have designed our online financial planning degree to help you lead in your field with integrity. Throughout this program, you’ll explore business and finance concepts through the lens of a biblical worldview so you can be prepared to integrate ethical standards with industry best practices.

Our financial planning bachelor’s degree in business administration is offered 100% online, and our classes have no set login times. That means you can complete your coursework wherever and whenever it’s most convenient for you! Most importantly, you can stay invested in the things that really matter — like your family, job, church, and community — while still earning a degree that can help jumpstart your career.

Among only 3% of business schools worldwide to receive ACBSP accreditation

Become Qualified to Pursue Financial Planning Certifications

This program will help you meet the educational requirements needed to sit for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification exam. Take a look below to see what this certification can do for you.

Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Earning the highly-respected CFP certification can help set you apart from other financial professionals and give your clients confidence in your skills. You can only take the CFP exam after completing certain academic prerequisites, which can be met through our online bachelor’s in financial planning. With Liberty’s competitive tuition rates, our program can help keep your CFP certification costs down.

What Will You Learn in Our BS in Business Administration and Data Analysis – Financial Planning Program?

Prepare to help others discover financial freedom and security.

In this program, you can gain the skills you need to pursue a career as a financial analyst or Christian financial advisor. You will take foundational courses that explore a variety of business topics, including financial accounting, business law, marketing, management, international business, organizational ethics, and strategic planning.

Our financial planning concentration can help you gain specialized skills and equip you to work toward your unique career goals. You will receive targeted training in taxation, retirement planning, investments, risk management, and estate planning. You’ll also learn how to provide valuable financial advice to businesses and individuals as you prepare for a career in business administration and finance.

Learn how to offer financial services to a variety of clients. Our financial planning capstone course can help you synthesize what you’ve learned and apply it to the real world. In this final class, you’ll create a financial plan for a case study client and thus gain practical training that can help you graduate career-ready.

Featured Courses

• ACCT 401 – Taxation I
• BUSI 352 – Financial and Retirement Planning
• BUSI 354 – Estate Planning
• BUSI 420 – Investments

BS in Business Administration – Financial Planning Degree Information

• This program falls under Liberty’s School of Business .
• Download and review the Degree Completion Plan for our bachelor’s in business administration – financial planning degree program.
• View the Undergraduate Business Course Guides (login required) .

Apply Now     Request Info

Military Benefits for Liberty’s Bachelor’s in Business Administration – Financial Planning Online Degree

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe. Whether you are a current service member, discharged or retired from service, or the spouse of a service member or veteran, we are here to support you every step of the journey.

As a thank-you for your dedication and service to our country, Liberty is honored to serve and support you in your pursuit of online education by offering the following benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $250 per credit hour for undergraduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who serve in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $565 per course)
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)
• Potential college credit for military training

What Can You Do with a BSBA in Financial Planning?

Our BSBA in Financial Planning can help you pursue a variety of job opportunities in the world of business and finance. You could help nonprofits create effective financial plans or assist individuals with managing their personal capital. Some of the roles you may qualify for after completing this program include:

• Entrepreneur
• Financial analyst
• Investment banker
• Management consultant
• Personal financial planner

Highlights of Our Online BSBA in Financial Planning Degree Program

• We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online BSBA in Financial Planning degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.
• Your success is our success, which is why we’re committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we’ve frozen tuition rates for our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years — and counting.
• To continue our mission of providing affordable education, electronic textbooks are provided for all undergraduate courses at no cost to you. As a full-time student, this could save you an estimated $800-2,000 per year on textbooks!
• Liberty University’s financial planning college program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs ( ACBSP ). Our School of Business is among only 3% of business schools worldwide to earn ACBSP accreditation.
• You could earn additional academic credit for relevant life experience.
• Our financial planning courses online are only 8 weeks long, with 8 different start dates offered each year and no set login times!
• Our B.S. in Business Administration serves as an excellent stepping stone toward earning either a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership , both of which are offered online through Liberty.

Admission Requirements for Liberty University’s BS in Business Administration – Financial Planning Program

Applicants must have a 2.0 or above cumulative GPA for admission in good standing. Please visit our admission requirements page for more detailed admissions-related information. 

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Unofficial college transcripts may be accepted with a completed official transcript request form**
• High School Self-Certification form and official high school transcripts within first 12 credit hours
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses — documentation verifying military status is required.

**An official transcript is needed within 60 days of acceptance or before non-attendance drops for the first set of matriculated classes, whichever comes first.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

Apply FREE This Week*

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Financial Planning Degree Online BS in Finance Concentration

Plan Your Future in Finance

• $330/credit (120 total credits)
• Prepare to sit for the CFP ® exam
• Transfer up to 90 credits
• No SAT/ACT scores required
• Program accredited by ACSBP
• Accelerated BS-to-MS pathway

Online Financial Planning Degree Program Overview

SNHU's CFP Board-registered online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning prepares students for a rewarding career, guiding people toward the achievement of their personal financial goals.

Graduates can receive required foundational knowledge in the main areas of financial planning including investments, retirement, estate planning, risk management and taxes.

Earning your financial planning degree at SNHU means you've met the educational requirement to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, one of the highest standards of excellence in the field. Our financial planning program is also registered with the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc., preparing you to take the CFP® certification exam.

It is also the only CFP® Board-registered program in New Hampshire.

Licensure and Certification Disclosures

SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page .

What You'll Learn

• Apply personal financial planning knowledge to achieve financial stability
• Develop financial plans for clients
• Explore domestic and global economic environments
• Analyze financial statements to forecast and meet organizational goals
• Use methodologies to make sound financial decisions
• Apply compliant ethical and legal strategies

How You'll Learn

At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.

Financial Planning Career Outlook

The bachelor's in finance with a financial planning concentration puts you in a powerful position for employment in banking, insurance, mortgage companies and credit card firms. Some financial specialists work solo as tax preparers, personal financial advisors or real-estate appraisers – though additional licensure requirements, which vary by state, can apply.

Investment Analyst

Guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending money to make a profit. Assess the performance of stocks, bonds and other types of investments.

Account Manager

Oversee the day-to-day financial operations of a particular customer's account within a business with a focus on client satisfaction.

Risk Analyst

Use analytical skills to project potential losses and make recommendations to limit risk through diversification, currency exchanges and other investment strategies.

Financial Consultant

Provide advice on investments, insurance, mortgages, estate planning, taxes and retirement to help individuals manage their finances.

Job Growth and Salary

The world of personal finance is changing rapidly. Driving the change are baby boomers, who are not only retiring in record numbers but also living longer and shifting from pensions to personal investments. Couple that with rising retirement in the finance industry and the result is an unprecedented demand for a new, diverse breed of financial planners.

Though there are many different financial advisors, being a certified CFP professional may set you apart. The CFP Board notes that getting certified increases your chances of a competitive edge and career satisfaction, as well as customer satisfaction. 2

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment rates for personal financial advisors is projected to grow about 15% through 2031. 1

The BLS estimated an average salary of $94,170 in 2021, well above the national wages for all occupations. 1

Understanding the numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

Start Your Journey Toward an Online Financial Planning Degree

Why snhu for your financial planning degree flexible with no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7. affordable as part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. in fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. prior coursework could also help you save time and money. snhu’s transfer policy  allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. you could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience , or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you. respected founded in 1932 , southern new hampshire university is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. snhu is accredited by the new england commission of higher education (neche), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.  recently, snhu has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education: u.s. news & world report named snhu the 2021 most innovative university in the north and one of the nation's "best regional universities" awarded the 21st century distance learning award for excellence in online technology by the united states distance learning association (usdla) a $1 million grant from google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth network at southern new hampshire university, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities. 93.6% of online students would recommend snhu (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). discover why snhu may be right for you . admission requirements expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. that’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials: completed free undergraduate application prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you test scores are not required as part of your application acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms . how to apply if you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going: complete a free undergraduate application submit any additional documents required work with an admission counselor  to explore financial options  and walk through the application process if you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email [email protected] . sat/act test scores are not required as part of your application. if (typeof accordiongroup === "undefined") { window.accordiongroup = new accordion(); } accordiongroup.init(document.getelementbyid('8d602b093d70421b9712163aec9d1ae1')); learn through real-world application.

Alan McKnight, CFP ® professional and finance adjunct faculty

“The program is "very project-based", where students work through a particular client profile. They learn not just the fundamentals of how, but also how to have the conversations on the potential problems or issues that a client will face.”

Courses & Curriculum

The online finance degree is grounded in core business knowledge, which emphasizes communication, entrepreneurial thinking, collaboration, personal and social responsibility, as well as global orientation. The program culminates in a capstone experience that brings the numbers to life as students use cutting-edge technology and case studies to analyze and synthesize financial reporting data.

Courses in the financial planning concentration may include:

• Advanced Personal Financial Planning
• Risk Management and Insurance Planning
• Estate Planning and Taxation
• Financial Plan Development
• Federal Taxation I

SNHU's CFP Board-registered BS degree program in finance with a concentration in financial planning has been designed to align with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) undergraduate common professional component standards.

Prepare for CFP ® Exam Certification

Business core.

Business programs require learners to complete the Business core program, which includes a variety of business-specific courses. This program focuses on 10 core competencies to prepare you for success wherever you go.

General Education

All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses , which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.

Technology Resources

We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments .

Earn Math Credits

Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.

Minimum Hardware Requirements Component Type   PC (Windows OS)   Apple (Mac OS)   Operating System  Currently supported operating system from Microsoft.   Currently supported operating system from Apple.  Memory (RAM)  8GB or higher  8GB or higher  Hard Drive  100GB or higher  100GB or higher  Antivirus Software  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students.  SNHU Purchase Programs  Visit Dell   Visit Apple   Internet/ Bandwidth  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency  Notes:   Laptop or desktop?   Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.  Note:   Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.  Office 365 Pro Plus  is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for  Microsoft 365 plans  for business, education and government.  Antivirus software:  Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.  if (typeof accordionGroup === "undefined") { window.accordionGroup = new accordion(); } accordionGroup.init(document.getElementById('f756dce5bd874c61855f6f6e92d88470')); University Accreditation

Tuition & Fees

As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.

We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.

Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional Costs No Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Business Administration – Financial Planning Degree

Business administration - financial planning degree.

School of Business

(502) 585-7120

Financial Planning Concentration

Earn your financial planning degree from a business program that’s cfp® board registered and afcpe® approved..

Are you looking to major in financial planning? Our Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Financial Planning degree program combines the triple bottom line of business—people, planet, profit—with the key knowledge you’ll need to become a trusted financial advisor. You’ll be ready to help others make important financial decisions in their investments, savings, mortgages, insurance, estate planning, retirement and more.

Our financial planning concentration is registered with Certified Financial Planner (CFP)® Board of Standards and is an approved program of the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE)® .

Students who successfully complete the concentration may sit for the CFP Certification Examination that leads to the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification.

The degree fulfills the educational requirement to sit for the Accredited Financial Counselor® exam, which is offered through the Association for Financial Counseling and Planning Education®.

Degree Requirements

You’ll take five financial planning concentration courses (15 credit hours) in addition to the general requirements of the BS in Business Administration (see our BSBA – Financial Planning program sheet ):

• ACC 315: Tax 1
• FIN 210: Foundations of Personal Finance
• FIN 410: Risk Management & Estate Planning
• FIN 466: Investments & Retirement Planning
• FIN 481: Financial Plan Development

Highlights & Industry Insights

Most of our School of Business courses can be taken either on campus or online.

All of our financial planning courses are offered in Spalding’s unique six-week block schedule , giving you the flexibility to work, play college sports, do an internship and more while earning your bachelor’s degree.

Financial planning careers are on the rise and projected to grow 7 percent from 2018 to 2028 (US Dept. of Labor).

Financial planning remains steady despite the economic downturn and COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, Americans report feeling more prepared working with a financial advisor during a recession, and CFP professionals report a rise in prospective clients during COVID-19 (CFP Board).

Financial Planning Career Opportunities

You can take your career in a variety of directions with a bachelor’s degree in financial planning. As a graduate of Spalding’s School of Business, you’ll be qualified and ready to accept a job offer for a number of positions, including the following:

• Financial counselor
• Financial planner
• Risk analyst
• Estate planner

Advanced Degree Options

Since our program is CFP® board certified, you’ll be on the right track to further your specialization and sit for the CFP® examination. Alternatively, you may choose advanced study. Many of Spalding’s School of Business students choose to combine their bachelor’s with a Master of Science in Business Communication , earning their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years or less

Take the Next Step

Bachelor of Business – Financial Planning major

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Your guide to majoring in Financial Planning with the Bachelor of Business at RMIT.

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Introduction to the major

When you choose the Financial Planning major in the Bachelor of Business at RMIT University, you are undertaking a recognised and accredited major with subjects that will equip you with the expertise to provide professional financial advice in a range of areas including personal planning, taxation, estate planning, superannuation, retirement planning, insurance and investment planning.

The Financial Planning major will develop your financial knowledge, analytical skills and decision-making abilities, enabling you to work as a qualified professional financial planner and in other finance sector roles. More specifically, you will learn how to identify the appropriate risk profile of individual investors to recommend matching asset allocations into bonds, shares and property markets.

As you develop your core skills towards obtaining a financial planner licence and Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) membership, you will also learn about the changing regulatory and legal environment in Australia. Additionally, you will gain knowledge around common tax effective investments and superannuation strategies to achieve potential clients' goals and objectives. 

Students who also complete Financial Planning and Tax minor meet the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA)’s approved degree requirement.

About the Bachelor of Business

With the Bachelor of Business at RMIT you will enjoy a cross-disciplinary, flexible and personalised degree that allows you to pursue a range of diverse interest areas across business. You will gain practical real-world experience throughout your degree with the College of Business and Law and our industry partners.

About the Bachelor of Business Professional Practice

The Bachelor of Business Professional Practice is a four-year degree offering you access to all the options within the three-year Bachelor of Business, complemented by an exclusive internship of up to one year and Work Integrated Learning experiences. 

Why choose to major in Financial Planning with the Bachelor of Business?

Tailor your learning.

Undertake in-depth study in Financial Planning, complemented with a choice from 14 majors and 32 minor areas.

Concrete goals

Work towards obtaining a financial planner licence and Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) membership.

Transferable, future proofed skills

Equip yourself with sought after skills to start your professional life.

The RMIT business school appealed because it offered such a broad array of majors under its Bachelor of Business. My love of the stock market lead me toward financial planning specifically.

- David Saynor - Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) 

• Career outcomes

The Bachelor of Business opens up a wide range of career opportunities which you can choose to focus on based on how you tailor your subject selection. Our wide range of industry partners and real-life focus produces industry demanded graduates.

Throughout your major, you'll take courses focused on Financial Planning throughout a range of areas including personal planning, taxation, estate planning, superannuation, retirement planning, insurance and investment planning.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Business who choose to major in Financial Planning may go onto careers in the following roles:

• financial planner
• wealth manager 
• retirement planner
• risk manager
• compliance officer 
• financial consultant
• financial educator.

Subject selection guide

The following guide will help you understand what your subject plan will look like if you decide to major in Financial Planning with the Bachelor of Business:

You will undertake eight subjects focusing on;:

• BAFI1014 Personal Wealth Management “”
• BAFI1002 Financial Markets and Institutions *
• ACCT2286 Superannuation and Retirement *
• ACCT2287 Risk, Insurance and Social Security +
• LAW2450 Company and Finance Law +
• ACCT2285 Wealth Creation and Estate Planning #
• BAFI1042 Equity Investment and Portfolio Management #
• ACCT2288 Financial Advisory Practice ^

Additionally, if you are wanting to obtain and meet Financial Adviser Standards and register as a Financial Planner following graduation, you must complete the Financial Planning Major plus the following three (3) subjects from the Financial Planning and Tax minor:

• ACCT1060 Managerial Advisory Finance 
• LAW2453 Taxation 1
• LAW 2442 Business Law.

Key to subject selection

Complementary majors and minors.

By integrating a second major or a range of minors you will deepen your expertise in a specialised area while gaining a well-rounded understanding of how your chosen interest's principles intersect with other fields.

This combination of knowledge and skills will prepare you for the complexities of the modern business landscape and equip you to make a meaningful impact in your chosen career path.

All majors and minors in the Bachelor of Business are complementary. Suggested combinations are listed below: 

Financial Planning and Tax minor

The Financial Planning and Tax minor will help to secure your future as an accredited financial planner.

Economics major

The Economics major will help teach you understand the behaviour of individuals, organisations and governments in the face of scarcity.

Management and Change major

The Management and Change major provides knowledge and skills you need to manage organisational change, identifying potential barriers, communicating change and creating a change management plan.

Global Business major

The Global Business major will provide you with knowledge and skills in international trade, cross-cultural communication and global business strategy.

Bachelor of Business full course information

This is just one of the 14 majors that you can choose from. Visit the Bachelor of Business course page to find full course information, explore your study options, and get details on entry requirements, pathways, fees, plan structure and how to apply.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

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Study a single course to enhance your knowledge, get a taste of a new career direction, or as a stepping stone towards a full degree.

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Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)

Degree Level Undergraduate

Degree info for International students

Start Date January, April, June, September

Duration 3 year(s) full-time

Mode Online

Time Commitment 10 - 15 hours per week per course

Program Code XBFP

Study as Full-time or part-time

Fees AUD$ 25,500 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

Admissions Student Profile

• IELTS total [6.0]
• IELTS reading [6.0]
• IELTS writing [6.0]
• IELTS speaking [6.0]
• IELTS listening [6.0]

International Admission by Country See 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)

• Completed 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, assumed knowledge, english language entry requirements, admission requirements by country, degree overview.

• Graduate as a qualified financial planner with a degree approved by the Financial Adviser Standards, Treasury Department.
• Use your degree as a pathway into the Financial Planning Association of Australia’s (FPA) CFP® Certification Program.
• Build the technical and professional skills needed to prepare detailed financial plans.
• Learn to develop financial and legal documentation that meet regulatory requirements.
• Explore personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, financial risk management, and estate planning.
• Learn to use XPLAN, the most widely used financial planning software in Australia.
• UniSA Business is in the top 1% worldwide and awarded five stars. 1 1 UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 2023 QS Stars Business School Ratings.

The Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) is approved by the Financial Adviser Standards, Treasury Department 1 and will equip you with the essential educational requirements to practise as a financial planner under new Australian regulations.

From superannuation and tax to estate planning and risk management, this degree prepares you to navigate the complex financial planning landscape and will help you develop critical skills to work with a range of clients with short and long-term financial goals.

As one of the leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia, you can be confident you’re gaining a high-quality university degree that equips you with in-demand knowledge and skills the financial planning industry is telling us they need.

Graduates will also meet the relevant RG146 compliance requirement of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, and be eligible for membership of the Financial Planning Association of Australia’s Certified Financial Planner® Certification Program.

1 Financial Adviser Standards, Treasury Department have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022. The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) accredited program

What you'll learn

You’ll start with a solid foundation of business, before moving into your financial planning specialisation. You’ll develop a strong skill set in areas such as personal budgeting, superannuation and retirement planning, investment management, financial risk management, insurance planning and tax planning.

This degree has a strong focus on real-world, practical learning. As a student, you’ll learn to prepare a Statement of Advice for a client using XPlan – the most widely used financial planning software in Australia. Throughout your studies, you’ll use databases like Morningstar to research financial products, investigate real-world case studies from UniSuper, one of Australia’s largest superannuation funds and be involved in statistical analysis and ‘trading games’ using real industry data.

As a graduate, we’ll make sure you stand out from the crowd. You’ll learn contemporary career planning strategies and techniques to enhance your employability and achieve your career goals. You’ll also have opportunities to connect with the leading industry body, the Financial Planners Association (FPA) and other industry professionals.

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.

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.

Degree structure

Please note, courses may not be displayed in order of study.

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.

1. 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.

2. This course is recommended for students who are new to university studies or require development in academic and research skills.

3. Electives may be chosen from the UniSA Online electives list. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied.

Study Financial Planning on Demand

Geoff Pacecca, Principal Adviser: GAP Financial and UniSA Online financial planning academic gives an insight into what the Financial Planning degree is about, and how the degree has been designed to suit busy adults on the go.

Why Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)

Under new national regulations introduced in 2019, those looking to start their career as a financial planner will need to study a Treasury-approved degree. As a result, the Financial Planning Association (FPA) predicts there will be a shortage of financial planners and a high demand for newly-qualified graduates. There is no better time to launch your career.

Course content has been designed and developed with leading industry experts to ensure that what you learn is practical and relevant. Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to cutting-edge research associated with meeting client-specific needs in light of complex regulatory requirements.

You’ll also be able to build your professional network through our Business Career Mentor Program which pairs you with an experienced business professional. The six-month program is offered online and runs from March every year.

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.

Career outcomes

Your career.

The role of a financial planner extends beyond investing money. It’s a valued profession that empowers individuals to make informed financial decisions for themselves and their families.

As a financial planner, your career options are endless. You could find yourself working at financial institutions, investment banks, superannuation and insurance funds, financial advisory firms – or you could be self-employed and set up your own practice. Financial planners can also choose to specialise in a number of areas, such as tax planning, risk management or retirement planning.

Under new national regulations, people looking to start their career as a financial planner will need to study an accredited degree from January 2019. All financial planners currently working in industry will need to complete a Treasury-approved degree by 2024 in order to continue practising.

In addition to new education standards, financial planners are required to meet new professional requirements set by Treasury. This includes completing a professional year, passing a national exam, undertaking Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and completing a code of ethics course.

Careers to consider include:

• Qualified financial planner or financial adviser:  Help clients meet their short-term and long-term financial goals; assist with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; provide advice on personal investments and security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and deliver a high-quality customer experience.
• Investment manager:  Develop financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitor investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buy and sell stocks and bonds for clients; and provide advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate.
• Insurance broker:  Research and review available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arrange insurance, home loan mortgages and other types of finance for clients through banks, lenders, financiers and insurance companies; help clients understand insurance policy conditions, risks, premium rates and benefits; prepare reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals.
• Estate planner:  Provide clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long-term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; help ensure any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and develop estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries.
• Superannuation consultant:  Provide compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpret new legislation changes and consider the impact of those changes on the portfolio of funds, help clients understand the merits of Self Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF), and develop retirement plan strategies.  
• Wealth manager:  Deliver holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; provide services across a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, and financial advice on pensions, trusts, inheritances, estate planning, retirement planning, and tax bands; and possess knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry.
• Client relationship manager:  Proactively engage clients by providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice; identify opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; research the latest products and regulations; and focus on delivering a high-quality customer experience.

Scholarships and grants

We'll support you throughout your online studies. Apply for a range of scholarships and grants when you enrol into a UniSA Online degree. Conditions apply.

Find out more

Industry facts

41% increase in financial advisers registered in Australia between 2009 to 2018.

Financial Services Royal Commission, Some Features of the Australian Financial Planning Industry, Background Paper 6 (Part A), 2018.

Between now and 2023, the ABS projects the number of professional finance roles in Australia will increase.

Australian Bureau of Statistics, Catalogue 8165.0 – Counts of Australian businesses, including entries and exits, June 2015 to June 2019, Table 1–20

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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.

• Designed specifically for your online learning Designed by a team of academic and online experts, our course materials are delivered in an interactive way using innovative digital technology and state-of-the-art teaching and learning resources.
• Study when it suits you Our online degrees support students who lead busy lifestyles. With four start dates a year in January, March, July and September there is no need to interrupt your life.
• Take control of your study schedule With all content available from day one of your course, you have the power to plan your study schedule in advance. 
• Finish each course in 10 weeks Our courses are delivered within 10-week terms to keep you motivated throughout your degree. Study two courses a term or just one.
• 100% online study You won’t need to come onto campus for coursework, assessments or exams. Complete all study for your degree where it suits you.
• Get the help you need Whether you need help with course content or assessments, we offer the academic support and services you need to be successful in your studies.
• Adjust your study to your life There’s no need to interrupt work and family life or spend money on travel and student accommodation. Organise study around your life.
• Learn from world-renowned academics Get a degree that’s designed and taught by leading academics and industry professionals.
• 100% online interactive learning environment Our interactive online learning environment supports all your study needs. Log in anytime, on any device, wherever it suits you.
• Access a library of over 700,000 digital resources Access a library of more than 700,000 digital resources including e-books, videos and journal articles. Our Ask the Library virtual service can help you locate, access, evaluate, use and reference a range of information resources.

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 supports 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

My UniSA degree parchment hangs proudly in my office along with my Advanced Diploma of Financial Services and Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) certificates. Clients express satisfaction in knowing that they are dealing with someone who has passed the academic requirements to hold the industry’s highest qualifications and be at the forefront of technical knowledge and skills. In an ever-changing environment, continual learning represents commitment to being the best I can be for myself, my business and my clients.

Mark Bastiaans

Principal Financial Adviser | Advice SA

IT Requirements

Generally, 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 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.

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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.

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If you're eligible, you'll receive an email outlining the entry requirements and the relevant documentation you need in order to be considered.

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Complete your application and send through your documents

Alternative pathways.

• complete the UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
• complete the UniSA College Diploma in Business   

Online Course Facilitator

I have over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, including ten years working in Sydney as a Financial Services Executive. I was honoured to be awarded the Financial Standard’s Power50 most influential financial advisers in Australia for 2018. I am currently a Principal Adviser and founder of GAP Financial. My role at UniSA Online allows me to bring my industry experience to develop course content that is relevant and practical for current and aspiring financial planners. Students will learn best-practice processes and client strategies using real-world case studies taken from the industry.

Geoffrey Pacecca

GAP Financial Founder

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Future study opportunities

Master of Finance (Global Investment and Trade)

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What Is Finance Management?

Finance management merges management and accounting, using the financial management cycle to create strategic plans for clients. Learn about this growing field, the education requirements, and different career paths.

Finance management is the strategic planning and managing of an individual or organization’s finances to better align their financial status to their goals and objectives. Depending on the size of a company, finance management seeks to optimize shareholder value, generate profit, mitigate risk, and safeguard the company's financial health in the short and long term. When working with individuals, finance management may entail planning for retirement, college savings, and other personal investments. 

Purpose of financial management 

The purpose of financial management is to guide businesses or individuals on financial decisions that affect financial stability both now and in the future. To provide good guidance, financial management professionals will analyze finances and investments along with many other forms of financial data to help clients make decisions that align with goals. 

Financial management can also offer clients increased financial stability and profitability when there’s a strategic plan for where, why, and how finances are allocated and used. How financial management professionals help clients reach goals will depend on whether the client is a company or an individual.

Types of financial management

Finance management professionals handle three main types of financial management for companies. These types involve various aspects of the internal decisions a company will likely need to make about cash flow, profits, investments, and holding debt. Many of these decisions will depend significantly on factors like company size, industry, and financial goals. Financial management professionals help companies reach financial goals by guiding in these areas of financing, investment, and dividends. 

Financial management professionals assist companies in major decisions that involve acquiring funds, managing debt, and assessing risk when borrowing money for purchases or to build the company. Financing is also required when raising capital. Companies can make better, more strategic financing decisions to raise capital or obtain funds when they have information on cash flow, market trends, and other financial stats on the health of a company. 

Investment 

Financial management professionals can help companies choose where to invest, what to invest in, and how to invest. The financial professional’s job is to determine the number of assets (both fixed and long term) a company will need to hold and where cash flow goes based on current working capital. In essence, this type of financial management is about assessing assets for risk and return ratios. Financial managers will consider a company’s profits, rate of return, cash flow, and other criteria to assist companies in making investment decisions. 

Companies should have a dividend disbursement plan and policy in place, with guidance from a financial management professional who can create and implement that plan, suggest modifications when needed, and monitor payouts if and when they occur. Any time a financial decision is made, it’s essential to consider dividend payments since you may hold dividends to fund certain financial decisions within the company. 

It’s also important to have a flexible long-term plan that can grow with the company. Some more mature companies may pay out dividends at certain times or once a year; the payout schedule depends on many factors. Other companies may retain or reinvest dividend payments back into the company if the company is in a growth phase.

What is the financial management cycle? 

The financial management cycle is a financial planning process critical to a company's growth and development. It includes: 

Planning and budgeting 

Resource allocation

Operations and monitoring 

Evaluation and reporting 

Effective financial management aligned with an organization’s goals and objectives can lead to greater efficiency and stability. These parts of the financial management cycle must work together to be the most effective. 

1. Planning and budgeting 

During this analytical phase in the financial management cycle, a company uses past and current financial data to set financial targets, modify objectives, and make changes to the current budget. This phase will typically involve detailed planning as well as a big picture one, meaning a company will look at day-to-day operations, long-term financial plans, and try to link financial targets to these activities. 

The goal is to create a strategic financial plan for the company that aligns with objectives for the next three to five years. When setting specific budgets, a company may budget for one fiscal year at a time. A big reason for this is that a budget involves many moving parts that are subject to change by market fluctuations.

2. Resource allocation 

Financial managers assign value to capital resources ( anything a company uses to manufacture/produce goods/services) and offer advice on allocating these resources based on criteria like projected company growth and financial goals. Resource allocation is important because it allows a company to have a long-term financial plan focused on its business objectives. Financial management professionals help companies by providing a framework for using capital resources and creating a portfolio that will generate the most revenue, given the company's financial status. 

3. Operations and monitoring 

This phase is critical to protect against fraudulent activity, errors, compliance issues, or other variances in the allocation of funds, etc. Financial management professionals should run regular financial reviews of business operations and cash flow. These periodic reviews can help mitigate fraud and identify other issues. It is a preventative step that ensures the continuity of business operations by securing the validity and accuracy of a company's financial processes. 

4. Evaluation and reporting 

Financial management professionals should evaluate a company’s current financial management system and propose changes when necessary. Financial reports and financial data can be helpful when assessing the efficiency and success of an existing system. 

Some criteria a financial management professional may consider when evaluating a financial management system include security, compliance, company data needs, and level of support needed. These criteria vary by the company’s size, industry, current financial situation, and long-term goals. 

Financial management professionals should be able to offer research-based suggestions that can help a company securely store and manage financial data in compliance with relevant laws and harness that data when needed. 

How to work in finance management 

To work in finance management, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or a related field. While there's no mandatory licensure for careers in financial management, certification is highly recommended. In many cases, employers like to see at least five years of professional experience before hiring into a financial management position. Typical jobs that individuals may pursue as an entry point to finance management may include loan officer, junior tax accountant, personal finance advisor, or accountant. 

Educational requirements 

A bachelor’s degree in finance, business management, or a related field is the minimum requirement to work in finance management. A master’s degree may be required for senior-level positions. Typical coursework for bachelor’s degree programs in finance or business management may include accounting, economics, finance, and human resources . Many master's programs will offer internships, along with some bachelor’s programs. Internships are highly recommended. 

Read more: What Can You Do with a Finance Degree? 7 Career Paths

Certifications

Certification is optional but suggested if you plan on a long-term career in finance management. Professional trade organizations typically offer certification. The type of certification you earn can be specialized to your job title or role. Common certifications that financial management professionals hold include: 

Certified Management Account (CMA) certification is offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) and is ideal for anyone wanting to work in financial management. Requirements include at least two years of professional experience and a bachelor’s degree. 

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification offered by the CFA institute focuses on investment analysis. This certification is for financial management professionals who want to work in senior-level positions like CFO. Educational and experiential requirements are also necessary to enroll in the CFA program. 

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) certification offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) is for professionals who work in government financial management specifically. You’ll need at least two years of professional experience in government financial management to earn certification. 

Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) certification offered by the Association of Financial Professionals (AFP) can benefit anyone who wants to work in corporate treasury. This certification focuses on risk management, corporate liquidity, and ethics. You'll need to meet educational and experiential requirements for this certification, with several options available for admittance into the CTP program. 

Careers in finance management require a mix of financial skills and business skills. It’s essential to understand business operations, but proficiency in accounting, financial, and data analytics is equally important. Finance management merges management and finance. You may find success working in the field of finance management if you hold these skills: 

Workplace skills 

Good communication  

Problem-solving skills 

Quality leader

Proficiency in public speaking and presentation

Ability to manage a group of people 

Detail-oriented 

Analytical skills 

Strong decision-making skills 

Technical skills 

Basic and advanced math skills (algebra, statistics, basic computing) 

Computer skills 

Proficiency in financial management systems

Understanding of statistical modeling software and spreadsheets

Industry-specific knowledge 

Proficiency in accounting principles and techniques 

Understanding investment principles 

Professional experience in finance or business management is key if you want to advance into upper-level finance management positions. Expect to work at least five years in an entry to mid-level finance position before being eligible to work in finance management. Remember, finance management careers are managerial positions, so requirements like experience and education matter. It’s not just the quantity of experience but also the quality that matters. Try to find jobs in finance or accounting. It’s also helpful to find jobs that can help you move into the specific industry that you want to work in. 

Careers in finance management 

The scope of careers in the finance management field is vast. From entry-level positions in bookkeeping to management positions like a financial manager or management accountant, you’ll have many career pathway choices. 

The career you choose will depend on factors like education, certifications, professional experience, industry, employer, and location. Salaries among finance management jobs will also differ based on these factors. Individuals in senior-level positions like CFO and vice president of financial planning and analysis will be among the top-tier earners in finance management. 

*All annual salary data is sourced from Glassdoor as of August 2022

Financial manager 

Average annual salary (US): $133,190

Job outlook (2020 to 2030): +17% [ 1 ]

Financial managers oversee a financial department and may assist in creating strategic financial plans for an organization. Their duties include preparing financial reports and statements, forecasting, setting budgets, analyzing financial markets for trends and investment opportunities for an organization, and seeking ways to mitigate costs.

Financial advisor

Average annual salary (US): $106,012

Job outlook (2020 to 2030):  +5% [ 2 ]

Personal financial advisors assist individuals in planning for their future by helping them manage money and seek out investments based on individual situations. A personal financial advisor meets with individuals to set financial goals with short and long-term plans to achieve those objectives. Some financial aspects an advisor may handle include taxes, retirement, college savings, insurance, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors may work for an investment firm or on their own. 

Financial analyst

Average annual salary (US): $93,605

Job outlook (2020 to 2030): +6% [ 3 ]

Financial analysts may work within a large corporation or with individuals. Their job is to analyze their client’s financial situation and make financial suggestions based on goals and financial status. A financial suggestion may include finding investment opportunities. The goal of an analyst is to evaluate market trends and position a client in a secure financial standing based on the analysis of trends and related data.

Management accountant 

Average annual salary (US): $106,058 [ 4 ]

Management accountants work for corporations or government agencies. Their goal is to provide an in-depth financial analysis of an organization’s internal financial processes for strategic financial decision-making. Key decision makers in an organization use the information gathered by management accountants to aid in decision-making in the long and short term. 

Next steps 

Take the next steps in pursuing a career in finance management. You can prepare yourself for a career in finance management today by working on key skills you’ll need in this field. One way to take the next steps toward a finance management job is to enroll in a finance management course like Investment and Portfolio Management Specialization or Investment Management Specialization offered on Coursera. These courses are specially designed for professionals in finance management who want to build their resume, skills, and prospects for employment. 

Related articles

6 Business Majors For Your Goals: Guide

What Is a Business Management Degree and What Can You Do With One?

5 Common MBA Concentrations

Is an MBA Worth It? Guide

Article sources

1. US Bureau of Labor Statistics, " Financial Managers , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm." Accessed May 24, 2022.

2. US Bureau of Labor Statistics, " Personal Financial Advisors , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/personal-financial-advisors.htm#tab-1."  Accessed May 24, 2022

3. US Bureau of Labor Statistics, " Financial Analysts , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm." Accessed May 24, 2022.

4. Glassdoor, " Management Accountant Salary , https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/atlanta-management-accountant-salary-SRCH_IL.0,7_IM52_KO8,29.htm." Accessed May 24, 2022.

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning)

Graduate with a financial planning qualification that will provide opportunities to engage with real-world financial problems throughout the degree and develop your technical and communication skills.

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• 3 years full-time
• 6 years part-time

These thresholds are the lowest adjusted scores to which QUT made an offer in Semester 1, 2023.

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My course at QUT was developed in consultation with industry and it provided many practical and real-world learning opportunities. This allowed me to develop my technical and problem-solving skills, which helped me pursue a career in financial planning in an ever-changing and dynamic environment.

• Graduate with a degree accredited by the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority recognised by the Federal Treasury*.  
• Develop skills and knowledgeable in the fields of investment taxation, superannuation, insurance, and estate planning.
• Develop digital competencies and in-demand transferable skills in critical thinking, professional communication, teamwork, and financial planning technology. 
• Learn about the legal framework and regulation of financial markets in Australia, including securities, managed  funds, financial instruments, and the role of regulators.
• Be taught by expert academics and industry leaders who bring valuable real-world experience to the classroom.
• Gain practical experience working with consultancies, government, corporate settings, and/or community groups through QUT's Work integrated learning (WIL) unit.
• Meet the requirements for membership with the Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA).​

*- As of January 1st, 2022, the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) have been, in part, taken over by the Federal Treasury.  

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For this course, if you receive an ATAR rank of 70.00 or higher and satisfy all other admission requirements, you are guaranteed an offer for this course in 2024.

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What to expect.

Are you someone who enjoys working with people and is passionate about helping others achieve their goals? If so, a career in financial planning might be the perfect fit for you. As a financial adviser, every day you will collaborate with individuals, businesses, and organisations, helping them manage their financial matters and meet their financial goals.

In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of finance, investment, taxation law, superannuation, and retirement planning. From there, you will explore more advanced subjects, including insurance, risk, management and estate planning, financial services and law and personal financial planning.

You'll also gain valuable hands-on experience navigating and operating widely used financial software such as  XPlan. Guided by industry experts, you'll learn how to gather and analyse information to manage finances effectively, evaluate risk, and assess performance and value.

QUT's Financial Planning course is designed in collaboration with industry partners, with an emphasis on real-world learning. Throughout your studies, you will hear from many prominent financial planning professionals ranging from CEOs of leading finance associations to local and international financial advisers from a variety of industries. 

As part of our Work Integrated Learning program, you'll also have the opportunity to complete professional work placements in consultancies, corporate settings, government, and community groups. This will allow you to build on what you've studied in class while also helping you develop the transferable skills and essential work experience you need to enter the workforce confidently.

The Financial Advisers Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) has approved QUT’s financial planning major as meeting the minimum education requirement to be a financial planner. The financial planning major will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and recognised qualification to practise as a qualified financial adviser.

Additionally, students enrolled in this course are eligible for free membership of the Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA), providing them with invaluable access to career networking events and professional resources and graduates will qualify for the FAAA’s Certified Financial Planner® Certification Program.

Careers and outcomes

Financial planning is a dynamic and broad industry that offers many career opportunities in financial advising, wealth creation, investment management, insurance planning, estate planning, debt resolution and risk management.

Professional recognition

The Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) has received approval from the  Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA)* and provides the necessary educational qualifications to practice as a financial planner in accordance with Australia's new regulations.

*- As of January 1st, 2022, the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) have been taken over by the Federal Treasury. 

Possible careers

• Financial planner
• Investment manager
• Paraplanner
• Private client advisor
• Risk insurance advisor
• Stockbroker
• Superannuation advisor
• Wealth management consultant

Details and units

Course structure, requirements.

Don't have a ATAR/selection rank?

Find out other ways you can apply

You can defer your offer and postpone the start of your course for one year.

Assumed knowledge

Before you start this course, we assume you have sound knowledge of the subject/s listed below. If you don't have the subject knowledge, you can still apply for the course but we strongly encourage you to undertake bridging studies to gain the knowledge:

• English, or Literature, or English and Literature Extension, or English as an Additional Language (Units 3 & 4, C)
• General Mathematics, or Mathematical Methods, or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C)

More about assumed knowledge

Year 12 early offer scheme

If you're a current Queensland Year 12 student, you may be eligible to receive an offer for this course on the last day of Queensland Year 12, before receiving your ATAR or selection rank.

Find out more about the QUT Year 12 Early Offer Scheme

Helping you to get into your course

If you don't think your ATAR or selection rank is high enough to get into this course, you can guarantee your entry with guaranteed advanced standing by upgrading through one the following programs which you can select as one of your QTAC preferences:

QUT College Diplomas

As a QUT College Diploma in Business, Entrepreneurship (business pathway), or Esports (business pathway) graduate you will automatically receive an offer to start the Bachelor of Business within one week after completion of the diploma. You will also automatically receive up to 1.0 year (96 credit points) credit transfer and be able to complete the degree in 2 years as a full-time student (or equivalent part-time).

Find out more about the QUT College Diploma in Business

Find out more about the QUT College Diploma in Entrepreneurship

Find out more about the QUT College Diploma in Esports

Offer guarantee

If you achieve an ATAR or selection rank of 70.00 or higher (including any adjustments) and satisfy all other admission requirements, you are guaranteed an offer for this course.

Advanced standing

If you have prior studies or work experience, you may be eligible for advanced standing (credit). You can apply for advanced standing once you've been accepted to QUT. If you're in your first semester of study, you must apply for advanced standing within 10 days of receiving your offer.

More about advanced standing

More about deferring your offer

Adjustments to your ATAR/selection rank

Any adjustments you receive to your ATAR or selection rank will be applied to this course.

Find out if you’re eligible for an adjustment to your ATAR or selection rank

Offers we made to school leavers in Semester 1, 2022

The figures listed in the tables below reflect the offers that were made to recent ATAR students. The entry thresholds box at the top of this page shows the lowest adjusted ATAR/selection rank required to receive an offer for all applicants for the most recent January QTAC offer round.

You can find out more about your fellow students’ backgrounds with this course’s student profile .

Other admission options

If you are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, you may be eligible for admission through our Centralised Assessment Selection Process (CASP) .

I completed my studies outside of Australia

Select the country where you completed your studies to see a guide to the grades you need to apply for this course.

If your country or qualification is not listed, you can still apply for this course and we will assess your eligibility.

• Year 12 with an overall grade average of 7.5 (on a 10-point scale) from all Year 12 subjects and an overall passing grade in Bang Tot Nghiep Trung Hoc Pho Thong.
• Ylioppilastutkintotodistu/Finnish Matriculation Certificate with a grade average of 3 over 4 exam results.
• Prior to 2020: Pre-University Certificate with a grade average of 15 on a 20-point scale.
• From 2020: National High School Diploma/Secondary School Leaving Certificate with a grade average of 15 on a 20-point scale in final year (Grade 12).
• An aggregate score of  8  based on the best three A-Level subjects from  General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced (A2) Level.  <br> <br>A or A2-Level: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1<br> <br>A maximum of two Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level subjects can be counted in place of one A-level  subject provided that the same subject has not been taken at A level.  <br>AS-or A1 Level: A=2.5, B=2, C=1.5, D=1, E=0.5.<br> <br>Awarded by: AQA, Cambridge/CIE, CEA, Pearson/Pearson International/ Edexcel, OxfordAQA,OCR, WJEC.
• Completed International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme with final aggregate score of 28.<br><br>Send your results to QUT through your online IB account. QUTs institution code is 003148.<br> <br>Depending on the structure of your course, you can receive advanced standing up to 4 units towards your degree. You can apply for advanced standing based on your completed IB Diploma studies, after you have been accepted into your course. For information on Credit for Prior Learning, please refer to https://www.advancedstanding.qut.edu.au/cgi-bin/WebObjects/AdvStand.woa/wa/precedents?institution=IBD
• Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) 3/Certificate of Graduation (Nilai Ujian Sekolah) with an overall average of 80% in the best 5 academic subjects (Bahasa Indonesia, Matematika, Bahasa Inggris and 2 other academic subjects from Group C).
• Senior/Higher Secondary School Certificate/Pre-University certificate from QUT recognised state education boards with an overall average of 75% in best five academic subjects (2 languages and 3 academic subjects), excluding physical education.
• Indian School Certificate academic stream awarded by CISCE with overall average of 60% in best five academic subjects (two languages and three academic subjects), excluding physical education.
• All India Senior School Certificate academic stream awarded by CBSE with an overall average of 60% in best five academic subjects (two languages and three academic subjects), excluding physical education.
• Senior Secondary Matriculation Examination (Stúdentspróf) with a grade average 6 in the final year results.
• Higher Diploma or Associate degree from recognised Hong Kong institutions with an overall grade average of 2.0 on a 4 point scale where 2=pass. Requirement for other scales: 1.7 on a 4.0 point scale where 1.7=pass; 1.7 on a 4.3 point scale where 1.7=pass or 2.0 on a 4.5 point scale where 2=pass).
• HKDSE with an aggregate score of 16 over the five best HKDSE subjects (across Core and category A or C electives) where 2 is the minimum accepted grade.
• German Abitur: Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife with an overall grade point average of 3.4 on 6-point scale (where 1 is best).
• An aggregate score of 8 based on the best three A-Level subjects from  General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level.  <br> <br>A or A2-Level subject: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1, U=0 <br> <br>A maximum of two Advanced Subsidiary (AS) level subjects can be counted in place of one A-level  subject provided that the subject has not been taken at A level.  AS Levels are equivalent to half points, e.g. B=2.<br> <br>Awarded by: AQA, Cambridge/CIE, CEA, Pearson/Pearson International/ Edexcel, OxfordAQA,OCR, WJEC.
• Leaving Certificate with a grade average of 4.0 in the best 5 Higher, Ordinary, or LCVP subjects.
• Studentereksamen (STX) with an overall grade average of 4 in the final year.
• GAOKAO 60% in best 4 academic subjects.<br>GAOKAO score converted to percentage using Chinese, English/Foreign Language, Mathematics and one other subject (excluding Technology). Percent is the [sum of scores attained for the four units] / [sum of maximum grades for the four units].
• Manitoba High School Graduation Diploma with an overall grade average of 60% using the best  five Grade 12 subjects of course types: University based (40U, 42U) or Specialised (40S, 42S)
• Alberta High School Diploma with an overall grade average of 60% using the best five Level 30 Provincial Diploma Exams
• British Columbia Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma with an overall grade average of 60% using Language Arts 12 provincially examined subject (English 12; English 12 First Peoples, Communication 12, English Literature 12) and four Grade 12 academic subjects (4 credit point).
• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with an overall grade average of 60% using the best six Grade 12 subjects of course types: University preparation (U); University / college preparation (M); or College preparation (C).
• An aggregate score of 8 from Brunei-Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced (A) Level and Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level subjects including at least two A Level pass subjects.<br><br>Aggregate is calculated based on the best three A Levels.  AS Levels can be included and are counted as half of an A Level.<br>A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1, U=0 for A Level subjects; and<br>A(a)=2.5, B(b)=2, C(c)=1.5, D(d)=1, E(e)=0.5, U=0 for AS Level subjects.
• Bhutan Higher Secondary Education Certificate with an overall average of 60% in best five academic subjects (2 languages and 3 academic subjects), excluding Internal Assessment.
• Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) in general academic stream with an overall grade point average of 4.0 on 5 point scale.
• QUT Diploma program with successful completion.
• QUT Foundation Program with an overall grade average of at least 4.4 (on QUT's 7 point scale).
• QUT Intensive Program with an overall grade average of at least 4.4 (on QUT's 7 point scale).
• Kotogakko Sotsugyo Shosho (Upper Secondary School Certificate of Graduation) with an overall grade average of 4.0 on a 5 point scale in the final year.<br> <br>Kotogakko Sotsugyo Shosho (Upper Secondary School Certificate of Graduation) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score of 1100.
• Enhanced ACT* and USA High School Diploma (HSD)<br>ACT 24 and USA High School Diploma.<br> <br>Nominate your score report to be sent to QUT using the College Code 5437 - Queensland University of Technology.
• SAT-I* and High School Diploma (HSD)<br>SAT 1 of 1100 (out of 1600) and Senior High School Diploma.<br> <br>Nominate your score report to be sent to QUT using the Designated Institution (DI) code is 7971 - Queensland University of Technology.<br>*Composite SAT-1 Score since March 2016
• Advanced Placements (APs)<br>High School Diploma with completion of 12 years of schooling and an aggregate of 9 in Advanced Placements (APs) subjects.<br> <br>A minimum of two and a maximum of four APs may be used. Aggregate determined where: A=5, B=4, C=3 (Pass), D=2, E=1. Where more than four APs have been taken,  best four results are used.<br> <br>AP results must be issued by The College Board Advanced Placement Program.
• An aggregate score of 8 from Singapore-Cambridge General Certificate of Education H2 Level and H1 Level subjects including at least two H2 Level pass subjects.<br><br>Aggregate is calculated based on the best three H2 Levels.  H1 Levels can be included and are counted as half of H2 Level.<br>A=5; B=4; C=3; D=2; E=1 for H2 Level;<br>A=2.5, B=2, C=1.5, D=1, E=0.5 for H1 Level.<br>General Paper is not included in the calculation.<br>Bonus aggregate points are applied for ONE H3 Level pass as: Distinction=2, Merit=1.5, Pass=1.
• Diploma or Advanced Diploma with an overall grade average of 2 on a 4 point scale from Nanyang, Ngee Ann, Republic, Singapore or Temasek Polytechnic.
• Certificate of Secondary Education in Academic stream with overall grade point average 2.7 or higher in Grade 12/Matayom 6
• Senior High School Diploma (Academic Senior III)  with final year overall percentage average of 90%.
• Senior High School Diploma (Academic) with final year overall average pass and AST 60% (5 subjects).
• Senior High School Diploma (Academic) with final year overall average pass and GSAT 60% (4 subjects).
• Högskoleförberedande examen with an overall grade average of 14 out of 20; where A=20, B=17.5, C=15, D=12.5, E=10, F=0.
• Sri Lankan General Certificate of Education ('Advanced' Level) with aggregate score of 8 over best three A Level subjects excluding General Paper/English where A=5, B=4, C=3, S=0.
• National Senior Certificate (NSC) with average of 4.6 over best five subjects in final year (excluding Life Orientation); where 7=80-100%; 6=70-79%; 5=60-69%; 4=50-59%; 3=40-49%; 2=30-39%; 1=0-29.
• Aggregate score of 6 from best three Scottish Advanced Highers where A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2.
• Aggregate score of 2 from best 8 Scottish Highers Examinations where A=4; B=3; C=2; D=1.
• Kenyan Certificate of Secondary Education with a Mean Grade of  B
• SAT 1 of 1100 (out of 1600) and Senior High School Diploma.<br> <br>Nominate your score report to be sent to QUT using the Designated Institution (DI) code is 7971 - Queensland University of Technology.<br>*Composite SAT-1 Score since March 2016
• Pre-Engineering & Pre-Medical stream - Higher Secondary Education Certificate (HSSC) or Intermediate Examination Certificate with an overall average of 65%.
• Upper Secondary Leaving Certificate with grade point average of 3.6 on the 6-point scale in final year.
• A certified copy of your Record of Achievement issued by the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) confirming you have qualified for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (Level 3) and meet the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR/ITI) equivalent for the course. Please refer to the Guide to entry thresholds https://www.qut.edu.au/study/applying/international-year-12-students/queensland-op-atar-and-ib-acceptance-thresholds<br><br>The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) calculates an Interstate Transfer Index (ATAR/ ITI), you must authorised your information to be released to us, so we can verify your ATAR/ITI online. The ATAR/ITI will not be released to you, NZQA will provide the score to us.
• Diploma of Pre-University Education (VWO) Voorbereidend Wetenschappellijk Onderwijs with grade average of 6.4 in final year.
• Matrikulasi (Matriculation) with overall grade point average of 2.75 on 4-point scale.
• Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) (Malaysian Higher School Certificate Examination) with an aggregate score of 8 over the best three A Level subjects (excluding General Paper) where:<br>A/A-=5; B+=4; B=3; B-/C+=2; C=1; less than C=0.
• United Examination Certificate for Independent Chinese Secondary Schools (UEC) with grade average of 4.4 from five major subjects (excluding Chinese, Malay, PE); where A1=1; A2=2; B3=3; B4=4; B5=5; B6=6; C7=7; C8=8; F9=Fail.
• Senior High School Certificate/Diploma and Korean College Scholastic Aptitude Test (CSAT) aggregate level of 12 from Language Arts, Mathematics and Foreign Language (English).  

You must have achieved this study at a level comparable to Australian Year 12 or in recognised post-secondary studies.

I completed secondary school in Australia

Before you start this course we assume you have sound knowledge in these areas:

If you completed secondary school in Australia and achieve an ATAR/selection rank of 70.00 or higher (including any adjustments) and satisfy all other admission requirements, you are guaranteed an offer for this course.

Minimum English language requirements

Select the country where you completed your studies to see a guide on meeting QUT’s English language requirements.

Your scores and prior qualifications in English-speaking countries are considered. Approved English-speaking countries are Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, United States of America and Wales.

UTS (University of Technology Sydney) Insearch - Academic English

English program.

Academic English 5 (AE5) program with a final overall grade of PASS or higher completed within one year of starting at QUT.

Bachelor studies

Higher education.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor from RMIT Vietnam, completed within two years of starting at QUT.

A completed bachelor degree (or higher) with a minimum of 1 year full-time studies with a passing grade point average from RMIT Vietnam, completed within five years of starting at QUT.

USA High School Diploma - completed in the USA or at an overseas American International School

Senior secondary.

USA High School Diploma completed in an approved English Speaking country with a grade of C or better in Grade 12 English.<br> <br>USA High School Diploma completed in a non-English Speaking country with a grade of C or better in Grade 12 English and SAT score of at least 640 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing within the last five years.

Post Secondary

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a recognised in a Diploma or Associate degree an accredited USA institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time on-campus studies with passing grade point average in a recognised Diploma or Associate degree an at an accredited USA institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

Bachelor or higher

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a recognised Bachelor or higher program at an accredited USA institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time on-campus studies with passing grade point average in a recognised Bachelor or higher program at an accredited USA institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

Advanced Placement (AP)

A grade of 3 or higher in AP English Language and Composition or AP English Literature and Composition.

Bachelor or Higher

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Danish institution, with all prior schooling/studies in Denmark. Diploma Supplement or an official letter from home institution stating English as the language of instruction.

Danish Studentereksamen(Upper Secondary School Diploma)

7 in A-level English OR 10 in B-level English completed within five years of starting at QUT.

General Certificate of Education (GCE)

English Language, English Literature or English Lanague and Literature with a minimum grade of C or an A2 level in a humanities subject with a minimum grade of C or A2 grade of C in General Paper.<br> <br>Qualifications issued by: Pearson/Edexcel; Cambridge/CIE; AQA; OxfordAQA; CEA; OCR; WJEC.

General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) O level / International GCSE (IGCSE)

O Level: Minimum grade C or 5 in English, English Language, English (First Language), English as a Second Language or English Literature.<br> <br>Qualifications issued by: Pearson/Edexcel; Cambridge/CIE; AQA; CEA; OCR; WJEC.

Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation

TAFE Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation subjects studied in Australia: with both Language and Learning units (ATPALS401A Research, plan and present academic essays, reports and reflections, and ATPALS402A Write academically to persuade/ argue and critically analyse, and present academic speeches) completed within two years of starting at QUT.

QUT Intensive Program

QUT Intensive Program with Academic English 2 grade of 5 (on a 7 point scale).

On-campus Bachelor or higher program studies with an overall passing grade point average at a recognised Australian institution (the duration of studies must be 1 year or more full-time), with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country. <br> <br>On-campus Bachelor or higher program studies with an overall passing grade point average at a recognised Australian institution (the duration of studies must be 1 year or more full-time). These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

Diploma programs

AQF Diploma award of 1 full-time year equivalent studies undertaken at an Australian University, University college or TAFE institution. These studies must be successful with a passing grade point average and must be completed in Australia in on-campus mode within two years of starting at QUT.

QUT Foundation program

QUT Foundation Program with Academic English 2 grade of 5 (on a 7 point scale).

Australian University Foundation Programs

Foundation program with final semester English and communication subject(s) with a grade of 5 (on a 7 point scale) . Studies must be on-campus in Australia and completed within 2 years of starting at QUT.

QUT English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

QC36 English for Academic Purposes (EAP) 2 Standard or QC37 English for Academic Purposes (EAP) 2 Extended with 65% completed within one year of starting this course at QUT.

QUT Diploma

QUT Diploma program with a grade of 4.0 (out of 7) in the unit Professional Communication 2/Academic Communication 2; completed within two years of starting this course at QUT.

Australian senior high school - completed in Australia or overseas at an International School

Queensland High School with a minimum grade of C in Unit 3 and 4 in English, or Literature, or English and Literature Extension, or English as an Additional Language, within five years of starting at QUT.<br>

Advanced Diploma and Associate Degrees

AQF Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree award of 1 full-time year equivalent studies undertaken at an Australian University, University college or TAFE institution. These studies must be successful with a passing grade point average and must be completed in Australia in on-campus mode within two years of starting at QUT.

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD)

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD) completed 2 year program with achievement in one of the following subjects with grade of 3 (higher level) or 4 (standard level)<br>English A: Language and Literature<br>English A: Literature<br>English B.<br>Completed within five years of starting at QUT..

All India Senior School Certificate awarded by CBSE

65% in English Core subject completed within five years of starting at QUT.

Indian School Certificate awarded by CISCE

Higher diploma or associate degree.

Higher Diploma or Associate degree (minimum of 1 year full-time on-campus studies) at a recognised Hong Kong institution with: <br>a passing grade point average and these studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT; and<br>an official language of instruction letter is required if the academic transcripts doesn't clearly state English is the Language of Instruction; and<br>evidence of minimum HKDSE Level 2 overall in the English Language.

1 year full-time on-campus studies in a Bachelor or higher program at a recognised Hong Kong institution with: <br>a passing grade point average and these studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT; and<br>an official language of instruction letter is required if the academic transcripts doesn't clearly state English is the Language of Instruction; and<br>evidence of minimum HKDSE Level 2 overall in English Language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

Level 4 overall in English Language subject completed within two years of starting at QUT.

Diploma Hoger Algemeen Voortgezet Onderwijs (Dutch HAVO) Getuigschrift (from a Hogere Burgerschool) Dutch HAVO

A grade of 8 or better in final year English completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised institution in Netherlands completed within five years of starting at QUT, with all prior schooling/studies in Netherlands. Diploma Supplement or an official letter from home institution stating English as the language of instruction.

Diploma of Pre-University Education (VWO) Voorbereidend Wetenschappellijk Onderwijs

A grade of 7 or better in final year English completed within five years of starting at QUT.

Ylioppilastutkintotodistu/Lukion päättötoditus

Ylioppilastutkintotodistu: score of 4 in English subject in final year of secondary school completed within five years of starting at QUT.<br> <br>Lukion päättötoditus: at least a grade 8 English A in final year of secondary school completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Finnish institution completed within five years of starting at QUT, and a pass in English subject from Finnish High School. Diploma Supplement or an official letter from home institution stating English as the language of instruction.

A Level: English Language, English Literature or English Language and Literature with a minimum grade of C. GCE A level in a humanities subject with a minimum grade of C.<br> <br>AS Level: English Language, English Literature, English Language and Literature or General Paper/General Studies with a minimum grade of C.<br> <br>Qualifications issued by: Pearson/Edexcel; Cambridge/CIE; AQA; OxfordAQA; CEA; OCR; WJEC.

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD) completed 2 year program with achievement in one of the following subjects with grade of 3 (higher level) or 4 (standard level)<br>English A: Language and Literature<br>English A: Literature<br>English B.<br>Completed within five years of starting at QUT.

O Level: Minimum grade C or 5 in English, English Language, English (First Language), English as a Second Language or English Literature.<br> <br>Qualifications issued by: Pearson/Edexcel; Cambridge/CIE; AQA; OxfordAQA; CEA; OCR; WJEC.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised German institution, with all prior schooling/studies in Germany.

Abitur - Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife

Grade of 3 in English within five years of starting at QUT.

DAAD English Language Certificate

B2 (4 star in all bands) within five years of starting at QUT.

South African National Senior Certificate (NSC):

A grade of Achievement Level 5 or 60% in English Home Language or English First Additional Language

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised South African institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time oncampus studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised South African institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

Vitnemal For Videregaende Opplaering (Certificate for Upper Secondary Education and Training)

Grade of 4 or better in English in any year of Vitnemal fra den videregaende skolen (Upper Secondary Education - Grade 11,12,13) completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Norwegian institution, with all prior schooling/studies in Norway.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Swedish institution, with all prior schooling/studies in Sweden.

Avgångsbetyg / Slutbetyg / Examensbevis yrkesexamen or Avgångsbetyg / Slutbetyg från Gymnasieskola/ Högskoleförberedande examen

C in English 5 within five years of starting at QUT.<br> <br>Pass in English 6 or English 7 completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised English institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time on-campus studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised English institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

Brunei - Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced Level

A Level: English Language, English Literature or English Lanague and Literature with a minimum grade of C. GCE A level in a humanities subject with a minimum grade of C.<br> <br>AS Level: English Language, English Literature, English Lanague and Literature or General Paper/General Studies with a minimum grade of C.

Brunei - Cambridge General Certificate of Education O Level

O Level: Minimum grade C or 5 in English, English Language, English (First Language), English as a Second Language or English Literature.

Matriculation Examination -Stúdentspróf

A grade of 6.0 in English completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised institution in Iceland completed within five years of starting at QUT, and a pass in English subject from Studentsprof. Diploma Supplement or an official letter from home institution stating English as the language of instruction.

New Zealand National Certificate in Educational Achievement (NCEA)

18 credits at NCEA Level 3 English and completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised New Zealand institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time oncampus studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised New Zealand institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in non- English Speaking country.

On-campus Bachelor or higher studies with an overall passing grade point average at a recognised Papua New Guinean institution (the duration of studies must be 1 year or more full-time) within the last five years.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Irish institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time oncampus studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Irish institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in non- English Speaking country.

Irish Leaving Certificate Scrúdú Cruthaithe na hArdteistiméireachta

English Language Higher with a grade of D1 (prior to 2017) or grade of 4 (from 2017).

Singapore - Cambridge General Certificate of Education OLevel

C5 in English Language.

Singapore - Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced Level

Singapore - Cambridge H2 Level: English Language and Linguistics or Literature in English or Knowledge and Inquiry subject or approved humanities subject with a minimum grade of C. <br> <br>Singapore - Cambridge H1 Level: A grade of C in General Paper.

Diploma from Singapore Polytechnics

Post secondary.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Diploma program at a recognised Singapore Polytechnic, with all prior schooling/studies in Singapore.<br> <br>1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Diploma program at a recognised Singapore Polytechnic. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non-English Speaking country.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor program at a recongised Singapore institution, with all prior schooling/studies in Singapore.<br> <br>1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor program at a recongised Singapore institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non-English Speaking country.

Canadian High School Diploma - completed in Canada or at an overseas International School

Alberta High School Diploma with a grade of 60% or better in an English Level 30 Provincial Diploma Exam completed within five years of starting at QUT.<br> <br>British Columbia Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma with a grade of 60% or better in English 12 or English Studies 12 completed within five years of starting at QUT.<br> <br>Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a grade of 60% or better in English at Grade 12 Level (i.e. ENG4U or ENG4C) completed within five years of starting at QUT.

1 year full-time studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Canadian institution, with all prior schooling/studies in an approved English speaking country.<br> <br>1 year full-time on-campus studies with passing grade point average in a Bachelor or higher program from a recognised Canadian institution. These studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT, if all prior schooling/studies were studied in a non- English Speaking country.

1 year full-time on-campus Bachelor studies at a recognised Malaysian institution with: <br>a passing grade point average and these studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT; and<br>an official language of instruction letter is required if the academic and transcripts doesn't clearly state English is the Language of Instruction; and<br>evidence of a pass in the English subject in a recongised high school qualification: SPM, STPM, UEC, A levels and O levels or equivalent.

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C pass in 920 English or humanities subject.

A completed recognised Diploma (minimum of 1 year full-time on-campus studies) at a recognised Malaysian institution with: <br>a passing grade point average and these studies must have been completed within five years of starting at QUT; and<br>an official language of instruction letter is required if the academic and transcripts doesn't clearly state English is the Language of Instruction; and<br>evidence of a pass in the English subject in a recognised high school qualification: SPM, STPM, UEC, A levels and O levels or equivalent.

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Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice)

• ID: MU640304
• Level: 3-Year Bachelor's Degree

Admission Requirements

Entry requirements:.

Choose country Australia New Zealand Canada United States United Kingdom France Germany Korea, Republic of Japan Philippines Singapore China Brazil Chile Colombia Denmark Fiji Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Kuwait Malaysia Mexico Oman Pakistan Papua New Guinea Russian Federation Saudi Arabia Solomon Islands South Africa Sri Lanka Taiwan Thailand Tonga Viet Nam

English requirements:

Students from a country where English is not the first language, must obtain a minimum English Language competency level.

IELTS: 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)

TOEFL iBT: 80 overall (min 19 in Writing)

PTE Academic: 50 Overall (min 42 in communicative skills)

Cambridge English: 170

• If Eligible

Course Information

A unique major

Join a growing industry with the only university financial planning and advice specialisation in New Zealand.

The Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) will help you become a professional financial adviser with the skills to work across large or small business, in the banking industry or as a consultant.

It is an area of growth, with qualified financial advisers commanding high salaries.

As the population of New Zealand ages and comes closer to retirement, an increasing number of people will be seeking financial help. This, along with increasing scrutiny of financial institutions is creating demand for more qualified financial planning and advice professionals.

A new Code of Professional Conduct for Financial Advice Services is being implemented in New Zealand in 2020, which increases the requirements for financial advisers in NZ and will make your BBus (Financial Planning and Advice) even more sought-after.

What does a financial adviser do?

A financial planner or adviser works with people and companies to help them make the best financial decisions for their situation. You may help individuals with advice on mortgages, term investments, shares or insurance options.

Become a highly qualified professional

You may be taking the first steps towards becoming a financial adviser, or you may currently be a competent financial adviser looking to gain further certification.

The learning in this degree will help you on both those paths. You will learn the skills required for the Financial Planner Competency Profile of the Financial Planning Standards Board.

The Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning and Advice) also satisfies the education requirements for becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERCM professional.

Learn from leading business experts

The Massey Business School is one of the country’s leading and largest business schools and is AACSB accredited.

Massey University’s business and management studies ranks in the top 300 (by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) rankings). We are ranked No.1 in New Zealand and in the top 150 universities worldwide for our business administration, communication and finance programmes by ShanghaiRanking.

Our lecturers and professors are actively researching both nationally and internationally, bringing the most relevant developments in business theory and practice to the classroom.

Relevant to potential employers

Employers want people who can think critically, communicate well and deal well with other people through both written and face-to-face communication. These are just some of the skills you will gain from studying a Bachelor of Business at Massey University.

The Bachelor of Business will give you the leadership, communication and critical thinking skills that will make you a sought-after employee.

The Bachelor of Business will give you skills you can use in many different types of businesses or your own entrepreneurial ventures, in New Zealand and around the world. You will be someone that has a sound base in the business fundamentals of accounting, economics, finance, management, marketing, law and communication.

Wide range of knowledge

You will be able to take advantage of Massey’s expertise in all areas of business, like small business and entrepreneurship, human resource management, communications and marketing. That means you will graduate with a broad knowledge of general business practice and will be prepared for management roles across business.

More info: Click here

Financial Planning and Advice major courses

Compulsory courses (105 credits):

Estate and Tax Planning

The Financial Planning Process

Financial Institutions and Markets

Introduction to Investments

Financial Advice Implementation

Applied Personal Financial Management

Personal Risk Management

At least 15 credits selected from:

Internship in Business (30 credits) (maximum 15 credits towards major)

Business Internship

Investment Analysis

Bank Financial Management

Introduction to Property Finance and Investment

Property Economics

Students who wish to meet the education requirements for becoming a professional Certified Financial Planner must take the seven compulsory courses and  125.340 .

Elective courses

Elective courses can be chosen from any area of study that interests you, as long as it fits with the timetabling for the courses you need to take to complete your Bachelor of Business.

For this Financial and Planning and Advice major we do recommend that you choose one of the following first year courses for your elective choices in your first year: Applied Statistics or Statistics. These courses will assist with your numeracy abilities.

English language electives

If English is not your first language and you would like to increase your confidence in academic English we recommend you incorporate one or both of these programmes as electives:

English for Academic Purposes for Speakers of Other Languages

Academic Writing in English for Speakers of Other Languages

Minor Requirements

A minor consists of 60 credits in Financial Planning and Advice; including The Financial Planning Process, Financial Institutions and Markets, Introduction to Investments; and either Applied Personal Financial Management or Personal Risk Management.

Pre Courses

Pathway courses, career opportunity.

There is a shortage of highly-skilled financial advisers in New Zealand. The Financial Planning Standards Board has a goal to have 250,000 CFPCM professionals in 40 territories around the world by 2025. In New Zealand, there were 279 CFPCM professionals as at the end of 2017, leaving a big gap to fill.

A qualification in financial planning and advice will set you up for a wide range of careers, in banks or companies that specialise in finance or as a specialist in a small to medium sized company. Many financial advisers are self-employed.

There are huge opportunities in the financial planning area ­– you will be in demand and employment opportunities are predicted to rise much faster than average in the coming years. Careers include:

Financial planner

Financial adviser

Wealth manager

Insurance adviser

Mortgage adviser

Overseas Student Health Cover

Insurance/year: 700 NZD

Same Courses

Bachelor of accountancy, bachelor of accountancy (on campus), bachelor of applied economics, bachelor of applied economics (on campus), bachelor of arts (business psychology), bachelor of arts (chinese), bachelor of arts (classical studies), bachelor of arts (classical studies) (on campus), bachelor of arts (creative writing), bachelor of arts (creative writing) (on campus).

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Is a Financial Advisor Worth It?

Managing your finances well takes some time, energy and knowledge—and not everyone wants to take it on. Financial advisors promise to do this for you. But, with a dizzying array of fees, it can be difficult to figure out when they are really worth the cost. While a lot depends on you and your own personal needs, there are some key guidelines that can help you make an informed decision.

A report by mutual-fund company Vanguard found that advisors can potentially add 3% or more to a client’s net investment returns by picking cost-effective investments, behavioral coaching and more.

But individual financial advice from a trained expert isn’t something to purchase lightly. Fees, which are frequently tied to how much money you have to invest, can easily run into the thousands, if not tens of thousands, of dollars each year. 

If you do hire an advisor, you want to make sure you are getting your money’s worth—and that they are always working in your best interest. “The compensation to the advisor has to be aligned with what the service is,” says Rick Ferri, founder of Ferri Investment Solutions, a portfolio review firm in Georgetown, Texas.

Read on to understand how financial advisors get paid, when they might be worth it for you—and when it’s probably safe to go with a less expensive option.

How do financial advisors get paid?

If you’re trying to figure out whether an advisor is worth the money, the first step is to figure out what you will pay. Unfortunately, that’s not always easy because there are a slew of different compensation models.

A one-time fee

If all you need is a comprehensive financial plan—a look at how your current savings, including your 401(k) and investments stack up—you don’t need to retain a financial advisor. You can hire one for a one-time financial plan. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 for the plan.

An annual fee based on your assets 

If you plan to have a continuing relationship with a financial advisor, you will need to pay them an annual fee. The most common form is an annual percentage tied to the total value of the assets the advisor oversees for you. While fees range widely, 1% is typical. 

Frequently fees shrink in percentage terms as your assets grow, so that an advisor who charges 1% a year for investors with $100,000 might only charge 0.8% a year for investors with several million dollars in assets. Investment minimums can be significant: Many of these types of advisors won’t work with investors who have less than $500,000 or $1 million assets in assets. 

You generally do not pay the fee on assets that are not directly overseen by the financial advisor, such as your home and your 401(k). The fee often, but not always, covers the cost of a financial plan. 

Fee only vs. fee-based advisors

If your financial advisor does charge an annual fee, it’s important to know if they are “fee-only” or “fee-based.” Fee-only advisors are paid only by their clients and do not receive commissions from any financial institution. Fee-based advisors are also paid by their clients but they can sell commission products such as stocks, certain mutual funds, and life insurance, which can create a conflict of interest. 

Most important, ask if the advisor is a fiduciary, which means they must operate in your best interest not theirs, based on the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Fee-only advisors are fiduciaries. Fee-based advisors may or may not be depending on the situation.

Commissions

Commission-based advisors are compensated only by the commissions on the products they sell such as stocks, certain mutual funds and annuities and insurance. They are essentially brokers, not advisors that provide financial planning services, and their numbers are shrinking. The commissions they collect vary widely, depending on the products they sell. Those commissions usually exceed 1% and can range as high as 8% (for a fixed index annuity). 

Consumer advocates have long argued this business model creates a conflict of interest because it is in the advisor’s interest to sell the product that will pay them the highest commission.

Hourly, subscription or retainer

Some advisors charge an hourly rate ranging from $250 to $550 an hour or, a monthly subscription or retainer fee or flat rate, which can be paid out annually, quarterly or monthly. These last three are essentially multiples of the hourly rate an advisor expects to spend working on your finances.

Lower cost robo-advisors

These digital automated services are a cheaper option, with annual fees near 0.25% of assets or lower, but investors will only have access to human advisors if they pay for a premium service which costs more.

How to evaluate financial advisor fees

Before hiring a financial advisor, ask for an estimate of your total costs, including investment costs since advisors’ fees usually exclude the annual investment fees charged by mutual funds and exchange-traded funds as well as the brokerage commissions you pay when you buy stocks, insurance or annuities.

While advisors often quote fees in percentage terms, it’s important to translate that into dollars and cents in order to truly understand whether or not you’re getting your money’s worth, according to Micah Hauptman, director of investor protection at the Consumer Federation of America. 

A 1% annual fee on $500,000 in assets may not sound like much but it’s $5,000 a year; more if the portfolio grows, less if it doesn’t. The question then becomes, “are you getting $5,000 worth of value every year?” says Hauptman.

When a financial advisor may be worth the cost

A financial advisor is worth paying for if they provide help you need, whether because you don’t have the time or financial acumen or you simply don’t want to deal with your finances. An advisor may be especially valuable if you have complicated finances that would benefit from professional help.

“There’s nothing wrong with doing things yourself provided that you know what you’re doing and have the time,” says Peter Palion, founder of Master Plan Advisory in East Norwich, N.Y. “The biggest problem is you promise yourself you’re going to really sit down one day and do it but then it never happens because life takes over.” 

Retirement savings

The most difficult task many Americans face is figuring much money they’ll need for retirement—and how to make the money last. The question becomes especially difficult in your last few years in the workforce, when you face the prospect of shifting your investments from growth-oriented holdings like stocks to more stable income-oriented ones like bonds.

A financial advisor can help calculate how much you’ll need to save for retirement, then make the difficult transition when the time comes. One key area where advisors often add value: figuring out the tricky tax implications of pulling money from a retirement account like a 401(k) or an IRA.

The IRS requires you to start drawing down from these accounts after you turn 73 (that rises to age 75 beginning in 2033), and those withdrawals can have major tax implications, such as boosting your income to a level that triggers the Medicare surtax. Advisors are well versed in strategies to avoid these kinds of pitfalls.

Major life changes

Other major life changes can have serious financial implications that may need—or want—help navigating. These include marriage, having a baby, divorce, loss of a parent and preparing inheritances.

For example, during a divorce—when you likely have a lot besides finances on your mind—an advisor can help you estimate the value of your assets in order to negotiate a fair settlement. Afterward the advisor can help create a plan for future cash flows based on your new circumstances, which may require downsizing a home or shrinking spending.

You want reassurance

Plenty of investors work with a financial advisor for less tangible reasons too. They can provide a second pair of eyes on your finances, offer dispassionate opinions and help you avoid bad decisions. 

That’s especially true when it comes to mistakes that are hard to undo, such as panicking and selling your stock portfolio during a bear market, moving to a house you can’t afford, or retiring too early.

“They’re not your typical stock market, mutual fund and bonds discussions,” Sheryl Garrett, founder of the Garrett Planning Network, a network of financial advisors. ”It’s important that you get quality fiduciary advice on all those subjects because they’re irrevocable.” 

When a financial advisor probably isn’t worth the cost

There are several financial areas where paying for a financial advisor may not be worth the cost, especially if you are willing to do a little basic research and have the discipline to stick to your goals.

You need to budget

Financial advisors are there to help answer difficult money questions. In general, they aren’t personal trainers for your wallet. Their time is expensive and you shouldn’t plan on checking in with them every week or every other week, just for a pep talk.

A more appropriate (and cost effective) solution is to use one the many budgeting methods or apps that help you categorize and track your expenses.

You mostly need to start saving

When you are just starting out in your career, your main goal should simply be to start saving and investing. That means signing up for a 401(k) (if you aren’t automatically enrolled) and setting aside a little extra money for an emergency fund or another savings goal like a down payment on a house. 

If you aren’t comfortable picking your own investments, a target-date fund—-a common default option in 401(k) plans—or a robo-advisor can offer all the hand-holding you should need. Paying hefty sums to a human advisor will simply leave you with less money to invest.

That is especially true if the advisor leads with investment management rather than financial planning. “It would be like going to the doctor and be given drugs or undergoing surgery without the doctor diagnosing the problem,” says Eric Amzalag, chief executive of Peak Financial Planning in Los Angeles. 

You want help picking stocks 

A generation ago financial advisors were known as “stockbrokers.” They earned commissions on stock trades and offered clients advice and research about which names to buy. 

Today most advisors build portfolios of funds rather than stocks, and more often than not their focus is on holistic financial planning. Those advisors that build stock portfolios will likely require hundreds of thousands of dollars if not millions to build one, and it won’t necessarily beat the market.   

When what you really need is a tax planner

Financial advisors regularly take into account taxes when working with clients but if you are a small-business owner looking for complicated tax strategies or just someone to do your annual taxes, a financial advisor is not the tax specialist you need. Choose an accountant instead, one who can serve your particular needs. 

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Cost to retire continues to skyrocket as Biden targets retirement advice

Inflation has 'eaten away' at savings, according to an economic expert.

Inflation has 'eaten away' at Americans' savings: Paul Mueller

FOX Business' Gerri Willis reports on the Biden White House's plan for retirement security and eliminating unnecessary fees.

The cost to retire continues to increase as the Biden administration cracks down on "junk fees" in retirement investment advice . 

"Three years ago, if you had been aiming for retirement savings of, let's say, $500,000, in today's climate, with higher prices, you need more like $600,000," American Institute for Economic Research’s Paul Mueller told FOX Business’ Gerri Willis. "In three years, you need another $100,000 to have the same purchasing power. So inflation has very much eaten away at people's savings."

The White House said in a press release Tuesday that part of the bigger "Bidenomics" plan includes a new rule enforced by the Department of Labor that will require advisers to recommend commodities or insurance products, like fixed index annuities, in the saver’s best interest.

The rule also would cover advice to roll assets out of an employer-sponsored retirement plan and financial advice involving what investments to include in your 401(k), according to the release.

U.S. RETIREMENT SYSTEM EARNS JUST A C+ IN GLOBAL STUDY

Willis reported Tuesday that the key change with this rule means sellers of insurance and annuities must observe the same standard of care required by licensed financial advisers.

President Biden's policies and inflation have "very much eaten away at people's savings," American Institute for Economic Research’s Paul Mueller told FOX Business' Gerri Willis. (Fox News)

The regulation change comes as baby boomers struggle to get their 401(k) balances to pre-COVID levels, with Fidelity reporting the generation had an average of $249,700 in December 2021, but saw $220,900 in June 2023.

Forbes has additionally reported that the average U.S. retiree is $470,000 short of what they need to retire comfortably.

Reacting to the report, Rosecliff founder and managing partner Mike Murphy said on " Varney & Co. ": "The government should stay out of investments… And you should have the freedom to invest wherever you like, not where the government tells you to invest."

Fidelity retirement savings guidelines ‘transcend’ traditional dollar amounts: Michael Shamrell

Michael Shamrell, vice president of Fidelity's workplace investing thought leadership, shares how to best save for retirement based on your age and salary.

Despite statistics showing American savers are behind, Fidelity previously shared with Fox News Digital savings milestones to aim for based on your age.

By age 30, it’s recommended that you have saved at least 1x your annual salary . Then, it’s 3x your salary by 40, 6x by age 50, 8x by 60 and 10x by 67.

"It's not based on dollars. So you will see a lot of different reports that say, ‘Oh, you need X amount of dollars when you retire.’ And then you'll see a competing survey that says, ‘No, you need this amount," Michael Shamrell, vice president of Fidelity's workplace investing thought leadership, previously told Digital. "It doesn't allow for people in different geographical areas of the country where there may be different cost of living."

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Nearly half of women aged 55+ have no personal retirement savings: Marcia Mantell

Author Marcia Mantell discusses why women are likely to have less in retirement savings and shares planning tips for future retirement.

"These guidelines are applicable to you and your savings journey," he added, "and again, help you understand what you need to save as a multiple of your salary as opposed to just some dollar amount that's out there that may or may not be realistic for you."

The White House said Tuesday "an adviser may receive a commission as high as 6.5 percent to recommend some insurance products," costing American families as much as $5 billion per year.

READ MORE FROM FOX BUSINESS

• Main content

Americans are facing a retirement 'financial vortex,' says Goldman Sachs. Not having a plan makes it worse.

• Two new surveys show most Americans feel like they are behind on their retirement savings.
• More than half of those surveyed are worried they will have to delay retirement.
• Competing forces of the "financial vortex" and lack of financial plans are hurting retirement hopes.

Pressure from several different fronts has most Americans feeling behind on their retirement and like they will have to delay its start.

Goldman Sachs calls it a "financial vortex," and says simply having a plan can help Americans find their way through.

Two new surveys from Goldman Sachs and Bankrate examined how confident people feel about their retirement. While most have a dim outlook, the results varied by age and whether or not they had a financial plan.

In Bankrate's August survey of 2,527 US adults working full-time, part-time, or temporarily unemployed, 56% of respondents said they feel behind on their retirement savings, and 37% believe they are "significantly behind."

However, when this was broken down by generations, the results showed that older people were much more worried about their retirement.

Gen Xers, aged 43-58, are the most worried, with 69% feeling behind on their retirement savings. Baby boomers, aged 59-77, were next at 60%. For younger adults, fewer than half were worried, with 49% of millennials, aged 27-42, and 42% of Gen Zers, aged 18-26, fearing they are not on track.

The pressures of the "financial vortex"

The lack of confidence in meeting retirement goals is due in large part to what Goldman Sachs calls the "financial vortex" of competing priorities, as well as taking the time to have a plan.

Goldman Sachs notes that people struggle to balance multiple financial goals with limited financial resources. Money that would go to retirement savings is also being tugged into the financial vortex by things like credit card debt, student loans, college, care for children and older adults, and financial hardships.

According to their survey of 5,261 US participants in June and July, using a financial plan has a significant impact on how confident people are that they will meet their retirement needs on time.

Of those with a plan, 79% of respondents are on track or ahead of schedule for retirement. Meanwhile, only 34% of people without a plan had the same confidence.

Only 60% of those surveyed had at least a basic plan for how much retirement savings they need and how to get there.

Goldman Sachs also expressed concern for the level of financial literacy among the respondents. Nearly half, 47%, are self-managing their retirement savings, and yet, when the respondents were given a five-question financial literacy quiz, only 13% got all five answers correct.

Overall, 20% of respondents believe they will have to delay their retirement by at least four years, and 60% said it will be pushed back at least one year.

To avoid falling behind, Goldman Sachs said the two biggest factors that can help people reach their retirement goals are increasing financial literacy and having a personalized financial plan.

Trying to manage the complexity and financial uncertainty of retirement without those things will be a challenge for most.

Watch: Here’s your year-long guide to financial stability

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You're viewing degree information for International students

You're considered an International student if you are:

• NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
• NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)

Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) (Pathway to Master of Professional Accounting)

Degree Level Undergraduate

Degree info for International students

Start date February July

Campus City West

Duration 3 year(s) full-time

Mode On-campus/Online

Program Code DBRF

Prerequisites None

Assumed Knowledge None

Fees AUD$ 36,100 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

Admissions Student Profile

• IELTS total [6.0]
• IELTS reading [6.0]
• IELTS writing [6.0]

International Admission by Country See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code 097499K

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, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission: Recent secondary education Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent AND

• Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
• Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR Higher education study

• Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
• Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR Vocational Education and Training (VET)

• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR Work and life experience

• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
• Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites, assumed knowledge, english language entry requirements, admission requirements by country, degree overview.

• Complete a business undergraduate and postgraduate accounting degree in just four years through our Fast-track to Masters program .
• Graduate with a highly diverse skill-set and broader career opportunities.
• Gain real-world experience through an industry internship, a mentorship opportunity or an overseas study tour.
• Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate, with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses.
• Both on campus and mixed mode study options are available, providing you with flexibility throughout your studies.
• Our Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) degree is FASEA approved, recognised by Financial Adviser Standards, The Treasury 1 .
• Meet the education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser.
• Learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and financial analysis tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
• One of only five Australian universities to offer professional CPA elective courses within an accounting degree.
• Develop crucial analytical, business management, problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills.
• Focus on key areas such as accounting, tax, law, auditing, financial management and public practice.
• Study at a university recognised globally for Business. UniSA Business is in the top one per cent worldwide 2  and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2022.
• Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Accounting 3 . 
• UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
• Study at a Top 5 business school in Australia for quality 4 .

1 The Financial Adviser Standards and Conduct Unit (FASCU), The Treasury, have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022. UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 3 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 4 Ranked #5, Australian Financial Review BOSS Best Business Schools List 2023.

This Fast-track to Masters program allows you to fast-track your career by completing an undergraduate and postgraduate degree in just four years. You will be able to diversify your skill set, increase your earning potential with a more advanced qualification, and expand your career opportunities across a range of fields.

This program will equip you with the education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser. Explore an exciting career in a dynamic and growing area of the financial services industry with one of the first bachelor programs in Australia to meet new education requirements.

We’ve worked closely with industry to develop our course content, and regularly consult with Treasury, to ensure your degree meets the most up-to-date industry standards.

The Master of Professional Accounting will prepare you for practice as a professional accountant. You will develop analytical, general business management and critical problem-solving skills, and gain a comprehensive understanding of accounting practice.

Your studies will focus on financial and management accounting, finance, commercial law, taxation law and auditing. You’ll study contemporary research and real-life case studies with the opportunity to complete an industry placement in Australia or overseas. You will graduate well-equipped for a global career, knowledgeable in areas such as accounting, tax, financial management, and public practice.

You will also benefit from other experience-based learning opportunities, including overseas study and business mentoring. Our summer and winter schools also offer exciting study and learning opportunities.

Want to look at other options available to you? UniSA offer a wide range of other Fast-track to Masters programs.

What you'll learn

You will start with core courses in areas such as analytics, accounting and economic theory. These will give you a solid grasp of business fundamentals that you can apply to a range of careers.

In your specialisation you will develop your expertise across areas such as tax, personal finance, superannuation, insurance, relevant legislation, regulations and codes of practice, as well as building and managing client relationships – a critical focus area for future financial advisers.

You will study estate planning and compulsory courses that have been outlined in the FASEA education requirements including ethics and professionalism, and financial advice regulatory and legal obligations. In your final year, you will also develop and present a detailed statement of advice (SOA) – a comprehensive document financial advisers provide to clients based on their needs and goals.

This program is approved by Treasury which means it provides you with the essential education requirements to practise as a qualified financial adviser after graduation.

In the Master of Professional Accounting you will study five core courses and nine accounting specialisation courses. You will gain a solid grounding in the latest accounting methods by studying areas in auditing, taxation, financial and management accounting and corporate finance.

Degree structure

1. One elective may be chosen from outside UniSA Business. Course pre-requisites must be satisfied.

2. View available Overseas Study Opportunities at https://www.unisa.edu.au/global-experiences/study-overseas/ or contact [email protected]

3. Students that have been assessed as completing a qualification in a business discipline at AQF Diploma level or equivalent and have received 36 units of block credit are not required to complete this course.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

• reports, project documentation, case studies and presentations
• essays and assignments
• examinations
• industry-relevant, research-based projects
• practicals and team-based projects
• participation in the workplace and in class

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) (Pathway to Master of Professional Accounting)

This Fast-track to Masters program enables you to commence a 3-year Bachelor of Business (Financial Planning) and secure a place in a 1-year Master of Professional Accounting (typically 1.5 years) in just four years of study.

You will fast track your progression into the master’s qualification by substituting four selected courses or electives in your bachelor's degree to complete master’s-level courses.

UniSA Business is one of the largest leading providers of accounting and finance education in Australia and Asia and is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide 1 . This degree will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to practise as a financial adviser and succeed in the financial services sector. 

Your course content has been developed in conjunction with leading industry experts and researchers to ensure that what you learn is practical, relevant and current to today’s changing business landscape.

You’ll learn from expert academics and practising financial advisers. Your studies are enriched by the unique insights from professionals who know the ins and outs of the industry and understand the unique challenges and opportunities that financial advisers face today.

You will also use our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room which includes a market data feed, trading software as well as XPLAN financial planning software common in practice.

The financial services profession has recently introduced new education standards, making it more important than ever for aspiring financial advisers to hold a recognised qualification. If you’re looking to enter the industry, you’ll now need to study a FASEA-approved program to start your career.

You will gain an advanced understanding of accounting practice and develop analytical, business management, critical problem-solving and communication skills. Our industry experienced teaching staff work closely with leading professional bodies, ensuring the knowledge you take into your career will meet the dynamic needs of the accounting profession.

You will also have the opportunity to participate in the professional level of the CPA Program with CPA Australia as part of your master studies. You will graduate with a master degree fully accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, and recognised for maximum exemptions toward the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants' (ACCA) professional programs of study.

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.

An enriching student experience Our flexible delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses , mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and accelerated learning pathways. Plus, you can make the most of professional development courses endorsed by industry, build leadership skills employers value through UniSA+ and seek support at our on-campus Business Student Hub .

1 UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022.

Real-world connections

In addition to learning from teachers with professional experience as part of your studies, we also offer opportunities for you to connect with industry outside the classroom. There are a range of engagement opportunities available to you, including:  

• Build your networks and career options by participating in the  Business Career Mentor Program , which pairs you with an experienced business professional  
• Undertake a  Business Internship  or complete an industry project, and apply the skills and knowledge gained from your studies in a real workplace setting 
• Become a global citizen through our  international exchange programs – we have more than 80 partner institutions worldwide, and study options that range from two weeks to one year 
• Meet one-to-one with a senior business executive through our  Executive in Residence program . You’ll receive expert guidance and gain workplace insights that will support your career development. 

We host regular University-wide careers  events and workshops ,  expos , and  alumni events  in Australia and overseas. 

Our teaching staff are industry experienced and maintain close working links with leading professional bodies such as Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. This collaboration ensures the knowledge you take into your career will meet the dynamic needs of industry, and your qualification remains relevant and applicable.

Study Financial Planning at UniSA

Hear from Geoff Pacecca, Founder and Principal Adviser of GAP Financial and UniSA Financial Planning lecturer, about our suite of programs and the benefits of furthering your unstoppable career at UniSA.

Career outcomes

Your career.

As the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate careers in Business and Management 1 , our quality teaching and experiences beyond the classroom will ensure you graduate career-ready.

You could consider careers such as:

• Client relationship manager: providing high value, holistic and strategic financial advice to clients; identifying opportunities to build new client relationships and strengthen existing ones; researching the latest products and regulations; and focusing on delivering a high-quality customer experience.
• Corporate Tax Consultant: preparing tax returns for organisations; providing tax information and advice to corporate clients; analysing information to ensure compliance with government regulations
• Estate planner: providing clients with legal, financial and accounting advice to ensure long term financial protection of their estate during life and post-mortem; ensuring any assets are dispersed according to the wishes of the deceased in an effective way; and developing estate plans which may include preparing wills, life insurance, family trusts and manage tax implications for beneficiaries.
• Insurance broker: researching and reviewing available finance and insurance products to meet client requirements; arranging insurance, home loan mortgages and other types of finance for clients through banks, lenders, financiers and insurance companies; help clients understand insurance policy conditions, risks, premium rates and benefits; preparing reports for underwriters and liaise with other insurance professionals.
• Investment adviser or manager: developing financial plans and investment strategies for individuals and organisations; monitoring investment performance and review investment plans based on needs and changes in the market; buying and selling stocks and bonds for clients; and providing advice on tax implications, securities, insurance cover, pension plans and real estate.
• Financial planner or adviser: helping clients to meet short-term and long-term financial goals; assisting with legal and financial documents, financial laws and regulatory requirements; providing advice on personal investments and security planning, estate planning, tax planning, employee benefits planning and insurance planning; and delivering a high-quality customer experience.
• Senior Accountant: preparing accurate, timely financial statements; analysing financial statements; coordinating and conducting company audits; managing regular ledger maintenance; developing reporting tools to interpret financial information for wider business decision-making.
• Superannuation consultant: providing compliant financial advice in areas such as personal and business superannuation, retirement income stream products, pensions rollovers and annuities; interpreting new legislation changes and consider the impact of those changes on the portfolio of funds, help clients understand merits of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSF), and develop retirement plan strategies.
• Wealth manager: delivering holistic wealth management strategies and plans to help clients grow and sustain long-term financial goals; providing services across a range of areas including financial planning, investment management, and financial advice on pensions, trusts, inheritances, estate planning, retirement planning, and tax bands; and possessing knowledge of software solutions and key platforms in the industry.

1 ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities.

Industry facts

Between now and 2024 employment in Australia for financial brokers and dealers, and investment advisers is projected to increase by 6,900 (6.9 per cent) 1 .

1 Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2019

Employment for Accountants is expected to increase by 9.2 per cent by November 2026. 1

1 Australian Government National Skills Commission Labour Markets Insight, Employment Projections 2021

How to apply for international students  will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System . If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

• UniSA College Diploma in Business
• UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Business)
• SAIBT Diploma of Business - if you complete this two year Diploma, you can apply to enter the 2nd year of this degree
• see the full list of entry pathways that may apply

International There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more .

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees. 

Learn more arrow-small-right

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Australia’s University of Enterprise

Study at South Australia’s No. 1 university for graduate careers* and unlock your full potential.

*ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics , which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side  of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages , or explore our student accommodation by Scape  on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our  international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

• career advice and mentoring
• help with student visas and health cover
• personal counselling
• academic counselling
• fees and finance help
• common rooms
• prayer rooms
• security officers
• accommodation services  
• as well as services offered through our student association, USASA .

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers  face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline  facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your program director

The business and management programs at UniSA are globally recognised, industry focused, and designed to develop students’ managerial capabilities and prepare them for careers as leaders of the future. My qualifications include a PhD in Management, Master of Business, as well as being a Graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD). I have lived and worked in several countries including Dubai, Japan, Vietnam and Singapore where I worked in senior roles for internationally recognised companies. My teaching and research focus on entrepreneurship and firm performance, consumer behaviour and marketing strategies for the tourism and hospitality industry. My extensive experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, coupled with my prior managerial roles, allow me to have a holistic, industry-focused approach to my teaching and research.

Mr Ron McIver

Program Director

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page . The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents .

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here .

Postgraduate study by research For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees .

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC . Key dates for applications can be found here .

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page . You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Find out more

What others are saying

UniSA was the only university that offered the program I really wanted to study. I loved the idea that I could study an undergraduate and postgraduate degree together in such a short time, excel at it, still partake in the culture and events, and meet amazing people! Since the start of my degree, I have seen positive impacts on my personality and confidence, as well as my interpersonal, presentation and leadership skills. My university experience has been a great opportunity to grow and develop by combining two of my interests – business and people.

Anet Varghese

Bachelor of Business, Master of Management (Marketing)

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Living in Adelaide

The world’s 5th most liveable city, Adelaide is welcoming and multicultural. It is an ideal home away from home.

International students

UniSA welcomes students from around the world. Discover what you can study, how to apply, and our support services.

Accommodation

We offer advice and assistance to help you find long- or short-term accommodation in Adelaide.

Australian students

Phone: +61 8 8302 2376 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/enquiry

Phone: +61 8 9627 4854 Enquiry: unisa.edu.au/international/enquiry