Invest in your future and study accounting.
Not applicable
AU$31,680 (2022 annual)
IELTS 6.5
AU$42,240 (2022 annual)
This professionally accredited degree has been designed to provide graduates of non-accounting disciplines with a broad-based accounting and business qualification to broaden their career prospects.
The Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) is designed primarily for students from non-accounting backgrounds who want to develop an understanding of the technical and social dimensions in accounting and business. It is a broad-based qualification that combines core accounting studies with authentic learning experiences delivered through industry-informed work-integrating learning subjects and global study experiences.
Through this combination of accounting studies and electives designed to develop valuable professional and cross-cultural skills, this degree is suited to current workers who have progressed into a role that requires accounting knowledge, as well as people contemplating a career in accounting for the first time.
The International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand have helped design RMIT’s postgraduate professional accounting subjects to ensure we’re in-step with the future needs of professional bodies and employers.
The MPA provides a broad-based accounting and business qualification for a career in many industries and sectors. It is designed for graduates from any discipline who are considering a career in accounting for the first time, providing many opportunities for industry-based, practical learning.
If you are currently in a role that demands accounting knowledge, we’ll get you up to speed with the latest industry practices and standards. If you’re thinking of stepping out on your own, the Business Skills for Start Ups elective will help you put your best foot forward.
Through case studies, industry feedback and design-led problem-solving, you will develop professional capabilities so you can confidently apply your knowledge in any workplace.
This degree builds on the knowledge and skills necessary for critical and creative approaches to international business by providing advanced study in contemporary international business theory and practice that is supported by ethical and sustainable business decision-making. It will also provide you with the capacity to address the international regulation of business and critically evaluate the impacts of decisions and practice through case studies and interactive and experiential learning activities.
At RMIT, we understand the importance of providing students with real-world experiences and the skills to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market.
The Master of International Business is designed with the oversight of an Industry Advisory Board to ensure students graduate with the skills required to be successful in business in both domestic and international environments.
RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work.
Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, presentations, group projects, research projects, quizzes and tests, blog journals and practical assignments.
This degree has been developed in consultation with stakeholders including: employers, professional bodies, alumni and students, the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
A key feature of the Master of Professional Accounting is the focus on work-integrated learning (WIL) activities in which students integrate academic learning with practical workplace experiences such as projects with industry and community based organisations. The WIL experience can give you an edge when you’re ready to start your career.
The designed WIL subject for this degree is Strategic Management Control Systems. In this subject, you will work on a major team project to demonstrate your understanding of management accounting as a system for recording, processing, reporting and analysing information for effective costing and managerial decision-making. You will be involved in authentic engagement with partner organisations who provide feedback and insights about changes in a range of industries that affect management accounting systems in organisations.
Work-connected and industry-relevant options available for this degree include:
Working in a student team as part of the Fastrack Innovation Program. In this elective subject, you will work with mentors to develop and present a solution to a real problem. This form of fast-prototyping is designed so that external organisations can tap into fresh thinking from RMIT students.
Global study and work is a unique feature of this course.
You can combine an overseas travel and cultural experience with coursework completed in intensive mode and have this credited towards your degree. They depart during the Australian summer or winter vacations and are usually undertaken in the final semester of study.
If you are planning to include a study tour as part of your studies, you are advised to check that you have the required number of student electives or credit points available.
RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.
For further information about advanced standing see Pathways.
Depending on your previous studies and experience you could also be eligible for credit towards your course. Credit granted may reduce the amount of study you need to complete.
For more information please see RMIT’s credit transfer and recognition of prior learning policy.
For further information about advanced standing see Pathways.
The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.
View the learning outcomes for each stream:
This master's degree comprises core and elective subjects.
Elective subjects in this degree provide an opportunity for you to study in a range of business areas or to select subjects from disciplines such as languages and science.
If you are interested in starting up your own business, you may want to find out more about BUSM4598 Business Skills for Start Ups, an elective subject that covers the key stages of enterprise formation from concept through to launch.
Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.
Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.
By studying the MPA, you’re making a long-term investment in your career development, and the development of the accounting profession globally.
Graduates may work in small, medium or large organisations in public accounting practice, commerce, government or the not-for-profit sector. You may even consider the exciting possibility of starting your own business.
Graduate roles may include:
Course accreditation or membership offered by professional bodies signals to employers the quality and relevance of RMIT's courses and opens up career pathways and networks.
Professional bodies accredit or recognise courses as meeting professional and academic standards deemed to be essential for a new graduate entering into that profession. An accredited course will either enable the graduate to enter directly into a professional qualifications program or provide the graduate with exemptions or credit towards a post university professional qualification.
This type of accreditation is where a statutory body must approve a course of study in order for a graduate to practise in that profession.
Professional bodies or associations are representative organisations of professions that provide membership and other career development support to its members. Many professional bodies offer membership opportunities for students and new graduates with benefits such as career advice, networking within the profession and access to resources not available through the university. The aim of these benefits is to assist with your transition from university into the profession.
Current course accreditations and information about membership and development opportunities for students and graduates.
Course satisfies the academic requirements for direct entry into the CPA Australia Program.
Visit the CPA Australia website
Course satisfies the academic requirements for entry into the CA Program. (Accredited for course delivery in Melbourne and via Open Universities Australia.)
Visit the Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand website
Course satisfies the academic requirements for entry into the ACCA Qualification Program. (Accredited for course delivery in Melbourne and via Open Universities Australia.)
Visit the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants website
Course satisfies the academic requirements to be streamed into the Advanced Route 2 pathway for the CIMA Program. (Accredited for program delivery in Melbourne and via Open Universities Australia.)
Visit the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants website
Course satisfies the academic requirements for entry into AIA professional qualification programs.
Visit the The Association of International Accountants website
You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.
*Qualification must have been completed within the last 10 years.
^Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate you will have the opportunity to progress to the Master degree.
There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.
A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.
You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.
You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.
You must have successfully completed an Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) or higher level qualification in any discipline from a recognised tertiary institution.
You must have successfully completed:
An Australian Bachelor degree (or equivalent overseas qualification) or higher level qualification in a Business (or a related) discipline) from a recognised tertiary institution*.
OR
The RMIT Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting^.
*Qualification must have been completed within the last 10 years.
^Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate you will have the opportunity to progress to the Master degree.
This degree is suitable for graduates who hold a bachelor degree in any discipline who wish to obtain a qualification that is recognised by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.
A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.
To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.
Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.
The Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting is a pathway to the Master of Professional Accounting.
Upon successful completion of the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting you can continue your studies in the Master of Professional Accounting and receive 48 credit points worth of credit (equivalent to one semester of full-time study) for courses completed in the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting.
If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications within the last 10 years with a major in a business or related discipline, you may be eligible for advanced standing as follows:
| Qualification level | Masters exemptions offered | Remaining program duration* |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) | 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester of full-time study) | 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study) |
| Bachelor degree (Honours) (AQF level 8) | Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semester of full-time study) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) |
| Graduate Certificate (AQF level 8) | 48 credit points (equivalent to one semesters of full-time study) | 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters of full-time study) |
| Graduate Diploma (AQF level 8) | Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) |
| Master degree (AQF level 9) | Up to 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full-time study) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters of full time study) |
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.
Applicants with a bachelor degree (honours), graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters qualification majoring in a different discipline may also be eligible for credit transfer of up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study).
Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.
Upon successful completion of this masters degree, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate research programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.
When you successfully complete the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting you are guaranteed entry into the Master of Professional Accounting with 1 semester of advanced standing (equivalent to 48 credit points).
Alternatively, you can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.
If you have successfully completed one of the following qualifications within the last 10 years with a major in a business or related discipline, you may be eligible for advanced standing as follows:
| Qualification level | Advanced standing | Remaining program duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor degree (AQF level 7) | 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study) | 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full time study) |
| Bachelor honours degree (AQF level 8) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) |
| Graduate certificate (AQF level 8) | 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study) | 144 credit points (equivalent to three semesters full time study) |
| Graduate diploma (AQF level 8) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) | 96 credit points (equivalent to two semesters full time study) |
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is the national policy for Australian qualifications in vocational and higher education.
When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit.
Applicants with a bachelor honours degree, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or masters degree qualification majoring in a different discipline may also be eligible for credit transfer of up to 48 credit points (equivalent to one semester full time study).
When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and weightings, and reference to the learning resources.
Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.
Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.
Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.
*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.
This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.
For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.
In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.
The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2022 is $315.
For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.
You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.
Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.
You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.
If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.
You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.
For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.
This program is approved for income support.
You may be eligible for student income support payments from the Commonwealth Government if you are undertaking a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or an approved professionally oriented masters by coursework program. For more information see Income support for Masters students.
If you are enrolled in an eligible program you will also need to satisfy all other student payment eligibility requirements. You can contact Centrelink or Services Australia for further information about student income support entitlements, your eligibility and how to apply.
You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.
See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
The annual tuition fee for 2022 is AU$42,240.
The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$85,440 (full 2 year program plan MC194P15).
For students who meet the entry requirements for the 1.5 years program (program plan MC194EXE15), the total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$63,840.
If you do not meet the entry requirements, you will be offered a place in the full two year program.
In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:
You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.
Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.
Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.
Acknowledgement of country
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.
Acknowledgement of country
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.
