The School’s mission is evidenced by the provision of high quality academic programs which, not only are responsive to the needs of the accounting and financial planning professions, but also provide leadership in innovative thinking pertinent in creating strategic directions for the professions in the public interests.

In achieving its overall aim, the School actively develops an effective student-centred learning environment through strategies in flexible delivery, quality teaching, and continuous student support. The School also focuses on innovative teaching areas and establishes its international reputation by continuously recognising global perspectives and addressing contemporary issues in the accounting and financial planning professions. These foci are evidenced in the development of programs in corporate governance, compliance and assurance, areas in international accounting, financial planning and wealth management. The School offers high standard educational programs in Melbourne, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia and online.

Development of staff expertise and reputation involves the promotion of relevant research activities, fostering closer relationships with the profession, industry and commerce, and encouraging regular communications and interactions with other universities and institutions on a global basis.

Accounting

Our staff are active in conducting applied research in accounting, and are well regarded in the provision of consultancy and training services such as financial planning, audit reviews, public sector accounting issues, international accounting development and environmental projects. The School supports an extensive range of staff development programs and participates in high quality professional development initiatives.

Financial Planning

Our financial planning discipline is led by Associate Professor Abdullahi Dahir Ahmed, Associate Professor in Wealth Management as well as Dr Daniel Richards, Senior Lecturer in Wealth Management, both of whom are active researchers in the area. Mr Ashley McAuliffe, Industry Fellow in Wealth Management, brings an invaluable knowledge of current industry practices and industry connections. The School is well positioned to offer two undergraduate financial planning degrees with an unrivalled blend of academic excellence, industry relevance, and insight from leading professionals that will give students a rewarding experience throughout their studies. RMIT offers Victoria’s only Financial Planning/Accounting double degree which prepares graduates for successful careers in business, financial and wealth management and professional advisory services.

In third year you will undertake a compulsory eight to 12-month supervised work placement in industry through the Cooperative Education Program. By being immersed in full-time work in your field of study you can apply the knowledge you’ve gained at university to a real workplace, deepen or broaden your knowledge of your discipline, industry and the organisation, and be introduced to real world performance and workplace expectations.

You are responsible for finding your own placement, however job search assistance is available. If you are unable to secure a placement you can transfer to a related three-year business degree.

In addition you will undertake specialist accounting work-integrated learning courses such as Financial Accounting Theory and Performance Analysis and Simulations which may involve interaction and feedback from industry, the community, clients and/or practitioners. 

In addition to the expertise provided by the College of Business an Industry Advisory Board, industry and professional representatives actively participate in the Program Advisory Committee, which ensures that links with industry standards and international business practice remain current. 

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Career outlook

There are good job prospects both pre- and post-graduation. The Department of Education forecasts that employment prospects for accountants is expected to grow strongly to 2020.. (joboutlook.gov.au )

Professional recognition and accreditation

This program is accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.  

The program is recognised by the following professional or statutory bodies:

• The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
• The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) 
• The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)  

Industry and professional representatives actively participate in the Program Advisory Committee which ensures that links with industry standards and international business practice remain current.

Membership

Students and graduates are eligible to join the CPA Australia Network. Graduates are eligible for membereship of the Institute of Public Accountants and may be eligible for membership and entry into the Australian professional bodies’ qualification programs, subject to completion of required courses.

For further details about accreditation and information about membership opportunities for students and graduates, please visit our accreditation and membership page.