Master of Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 081533M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 2 years. This course is ideal for international students seeking to build a career in accounting, auditing, or finance in Australia. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, graduates are prepared for roles in public practice, corporate accounting, and government. SCU is a public university with a strong reputation for business education, and this program is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. Whether you choose to study at SCU Perth or The Hotel School Melbourne, you'll benefit from SCU's industry connections and support services for international students. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Master of Professional Accounting (CRICOS 081533M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, offered by Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G). The course is classified under Field of Education 080101 - Accounting, within Management and Commerce. It is designed for students who hold a bachelor's degree in any discipline and wish to obtain a professional accounting qualification. The program covers core areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law. No foundation studies or VET components are included. This is a single qualification with no dual award.
As a Master of Professional Accounting student, you will develop advanced knowledge in accounting principles, financial reporting, and strategic management. The curriculum typically includes units on corporate accounting, auditing, taxation law, and accounting information systems. You will also build skills in critical analysis, ethical decision-making, and professional communication—competencies valued by employers in Australia and globally. While this page provides general guidance, specific unit offerings are determined by Southern Cross University. The course is delivered in English, and all instruction follows Australian accounting standards and regulatory frameworks.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Professional Accounting has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—there is no dual award or embedded VET component. The course is offered full-time, and students are expected to attend classes at one of the delivery locations. Availability of part-time study should be confirmed with Southern Cross University directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Master of Professional Accounting is A$52,000, with non-tuition fees of A$4,000, giving an estimated total of A$56,000. Please note: fees are set by Southern Cross University and are subject to change. This estimate does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current and exact fees, always check the Southern Cross University website. The costs shown are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 to 7.0 overall (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) is required. Some students may need to complete foundation or pathway programs if they do not meet direct entry requirements—consult Southern Cross University for specific pathways. HeadStart Academy does not assess individual eligibility; please refer to the provider's admissions page.
This course has no mandatory work component. While practical experience is not built into the program, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This work must not compromise study commitments.
The Master of Professional Accounting is delivered at two locations: SCU Perth in Perth, WA, and The Hotel School Melbourne in Melbourne, VIC. Perth is a vibrant city with over 5,000 international students and affordable living costs (indicative weekly rent A$150-250). Melbourne is a larger hub with more than 170,000 international students, offering extensive public transport and a higher cost of living (indicative weekly rent A$200-350). Both campuses are accessible by public transport.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of your stay. As an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring consumer rights. For detailed visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Master of Professional Accounting at Southern Cross University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the HeadStart Academy directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) is registered for this course (CRICOS 081533M).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the Southern Cross University website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and required documents. Submit your application online.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Before choosing this Master of Professional Accounting, consider your career goals. Accounting is a skilled occupation in Australia, often listed on skilled occupation lists. If you aim to work as an accountant, auditor, or tax specialist, this degree can help you meet professional accreditation requirements. However, always research the specific pathway to professional membership (e.g., CPA Australia, CA ANZ) as requirements vary. Also, factor in living costs: Perth offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower rental costs, while Melbourne provides a bustling multicultural environment with higher living expenses. Visit both cities if possible or explore virtual tours.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more courses at headstartacademy.com.au or contact Southern Cross University directly.
All Masters Degree (Coursework) courses in New South Wales →
Master of Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.