Master of Professional Accounting/Master of Financial Planning (CRICOS course code 098549G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 2 years. This dual qualification combines two in-demand business fields — accounting and financial planning — giving you a competitive edge in the Australian and global job market. Delivered at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus in Melbourne, VIC, this course is designed for international students seeking a comprehensive understanding of financial management, taxation, investment planning, and professional accounting standards. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, Swinburne stands out as a government-funded university with strong industry links. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00111D), Swinburne meets Australian Government quality standards and is covered under the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections. Whether you aim to become a CPA or a certified financial planner, this course provides the academic foundation you need.
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This course falls under the field of education: 08 - Management and Commerce, specifically 0801 - Accounting (080101 - Accounting). At Masters Degree (Coursework) level, students typically engage in advanced study of accounting principles, financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business law. Additionally, the financial planning component covers investment strategies, retirement planning, risk management, and ethical practice. Graduates are prepared for professional accreditation pathways with bodies such as CPA Australia, Chartered Accountants ANZ, and the Financial Planning Association of Australia. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical judgment relevant to senior roles in accounting and financial planning. While specific subjects are set by the university, the broad learning outcomes align with AQF Level 9 expectations.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 2 years (104 weeks). The language of instruction is English. As a dual qualification, it integrates two master's degrees into a single program, allowing you to gain both a Master of Professional Accounting and a Master of Financial Planning upon completion. This typically reduces total study time compared to pursuing the two degrees separately. Study mode is full-time on campus, although Swinburne may offer flexible delivery options — check with the provider for the latest availability.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$88,680, with non-tuition fees of A$0, giving an estimated total of A$88,680. Please note: these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and are subject to change. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For current fee information, always visit Swinburne's international fees page at swinburne.edu.au/international.
International students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) commonly required for master's-level study. You should also hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Some prior study in accounting or finance may be expected for this dual degree. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, Swinburne may offer pathway programs such as foundation studies or English language courses — refer to the provider for specific options. Always check the official entry requirements on Swinburne's website.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable industry experience while you study.
This course is delivered at Hawthorn Campus, John Street, Hawthorn, Swinburne University of Technology, in HAWTHORN, Victoria (VIC). Melbourne is a vibrant student city with a large international student population — over 200,000 from diverse backgrounds. The city is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers and offers a high quality of life. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$1,500–2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The Hawthorn campus is well-connected by tram, train, and bus, making it easy to access from surrounding suburbs.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: proof of genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. OSHC is mandatory — typical costs range from A$500–700 per year for single cover, depending on the provider.
Follow these three steps to secure your place:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters Degree Coursework), field (Accounting and Financial Planning), and location (Victoria, Melbourne). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Visit Swinburne University of Technology’s international admissions page to review specific entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other supporting documents. Note application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, Swinburne will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and proof of financial capacity ready.
Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities. It hosts over 20 CRICOS-registered higher education providers, offering a range of master's programs. The city’s public transport network makes commuting to campuses like Hawthorn easy. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages A$1,500–2,000 per month; share housing is cheaper. Groceries cost around A$80–120 per week, and a monthly transport pass is about A$150. Melbourne’s multicultural food scene, arts festivals, and sporting events make it an exciting place for international students. However, consider your personal preferences for climate (four seasons) and lifestyle (urban vs. suburban) before deciding.
Ready to take the next step? Browse more accounting and financial planning courses on HeadStart Academy, or apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology.
Master of Professional Accounting/Master of Financial Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.