Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 107148B) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students seeking a foundation in accounting principles and practices, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in the accounting profession. With three delivery locations across Bendigo, Sydney, and Melbourne, La Trobe University offers flexibility and accessibility. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M), La Trobe University meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring you receive quality education and ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to progress to a master's degree or enhance your career prospects, this graduate certificate provides a solid stepping stone.
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Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CRICOS course code 107148B) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 26 weeks (~6 months). The course falls under the field of Management and Commerce (0801 Accounting), focusing on core accounting competencies. It is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The language of instruction is English, and the course does not include a mandatory work component. This graduate certificate is ideal for graduates from other disciplines who want to gain accounting knowledge or for those seeking to meet the educational requirements for professional accounting bodies in Australia. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
This Graduate Certificate program covers foundational areas of accounting, including financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, and business law. Students develop skills in analysing financial data, preparing reports, and understanding regulatory frameworks. While specific unit details are set by La Trobe University, graduates typically gain the ability to apply accounting principles in diverse professional contexts. The course also emphasises ethical decision-making and critical thinking, preparing students for roles in corporate accounting, public practice, or government. As a Level 8 qualification, it requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent, but specific entry requirements should be confirmed with the provider.
The Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting has a CRICOS-registered duration of 26 weeks (approximately 6 months). Study is conducted in English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual award. Students can expect a full-time study load, typically involving lectures, tutorials, and self-directed learning. La Trobe University delivers this program across three campuses, allowing students to choose the location that best suits their lifestyle. The course is designed to be completed within the registered duration, but part-time options may be available subject to visa conditions. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per student visa (Subclass 500) requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for this Graduate Certificate is A$23,600. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$23,600. However, please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Indicative weekly living expenses in Victoria and New South Wales range from A$400 to A$700 depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. For current and accurate fee information, always refer to La Trobe University's official website. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 but cannot guarantee amounts.
English language requirements vary by provider; for this graduate certificate, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised institution. Some providers may accept relevant work experience in lieu of formal qualifications. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but La Trobe University may offer pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. Always check the specific entry criteria on La Trobe University's website or contact their admissions team. Remember, meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Work is optional and should not interfere with studies. While the course itself has no work-integrated learning, students may seek internships or part-time jobs independently. La Trobe University's career services can assist with finding employment opportunities. Always ensure any work complies with visa conditions.
La Trobe University delivers this Graduate Certificate at three campuses: Bendigo Campus (Flora Hill, VIC), La Trobe University Sydney Campus (Sydney, NSW), and Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus (Bundoora, VIC). Bendigo offers a regional study experience with a close-knit community and lower living costs (indicative rent $200–$350 per week). Sydney and Melbourne are Australia's largest cities, each with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, vibrant student populations (over 150,000 international students in Melbourne alone), and excellent public transport. The Sydney campus is centrally located, while Bundoora is a major campus with extensive facilities. Each location provides access to libraries, student support, and social activities.
International students must hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. The visa allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least AUD 21,041 per year as of 2026), and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover). OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa and covers medical expenses. La Trobe University will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) once you accept an offer, which is required for the visa application. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting at La Trobe University: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's guides to filter by course level, field, and city. La Trobe University is CRICOS registered (00115M) and offers this course with code 107148B. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare academic transcripts, and submit your application via La Trobe University's online portal. Note application deadlines. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online. Don't forget OSHC and financial evidence. For personalised help, contact a registered migration agent.
Victoria is home to Melbourne, consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, it's a top study destination. Melbourne's Bundoora campus is well-served by public transport, and the city offers diverse cultural experiences. Bendigo provides a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. Consider your preferences: if you thrive in a fast-paced urban environment, Melbourne or Sydney might suit you. If you prefer a regional setting with lower costs, Bendigo is an excellent choice. Both states have robust job markets for accounting graduates. Remember to budget for living expenses: Melbourne's weekly rent averages $400–$600, while Bendigo is around $200–$350. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare locations.
Answers to common questions about this course.
Ready to start your accounting career? Explore this course on La Trobe's website and begin your application today.
Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.