The Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Accounting is designed for students who want to build professional accounting knowledge quickly without committing immediately to a full master’s degree.

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Fast-track accounting qualification in only 4 months full-time
• Designed for students from non-accounting backgrounds
• Flexible pathway into the Master of Professional Accounting
• Industry-relevant curriculum aligned with modern accounting practices
• Learn accounting from a strategic business perspective
• Study at a globally accredited business school
• Opportunity to retrain for accounting and finance careers
• Flexible part-time study option available

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students must complete 60 points selected from approved accounting courses.

Subjects May Include

• Financial Accounting
• Management Accounting for Business
• Taxation in New Zealand
• Accounting Information Systems
• Advanced Financial Accounting
• Strategic Management Accounting
• Finance for Accountants
• Accounting Regulations and Business Law
• Auditing
• Economics and Quantitative Methods

Disciplines / Areas of Study

The programme develops skills in:

• Financial Accounting
• Management Accounting
• Taxation
• Auditing
• Business Law
• Accounting Information Systems
• Financial Analysis
• Strategic Accounting
• Quantitative Business Methods

The qualification can also serve as a pathway into:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Accounting
• Master of Professional Accounting

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue entry-level or progressing roles in:

• Accounting Support
• Assistant Accountant
• Finance Administration
• Payroll and Tax Support
• Accounts Officer
• Business Finance Support
• Junior Financial Analyst
• Accounting Assistant Roles

Highlights of the Programme

Major Highlights

• Level 8 postgraduate qualification
• Can be completed in only 4 months full-time
• Suitable for students from any academic background
• Pathway into Master of Professional Accounting
• Practical accounting and finance focus
• Flexible part-time study options
• Globally accredited business school
• Study in Auckland – New Zealand’s commercial centre

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Important Updates

AUT continues to position this qualification as:

• A flexible entry route into professional accounting
• A pathway into the Master of Professional Accounting
• Suitable for career changers entering accounting

Recent student discussions also highlight:

• Practical and modern teaching style
• Flexible learning structure
• Strong employability focus at AUT Business School

Important Visa-Related Note

Some international students have discussed New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) eligibility differences between postgraduate certificates, diplomas, and master’s pathways. Students should carefully check the latest Immigration New Zealand policies before planning study progression.

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students studying this programme generally require a New Zealand Student Visa.

Common Visa Requirements

• Valid passport
• AUT Offer of Place
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Medical/travel insurance
• English language evidence
• Health and character documents if requested