Bachelor of Accounting
Turn financial information into insight that supports better business decisions.
Accounting brings together financial expertise, critical thinking and an understanding of how organisations operate. You’ll learn how to prepare and interpret financial information, manage risk and support decisions across a range of business settings.
Case studies, practical activities and accounting technologies help connect theory with professional practice. Towards the end of your studies, you’ll complete an applied accounting project based on a contemporary business issue, using evidence to develop recommendations for an organisation.
Key features
- Professional accounting recognition:
Earn a CA ANZ and CPA-accredited degree that supports your pathway to chartered accounting.
- Real-world accounting experience:
Apply your learning through a specialist accounting project in a real business environment.
- Elective study options:
Choose an elective to explore one of eight other business specialisations.
- Flexible ways to study:
Choose full-time, part-time or regular evening classes to fit your commitments.
What you'll learn
- Financial accounting and reporting
- Management accounting, budgeting and forecasting
- Accounting and taxation in Aotearoa New Zealand
- Auditing and assurance
- Business finance and treasury
- Commercial law and business entities
- Accounting information systems and software
- Data analytics for business decision-making
- Risk management and internal controls
- Economics and business environments
- Ethical, sustainable and socially responsible accounting practice
- Applied research for organisational decision-making
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved* subjects and:
- Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing,
- Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
Or satisfied the criteria for entrance to a New Zealand University with an equivalent to the above from another secondary qualification.
Or successful completion of an approved qualification at Level 4 or above with a relevant pathway.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding your studies
If you experience financial hardship during your studies, you may be eligible for funding, scholarships, and awards to help you continue your education.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
- Financial accountant
- Management accountant
- Auditor
- Tax accountant
- Risk management adviser
- Business consultant
Study pathways
Pathways into this qualification
- New Zealand Diploma in Business (Accounting)
Study options after this qualification
Ara offers a range of graduate diplomas in a variety of business specialisations for further study,as well as pathways to a Postgraduate or Master qualification.
Bachelor of Accounting
Turn financial information into insight that supports better business decisions.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | TP4775 |
| Next starts | February 2027 |
| Credits | 360 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | TP4775-STRU |
Credit Recognition
Translate your knowledge from previous study into credits towards a new qualification.
Apply for credit recognitionDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 1002 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 794 KB
- Bachelor of Accounting Timetable 2026 PDF, 184 KB
Area of Interest
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