Graduate Diploma in Public Accounting

The Graduate Diploma in Public Accounting is an Exit Award only for candidates who have completed 48 credit points towards the Master of Commerce (Public Accounting).

This course satisfies the professional educational requirements needed to obtain membership of the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA).

Course Aims

The Graduate Diploma in Public Accounting represents the professional educational requirements needed to obtain membership of the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) for those associate members who are required to complete eight units. Candidates have the opportunity to undertake studies toward the education requirements of the Tax Practitioner Board or ASIC.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: integrate theoretical and technical knowledge to demonstrate the ability to initiate, plan, implement and evaluate broad functions within business contexts; communicate effectively with accountants, non-accounting professionals and clients with varied backgrounds; demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills acquired within the accounting discipline with a high level of professionalism, initiative and personal autonomy; and identify complex problems in business, collect relevant data, evaluate and synthesise solutions then recommend an appropriate course of action.

Graduate Attributes

Knowledge of a Discipline Demonstrate specialised knowldege within the accounting discipline suitable for professional practice and for progression to further study in the accounting discipline. Demonstrate an awareness of the global and international developments within the accounting discipline, including international regulatory frameworks. Communication Skills Communicate to a range of stakeholders using appropriate methods to present technical information and build rapport, whilst recognising the particular importance of adequate disclosure of information and transparency in the accounting profession. Problem Solving Apply logical thinking to a range of problems; identify critical issues in the discipline or professional area; conceptualise problems and formulate a range of solutions that are appropriate to the national or cultural context of the problem; collect, collate and analyse relevant information to assist problem-solving. Information Literacy Recognise the need for information and the nature and extent of information needed; collect information effectively and efficiently; critically evaluate information; use appropriate technology, methods and techniques to collect and evaluate information; and present information in formats relevant to the accounting discipline. Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and importance of the integrity and professional ethics in the accounting discipline, including an awareness of relevant professional codes of conduct, strategies to identify and deal with unethical behaviour and of their professional responsibility towards clients and the community as a whole. Lifelong Learning Reflect on limitations of, and have the capacity to evaluate their current knowledge; identify, evaluate and implement personal learning strategies for lifelong personal and professional development; practise critical thinking; learn both independently and cooperatively; learn new skills and apply learning to new and unexpected situations; recognise opportunities for further learning in both familiar and unfamiliar national or cultural settings. Independence and Collaboration Work individually or collaboratively to achieve common goals and solve problems; contribute specialist knowledge as required; take responsibility and carry out agreed tasks; take initiative and lead others; operate in a range of supportive roles within teams; negotiate, assert their own values and respect the values and contributions of others; and evaluate team performance. Graduates also become aware of the multicultural environment, acting with dignity and showing respect to the fellow members of the group.