The Master of Professional Accounting is studied over three semesters and consists of 10 compulsory courses—nine 15-credit courses at Level 8 (including an internship) and a 45-credit research project at Level 9.

Here's a snippet of the technical and people skills you'll gain and develop over the duration of the programme:

• Accounting theory and practical experience. Apply advanced knowledge of accounting and practice in financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit and assurance.
• Research skills. Ability to undertake applied research.
• Collaboration. Work collaboratively with diverse teams and cultures and build positive working relationships in Aotearoa and global contexts.
• Communication skills. Effectively and professionally communicate with a range of stakeholders.
• Business ethics. Critically engage with ethically and socially responsible accounting practices.

You will gain practical, applied experience and develop your ability to think critically, act ethically, and work professionally in diverse business settings. 

You will need to have a laptop or desktop (a laptop is preferred because it is easier to bring to campus) and your preferred method for taking notes in class. You will also require regular access to the internet for self-study activities in addition to the student Wi-Fi on campus.

You maybe required to purchase specialist textbooks for your studies, please ensure you have access to funds for course related costs. 

Every course has a dedicated Moodle page, our education online platform, where learners can access resources and assessment instruction, submit assessments, and communicate with their tutor via forums. Learners also have access to Office365 and the NMIT library catalogue (print, ebooks, research databases).

As a Master’s learner, you will be required to use APA7 referencing, navigate research databases, and academic writing. Our Library Learner Services regularly run workshops throughout the programme to support learners in developing and refining these skills in preparation for the thesis.

Learners will also be required to read widely in academic texts and articles to complete assessments and support their research. Our Library Learner Services can help learners develop research reading techniques to efficiently read large volumes of academic texts.

Get prepared for your studies by reviewing the Master of Accounting textbook list, including required and recommended course materials.

Master of Professional Accounting Textbook List [PDF 1.2 MB]

NMIT's Master of Professional Accounting programme has undergone a detailed review and is accredited by both:

• Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ)
• Certified Practising Accountants Australia (CPA Australia)

To work as a registered Chartered Accountant or Certified Practising Accountant in New Zealand, you need to gain membership to the following professional accounting bodies:

• Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ)
• Certified Practising Accountants Australia (CPA Australia)

Professional certification offers many benefits, including global recognition, networking opportunities, and access to discounted professional development.

You'll complete a 75-hour internship with a local organisation as part of the programme. You'll agree on a project, set goals, and put your skills into practice. Our team will support you in preparing and connecting with available opportunities, giving you valuable experience and a strong step toward your future career.

You can also enter various roles in financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, taxation, banking, and business consultancy across the private and public sectors. Salary expectations will vary based on your qualifications, experience, and the specifics of the organisation, but here's an estimate of what you can expect.

• New accounting technicians and assistant accountants can earn between $58,000 and $81,000 annually.
• Accountants not CPA/CA qualified usually earn between $55,000 and $90,000.
• Mid-level accountants with up to four years' experience typically earn between $76,000 and $106,000.
• Senior accountants can earn between $102,000 and $202,000.

Source: https://tahatu.govt.nz/(external link)

Academic requirements

A Bachelor’s degree (or higher) with merit achievement deemed to be a grade average of B- or higher OR a professional qualification in a relevant discipline, recognised as being equivalent to merit achievement in a bachelor's degree or equivalent

Alternative requirements

Applicants who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic entry requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for postgraduate tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, may be approved for alternative entry by the Curriculum Area Manager (or delegate). Contact NMIT for advice.

English Language requirements

If English is not the applicant’s first language, they will need to provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart. Please visit here(external link) for more helpful information. 

Applicants who do not have evidence of English language skills and are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents may contact NMIT for an assessment.

• IELTS 6.5 Academic (no lower than 6.0 in any subtest)

It is strongly recommended that ākonga are able to competently utilise digital applications and technologies at an advanced level.

NMIT provides a wide range of computing facilities on its campuses. However, ākonga must have access to a computing device, software and a broadband internet connection suitable to complete blended courses. Specific computing requirements will be provided in programme enquiry information packs and published on the NMIT website. Access to a device capable of capturing digital images, video and/or audio is also required.

Ākonga will be required to supply their own computing equipment for regular use during classes and other activities, enabling a true blend of online and other digital technologies to enhance their learning. This is often referred to as Bring Your Own Device (BYOD).