Master of Professional Accounting
Course details
| NZQF Level | 9 |
|---|
About the course
This internationally recognised masters degree will prepare you to launch a professional career in accounting after just 14 months of study. Start your academic journey towards becoming a professionally qualified accountant today.
The Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcct) is designed especially for students who have never studied accounting before at university-level, but already have a bachelor's degree in another subject area, such as arts, teaching, law or economics.
This internationally recognised qualification will prepare you to launch a career in accounting after just 14 months of study. It provides the ideal platform to start your journey towards becoming a professionally qualified accountant (CA ANZ, CPA Australia or ACCA).
There are two intakes for the course each year, so you can start in either November or January. Please note it is a full-time, accelerated course with an intensive workload.
During the course, you will develop advanced skills and knowledge in all the core areas of accounting and business, and be able to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to practical accounting situations.
On completion, you'll be ready to start work in a public accounting practice, or a commercial firm or organisation.
All of the papers in this 220-point taught masters degree are compulsory. You will learn about financial and management accounting, accounting information systems, commercial and corporate law, auditing, taxation, finance, and economics for business.
Entry requirements
- Have a bachelor's degree in any subject area
- Have achieved at least a B-minus grade average in your final year of study
International students must have an equivalent qualification from a recognised university, and meet the University of Waikato's English language requirements.
If you do not meet these requirements, you can enrol in an English language programme with our Waikato Pathways College.
About the provider
Established in 1964, the University of Waikato is recognised as the top university in New Zealand for research, ranked in the top three universities in New Zealand and 235th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
The University of Waikato has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year, and strong partnerships across government, industry and community organizations, thereby providing students with wider career options and practical learning opportunities.
The university features two vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in the heart of New Zealand's export-driven economy. These campuses offer a lively, inclusive atmosphere that fosters a supportive community where students can thrive academically and socially, making it easy for them to feel right at home while pursuing their studies.
Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato
- International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in New Zealand and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151–175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)—the highest for any NZ university.
- Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
- Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
- Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
- Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates —tailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
- Student Support & Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support—including international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
- Scholarships and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students.
- Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey.
Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.
Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it’s an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.
Check out a range of accommodation options available on our campuses.