Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Accounting

Course details

About the course

This full-time professional qualification is designed for accounting graduates who want to complete the CA Program while still at university and hit the ground running when they enter the workforce.

Our Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Accounting (CA Program) allows accounting graduates to complete all eight modules in the CA Program for Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) before entering the workforce.

This full-time, 10-month programme develops the advanced knowledge required to become a Chartered Accountant. This course starts in January each year and finishes in October.

Normally it would take nearly three years to complete the CA Program through online study and exams, while also working full-time as a junior accountant. Instead, you can get it all done at university in less than a year!

Another major benefit of this qualification is that graduates may be eligible for a 1-year credit towards the three years of Mentored Practical Experience (MPE) required to achieve full CA membership. ** See details below.

The PGDip in Professional Accounting (CA Program) is delivered by the University of Waikato in partnership with CA ANZ. It's ideal for anyone who has already graduated from our Bachelor of Business in Professional Accounting , or our Master of Professional Accounting, or an equivalent qualification accredited by CA ANZ. Please see 'Entry requirements' below for more details.

Study with your peers in a supportive learning environment at the University of Waikato's campus in Hamilton, under the guidance of our experienced accounting lecturers.

In addition to completing all eight modules in the CA Program, you will gain research and report writing skills in two specialist accounting topics. Choose from the following options:

International Accounting (ACCTN506)
Forensic Accounting (Fraud and Analytics) (ACCTN541)
Advanced Financial Reporting (ACCTN502)
Advanced Management Accounting (ACCTN531)

The CA Program Exams will be held at the end of each module and externally assessed by CAANZ for quality assurance purposes.

Graduates of this programme will be in great demand with employers in both the government and corporate sectors.

1-year credit towards Mentored Practical Experience

Students who already have a bachelor's or masters degree accredited by Chartered Accountants (CA ANZ) and then complete this research-based postgraduate diploma may be eligible for a one-year credit towards the three years of Mentored Practical Experience (MPE) required for CA membership.

To apply for this MPE credit, graduates should submit copies of their research abstracts alongside their final academic transcript when they apply for provisional CA membership with CA ANZ.

Part-time study options

If you are a NZ citizen or permanent resident and would prefer to study part-time for the CA Program, please take a look at our Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CA Program) instead.

About the provider

The University of Waikato has two campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in New Zealand's economic heartland. Our close-knit communities help international students settle in quickly, with the support and connections needed to succeed in their studies, and beyond.

What sets the University of Waikato apart is our commitment to real-world learning. The University has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year. Strong partnerships across government, industry and community organisations provide students with wide career options and practical pathways into New Zealand's job market and beyond.

Established in 1964, we've built a reputation for research excellence and innovation. Consistently ranked among New Zealand's top universities, our international student services, peer mentoring programmes, and close-knit campus communities ensure students feel at home from day one.

Ready to turn your academic goals into career success? Your journey starts at the University of Waikato.

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 and 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.

Why choose Hamilton?

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.

Why choose Tauranga?

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.