Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Accounting
Course details
About the course
Complete the CA Program with Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ) before you enter the workforce with this new fast-track, part-time qualification. The first intake is in January 2025. If you're an accounting masters graduate looking for a fast-track route to complete the CA Program and pass all your exams before entering the workforce, we have the perfect course for you! Our Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (CA Program) will allow you to achieve the professional requirements of (CAANZ) in just 9 months of part-time study at university. This process normally takes up to 3 years while juggling study and exams around a busy full-time job as an accountant. The PGCertPA (CA Program) is delivered by the University of Waikato in partnership with CAANZ. It's ideal for anyone who has already graduated from our or our . Please see 'Entry requirements' below for more details. The part-time course starts in January each year and finishes in September. Each eight-week module is taught face-to-face in Hamilton by our acounting lecturers at through a mix of lectures and tutorials. Exams will be held at the end of each module and externally assessed by CAANZ for quality assurance purposes. This qualification is accredited by Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, so graduates will receive full membership status of CAANZ once they have gained three years' work experience in an accounting role.
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.