Introduction
Do you dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) but don’t have an accounting degree?
Good news you can make it happen faster with the Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), New Zealand!
This program is perfect for graduates from any discipline who want to move into accounting, finance, or business. It’s designed to meet global standards while opening the door to exciting career and immigration opportunities in New Zealand.
Why Choose the Master of Professional Accounting at VUW?
Victoria University of Wellington is one of New Zealand’s most prestigious universities, known for its high academic standards, supportive learning environment, and global reputation.
The MPA program is fully accredited by:
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Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ)
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CPA Australia
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Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
That means your degree is internationally recognised giving you the flexibility to work in New Zealand, Australia, or anywhere in the world.
Course Overview
The MPA is a 4-trimester program (approximately 16–18 months) designed for students with any undergraduate background — no prior accounting or commerce degree is required!
Throughout the course, you’ll study 16–17 subjects covering key areas such as:
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Financial Accounting & Reporting
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Auditing
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Taxation
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Business Law
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Management Accounting
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Strategic Decision-Making
This degree prepares you for roles such as:
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Chartered Accountant (CA)
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Financial Controller
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Auditor
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Finance Manager
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Analyst in banking, not-for-profit, or corporate sectors
Become a Chartered Accountant – Faster
Victoria University of Wellington is the only university in New Zealand offering a Chartered Accountants Master’s Pathway, allowing you to complete the CA Program requirements as part of your MPA at no extra cost or study load.
You’ll become a Provisional Member of CA ANZ while studying, and can apply for full membership after completing three years of approved employment in New Zealand, Australia, or other recognised locations.
That means you’ll graduate job-ready and on the fast track to becoming a Chartered Accountant!
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The program is competitively priced at approximately NZ$55,650 for the full programme, and scholarships are available for high-achieving international students.
International Student Benefits
Victoria University holds the Triple Crown accreditation placing it among the top 1% of business schools worldwide.
International students enjoy:
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World-class teaching and resources
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Exposure to diverse cultures and professional networks
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A supportive environment for academic and personal growth
You’ll also develop strong communication, leadership, and analytical skills — highly valued in the global job market.
Immigration & Family Benefits
Post-Study Work Visa
After completing the MPA, you’ll be eligible for a three-year Post-Study Open Work Visa in New Zealand.
Family Benefits
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Your partner can apply for an open work visa for the same duration as your study.
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Your children can attend primary or secondary school as domestic students, meaning significantly lower fees.
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After graduation, when you receive your post-study work visa, your partner and children can continue to enjoy these benefits for up to three more years.
English Language Requirement
To apply, you’ll need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0.
Ready to Start Your Accounting Career in New Zealand?
With the Master of Professional Accounting at Victoria University of Wellington, you can transform your career, gain global recognition, and fast-track your pathway to becoming a Chartered Accountant — even without an accounting background.