Ara Institute Of Canterbury Graduate Diploma In Accounting

Complement your degree with accountancy skills and experience applicable to many business situations and commercial pursuits.



Our qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge in peak demand and builds on your basic accounting skills and provides detailed study in taxation and compliance, as well as advanced financial and management accounting.

You will be capable of identifying opportunities for cost efficiencies, savings and future growth, and helping business leaders understand fiscal risk. In addition, you will also complete work experience on a business project. You will need to have current knowledge of accounting at an introductory level to enrol in this programme. Part-time up to 4 years.

Fees for 2021

Domestic costs $6,700 – $7,500 per year

Indicative Student Services Fee $320 per year

International costs $21,310 per year

International Levy $523.50 per year

Valid To December 31, 2021

Academic Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in any field excluding Accounting, however some previous study in Accounting or equivalent knowledge is required.Alternative Requirements

Still want to study but don’t meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.



English Requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.

  • Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
  • If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
  • If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
  • IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
  • What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
  • You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic

  • 5.5 Listening
  • 5.5 Reading
  • 5.5 Writing
  • 5.5 Speaking

What You Can Study

Level 6

  • Intermediate Financial Accounting
  • Intermediate Management Accounting
  • Taxation in New Zealand


Level 7

  • Advanced Financial Accounting
  • Industry Project
  • Preparation for Work Placement
  • Advanced Management Accounting