Exemptions in the CPA Program for Master of Business Graduates

People with a masters degree in business can now obtain a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) qualification in less time thanks to a University of Southern Queensland (USQ) initiative.

The University has revised the Masters of Business (MBIS) and it will now include new specialisations giving graduates up to two exemptions in the CPA Program.

Head of the School of Accounting, Economics and Finance, Professor Peter Best said this new program will provide students with further professional opportunities while streamlining some of their studies.

'This new pathway will encourage students wishing to enhance their qualifications to pursue a masters degree in a specialised field,' Professor Best said.

'This qualification also gives them a head start in their professional exams. Instead of completing six CPA exams, MBIS graduates need complete only four.

'This can also reduce the time before they achieve CPA membership status by up to one year.'

The MBIS is a 12 course program, with specialisations in Accounting & Sustainable Business, Applied Finance, Business Forensics, Commercial Law, Information Systems, Personal Financial Planning and Property.

Up to four exemptions in each of these specialisations may be granted if the student has successfully completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant field.

A maximum of six courses may be granted an exemption (50% of the program).

Foundation courses in selected specialisations may be studied to meet professional accounting accreditation requirements.

Students holding a Bachelor of Commerce or equivalent, who are planning to undertake the CPA Program, may be granted up to two exemptions by CPA Australia for successful completion of the MBIS specialisations - Accounting and Sustainable Business, Applied Finance, Business Forensics, Commercial Law, or Information Systems.

For more information, please visit http://www.usq.edu.au/handbook/current/bus/MBIS.html.

Media Contact: Connie-Louise Rego, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977