New programs at Swinburne set the benchmark for modern finance and accounting education

Advancements in AI and new technologies are set to transform the finance and accounting industry. This shift calls for up-to-date and relevant courses that can prepare the next generation of finance experts and accountants for the evolving demands of the sector. 

Swinburne is leading that charge, unveiling its new postgraduate courses in Finance and Accounting at the Industry Connect: Accounting and Finance Career Expo, on Wednesday 25 September 2024. The event featured dynamic panel discussions with industry experts and professional bodies, offering insights into the future job market and the skills in demand. 

Master of Finance: Innovating Finance Education at Swinburne 

The revamped Master of Finance, a CFA-affiliated program, integrates cutting-edge technological advancements with core finance principles. It introduces relevant topics in FinTech, Blockchain, Cyber Security and AI, while equipping students with essential skills in data and business analytics, as well as data visualisation. 

Chair of the Accounting, Economics and Finance Department at Swinburne, Associate Professor Reza Tajaddini, says that the new curriculum will feature contemporary units that reflect the latest industry trends and innovations. 

“Students will benefit from our robust industry partnerships with leading organizations like Bloomberg, FTI Consulting and Pitcher Partners and enjoy exclusive access to resources from our strategic partner, the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA). This includes six months of free mentorship from FINSIA professional members, the first partnership of its kind between a higher education provider and FINSIA in Australia.” 

FINSIA’s CEO and MD, Yasser El-Ansary F FIN, says “this partnership between FINSIA and Swinburne is another step towards empowering the next generation of finance professionals, providing them with invaluable resources, networking opportunities and professional development.  By bridging the gap between academia and industry, we are committed to supporting students with resources and tools to succeed in their future careers”. 

Introducing the new Master of Professional Accounting 

Similarly, Swinburne will be the first university in Australia to offer a postgraduate accounting program that incorporates the transformative elements of AI, FinTech, Blockchain, Cyber Security, and Financial Crime into a standard accredited accounting curriculum. 

The new tech stream, developed in collaboration with industry leaders like KordaMentha, Accru Melbourne and Oracle, focuses on integrating cutting-edge technologies into the accounting curriculum. This innovative course addresses critical skill shortages in anti-financial crime and equips students with advanced tools and technologies (such as MindBridge and Alteryx) to combat financial crimes effectively. 

The new program also features a capstone unit where students tackle simulated business challenges in collaboration with industry stakeholders, enhancing critical soft skills such as communication, client management and teamwork. These areas have long been sought after by industry but are often overlooked in Australian accounting curriculums. 

Upgrading our undergraduate experience

To enhance our undergraduate business offerings and equip students with in-demand skills in FinTech, Blockchain, Cybersecurity and Financial Crime, Swinburne is also introducing a new minor in FinTech.

The new minor is designed to prepare students to navigate and excel in a technology-driven business and accounting landscape, making it an attractive choice for those aspiring to be at the forefront of the profession.