Why choose Applied Finance at UNSW Online?
#1 for Accounting and Finance*
UNSW is ranked first in Australia for Accounting and Finance studies* and within the top 20 worldwide.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
Industry respected degrees
Our programs are accredited by both AACSB and EQUIS, giving you immediate industry recognition and professional network connections.
Most employable graduates*
UNSW is recognised for producing the most employable graduates, winning the AFR Top 100 Future Leader Awards six years in a row.
*AFR, Top 100 Future Leaders Awards 2020–2025
Top 20 global university*
UNSW is one of the top universities in the world*, with a global reputation for excellence that opens doors for our graduates.
*QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Transform financial strategies into measurable impact
Master financial strategy and drive impactful decisions in the global finance sector.
Gain the expertise to analyse financial data, make informed investment decisions and navigate complex global markets with our CFA-aligned, online postgraduate applied finance programs, designed by industry experts from UNSW Business School – ranked #1 in Australia for Accounting and Finance*.
Advance your finance career by building expertise in analytics, FinTech and strategic business management, strengthening your ability to lead financial functions and shape the future of finance.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025
Applied Finance programs at UNSW Online
Master's
Graduate Diploma
Graduate Certificate
UNSW Online
Difference in qualification types
Master’s
A master’s degree is an advanced qualification that can be completed in as little as two years. It provides in-depth expertise, real-world skills and a competitive edge in your chosen field.
Graduate Diploma
A graduate diploma is a targeted, mid-level postgraduate qualification that can be completed in as little as 16 months. It builds foundational knowledge while equipping you with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Graduate Certificate
A graduate certificate is a short, focused postgraduate program that can be completed in as little as eight months. It provides foundational knowledge and skills, offering a flexible pathway to further study or career advancement.
Download our program guide
Our program guides are here to help you make the right choice. Packed with detailed information about studying with UNSW Online, from course content to career outcomes, they’re designed to support you in finding the program that fits your goals and aspirations.
Here's what you'll find inside:
- Entry requirements
- Program highlights
- Course structures
- Fees
- Online learning approach
Demand for finance professionals in Australia
Projected employment growth by 2035
Job postings in 2025
11,809
Typical base salary in Australia
$135,000
Employers citing skill gaps as a barrier
50%
Your career in applied finance starts here
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Enhance organisational effectiveness by designing and executing development strategies that drive performance and engagement.
Leverage your expertise to assess organisational needs, implement change management initiatives and optimise structures and processes.
Lead efforts in culture transformation, employee engagement and team development while aligning with strategic goals.
Identify opportunities to improve organisational capabilities and foster collaboration to build a resilient and adaptable workforce.
Typical salary
$140,000
Expected growth
+11%
Job listings
7,349
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Enhance organisational effectiveness by designing and executing development strategies that drive performance and engagement.
Leverage your expertise to assess organisational needs, implement change management initiatives and optimise structures and processes.
Lead efforts in culture transformation, employee engagement and team development while aligning with strategic goals.
Identify opportunities to improve organisational capabilities and foster collaboration to build a resilient and adaptable workforce.
Typical salary
$140,000
Expected growth
+11%
Job listings
7,349
The Applied Finance program is designed for ambitious individuals looking not only for advanced financial knowledge, but also for hands-on and relevant applications of such knowledge. It’s designed for professionals who want to gain the specialised skills for a career in the finance industry. The program is aligned with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) curriculum, allowing graduates to position themselves well to pursue the CFA designation – a globally respected and recognised investment credential.
Dr Luis Filipe Goncalves-Pinto
Applied Finance Program Director
Frequently asked questions
Financial systems are central to everything – and strong financial skills are an invaluable mechanism to drive change and create success for our economy, society, and future.
When you have a holistic understanding of finance, you can solve problems, make decisions and lead financial functions in businesses anywhere. The Master of Applied Finance has been designed to ensure you can confidently apply key concepts, critical thinking and rigorous analysis to evidence-based solutions. When you have globally recognised credentials, you can make a difference in every sector of the finance industry, in any market.
Find out more about the top financial career jobs and evolution of finance industry.
UNSW Online advises approximately 150 hours of study per course over the hexamester. This averages around 20 hours per week, depending on the course and week. The study mode is 100% online, with no on-campus requirements.
Discover tips on how to maximise your study.
To help you graduate from one of the world’s leading universities, we're here to support you, every step of the way.
You will receive academic guidance from your Course Convenor, with feedback and answers to your course-related questions, as well as dedicated one-on-one support for all non-academic matters from your Student Success Advisor. They are available via phone or email to provide motivation and tips to support you to succeed in your studies.
Online higher education gives you the flexibility to study anywhere, anytime, stay on track with your professional goals and study, get support from family and friends, cultivate your contacts and expand your network. Find out more about online study at UNSW here.
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