We offer six study blocks, or hexamesters per year. Each hexamester runs for seven weeks with some orientation time beforehand. You study one course per block, offering balance and flexibility with life's other commitments. The Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance consists of eight courses and can be completed in as little as 16 months, depending on your individual study path, recognition of prior learning (RPL) and course availability.

To be eligible for the Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Academic Qualification: Hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) with a credit average (65% or higher), as determined by the UNSW Admissions Entry Calculator.
• Professional Experience: Have at least three years of relevant work experience in a commercial or public service organisation related to business, banking or finance.

Additionally, if you have successfully completed the Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance with a credit average (65% or higher), you can progress directly into the Graduate Diploma program. These flexible entry pathways ensure accessibility for both academically qualified individuals and experienced professionals looking to advance their careers in finance.

The Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance includes eight courses, combining core courses covering topics like Portfolio Management, International Finance, Corporate Finance, Equity Valuation and Derivatives, ensuring a strong foundation in applied finance. Elective options allow you to specialise in emerging areas like FinTech, Data Management, Decentralized Finance and Introductory Data Analysis. Designed to align with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) curriculum, the program equips you with both traditional finance expertise and insights into innovative financial technologies, making it highly relevant for advancing your career in the modern financial landscape.

Yes, the Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance is closely aligned with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) curriculum, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing the CFA charter. Many of the core and elective courses, such as Portfolio Management, Corporate Finance, Equity Valuation, Fixed Income and Derivatives, are specifically designed to cover key topics included in the CFA exams. This alignment ensures that you not only gain practical, real-world financial knowledge, but also build a strong foundation to succeed in the CFA program. By integrating CFA-relevant content, the diploma prepares you to meet the rigorous standards of the CFA designation while enhancing your expertise in applied finance.

Graduating with a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance opens the door to a wide range of advanced career opportunities in the financial sector. The program equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in roles such as portfolio management, corporate finance, investment analysis and financial consulting. You’ll also be well-prepared to work with debt instruments, derivatives, and in emerging fields like FinTech and data-driven financial strategies.

Our program is designed with flexibility in mind, making it ideal for busy professionals. It's delivered 100% online, allowing you to study from anywhere and fit your learning around work and personal commitments. Courses are structured into 7-week intensive blocks, enabling you to focus on one subject at a time for deeper engagement. With six hexamesters per year (January, March, May, July, August and October), you have the flexibility to start your studies at a time that suits you best.

Yes, upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma, and achieving a WAM of 65 or higher, you can transition into the Master of Applied Finance program. This nested qualification structure provides a flexible and accessible way to build your expertise step-by-step, allowing you to deepen your knowledge and skills in applied finance while working towards a prestigious master’s degree from UNSW.

Online students at UNSW benefit from comprehensive support. You get access to research and study resources and drop-in sessions with course convenors or facilitators for academic guidance. Student Success Advisors provide help with study planning and non-academic support, ensuring you stay on track, while wellness and mental health services are also available to support your overall wellbeing. For more information, check out studyonline.unsw.edu.au/study-online.

Previous finance experience isn't required to enrol in the Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance. The program is designed to accommodate professionals from diverse backgrounds, making it accessible even if you don’t have prior finance qualifications. However, for those without a financial background, it is recommended to first complete the Graduate Certificate in Applied Finance as an entry pathway. This allows you to build foundational knowledge and confidence in key financial concepts before progressing to the more advanced content in the Graduate Diploma. This flexible approach ensures that all students, regardless of their prior experience, are well-prepared to succeed in the program and advance their careers in finance.

UNSW is highly regarded for its excellence in finance education, consistently achieving top rankings both nationally and globally. It is ranked #1 in Australia for Accounting and Finance subjects and is recognised among the top 20 universities worldwide in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. These accolades reflect UNSW’s commitment to delivering world-class education and its strong reputation among employers and industry leaders in the financial sector. By studying at UNSW, you’ll benefit from a program that is not only academically rigorous but also highly respected on a global scale.

A professional in Applied Finance focuses on managing and optimising financial functions within an organisation. Their work involves applying financial principles to solve real-world problems, make strategic decisions and drive business success.

You will find them working in areas like banking, asset management and financial consulting. Daily tasks often include:

• Investment analysis
• Portfolio management
• Corporate finance
• Risk management

If you want to gain a strong foundation in applied finance and stand out to employers, the CFA-aligned Master of Applied Finance from UNSW Online offers a practical, industry-relevant pathway. You'll develop critical skills sought after in the finance sector and benefit from a flexible, 100% online experience that fits your career and life. This program is designed to position you for advancement, setting you up for success in a wide range of finance roles.