This unit provides an introduction to the generally accepted accounting principles and practices underlying financial accounting and reporting. The unit introduces students to the concepts and skills required to prepare, analyse, and interpret financial statements.

This unit introduces the context and processes of managerial accounting, with financial and non-financial information literacy to inform both understanding and application of key managerial accounting techniques. Critical business career skills of ethical behaviour in difficult situations, collaboration, problem solving, time management, persuasive communication and following instructions are fostered across the areas of cost accounting, business performance, and strategic value creation in management accounting. Through weekly 'business practicals', students get real-world like experience in addressing practical managerial accounting issues in organisational contexts. Students become familiar with the many kinds of managerial accounting decisions concerning the techniques, benefits and risks of accounting frameworks chosen. The unit is completed with a capstone case study which consolidates learning and allows students to use their new knowledge and skills gained in identifying and addressing operational and strategic issues facing organisations concerning competition, innovation and government regulation.

This unit provides an understanding of the contemporary Australian financial reporting environment. Particular attention is paid to accounting theory and concepts, mandatory reporting practices and reporting policies that reflect either a choice from among several mandated alternatives, or those areas where regulation has not occurred. The unit is intended for those who will be involved in the preparation or use of company financial statements. The unit provides an understanding of accounting techniques, both in terms of technical method and their relative impact on corporation's financial statements. The emphasis throughout is on both the 'techniques' and the related explanations for their use.

Many of the topics in an international accounting unit have a domestic counterpart. However, new factors and complications arise in the international arena. Some of these are (1) diversity of laws, practices, customs, cultures, and competitive circumstances; and (2) risks associated with fluctuating exchange rates, differential rates of inflation, and unstable property rights. International accounting discusses issues from the perspective of companies that have internationalised their finance and/or their operations. It has a comparative aspect, comparing accounting across countries. It deals with corporate reporting and disclosure across national boundaries. It also deals with the harmonisation of the worldwide diversity in financial reporting, in particular, convergence around International Financial Reporting Standards. It discusses consolidation issues that arise from multinational operations.

This unit develops a framework of fundamental analysis for equity investment in publicly traded companies. The first part of the unit deals with the analysis of financial statement information, complemented with other sources of information such as business strategy, industry prospects and key macroeconomic effects. Emphasis is on the analysis of earnings quality and accounting-based valuation methods. The second part of the unit applies fundamental analysis in the appraisal of equity investment, and the effect of credit evaluation and risk analysis, as well as the valuation for takeovers. The unit also covers the impact on equity valuation from inherent behavioural patterns in informing investment decisions.

This unit examines a number of advanced topics in managerial accounting as they relate to the use of key analytic and calculative techniques for decision making and value creation. Topics are biased towards those that are relevant and even contentious to contemporary practice and include: the potential inconsistencies between management accounting and strategic decision making and control; executive compensation and reward systems; ethical issues in budget setting and performance management; the theory of the firm and outsourcing; issues in managing joint ventures and strategic alliances; performance measurement systems; decentralisation and transfer pricing, and innovation and change in management accounting practice. An overview of each topic area is provided before exploring the topics more deeply by examining current research and/or working through case studies to provide insights into contemporary business practice.

The focus of this unit is the development of knowledge and understanding of the key elements of the 'corporate financial statement' audit process with particular reference to Australian Auditing Standards. Auditor's duties and responsibilities are considered before moving to planning the audit, performing the audit and arriving at an audit opinion. Students are exposed to the techniques used by auditors in carrying out audit procedures and evaluating audit evidence. Students are expected to further develop their critical thinking skills through applying technical audit principles to real world auditing problems and corporate case studies. Students develop an appreciation for the essential role the auditor and the audit function play in enhancing the quality of financial statements and corporate governance. In this context, the unit critically examines contemporary audit issues, recent audit headlines and challenges faced by the audit profession in the Australian and global environment.

This unit provides students with a detailed understanding of more complex financial reporting issues. Topics examined include: group accounting issues such as the practical application of the control test; multiple subsidiaries; non-controlling interest; foreign currency translation; consolidated cash flow reporting; segment reporting; accounting for joint arrangements and associates; and related party disclosures. The unit builds on the knowledge base acquired from earlier accounting units with a strong emphasis on the application of technical skills. The unit has a substantial case component, using current examples to illustrate both appropriate technical solutions in accordance with accounting standards and guidelines, as well as the forces which determine the choice of methods. The unit also provides students with an awareness of relevant research to assist in an understanding of both current debates and accounting choices. This unit helps develop students' ability to read and analyse financial reports and to understand the financial reporting implications of management decisions relating to internal reporting and organisational structure.

Corporate governance has been defined as 'the system by which companies are directed and controlled' (Cadbury 1992). As the capstone unit for the MPAcc this unit assures the learning from prior management, audit, financial reporting and analysis accounting units by exploring how accounting information is used (and at time abused) in enabling the accountability through which the governance of the corporation is affected. The unit introduces students to some of the core theories which are drawn upon to understand corporate governance; agency, stakeholder, stewardship and transaction cost theories. It then explores the key relationships and practices upon which effective governance depends; relationships between a CEO and chairman, executive and non-executive directors, the board and its risk, audit, remuneration and nominations sub-committees, board members and their external auditors and other advisors, and relationships between the board, financial analysts, investors and shareholders. Whilst these issues are explored in relation to the Anglo-American system of corporate governance which privileges the interests of shareholders, the unit also explores alternative stakeholder systems of corporate governance in Germany and Japan, as well as the development of governance frameworks and institutions in the transitional economies of Russia and China. Wider issues of corporate social responsibility in relation to the globalisation of product and capital markets are also examined. As an integral part of their learning experience and assessment, students are required to develop an internationally focussed case study that is updated as they progress through the range of topics explored in this unit.

This unit provides students with the tools to understand the impact of economic, socio-cultural, institutional, and technological factors on businesses' operations. Such considerations are crucial for understanding how businesses make decisions and interact in the marketplace. The first part of the unit provides an introduction to macroeconomic and microeconomic analysis and applications. In macroeconomics, we consider determination of the aggregate level of economic activity (GDP and inflation), the economic effects of government policies, and the link between interest rates and exchange rates and the level of economic activity. In microeconomics, we look at economic decision-making by individuals and firms and the determination of prices in different kinds of markets. The next part of the unit investigates wages, as well as the social, cultural, political, and technological environments in which firms operate. It examines theories, models and conceptual tools that help us understand and make decisions in relation to these factors. The unit is complemented by developing an understanding of the complexity of professional behaviour and ethical decision making.

This compulsory foundation unit is designed to help students develop personal and interpersonal skills. These fundamental professional skills will allow students to effectively work with and through others and are important for career success. Through a series of readings, lectures, assessments, and experiential exercises, this unit provides students with useful frameworks and research-based insights on effective organisational behaviours. Topics such as effective communication, self-management, working with others, leadership, influence, decision making, and more are discussed. Upon completion of this unit, students will have gained valuable knowledge and practical skills that will aid their professional development.

This unit is available to outstanding students completing the Master of Commerce, Master of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations, and Master of Professional Accounting program. It involves a professional placement with a business, government, or non-government organisation. It includes preparatory coursework in reflective, professional practice and report writing. Assessment includes a reflective journal and professional report and presentation based on the internship placement. Permission is required to enrol in this unit. Further information and application process is outlined at http://sydney.edu.au/business/study/opportunities/industry_placement_program

The NEXT Innovation program (previously Deloitte FASTRACK) is a globally recognised award-winning innovation program designed to give outstanding business and management students practical experience in business innovation. It has been built up and tested around a structured process specifically for developing a portfolio of market-tested 'business of tomorrow' concepts in a constrained timeframe. The program has been designed as an interactive, work integrated program featuring a mix of instructor presentation, applied reading content, practical application, market testing, assignment and presentation learning methods, supported by a purpose built innovation management system with collaborative social media features. The program allows students to work with Deloitte mentors and aims to replicate a corporate 'innovation community' among the students, corporate mentors, NEXT coordinators and additional participants. Further information and application process is outlined at http://sydney.edu.au/business/study/opportunities/next_innovation_program.

This unit is available to students accepted into the china Industry Placement Program while they undertake a professional placement with a business or a government organisation that has a particular focus on business interests. It includes preparatory coursework in reflective, professional practice and concurrent coursework on research methods, report and other professional writing skills. Assessment includes a reflective journal, a research report related to their work placement, and an oral presentation on the internship placement and international work and study experience. Further information and application process is outlined at http://sydney.edu.au/business/study/opportunities/industry_placement_program

All business conduct is regulated by the law. Every transaction and every relationship is governed by an increasingly complex mix of statutory and judge-made laws. The ability to identify and manage legal risks, and knowledge of compliance and dispute resolution strategies, are essential business management skills. This unit examines the legal framework and regulatory regime within which all businesses operate in Australia and in a global economy. It introduces students to the legal implications of commercial conduct and provides an overview of the Australian legal system and threshold legal concepts of agreement, ownership, and civil and criminal liability. Key areas of substantive business law are examined including contracts, torts (in particular negligence and the economic torts), property and securities, and crime. The unit also provides students with an overview of areas of legal regulation with an increasingly significant impact on business operations including: privacy, intellectual property rights, competition law, consumer law (in particular advertising regulation, product liability and unfair contracts), misleading conduct and unconscionable conduct.

The corporation is the dominant structure adopted for business undertakings globally. This unit aims to demystify corporate regulation and its impact in the contemporary commercial context with a view to introducing students to the types of issues they will encounter in the real world of corporations. The unit reviews business structures (joint ventures, partnerships, trusts and companies) from a business perspective with a focus on the corporate form. The unit also examines the different options available for the conduct of businesses and the different stages of the corporate life cycle, including: how corporations are brought into existence and the characteristics attained upon incorporation; how corporations undertake certain activities (including entry into contracts, fundraising, issuing shares, paying dividends); how corporations are managed and power is distributed between participants, how the law places certain duties and obligations upon those who manage corporations; the consequences which may result from any breach of those duties and obligations; and managing corporations in financial distress, liquidation and de-registration. It takes an application-based approach which gives the unit a practical as opposed to theoretical orientation. Current issues in corporate regulation in Australia and internationally are discussed to provide students with an understanding of the types of issues which confront different types of corporations, and how these issues impact upon their management and the discharge of corporate responsibility.

Taxation is an inevitable reality for all individuals and businesses. The impact of taxation on business structures, transactions and decisions is both real and significant. An understanding of how taxation law works is not only vitally important for professional accountants but is also an essential management skill in an increasingly complex business environment. This unit introduces students to the principal forms of taxation within the Australian taxation system with a focus on concepts and principles of income tax law. Students also learn how tax law is applied in practice. This unit covers key concepts of taxation in Australia (including the concepts of income, capital gains tax, deductions, and the residence and source principles) and examines the taxation of different entities (including partnerships, trusts and companies). The taxation of international business transactions is also considered.

China has recently become the second biggest economy in the world and is Australia's most important trading partner. Australian businesses are increasingly engaging with China. This unit addresses the frequently asked question of how to do business with China. It addresses China's unique business environment which has resulted from its unique culture, history and demography, and examines the business regulations, tax system, and the administrative and compliance issues businesses will face when carrying on business with China. The unit first outlines the business environment in terms of culture, history, economics, demography, and government administration. It then provides students with an understanding of the legal environment that businesses will face in China. Through a hypothetical case study, different aspects of business regulation such as contract, entity structure, mergers and acquisition, property and intellectual property rights, the tax system, different tax types and associated international issues, and social insurance are analysed.

International financial crime occupies a leading place on the international governance agenda. It has a devastating impact on national economies, international security and human development. This unit examines key international financial crimes such as investment fraud, corruption, tax evasion, money laundering and terrorist financing. Students gain an understanding of how these crimes are committed, detected and prosecuted. They analyse the changing regulatory environment and the new risks facing businesses and the professions. The role of bank secrecy and tax havens in facilitating financial crime is also studied. There is a special focus on the prevention of financial crime, and the regime for tracing, freezing and recovery of illicit assets. The unit draws on case studies from Australia, United States, Europe and Asia so as to gain a better appreciation of the national and international responses to international financial crime.

This unit provides an introduction to basic concepts in corporate finance and capital markets. It is designed to equip students to undertake further studies in finance. After reviewing some very basic ideas in finance and financial mathematics, the unit provides an introduction to the valuation of equity and debt securities and companies. The unit then examines issues related to pricing in capital markets and ends with a discussion of theory and practice related to capital structure and dividend policy.

This unit extends some of the fundamental concepts introduced in FINC5001 Capital Markets and Corporate Finance, and develops a rigorous framework for the analysis and understanding of key aspects of corporate financial decision making. Fundamental concepts in corporate finance are extended to more complex settings. The unit examines more advanced approaches to asset pricing and capital budgeting. New topics are covered in relation to derivative securities and real options applications in capital budgeting. The issues of the cost of capital, corporate capital structure, and corporate dividend policy, are extended to cover the interaction of corporate and personal taxation, agency problems, and information signalling.

In our highly globalised and integrated world economy, understanding international dimensions of financial management is essential for businesses. This unit provides a greater understanding of the fundamental concepts and the tools necessary for effective financial decision making by business enterprises, within a global setting.

This unit provides students with an introduction to Australian financial markets and an evaluation of the institutions, instruments and participants involved in the industry. The main markets evaluated include the equity, money, bond, futures, options, and foreign exchange markets. The relationship between the economic environment and these markets is examined.

This unit focuses on the application of strategic thinking in key business contexts with a particular focus on the global nature of business. Students gain knowledge about: (i) identifying and managing challenges and risks presented by operating in a global business environment; (ii) international business trade and foreign direct investment theories; (iii) country level factors that impact global strategy.

Accountants are extensive users of business information systems (BIS). They also play a critical advisory and managerial role in relation to the design, adoption, evaluation and assurance of BIS to ensure that information and systems are properly governed, used ethically and contribute to business value. This unit provides an introduction to current and emerging information technologies (IT) that support and enable business processes, information management, decision-making and reporting of critical business information in accounting. In addition, associated governance, risk and compliance challenges are explored. Relationships between business processes and accounting information systems are examined to develop an understanding of the complex and changing business information environment from the perspective of different stakeholders. Students also learn how to use tools, frameworks and models that assist in identifying opportunities for business value creation through innovative applications of various BIS and managing business information, processes and systems to ensure that strategies and service providers meet business needs.

This unit explores the strategic managerial issues that arise from the implementation and use of Enterprise Systems as a means of integrating data and standardising processes. The unit utilises a combination of practical sessions with an Enterprise System, such as SAP, and analyses based on readings of case studies to explore the long-term effects of strategic implementation decisions, and issues with regard to Enterprise System implementation projects. The unit explores the emergence and implications of cloud-based Enterprise Systems, and the part that Enterprise Systems play in an organisation's broader information infrastructure.

Infrastructure is the backbone of every economy. Investment in infrastructure has the capacity to enhance productivity and generate growth, and has multiplier effects that are not only economic but also social and environmental. The cost of infrastructure projects, however, can be substantial and funding these projects represents a significant challenge. In this unit, students explore the distinction between infrastructure financing and funding and the challenges in raising private finance. Students are provided with an understanding of the principles of infrastructure finance and the use of special purpose vehicles and how to structure alternative financing plans. Students learn how to develop approaches to procurement and tendering and understand issues associated with the commercial and financial structuring of Public Private Partnerships.

Accountants in the workplace need to be familiar with effective techniques for dealing with business data. This unit uses spreadsheet tools and accounting examples to introduce the most important data analysis methods. The unit helps students understand variability and detect when variation is random and when something significant is going on. This unit also enables students to uncover the relationships between variables that can be hidden in business data. Students learn how to look at accounting data and use it to forecast business performance. Students are also given examples of the misuse of statistics in an accounting context. The unit is taught through data- driven examples, exercises and business case studies.

Business operations are the activities that businesses carry out to create value. This unit provides the models needed to analyse business operations of a company or organisation and make management decisions on operational issues. It covers business operations in both manufacturing and service industries, looking at processes, supply chains and quality issues. Topics covered may include the modelling of manufacturing operations and related group technologies, the modelling of financial service operations (e.g. brokerage operations), and the operations implications of internet technologies.

Accurate and effective analysis of data is a crucial skill in today's data-rich business environment. Visual Data Analytics (VDA) is an indispensable scientific tool for analysing all sorts of business-related data and, in particular, complex high-dimensional data. Applications include the visualisation of financial statements, capital market data, marketing data, supply chain data and many others. VDA has the ability to encode vast amounts of information into a small space that can be then intuitively interpreted for decision-making. This unit draws upon statistics, computer science, behavioural psychology and information design for visualising numerical and text data. It presents statistical and data analysis methods that are necessary for description, exploration, inference and diagnosis using data reduction, visual mining, smoothing, clustering and validation techniques. Upon completion of the unit, students should be proficient in producing high integrity visuals that enables fast and precise business decision-making. Students will also learn about the limitations of visual perception and how to design powerful visuals that can tap into our natural cognitive predisposition in favouring visual types of information.

This unit aims to introduce students to the nature and context of management. It explores the functions and processes of management and encourages students to critically reflect on management theory and practice. It can be taken as a standalone unit for students enrolled in various specialist masters programs and also prepares students for further study in strategic management, organisational analysis and strategy and human resource management.

This unit examines the processes and practices associated with contemporary performance and reward management. Results-based, behaviourally-based and competency-based methods of performance management are examined, along with processes of performance review, planning and developing. Coverage of reward management issues includes: job- and person-based approaches to building base pay structures; methods for rewarding individual performance; work group incentives such as gainsharing, goal-sharing and team pay; methods of rewarding employees for organisational performance, including employee share ownership; and performance-related rewards for executives. The unit also examines approaches to developing strategically integrated performance and reward management systems.