
This is part of the Ultimate Guide to Higher Education series. If you'd like to know more about other types of higher education you can pursue, we strongly recommend that you read the guide.
Searching for the best accounting courses in Singapore to boost your financial expertise?
You're in the right place!
Thankfully, Singapore is renowned for its exceptional accounting standards - having been benchmarked as one of the best in the world.
This means that whether you're an aspiring accountant, a career switcher, or a seasoned finance professional looking to expand your skillset, there are diverse opportunities here to help you learn and expand your skills.
Is accounting a good career in Singapore?
Accounting is generally considered a promising and rewarding career in Singapore, and accountants are high in demand as ever.
The accounting industry in Singapore is also experiencing growth, with over 55,000 professionals in Singapore generating over $2b in revenue in 2015. This number, though outdated, underscores the industry's potential.
However, with this growth comes challenges such as increased competition, technological advancements, and demanding work environments, requiring dedication and a willingness to adapt to the evolving landscape of the industry. There's also a strong leakage of accounting professionals to other industries due to the difficulty of retaining talent in the sector.
Thus, completing a course in program in finance and accounting can not only align with personal career goals, but also help individuals succeed in the dynamic finance and accounting industry. Graduates can start their careers in diverse roles within the financial sector, including positions like taxation, auditing, and business law.
Which accounting qualification is best in Singapore?
In Singapore, several accounting qualifications are highly regarded and can lead to successful careers in the finance and accounting sector. The most popular among them are:
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA): ACCA is a glob-ally recognised qualification, and majority of accountants in Singapore hold this qualification. It's popular due to its international relevance and strong connections with major firms like the Big Four and various banks. This qualification is suitable for professionals who wish to work in taxation and accounting in various international locations.
- Singapore Chartered Accountant (CA): This qualification, managed by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), is held by many accountants in Singapore. It is particularly transferable across all accounting functions in banking and finance within Singapore. The Singapore CA Qualification, developed by the Singapore Accountancy Commission (SAC) in 2013, is internationally recognised, with technical skills catering to Singapore and Asian markets. This qualification is the national accountancy qualification of Singapore. It allows professionals to work mainly within Singapore, either in their own firms or as finance consultants.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): The CPA qualification is also prevalent in Singapore, particularly among those working in the Big Four accounting firms. CPAs from various foreign markets, especially Australia, are common in Singapore.
- Other Qualifications: Other qualifications like CIMA and ACA are also held by professionals in Singapore but are more specialised or region-specific.
Each of these qualifications has its own unique strengths and is suited to different career paths within accounting and finance. For example, ACCA is globally recognised and has a strong presence in various multinational corporations, while the Singapore CA qualification offers a curriculum that is tailored to the Asian market and Singapore's specific financial environment.
Thus, it’s essential to consider your career goals, the sectors you're interested in, and the geographical regions where you plan to work.
How do I choose an Accounting Course in Singapore?
When searching for an accounting course in Singapore, it's crucial to find a program that offers a solid curriculum and comes from a reputable institution.
Equally important are the duration and cost of the course, but of course, the ultimate measure of value is the course's effectiveness in securing employment in the accounting field.
While there's no guaranteed path, thorough research can minimise the risk of choosing a course that doesn't meet your career objectives. Accounting courses vary, from brief intensives to comprehensive degrees and diplomas. With these factors in mind, we've curated a list of top accounting courses in Singapore for your consideration.
Short Courses in Accounting
Short courses in accounting provide a condensed and efficient learning experience, offering the essential skills and knowledge in a fraction of the time compared to traditional degree programs.
They typically have a maximum duration of a few months, making them ideal for individuals who wish to quickly enhance their qualifications or gain a specific skill set without long-term commitment.
Temasek Polytechnic - Accounting Entries for Beginners

Logo taken from TP
Temasek Polytechnic (TP) is a leading institution of higher education in Singapore known for its broad array of courses and emphasis on industry-relevant training. TP provides a practical learning approach, preparing students for dynamic professional environments.
Course Content:
The course "Accounting Entries for Beginners" at Temasek Polytechnic focuses on fundamental accounting principles and practices. It is designed to introduce beginners to basic accounting entries, including understanding debits and credits, and the preparation of financial statements.
Duration:
The "Accounting Entries for Beginners" course is a micro-learning course. There are 10 to 15 lessons with each lesson duration of about 15 minutes.
Accreditation:
TP is recognised for its educational excellence in Singapore. While specific accreditations for this course are not detailed, TP generally upholds high educational standards consistent with national and industry expectations.
Cost:
Full course fee: S$ 53.99
General Comments:
Temasek Polytechnic's "Accounting Entries for Beginners" is the perfect starting point if you're new to the field of accounting. This course simplifies the complex world of debits and credits, ensuring you gain a solid foundation in the creation of financial statements.
With bite-sized lessons of just 15 minutes each, you can easily fit this learning into your busy schedule. Also, at S$53.99, it’s an affordable and practical way to dip your toes into accounting principles before you officially begin your journey.
London School of Business and Finance Singapore - ACCA Preparatory Course

Logo taken from LSBF
The London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) in Singapore offers a range of professional qualifications, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualifications. Known for its high-quality education and industry-experienced faculty, LSBF Singapore caters to a diverse student base with flexible learning options.
Course Content:
The ACCA program at LSBF Singapore covers comprehensive accounting topics, including financial and managerial accounting, with a focus on preparing students for the ACCA exams through live and online classes, including mock exams.
Duration:
On average the course is completed within 4 months
Accreditation:
LSBF Singapore is renowned for its ACCA tuition provision, offering globally rec-ognised and valued accounting qualifications.
Cost:
Full fees start at S$277.50.
General Comments:
If you're aspiring to become a Chartered Certified Accountant, the ACCA Preparatory Course offered by the London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) in Singapore is an excellent choice.
Whether you prefer live or online classes, the programme is flexible to fit your schedule, with the entire course achievable in just 4 months.
Further, the fees can be considered a smart investment for a globally recognised qualification that can significantly elevate your professional standing in the accounting field. This course is ideal for those seeking a fast-tracked, reputable pathway to a career in accounting.
Avanta Global - Certificate in Accounting and Finance

Photo taken from Avanta Global
Avanta Global is an educational and training institution that specialises in professional courses, including a Certificate in Accounting & Finance. They focus on equipping individuals with practical skills for the workplace. Their courses are designed to be intensive and are delivered by experienced industry professionals.
Course Content:
The course content at Avanta Global's Certificate in Accounting & Finance includes an introduction to basic accounting principles and key finance terms.
Participants will learn about the accounting process, including journals, ledgers, and the mechanics of debits and credits.
The course also covers the use of balance sheets, profit planning tools, break-even analysis, financial forecasting, and the analysis of income statements and cash flow statements.
Additionally, it provides insights into cost accounting and the cost of capital, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of financial management.
Duration:
The Certificate in Accounting & Finance course spans 24 hours, structured over 3 days, making it an intensive program suitable for quick learning.
Accreditation:
Avanta Global Pte Ltd is accredited by several organizations, ensuring compliance with various industry and safety standards.
These accreditations include bizSAFE, a program that recognises businesses for workplace safety and health standards; SAC Accredited Facility, indicating official recognition by the Singapore Accreditation Council; Singapore Workforce Skills Qualifications (WSQ), which validates that the institution meets the established skills training standards; and the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA).
Cost:
S$ 720 + GST
General Comments:
Avanta Global's Certificate in Accounting & Finance is an intensive course, ideal if you're looking to quickly acquire essential accounting and financial skills.
This course is recommended for professionals seeking to enhance their financial literacy or for beginners starting a career in finance.
Further, what’s interesting about this course is that employees from non-accounting backgrounds, who are looking to further their careers, can be sponsored by their employers as a means of upskilling or gaining additional knowledge for their workplace.
Ngee Ann CET Academy’s Certification on Accounting Transformation

Logo taken from Ngee Ann CET Academy
The Continuing Education & Training (CET) Academy at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, established in 1985, focuses on adult education and training.
It is committed to helping adult learners stay relevant and employable through skills-upgrading and reskilling. CET Academy has aided over 180,000 working adults in gaining new skills for the global economy. The academy also collaborates with businesses to cu-rate training solutions, aiming to equip the industry with future economy skills and enhance workforce efficiency.
Notably, it has received the Silver Award for Best Corporate – Learning & Development Provider at the HRM Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2022.
Course Content:
The entire program provides foundational knowledge in ratio analysis, cash budgeting, and performance evaluation. It's designed to help participants apply these tools and techniques for effective planning, control, and decision-making in accounting.
Upon completing each of the following courses, students are eligible for a Certification of Accounting Transformation.
- Accounting for Analysis and Decisions
- Using MS Excel in Accounting
- Performing Cloud-Accounting
- Finance-Business Partnering with Data Visualisation
- Strengthening Internal Controls with Analytics
- Automation of Processes with RPA
Duration:
The course spans 24 hours and is delivered through a combination of classroom and e-learning sessions.
Upon completion of each course, participants receive a Certificate of Performance. Completing all six courses in the program awards a Certificate on Accounting Transformation.
Accreditation:
Ngee Ann Polytechnic's CET Academy has been recognised with significant awards, enhancing its reputation as a provider of quality education.
It won the Silver Award for Best Corporate – Learning & Development Provider in the HRM Asia Readers Choice 2022. Additionally, it received the EC-Council's 2022 Academic Circle of Excellence Award.
These accolades reflect the academy's commitment to offering impactful training programs that cater to the evolving needs of learners and the workforce. Such recognition can be indicative of the quality of their accounting courses.
Cost:
The full course fee is S$ 680.40, however SkillsFuture funding and other financial support options are available for eligible individuals.
General Comments:
The Certification on Accounting Transformation at Ngee Ann Polytechnic's CET Academy is an excellent choice if you're seeking to advance your accounting skills and stay current with industry trends.
This programme is particularly beneficial for working professionals and adults looking to reskill or upskill in the accounting do-main. With its focus on practical applications like ratio analysis, cloud accounting, and data visualisation, it caters to those aiming to enhance their analytical and de-cision-making abilities in finance.
The program's recognition through awards underlines its quality and relevance in today's business world.
Accounting Diplomas
Diploma courses in accountancy serve as an accelerated conduit to the accounting profession.
With a maximum duration ranging from 8 months to 3 years, they're tailored for both fresh entrants into the field and working professionals seeking to up-grade their skills. These programs combine rigorous academics with real-world experience, leading to globally recognized accreditation, and are ideal for those aiming for a career-oriented education in accounting.
Kaplan Singapore - Diploma in Accountancy Course

Logo taken from Kaplan Higher Education Academy
Kaplan Singapore is a private education institution that offers a range of programs, including accounting courses.
Course Content
The Diploma in Accountancy at Kaplan Singapore is structured to provide comprehensive coverage of various key aspects in the field of accounting.
The course includes modules on business statistics, commercial law, corporate finance, cost and management accounting, financial accounting, financial reporting analysis, principles of economics, and principles of management.
Duration
The duration of the Diploma in Accountancy course is typically 8 months, with the possibility of completion in a shorter period. It is designed to cater to both full-time and part-time students, offering flexibility to accommodate different learning paces and schedules.
Accreditation
Kaplan's accounting courses are accredited by several recognised bodies.
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and Finance (Top-up) program, for instance, is accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW), and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
This accreditation ensures that the courses meet high standards and are recognised globally.
Cost:
Total tuition fee: S$5,896.80
General Comments:
The Diploma in Accountancy at Kaplan Singapore is highly recommended for its robust curriculum that thoroughly covers essential accounting principles and practices.
Tailored for both full-time and part-time learners, the 8-month program is flexi-ble, accommodating your learning needs with options for accelerated completion.
With accreditation from prestigious bodies like ACCA, ACRA, ICAEW, and CIMA, you're assured a qualification that is respected worldwide.
PSB Academy - Diploma in Business Administration (Accounting and Finance)

Logo taken from PSB Academy
PSB Academy in Singapore offers a Diploma in Business Administration focusing on Accounting and Finance. The institution is dedicated to providing students with practical and theoretical knowledge in business operations, preparing them for various career paths in the industry.
Course Content
The course content covers the essentials of financial and management accounting, equipping students with the skills needed to make informed business decisions.
The curriculum includes an array of subjects such as accountancy, financial management, and business consultancy, with the added advantage of gaining insights from industry practitioners.
Modules include:
- Academic Reading and Writing 2
- Business Accounting
- Business Ethics
- Business Decision Making
- Macroeconomics
- Management
- Marketing
- Financial Management
- Principles of Accounting
Duration
The Diploma program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.
The average lesson duration is 2-3 hours per session, with the entire diploma expected to be completed within 12 months.
Accreditation:
PSB Academy is recognised as the Winner of Higher Education in Accounting award, indicating its prestige in the field of accounting education.
Cost:
S$ 6,104 (for Singapore-based students)
General Comments:
PSB Academy's Diploma in Business Administration (Accounting and Finance) is an excellent option if you're looking to delve into the world of business accounting and finance.
The 12-month duration ensures a comprehensive learning experience without a lengthy commitment, making it perfect for both full-time students and working professionals seeking to enhance their credentials.
Ngee Ann Polytechnic - Diploma in Accountancy

Logo taken from Ngee Ann Polytechnic
The School of Business & Accountancy at Ngee Ann Polytechnic is a leading institution in Singapore known for its quality education and industry-relevant courses.
With a commitment to nurturing future business and accounting professionals, the school offers a range of programs that emphasize practical skills and knowledge.
Course Content:
The Diploma in Accountancy program at Ngee Ann Polytechnic covers a compre-hensive range of accounting topics, including financial and managerial account-ing, auditing, taxation, and more. It is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, preparing them for various roles in the accounting field.
Duration:
The full course is covered over three years.
- Year 1: Focuses on building a strong foundation in core business concepts through introductory courses or training.
- Years 2 & 3: Involve a curated professional journey, suggesting a more specialised and practical learning experience. This includes advanced course-work, internships, networking opportunities, and exposure to real-world business scenarios.
- Year 3: Offers the option to choose a pathway to gain industry experience. This involves practical work experience, projects, or further training that is closely aligned with the student's career aspirations.
For instance, in year 3, students take a 12-week accounting internship aimed at allowing them to apply what they have learned throughout the course.
Accreditation:
Ngee Ann Polytechnic is recognised for its educational excellence and is a well-established institution in Singapore. Graduates of the ACC program will enjoy ac-creditation from professional bodies such as ACCA, CIMA and ICAEW.
Cost:
Tuition fees for a diploma course at Ngee Ann Polytechnic ranges from S$3,000 (Singapore citizens) to S$11,900 (international students).
General Comments:
Ngee Ann Polytechnic's Diploma in Accountancy is a comprehensive, well-structured program recommended for its hands-on approach and strong industry ties. Over three years, you’ll build from the basics to complex accounting principles, making it ideal for those starting their educational journey in accounting.
What’s interesting about this program is the inclusion of an internship in Year 3, which ensures you not only learn but also apply your skills in real-world settings.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Accountancy
Bachelor's degrees in Accountancy offer a thorough understanding of accounting and related fields over durations ranging from 2 to 4 years.
These courses are ideal for individuals aiming for a deep, comprehensive education in accounting, prepar-ing them for various roles in the field.
With globally recognised accreditations accompanying the completion of these courses, these cater to both fresh high school graduates and professionals seeking advanced qualifications to become accounting and finance professionals.
Curtin Singapore - Bachelor of Commerce (Major in Accounting)

Logo taken from Curtin Singapore
Curtin Singapore offers comprehensive accounting courses through its Bachelor of Commerce program, providing students with a deep understanding of accounting and related fields.
Course Content
The Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (major in accounting) at Curtin Singa-pore covers a variety of accounting units as well as some business, law, and fi-nance studies. Key areas include accounting principles, auditing, taxation, busi-ness law, and financial management. This program is designed to equip students with the skills to analyse financial dealings, prepare reports, and advise on record-keeping and compliance requirements.
Duration
The course has a duration of 2 years full-time (spread over 6 trimesters) or can be pursued on a part-time basis.
Accreditation
Curtin’s Accountancy program has received professional recognition and accredita-tion, making graduates eligible to apply for admission to programs like Chartered Accountants of Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ), CPA Australia, ACCA, and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Cost:
- S$ 40,824 (local students)
- S$ 58,320 (international students)
General Comments:
Curtin Singapore's Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting stands out for its depth and breadth, integrating core accounting practices with vital business and legal knowledge.
Ideal for those committed to a full-time, two-year journey or seeking part-time flexibility, this program prepares you to tackle financial tasks, compliance, and reporting with expertise.
Course fees, while rather steep compared to the first two courses we discussed, reflects the quality and international repute of the education you'll receive.
This course is perfect if you're aiming for a high-caliber accounting qualification with the agility to adapt to international finance environments.
Singapore University of Social Sciences - Bachelor of Accountancy

Logo taken from SUSS
The Bachelor of Accountancy program at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) is designed to train students to become qualified, competent, and confident accountants.
Course Content:
The program covers a wide range of key subjects, including financial accounting, assurance and attestation, law, taxation, and information technology.
Additionally, the curriculum integrates general business knowledge to provide a comprehensive understanding of the business environment.
Modules such as Financial and Managerial Accounting (ACC202) also focus on fundamental concepts used in accounting and their role in business, teaching students to analyse and apply accounting in-formation for decision-making.
Duration:
The Bachelor of Accountancy program at SUSS offers both full-time and part-time options.
The full-time undergraduate program typically requires a duration of study that is not explicitly mentioned on the website, but generally aligns with typical university degree durations.
The part-time program is designed to accommodate working adults, offering them an opportunity to upgrade their accounting skills and knowledge over a more extended period.
Accreditation:
The Bachelor of Accountancy Degree at SUSS is recognised by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority.
Additionally, it has been accredited by the Singapore Accountancy Commission (SAC) for direct entry to the Singapore Qualification Programme, signifying its alignment with industry standards and its recognition within the professional accounting community in Singapore.
Cost:
Full tuition fees start at S$19,676 depending on the subsidy you are eligible for.
General Comments:
The Bachelor of Accountancy at SUSS is an exceptional program for those seeking to excel in the accounting profession.
Whether you're aiming to study full-time or balance your education with work through part-time study, SUSS offers a flexible, com-prehensive — and comparatively accessibly priced — curriculum that will arm you with critical skills in financial accounting, law, and taxation, coupled with vital business knowledge.
James Cook University Singapore - Bachelor of Commerce (Major in Accounting)

Logo taken from JCU
James Cook University (JCU) Singapore offers a diverse array of courses with a focus on developing practical skills and theoretical knowledge. The university is committed to producing career-ready graduates.
Course Content:
The Bachelor of Commerce (Majoring in Accounting) at JCU Singapore offers a di-verse curriculum.
It covers key areas like financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation.
The course also includes corporate finance, law, and ethics, providing a holistic understanding of the accounting field.
Accreditation:
The accounting program at JCU Singapore is well-recognised and accredited by several prestigious organizations.
It has accreditation from CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ). The course is also endorsed by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) and recognized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), ensuring global recognition and credibility.
Duration:
The Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Accounting can be completed in various durations to suit different needs.
The full-time course is typically completed in 24 months, providing an accelerated path to a career in accounting.
For those who need more flexibility, there's a part-time option that extends over 48 months. Additionally, there is a 26-month full time option available, offering an alternative pace for completing the degree.
Cost:
- S$ 59,616 (local students)
- S$ 62,208 (international students)
General Comments:
James Cook University Singapore’s Bachelor of Commerce with a major in Accounting is a strategic choice if you're looking to blend practical skills with robust theoretical insights.
With accreditations from CPA Australia, CA ANZ, endorsement by IMA, and recognition by ACCA, your degree will carry weight globally.
Whether you opt for the 24-month full-time track or the extended part-time option, you're set for a career-ready education that matches international standards.
Singapore Management University - Bachelor of Accountancy Programme

Photo taken from Singapore Management University
The School of Accountancy (SoA) at Singapore Management University (SMU) is a pioneering institution known for its American-styled broad-based accountancy programme.
Starting with just 90 students and eight faculty members, the SoA has evolved to feature a faculty team of nearly 50 and offers a suite of programs including the Bachelor of Accountancy, Master of Professional Accounting, Master of Science in Accounting (Data & Analytics), and PhD in Accounting.
It is known for aligning its programs with the development of Singapore as a leading global hub for accounting research, services, and professionals in the Asia Pacific region.
Course Content:
The Bachelor of Accountancy (BAcc) program at Singapore Management University offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes 18 core accounting courses, such as Financial Accounting, Audit, and Taxation, along with business courses in areas like Finance and Strategy.
Additionally, students can choose from a variety of ac-counting electives to specialize or broaden their knowledge.
The program also integrates SMU’s Core Curriculum, which focuses on capabilities, communities, and civilizations, encouraging a well-rounded educational experience. Students must complete 36 courses, an internship, community service, and global exposure to graduate.
Duration:
The undergraduate program follows a typical duration for university degrees, while the Master's and PhD programs offer different lengths suitable for postgraduate education.
The university provides full-time and part-time study options, allowing flexibility for students at different stages of their academic and professional lives.
Accreditation:
SMU's School of Accountancy is accredited by international professional and education bodies, attesting to its high educational standards.
Its accountancy programs are accredited by ten international bodies, and it has been recognized as the Most Outstanding Higher Education Institute of the Year for 2017-2019 and 2021-2022 by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Cost:
Full course fees are S$45,600. However, subsidies are available for Singapore Citizens, permanent residents, and even for international students.
Final Thoughts
This comprehensive guide to 11 accounting courses in Singapore showcases a spectrum of learning opportunities, from foundational courses for beginners to advanced programs for seasoned professionals.
As the world of finance continues to evolve, staying adept in accounting is more than just a skill; it's a necessity.
Whether you're just starting out, looking to enhance your existing career, or even a business owner needing financial insights, these courses offer invaluable knowledge. They could very well be the stepping stone to finding your niche in the vast accounting landscape.
So, keep levelling up!