Chartered Accountancy (CA) is one of the most prestigious and sought-after professions globally, known for its rigorous standards and high earning potential. For those interested in pursuing a career in CA, enrolling in the right university or institution is crucial to gaining the best possible education and training. Below are the top 10 universities and institutions around the world where students can pursue Chartered Accountancy programs or related courses, designed to help you on your path to becoming a certified CA.
1. University of Sydney (Australia)
- Program Offered: Master of Professional Accounting (MPA)
- Why Choose It: The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s top universities, offering a globally recognized Master of Professional Accounting program. Students are exposed to real-world accounting practices and can gain exemption from several CA exams based on the subjects they take. The university has strong ties to the accounting profession, with numerous networking opportunities and career support.
- Global Ranking: Top 50 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
2. University of Melbourne (Australia)
- Program Offered: Master of Applied Finance and Accounting
- Why Choose It: The University of Melbourne’s Master of Applied Finance and Accounting offers an excellent platform for CA aspirants, blending theory with practical training. The program is highly regarded in the accounting and finance sectors, and the university has an excellent reputation for producing industry-ready graduates.
- Global Ranking: Top 40 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) (UK)
- Program Offered: BSc in Accounting and Finance
- Why Choose It: LSE is globally renowned for its finance and accounting programs. The BSc in Accounting and Finance provides a comprehensive foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, and strategic business planning. The program is ideal for students aiming to pursue the CA qualification and enter the field of accounting, audit, and finance at an international level.
- Global Ranking: Top 10 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
4. University of Warwick (UK)
- Program Offered: BSc in Accounting and Finance
- Why Choose It: The University of Warwick offers a highly rated accounting program with strong links to the professional world. The university’s excellent reputation in accounting and finance prepares students to pursue qualifications such as CA, CFA, and ACCA, with high employability in top accounting firms and financial institutions.
- Global Ranking: Top 15 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
5. University of Delhi (India)
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) and Master of Commerce (MCom)
- Why Choose It: The University of Delhi is one of India’s premier institutions for aspiring CAs. While the university itself does not directly offer a CA qualification, it provides high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs in commerce that form the foundation for CA exams. Delhi University is known for its academic excellence and rigorous coursework, making it a popular choice for CA aspirants.
- National Ranking: Top 1 in India for Commerce
6. Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) (India)
- Program Offered: Chartered Accountancy (CA) Program
- Why Choose It: ICAI is the apex body for the CA profession in India, offering the official CA qualification. While it is not a traditional university, it offers the CA certification program that is recognized across the globe. ICAI offers three levels of exams (CPT, IPCC, and CA Final) and has a robust system of training and mentorship.
- National Ranking: Premier Institute for Chartered Accountancy in India
7. University of California, Berkeley (USA)
- Program Offered: Master of Financial Engineering (MFE), Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
- Why Choose It: UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business offers a top-tier Master of Financial Engineering program, which provides solid grounding in finance and accounting. Although the university doesn’t offer a specific CA qualification, the skills gained from this program make graduates highly competitive for the CA exams, especially for those looking to specialize in finance.
- Global Ranking: Top 5 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
8. University of Cape Town (South Africa)
- Program Offered: BCom in Accounting
- Why Choose It: The University of Cape Town is one of Africa’s leading universities and offers an excellent accounting program. Graduates of the BCom in Accounting are well-equipped to pursue the CA qualification through the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), with opportunities for internships and networking with top accounting firms.
- Global Ranking: Top 200 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
9. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (Hong Kong)
- Program Offered: BBA in Accounting and Finance
- Why Choose It: HKUST offers an outstanding BBA program in Accounting and Finance, preparing students for international CA exams, particularly in Hong Kong and the broader Asia-Pacific region. The university’s close ties with the business and accounting sectors ensure students have access to exceptional internship and job placement opportunities.
- Global Ranking: Top 50 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
10. University of Toronto (Canada)
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting
- Why Choose It: The University of Toronto offers a top-ranking Bachelor of Commerce program with a focus on accounting and finance, offering a strong academic foundation and practical business knowledge. Students can progress to obtain the CA designation through the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) of Canada, and the university is well-known for producing industry leaders.
- Global Ranking: Top 30 for Accounting & Finance (QS World University Rankings)
Conclusion
When it comes to pursuing a career in Chartered Accountancy, choosing the right university is an important step. Universities like the University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, and LSE offer strong academic programs that are recognized globally and provide the foundation needed for CA certification. Additionally, institutions like ICAI in India and universities in South Africa, Hong Kong, and Canada offer specialized programs tailored to local and international CA pathways. Regardless of location, the above universities offer quality programs that open doors to success in the CA profession.