Student Katherine Dong has set herself up for success by becoming the first double major higher education graduate at TAFE NSW, completing the Bachelor of Applied Commerce majoring in accounting and financial planning in 2019.

Accountants represent one of the most in-demand professions in the country[1] with the sector experiencing a period of strong growth as the number of accountants in Australia is expected to increase from 199,200 in 2018 to 207,200 by 2023[2].

Katherine said when it came to choosing where to study her degree, she found that TAFE NSW offered practical training with the strong industry connections that would help her get into the job she wanted, faster.

“I wanted to find a job in the finance industry and I discovered that TAFE NSW has an excellent internship program which would help me get into the industry faster.

“Personally, the thing that really appealed to me over my university options was the fact that the classes are not too crowded. By studying in a small class, I was able to boost my confidence and share and present my ideas comfortably. Additionally, everyone gets a chance to be involved in activities and workshops, we all brainstorm and learn from each other through communication.

The interaction between the students and teachers is definitely increased and students can all discuss topics with teachers which makes learning extraordinarily more effective.”

Whilst studying the degree and after completing an internship, Katherine was offered the role of Assistant Accountant with Lane and Associates. Shortly afterwards, she was promoted to Tax Accountant due to her outstanding knowledge base in tax and superannuation compared to other university graduate work colleagues.

“TAFE NSW has prepared me with not only technical skills in accounting and finance but also soft skills in communication, leadership, teamwork, planning and goal setting. I also gained a high level of proficiency in software needed for the job like MYOB for accounting and Xplan for financial planning.

“The teachers are wonderfully optimistic and energetic when it comes to teaching. They are always doing their best to spread positivity. I have also noticed that teachers are extremely inclusive as they never fail to involve students in their lectures and engage us in learning activities,” Katherine said.

Current students will continue to study the Bachelor of Applied Commerce at TAFE NSW this term using web conferencing technology. This type of connected learning supports social distancing, while enabling students to progress their studies.

TAFE NSW has adopted connected learning as a new mode of delivery because it supports social distancing during COVID-19 and allows students to be connected to their teacher. This change in delivery ensures our students are still able to demonstrate their competency in their courses.

Accounting and Finance Teacher Marriane Said said that the degree program at TAFE NSW aims to give students as much real-world experience as possible so they can enter the workforce fully trained and gain employment quickly.

“Graduates from our Bachelor of Applied Commerce go on to have excellent career prospects, in fact most of our graduates are able to secure work in the industry before they finish their degree. We expose our students to as many opportunities as possible including internships, networking events and competitions so they have a higher chance of gaining employment through the degree.

“The course is also accredited with peak industry bodies CPA/CAA, FASEA and the TPB, enabling students to meet professional registration and legislative requirements.” Marriane said.

Katherine said the internship was pivotal in helping her get her foot in the door and secure ongoing employment. She’s now well-placed to achieve her career goals faster and is thankful for the opportunities she received at TAFE NSW.

“The internship placement is an excellent way for students to stand out to a potential employer. TAFE NSW also invites industry guest speakers to address groups of students on industry practices and employment opportunities. This meant that many of my cohort were employed in the industry before they had even finished the course.

“I would like to say thank you to TAFE NSW and the teachers for supporting me to complete my degree and find a suitable job in the fastest way.”

To find out more about the Bachelor of Applied Commerce and other degrees on offer at TAFE NSW in 2020 visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.