Key facts
UNE unit code: AFM501
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - On Campus
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Your ability to discriminate between fact and opinion in the context of accounting theory and reports is essential in contemporary accounting practice.
Studying this unit, you will explore accounting theory, financial reporting and regulations and hone your critical cognitive and communication skills to add value in your role.
You will examine theories that underpin accounting methods, regulations and disclosure by reporting entities, including normative and positive accounting theories, new conceptual frameworks for accounting reports, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and Integrated Reporting (IR).
You will also explore unregulated corporate reporting decisions, capital market and behavioural research in financial reporting and measurement in financial accounting.
Examining the nature of ethical decision making, you will assess the role of ethics in the accounting profession, including in the context of fraud and failure.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 2 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced and integrated knowledge of the main theories relating to accounting and apply these to accounting problems;
- demonstrate an expert knowledge of the main alternative accounting treatments of items whose valuation is controversial;
- use a range of research, cognitive and communication skills to review, analyse, consolidate, synthesise and reflect critically on relevant information drawn from a range of sources in solving complex accounting related problems;
- work independently and collaboratively demonstrating mastery of desk research, use of appropriate online resources and the ability to present a viewpoint, argument or summary succinctly and clearly;
- demonstrate the ability to analyse, summarise and communicate clearly a range of ethical issues and decisions relevant to accounting professionals; and
- demonstrate a deep understanding of the factors driving the variations between the ways in which different countries and economic blocks prepare annual corporate accounting reports.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam during the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. Students must obtain at least 50% in the examination (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit. |
| Online Quizzes | No | 10% | All offerings | There are eleven multiple choice online quizzes. Students must complete at least three but may complete up to eleven. The marks for the best three quizzes will be used to calculate the mark for this component. Word count is nominal owing to the quantitative nature of the questions. No. Words: 1000 (equivalent) |
| Research Project | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 4500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Financial Accounting Theory
ISBN: 9780170460491
Deegan, C., Cengage 5th Ed. 2023
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
