According to industry insiders, business valuation and forensic accounting are not a science or an art – they're a craft.

The Macquarie Business School has partnered with Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CA ANZ) to bring these specialties to the fore, allowing Chartered Accountants to hone their craft via eight-week online courses.

The Forensic Accounting and Business Valuation Specialisation Courses kick off in September and October respectively and exemplify the strong partnership between the Business School's Department of Accounting and Corporate Governance, Applied Finance, and CA ANZ.

Both courses are co-delivered by leading academics and experienced industry professionals, equipping graduates with industry-informed education to further succeed in an ever-changing field.

Professor Rahat Munir, Head of Department, Accounting and Corporate Governance at Macquarie University, said the specialist courses signify a commitment to keep professionals aligned with evolving industry trends.

"This cutting-edge program equips current and aspiring Chartered Accountants with the practical, real-world skills needed to thrive in one of the profession’s fastest growing fields," he said.

"We are proud to partner with Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand on this specialisation, which reflects our long-standing commitment to industry-informed education."

James Moulton (CA, CFA), a graduate and facilitator of the Business Valuation course, said he has seen opportunities emerge in his career since becoming a specialist.

"Each cohort brings together experienced professionals from diverse sectors and geographies, creating rich, practical discussions around real-world valuation scenarios,” he said.

“The live case sessions are where deep technical learning meets peer-to-peer insight, and that’s where the magic happens.

“The specialisation also sends a powerful signal to the market. It represents a formal endorsement by CA ANZ, the most trusted member body for accountants in Australia and New Zealand, of your capability and credibility as a valuer.

“Since becoming a specialist, I’ve seen new opportunities emerge, including client referrals and expert witness engagements, where this credential has made a real difference.”

Becoming a CA Business Valuation Specialist equips participants with the skills to value both portfolio and control interests in public and private companies. The curriculum also offers a strong foundation in Australian and international valuation standards and regulatory frameworks.

Forensic Accountant Accounting Specialists course will cover modules on the legal system, investigation engagements, loss and damage assessments, and court protocols, enhanced by practical applications of data analytics. The course emphasises ethical standards and prepares accountants for roles in litigation and dispute resolution.

Both Specialist Courses are for intermediate and advanced students who have at least four years of industry experience.

CA ANZ is currently an Industry Partnership Program partner, offering students the ability to innovate and nurture their skills.

For information on how to enrol for the upcoming courses, please visit the CA ANZ Business Valuations webpage and the CA ANZ Forensic Accounting webpage.