Milpark’s BCom in Accounting: A Future-Focused Path to Becoming a CA(SA)

Because Milpark’s BCom in Accounting was developed from scratch, the team could align it with the CA of the Future framework from the outset. 

Dr Judith Terblanche, Head of Learning Innovation and Development, explains: “It can be difficult to realign an existing programme. We had the privilege of starting with a blank canvas, which allowed us to create a course that prioritises the person rather than just numbers.” 

This forward-thinking approach allowed Milpark to incorporate: 

• Executive coaching principles to develop leadership skills 
• Strategic foresight to anticipate industry shifts 
• Interdisciplinary learning from humanities and business ethics 

“We encourage students to understand the ‘why’. Not just master technical aspects but also think about the purpose behind what they are learning and apply it responsibly,” adds Judith. 

E-Bike South Africa is one of the most significant innovations in Milpark’s BCom in Accounting. This real-world business scenario follows a company’s growth from a sole proprietorship to a listed business. 

“We developed E-Bike SA to provide a practical context for learning,” explains Elmarie Swanepoel, Senior Lecturer. “It acts like the trunk of a tree, with various themes branching off. As the business matures, so do the students' skills.” 

Students engage in real-world decision-making daily, from financial management to tax law and business strategy. “The E-Bike scenario ensures students don’t just learn theory - they apply it, preparing them for real-world challenges.”  

Ethical leadership is a core component of the CA of the Future framework and Milpark’s BCom in Accounting integrates ethics throughout.

“Ethics isn’t an add-on or a single module; it’s built into every aspect of the programme,” says Zanne Horrell, Senior Academic Designer. “We had a blank canvas to embed ethical principles.”

Why does this matter? CAs(SA) are among the most trusted professionals globally, with a 96% trust rating according to the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer.

“We feel a responsibility to cultivate ethically grounded graduates. From day one, we are shaping leaders who follow the rules - and have the courage to challenge them when necessary.”

AI and automation are transforming the accounting profession. Milpark’s BCom in Accounting ensures graduates are not just software users but critical thinkers who can manage data-driven decision-making.

“In a world of AI and information overload, critical thinking and the ability to make sense of data are the most important skills our leaders need,” says Elmarie Swanepoel.

Instead of focusing on tools that may become outdated, Milpark’s curriculum prioritises:

• Data integrity – ensuring information is trustworthy
• Problem-solving with AI – using automation ethically and strategically
• Human intelligence – decision-making that AI can’t replicate

Dr Terblanche adds: “It’s not about mastering specific tools. It’s about whether data can be trusted and how to use it to solve business problems.”

Becoming a CA(SA) is challenging, so Milpark’s BCom in Accounting offers a structured, supportive and flexible online learning experience. 

From the moment students enrol in the School of Professional Accounting (incorporating CA Connect), students gain access to: 

• A clear study roadmap with structured weekly tasks and assignments 
• Live interactive sessions weekly  
• Personalised support through one-on-one consultations  
• The Viva Engage platform for discussion and support from peers and lecturers 
• A dedicated Student Success and Wellness team offering guidance on time management and stress  

“Many students are juggling work, family and studies, so we’ve built an engaging, supportive online community where they don’t feel like they are doing this alone,” says Zanne Horrell. 

With the BCom in Accounting and Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA/CTA), Milpark offers South Africa’s first flexible, fully online, SAICA-accredited route to CA(SA).

“We’ve created an online pathway that teaches accounting content and develops well-rounded, ethical business leaders. And we are delighted that feedback from students and other stakeholders has been extremely positive,” says Dr Terblanche. If you’re ready to future-proof your career in accounting, apply today Milpark BCom in Accounting