Redefining the Chartered Accountant Profession

Michelle initially aspired to climb the corporate career path in a multinational organisation, a goal she achieved during her articles with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). During this time, she developed both her technical expertise and leadership skills, rising to the role of financial manager at a leading transport company.

A pivotal moment came during a leadership course where she encountered the idea that true significance lies in what one can give back. This realisation drew her to academia, where she discovered a role that perfectly resonated with her values and ambitions.

In 2024, Michelle joined the School of Professional Accounting at Milpark Education. The transition marked the beginning of a more meaningful chapter. “At Milpark, I can make a difference,” she explains. “Here, it’s not just about teaching, it’s about changing lives, one student at a time.”

Milpark Education ’s Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA/CTA) programme stands out as one of the institution’s flagship offerings.

Designed to prepare students for the SAICA endorsed PGDA/CTA programme, this Accounting Postgraduate diploma equips aspiring Chartered Accountants with both technical skills and critical thinking abilities.

Michelle takes pride in the emphasis placed on individualised support. “We focus on meeting students where they are,” she says. “Whether it’s through small class sizes, accessible lecturers, or tailored resources, we ensure that each student has the assets to succeed.”

Milpark Education  is a leader in reshaping the landscape of tertiary education in South Africa, particularly in the realm of online learning. Their focus is on creating opportunities and fostering an environment where students can thrive, regardless of the challenges they face. Michelle says, “It’s more than just about passing exams, it’s about truly equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and resilience they need to succeed in their careers.”

The ethos is clear: if this is your dream, you deserve the opportunity. From recorded lessons to bite-sized video content, the approach is designed with the modern student as a priority. The ability to revisit lessons, whether it’s a six-minute explanation of a concept or a more detailed breakdown of a module, ensures that students can learn at their own pace. The recorded sessions are not just a convenience but a strategic tool that allows students to build their understanding over time. 

What truly enriches the learning experience at School of Professional Accounting is the emphasis on practice and application. Students are encouraged to spend the majority of their time working through practical scenarios and questions. This is critical in modules that require problem-solving and critical thinking. The PGDA/CTA programme offers active engagement with content and continuous practice that leads to mastery.

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The PGDA/CTA programme incorporates a mix of online and interactive content, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional commitments. Michelle elaborates: “We understand that students need flexibility, especially those pursuing an online accounting diploma. The PGDA/CTA structure allows students to revisit material as needed, whether it’s a quick concept review or an in-depth study session.”

The PGDA/CTA curriculum focuses on transcending rote learning, encouraging students to engage with real-world problems and scenarios. “Success in Financial Accounting isn’t just about memorising theory, it’s about applying knowledge effectively,” Michelle notes.

The PGDA/CTA programme stands apart from other tertiary institutions because of its commitment to accessibility. Many institutions focus on maintaining high pass rates, Milpark believes in offering opportunities to those who are determined to pursue their ambitions. The message is simple: if this is your dream, you deserve the chance to achieve it.

Michelle’s passion for teaching goes beyond explaining accounting principles. She hopes to  inspire her students to think critically, solve problems, and adapt to the ever-changing professional landscape. “It’s incredibly rewarding when a student tells me, ‘I finally understand this because of how you explained it,’” she says. “Moments like these remind me why I chose academia.”

Michelle believes in fostering curiosity and resilience in her students, encouraging them to pursue careers that are not only successful but also significant. Through her work, she aims to shape accounting professionals who will leave a meaningful impact as they continue their Chartered Accountant career path.

For those wanting to advance their careers with an Accounting Qualification the PGDA/CTA offers more. It is a comprehensive course designed to prepare students for the challenges of becoming a Chartered Accountant. The interactive nature of the PGDA/CTA Accounting Qualification equips students with the critical thinking skills needed for career advancement as a Chartered Accountant.

Through its online Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, students don’t just prepare for exams; they grow and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom. This comprehensive approach ensures that Accounting Postgraduates are ready for life, not just the next project assessment.

Michelle de Lange’s journey from corporate success to academia exemplifies her passion for meaningful education. As a Senior Lecturer at Milpark Education’s School of Professional Accounting, she plays a crucial role in shaping future Chartered Accountants. 

Her dedication ensures that future accountants are not only prepared for success in their careers but also can leave a lasting impression on the financial industry. Explore our Programmes and join a dedicated team devoted to supporting you and your Accounting Career Advancement.