Department of Accounting and Auditing
The Department of Accounting and Auditing at Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) is a forward-thinking academic unit dedicated to nurturing successive generations of competent accounting and auditing professionals through Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL). The department adopts the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 framework, which integrates innovation, industrialisation, community engagement, and research into all aspects of teaching and learning. This approach ensures that graduates are not only technically proficient but also socially responsive and entrepreneuriallyminded.
The department offers a diverse portfolio of accredited programmes designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. These programmes equip students with the analytical, ethical, and technical competencies demanded by today’s dynamic business environment, including proficiency in financial reporting, sustainability accounting, digital auditing, corporate governance, and taxation. Graduates serve industry in capacities ranging from external auditors, internal auditors, financial accountants, management accountants, and tax consultants, to policy advisors, academic researchers, and entrepreneurs.
Admission to all undergraduate programmes requires a minimum of five Ordinary Level (O-Level) passes, including English Language and Mathematics, at Grade C or better. Prospective students who hold ZIMCHE-accredited diplomas in a relevant field may qualify for exemptions of one to two years of study, provided they possess an advanced diploma in accounting from a recognised institution — such as SAAA, IAC, ICSAZ, CIMA, ACCA, or a HEXCO Higher National Diploma — in which the accounting component is substantially represented.
Programme | Duration | Type |
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Honours | 4 Years | Full Programme |
Bachelor of Commerce in Internal Auditing Honours | 4 Years | Full Programme |
Bachelor of Accounting Honours | 2 Years | Top-Up Programme |
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Special Honours | 1 Year | Top-Up Programme |
Bachelor of Technology in Forensic Accounting and Auditing | 4 Years | Full Programme |
Master of Commerce in Accounting | TBC | Coming Soon |
VISION
To become a centre of excellence in accounting and auditing education, research, community engagement, innovation and Industrialisation through open and distance e-learning
MISSION
To inspire life-long learning of accounting and auditing by equipping learners with practical, ethical, and forward-looking skills relevant to a rapidly changing world.
CORE VALUES
• Professionalism • Integrity • Innovation
• Collaboration • Accountability • Excellence
• Sustainability • Continuous Learning • Social Responsibility