This research examined the role of accounting education in the provision of soft skills
to accounting graduates, and how this may be affected by the recent changes in
academic requirements initiated by NZICA. A qualitative research method utilizing indepth interviews was conducted with accounting graduates, partners of the Big4
accounting firms, and two NZICA representatives. A literature review was conducted in
order to review research regarding the purpose of tertiary accounting education, the
issues in accounting education, and the provision of soft skills in accounting education.Included in this paper is a brief history of NZICA which focuses on its establishment and the changing academic requirements to become a qualified CA.