Milpark’s Online PGDA: From Setback to Accounting Success

Ricus had enrolled for a PGDA at another institution, but the lecture-hall format just didn’t support his learning style. Despite giving it his all, the experience did not meet his personal expectations. For a self-confessed perfectionist, this setback was really hard to accept.

Fast forward to January 2025. Ricus was ready to try his PGDA again. He searched for the right university for this pivotal postgraduate accounting qualification. “Milpark’s fully online learning environment was the deciding factor,” says Ricus. Milpark’s flexible online PGDA programme is presented by experienced lecturers in the School of Professional Accounting (Incorporating CA Connect). Ricus had found the academic home he needed to succeed with his PGDA studies.

He has set his sights high. Beyond becoming a CA, he plans to be a commercial forensic practitioner, a leading forensic accounting specialist, and ultimately the CEO of a major accountancy and auditing firm.

At just 25, Ricus is analytical, thoughtful, and deeply self-reflective. He has gained insight into why his second attempt at the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) at Milpark succeeded – and why his first attempt did not.

It wasn’t simply a case of being ‘second-time lucky’. For Ricus, Milpark’s combination of structured PGDA course work and online self-paced study made all the difference.

“Milpark’s flexible online learning is unmatched,” he says. “You can study for your PGDA when you’re at your best – morning, night, or whenever your energy strikes – without the constraints of physically attending lectures.” Milpark delivers its PGDA through Immersive Online (IO) Learning, which combines structured, scheduled sessions with interactive content and collaborative activities. “The platform is excellent –clean, well-organised, and perfectly suited to independent learners like myself,” adds Ricus.

Ricus flourished in Milpark’s online learning environment, completing his PGDA full-time in just one year while managing other commitments at the same time. These included tutoring first-year, second-year, and third-year undergraduate students in BCom Chartered Accountancy and BCom Forensic Accountancy, as well as advancing through his first year of the Master of Commerce in Accountancy. His dissertation pioneers an AI-driven framework for the early identification of at-risk PGDA students, a novel approach believed to be the first of its kind worldwide, drawing directly from his own PGDA experiences to enhance student support and retention in demanding postgraduate accounting programmes.

Learn More: Milpark’s IO Learning approach—and how it supports your success

Milpark’s PGDA comprises four compulsory modules:

• · Financial Reporting
• · Taxation
• · Management Accounting & Finance
• · Corporate Governance & Auditing

Ricus says he gained a deep understanding of each module and the practical tools he needed to apply them in the world of work. For him, the true strength of Milpark’s PGDA lies in the integration of the four learning modules.

“The SAICA board exam will throw one scenario that weaves all four topics together, forcing you to master the ‘why’ behind every principle,” says Ricus.

He adds that he learned to approach complex problems systematically, which is exactly what accounting and auditing practice demands.

Reflecting on his first PGDA attempt in 2023, Ricus says, “I went above and beyond – attending lectures every morning, following advice from the lecturers, simulating exam conditions, and covering all the theory.”

“I think the place where everything started to fall flat was in the lecture hall,” he reflects.

Classes ran in the mornings until lunch time – the time of day when Ricus is focused and productive – so his energy often felt wasted. He also experienced a lot of anxiety at this time.

So in 2024, Ricus decided to pursue a BCom Honours in Forensic Accounting. “It rebuilt my academic momentum and enthusiasm,” he says.

By January 2025, he was ready to approach his PGDA with renewed clarity, and Milpark was ready to welcome Ricus into the programme.

It was a fresh new start for Ricus. “I was able to plan better, address weaknesses early, and approach my PGDA with confidence,” he says.

Read More: How Milpark’s flexible, online PGDA fits around students’ lives and goals

Ricus’s passion for forensic accounting is fuelled by curiosity and a love for solving intricate financial puzzles. “It’s financial detective work,” he says.

“Forensic accounting integrates accounting, auditing, tax, commercial law, criminal procedure, information technology, and even elements of social sciences and psychology. This interdisciplinary nature demands deep critical thinking and advanced problem-solving skills – challenges I find highly stimulating.”

With this kind of passion, his path to becoming a CA and success in his accounting career will undoubtedly follow.

Mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are often misunderstood and can be debilitating. Ricus lives with both – but has learned how to turn these challenges into his greatest strengths.

"My OCD drives a need for symmetry and perfection, so every PGDA study timetable is planned down to the minute. My ADHD fuels hyper-focus, allowing me to dive into hours of deep, high-retention study,” he shares.

Learn More: How Milpark’s Student Success and Wellness Team supports you every step of the way

Ricus encourages current and prospective PGDA students to approach their studies with purpose and turn personal traits into powerful tools for academic success.

“PGDA is hard, but you were made to do hard things. A great CA isn’t defined by raw intelligence—many brilliant people lack street smarts or resilience. The true CA gets knocked down seven times

and stands up on the eighth. Keep rising. The fact you’re on this path means you can finish it.”, says Ricus

For Ricus, completing his Master’s in Commerce (Accountancy) in 2026 is the next major milestone. His dissertation will draw from his challenging PGDA experience, investigating a critical question: ‘Why wasn’t I identified as an at-risk PGDA student sooner?

He is also set to begin his articles at Ernst & Young in Sandton, Johannesburg, as part of the compulsory practical training to qualify as a CA.

Ricus’s bold plan to become a CA and leading interdisciplinary forensic accounting expert includes pursuing at least nine PhDs and seven professional designations.

“The runway is long, and I’m just getting started,” he says. But Ricus’s bold plans – and dreams – wouldn’t be possible without that PGDA. Apply for Milpark’s online PGDA today and take the first step.