Accounting and Finance MSc

Course description

The MSc in Accounting and Finance will provide you with a thorough understanding of finance and accounting concepts and their application within organisations.

You will learn the main theories, tools, methods and techniques of accounting and finance within an international context and gain an understanding of the advantages, limitations and typical applications of each major method or technique in practice. You will develop your ability to reflect critically on the current debates in the accounting and financial professional and academic literature.

The course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to deal with complex accounting and financial issues in a range of employment contexts. The focus of the course will enhance your ability to analyse any situation and make sound strategic decisions.

This degree will prepare you for senior accounting and finance roles in both public and private sector organisations and offers exemptions from CIMA, the world's largest professional body of management accountants (subject to successful completion of modules).

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a mixture of methods including seminars, lectures, group work, case study analysis and guided reading. You will be assigned a personal tutor who has a pastoral role and can offer support and advice.

Student performance is assessed through both assignments and examinations, plus a dissertation.

Careers and employability

Our accounting and finance courses have been developed to match the needs of employers and are highly regarded within business and government, whether national or international. Our courses are both intellectually stimulating and relevant to career needs, a fact endorsed by over 20,000 School of Business graduates from about 100 countries.

At the start of the course you will take a week non-credit bearing module which covers two professional certificates. Firstly you will cover the content for the Investment Foundations Certificate offered by the CFA. It is recognised by employers in the finance industry and can be completely externally to the University for a small fee. You will be also be introduced to the Bloomberg Terminals and given the opportunity to complete a free online examination, 'Bloomberg Essentials'. Completing these professional certificates can really help you stand out to employers.

By taking the MSc in Accounting and Finance, you will acquire the latest academic and professional knowledge in the areas of corporate finance, financial modelling, accountability, representations and control, financial statements, financial analysis and investment, which will enhance your professional development and career prospects.

Students need to have: a good UK honours degree or its equivalent, or a postgraduate diploma from a recognised institution, or a relevant graduate level professional qualification.