Accountancy

Accountancy

Overview

An accountancy degree focusses on managing financial records, analysing economic data, and ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting for businesses and individuals. In this degree, you will gain expertise in tracking, analysing, and managing financial transactions for businesses, organisations, and individuals. Career opportunities for accountancy graduates are extensive, as the degree is in high demand in various industries.

Objectives

  1. Develop technical accounting proficiency
  2. Enhance analytical and problem-solving skills
  3. Promote ethical and professional conduct
  4. Prepare for professional certifications
  5. Foster technological competence
  6. Develop communication and interpersonal skills

Prerequisites

  1. A high school diploma
  2. English language proficiency
  3. Basic knowledge of economics or business

Curriculum Outline

  1. Financial Accounting
  2. Managerial Accounting
  3. Intermediate Accounting
  4. Cost Accounting
  5. Auditing
  6. Taxation
  7. Corporate Finance
  8. Business Law
  9. Economics
  10. Accounting Information Systems
  11. Forensic Accounting
  12. International Accounting
  13. Advanced Financial Accounting
  14. Capstone Project
  15. Internship
  16. Ethics in Accounting
  17. Quantitative Methods
  18. Investment Analysis
  19. Communication
  20. Mathematics
  21. Humanities and Social Sciences

Teaching Method

  1. Lectures and seminars
  2. Case studies
  3. Hands-on workshops
  4. Group projects
  5. Internships and practical experience
  6. Online learning and virtual  
  7. Guest lectures and industry talks
  8. Assessments and examinations
  9. Research projects
  10. Field trips and site visits

Modules

  1. Introduction to Financial Accounting
  2. Managerial Accounting
  3. Intermediate Accounting
  4. Cost Accounting
  5. Auditing
  6. Taxation
  7. Accounting Information Systems
  8. Corporate Finance
  9. Business Law
  10. Ethics in Accounting
  11. Advanced Financial Accounting
  12. Forensic Accounting
  13. International Accounting
  14. Investment Analysis
  15. Financial Statement Analysis
  16. Financial Planning and Analysis
  17. Entrepreneurial Finance
  18. Public Sector Accounting
  19. Risk Management
  20. Quantitative Methods for Accounting

Assessment Methods

  1. Exams and Quizzes
  2. Assignments and Case Studies
  3. Projects
  4. Practical Exercises
  5. Presentations
  6. Internships and Work Placements
  7. Professional Examinations

Course Duration

It typically takes 3 to 4 years when you study full-time. Some accelerated programmes can take 2 to 3 years. The part-time or online programmes can span 2 to 4 years.

Facilities

  1. Computer labs and accounting software
  2. Finance and trading rooms
  3. Lecture halls and seminar rooms
  4. Libraries and learning resource centres
  5. Group study rooms and collaboration spaces
  6. Internship and career services
  7. Research and development centres
  8. Accounting and auditing simulators
  9. Conference and event spaces

Career Pathways

  1. Chartered Accountant
  2. Certified Public Accountant
  3. Financial Analyst
  4. Management Accountant
  5. Auditor
  6. Tax Advisor/Consultant
  7. Forensic Accountant
  8. Financial Controller
  9. Chief Financial Officer
  10. Investment Banker
  11. Financial Planner
  12. Risk Manager
  13. Budget Analyst
  14. Corporate Treasurer
  15. Entrepreneur/Business Owner

Fees and Fundings

The fee range for an accountancy degree in the UK for international students can lie between £15,000 and £30,000 per annum. The amount can vary by location and institution.

Entry Requirements

  1. A high school diploma or equivalent
  2. English language proficiency
  3. Personal statement
  4. References/Recommendations (Tentative)

Field Work and Internships

  1. Audit internship
  2. Tax internship
  3. Financial advisory internship
  4. Management accounting internship
  5. Forensic accounting internship
  6. General accounting internship
  7. Summer internships
  8. Part-time internships

Certifications

Some specific certificates can be earned along with the degree to amplify career prospects and widen job opportunities. These include:

  1. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
  2. Chartered Accountant (CA)
  3. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  4. Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
  5. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
  6. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
  7. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
  8. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
  9. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
  10. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
  11. Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT)

Intakes

In the UK, the primary intake happens in September/October, but students can always aim for the secondary intake, which takes place in January/February.

Student Testimony

It is safe to say that the accounting program at Shepherd University has changed my life for the better. Starting out in my freshman year of college, I was not too sure about what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be. Thankfully, my path led me to the accounting department. The department offers several opportunities during the year to ensure your success in the future! The unique opportunity that helped me the most was the yearly Meet the Firms event, hosted by the Accounting Club. From this event, I was…… [Emily Routzahn from Shepherd University]

Frequently asked questions

Accountants are the backbone of business, and it's a great career in terms of security and pay.

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