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
- Develop technical accounting proficiency
- Enhance analytical and problem-solving skills
- Promote ethical and professional conduct
- Prepare for professional certifications
- Foster technological competence
- Develop communication and interpersonal skills
Prerequisites
- A high school diploma
- English language proficiency
- Basic knowledge of economics or business
Curriculum Outline
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting
- Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- Corporate Finance
- Business Law
- Economics
- Accounting Information Systems
- Forensic Accounting
- International Accounting
- Advanced Financial Accounting
- Capstone Project
- Internship
- Ethics in Accounting
- Quantitative Methods
- Investment Analysis
- Communication
- Mathematics
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Teaching Method
- Lectures and seminars
- Case studies
- Hands-on workshops
- Group projects
- Internships and practical experience
- Online learning and virtual
- Guest lectures and industry talks
- Assessments and examinations
- Research projects
- Field trips and site visits
Modules
- Introduction to Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting
- Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- Accounting Information Systems
- Corporate Finance
- Business Law
- Ethics in Accounting
- Advanced Financial Accounting
- Forensic Accounting
- International Accounting
- Investment Analysis
- Financial Statement Analysis
- Financial Planning and Analysis
- Entrepreneurial Finance
- Public Sector Accounting
- Risk Management
- Quantitative Methods for Accounting
Assessment Methods
- Exams and Quizzes
- Assignments and Case Studies
- Projects
- Practical Exercises
- Presentations
- Internships and Work Placements
- 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
- Computer labs and accounting software
- Finance and trading rooms
- Lecture halls and seminar rooms
- Libraries and learning resource centres
- Group study rooms and collaboration spaces
- Internship and career services
- Research and development centres
- Accounting and auditing simulators
- Conference and event spaces
Career Pathways
- Chartered Accountant
- Certified Public Accountant
- Financial Analyst
- Management Accountant
- Auditor
- Tax Advisor/Consultant
- Forensic Accountant
- Financial Controller
- Chief Financial Officer
- Investment Banker
- Financial Planner
- Risk Manager
- Budget Analyst
- Corporate Treasurer
- 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
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- English language proficiency
- Personal statement
- References/Recommendations (Tentative)
Field Work and Internships
- Audit internship
- Tax internship
- Financial advisory internship
- Management accounting internship
- Forensic accounting internship
- General accounting internship
- Summer internships
- Part-time internships
Certifications
Some specific certificates can be earned along with the degree to amplify career prospects and widen job opportunities. These include:
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
- Chartered Accountant (CA)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- 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.