COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) Accounting programme is structured to provide a progressive learning experience over four years, enabling students to build strong technical knowledge and practical expertise in accounting and finance. In Year 1, students establish a solid foundation by studying financial accounting, management accounting, accounting information systems, and the financial services sector. They learn double-entry bookkeeping, prepare financial statements for sole traders and partnerships, analyse financial markets and institutions, calculate investment returns, and gain practical experience using accounting software while exploring information systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and ethical issues in digital accounting. In Year 2, students expand their understanding of corporate reporting, business law, governance, and performance evaluation. They apply financial reporting standards to prepare and interpret company financial statements, develop knowledge of company, contract, and employment law, and strengthen analytical skills through statistical methods, data analysis, hypothesis testing, and the use of SPSS for evidence-based decision-making. Year 3 focuses on advanced accounting and financial management concepts, including corporate reporting, strategic management accounting, taxation, auditing, and financial management. Students study complex accounting standards, group accounts, business combinations, corporate insolvency, advanced budgeting and forecasting techniques, investment appraisal, financing decisions, treasury management, foreign exchange risk, UK taxation, and professional auditing practices while considering ethics and regulatory requirements. In the final year, students integrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme by studying advanced strategic finance and complex financial reporting topics. They undertake a dissertation or applied honours project that allows them to investigate real-world accounting or finance issues in depth. Through case studies, independent research, and professional applications, students demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical ability, and effective decision-making. By the end of the programme, graduates possess the technical expertise, practical experience, and professional competencies required for careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, corporate finance, financial management, and related business fields, while also being well prepared for further professional accounting qualifications and postgraduate study.