COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Professional Accounting at Essex Business School offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical expertise in key areas of the discipline. Students begin with Research Methods in Accounting, a core module that equips them with the analytical and investigative skills necessary for academic and professional work. The program includes compulsory modules in Advanced Financial Reporting, Management Accounting, Corporate Reporting and Analysis, Financial Decision Making, and Management and Strategy, each carrying 20 credits. These modules provide a strong foundation in both the technical aspects of accounting and the broader strategic and managerial context in which accounting operates. Students also undertake a major 60-credit component, choosing between BE980-7-FY or BE967-7-PS, which allows them to explore specialised areas of accounting in greater depth. Alongside this, the course integrates Professional and Academic Development (PAD), a compulsory but non-credit-bearing module designed to enhance employability, communication, and professional skills. Together, these components ensure students graduate with not only the technical knowledge but also the research, analytical, and strategic abilities required to succeed in global business environments. The course structure reflects Essex’s commitment to combining academic excellence with practical preparation for leadership in accounting and finance.