University Course Information - Business Finance and Law - Accountancy and Finance

Entry requirement

Undergraduate: entry usually requires three good A-Levels including GSCE Mathematics.

Postgraduate: 2:1 degree in accounting and finance or related.

PhD: Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant Masters degree in finance, accounting or a related subject area.

Skills gained

Over the course of your degree you’ll develop a good understanding of how accounting is used and you’ll become familiar with the technical terminology and practises used within accountancy and finance. You’ll also develop a range of more general transferable skills including:

• Oral and written communication skills
• Numerical and quantative skills
• Clear understanding of technical language used in accountancy and finance
• Knowledge and awareness of business and financial issues.
• problem-solving and analytical ability

Career Options

Careers in accounting and finance are associated with very high salaries and most graduates gain jobs immediately or decide to continue with education and study at post graduate level. It is common for graduates to enter training contracts with professional accounting firms or in financial institutions. Other popular career paths include:

• Banking
• Financial management
• Consulting
• Public sector organisations. I.e. NHS and Civil Service.

The most well-known graduate recruiters are the large multinational accountancy firms which use large-scale recruitment campaigns to attract graduates. There is also plenty of scope for you to work overseas once you have gained enough relevant experience. Common jobs related to an Accounting and Finance degree include:

• Chartered accountant
• Chartered public finance accountant
• Investment analyst
• Tax adviser