City

What you'll study

This MSc combines core accounting theory with applied finance techniques. You will study subjects such as financial reporting and analysis, management accounting, corporate finance, and financial markets, alongside quantitative methods and research skills. Typical taught modules include:

• Financial Reporting and Analysis – study of international accounting standards and the preparation and interpretation of financial statements.
• Corporate Finance – capital structure, investment appraisal, dividend policy and corporate valuation techniques.
• Management Accounting and Performance Measurement – cost management, budgeting and performance evaluation.
• Financial Markets and Instruments – securities, derivatives, market microstructure and risk management.
• Quantitative Methods for Accounting and Finance – econometrics, forecasting and statistical techniques used in empirical research.
• Audit, Governance and Ethics – audit processes, corporate governance frameworks and ethical issues in accounting practice.
• Research Methods and Dissertation/Independent Project – training in research design and a substantial dissertation or applied project on a topic in accounting or finance.

The programme typically combines lectures, seminars, case studies and workshops, with applied assessments such as group projects, technical portfolios and a final research project. Optional modules may allow specialisation in areas such as valuation, taxation, financial regulation or asset management.

Entry requirements

Applicants usually need a good UK undergraduate degree (typically a 2:1 or equivalent) in accounting, finance, economics, business or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower-class degree but with relevant professional experience, or those who are part-qualified with recognised accountancy bodies (for example ACCA, CIMA or ICAEW) may also be considered.

Because the programme is quantitatively demanding, applicants without a finance or numerate background should demonstrate competence in quantitative methods through prior study or work experience. As City is an English-language institution, international applicants will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English through an accepted test or equivalent evidence if their first language is not English.

Selection is based on academic record, references and personal statement; some applicants may be invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers across accounting and finance. Common destinations include audit and assurance, management accounting, corporate finance and financial reporting roles within industry, financial analysis and investment roles in asset management or banking, and risk and compliance positions. The programme also prepares students for professional accountancy examinations and can provide exemptions or advanced standing with major bodies, aiding progression to chartered status.

Other career paths include consulting, transaction services, financial due diligence and roles in regulatory or public-sector finance. Some graduates continue to doctoral research or academic careers.

Why study at City

City, University of London’s business school is located in the heart of London, providing strong links with the City’s financial institutions and professional firms. The school offers focused careers support, practitioner guest lectures and networking opportunities with employers, which help students bridge theory and practice.

The programme is taught by academics who combine research expertise with industry experience, and benefits from connections with professional accountancy bodies, which can lead to exemptions and recognition that support accelerated professional qualification routes. Studying at City provides proximity to employers, a large alumni network and practical exposure to the UK and global financial centre.