Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The programme combines core accounting and finance theory with applied techniques used by practising professionals. You will study compulsory modules that typically cover financial reporting and analysis, management accounting, corporate finance and international financial markets. Quantitative and research skills are taught through modules in statistics and research methods, preparing you for a dissertation or an applied project focused on a real-world accounting or finance problem.

• Financial Reporting and Analysis – interpretation of financial statements, accounting standards and the implications for users.
• Management Accounting and Decision Making – costing, budgeting and performance measurement techniques to support managerial decisions.
• Corporate Finance – valuation, capital structure, investment appraisal and funding in an international context.
• International Financial Markets and Institutions – markets, instruments and the regulatory environment that shape global finance.
• Quantitative Methods and Econometrics – statistical techniques for data analysis and forecasting.
• Research Methods – design and execution of independent research, ethics and academic writing.
• Dissertation or Applied Project – an extended piece of independent work that can be industry-focused, empirical or theoretical.

Teaching is typically delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and case studies, with assessments including exams, individual and group coursework, presentations and the final project. Practical sessions often use real datasets and industry-standard software to develop employable skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in any discipline; graduates with a degree in accounting, finance, business or a numerate subject will be especially well prepared. Candidates with a lower-second class degree may be considered if they have relevant professional qualifications or substantial work experience in accounting or finance.

Bournemouth University also considers applicants with recognised professional qualifications or mature applicants with demonstrable relevant experience. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate an appropriate level of English language proficiency; check the university's official guidance for current accepted tests and minimum scores.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles in accounting and finance across the private, public and not‑for‑profit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Financial analyst and investment roles in corporate finance or banking
• Management accountant, financial controller or finance business partner within industry
• Audit and assurance roles in accounting firms or internal audit teams
• Tax specialist, treasury analyst, risk and compliance roles
• Consultancy and advisory positions focused on finance transformation and reporting

The programme is also suitable for those intending to progress to professional qualifications (such as accountancy bodies) or to further academic study. Bournemouth University's careers and placement services support CV development, interview preparation and employer engagement.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a practice-led learning environment with close links to industry and an emphasis on employability. The Business School integrates applied teaching with opportunities to work on live projects, allowing you to develop practical skills sought by employers.

The university provides modern facilities, specialist computing resources and access to business databases that support analytical work. Small-group teaching, supportive academic supervision for the dissertation/applied project and an active careers service help students transition from study to professional roles.

Students benefit from a location with a strong local and regional business community, where networking, guest lectures and placement opportunities complement your academic learning and help build a professional profile in accounting and finance.