Keele University

What you'll study

This master's combines core accounting theory with practical financial management and quantitative methods. Core topics typically include financial reporting and analysis, management accounting, corporate finance, and financial statement interpretation. You will also study modules on research methods and applied quantitative techniques for finance, and you can expect options covering subjects such as auditing and assurance, taxation, corporate governance, and risk management.

The programme normally includes a substantial research project or dissertation in which you investigate a contemporary accounting or finance problem, or an applied consultancy project in collaboration with an external organisation. Teaching methods mix lectures and seminars with case studies, computer-based workshops, and group work to develop analytical, presentation and professional skills.

• Financial Reporting and Analysis
• Management Accounting and Control
• Corporate Finance and Valuation
• Quantitative Methods and Financial Modelling
• Audit, Assurance and Professional Ethics
• Taxation and Corporate Governance (optional modules)
• Dissertation or Applied Consultancy Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in any subject from a recognised institution. Candidates with a degree in accounting, finance, economics, business or a related discipline will be readily eligible, while applicants from non-accounting backgrounds are welcome and will be provided with core grounding in accounting principles within the programme.

Relevant professional experience, postgraduate diploma qualifications or other appropriate prior learning may also be considered. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior study in English; Keele's admissions guidance details acceptable qualifications and how to provide evidence.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles in professional practice, industry and the public sector. Typical destinations include trainee roles in accountancy firms, audit and assurance, management accounting, financial analysis and planning, tax advisory, banking and financial services, and corporate finance. The degree provides a strong foundation for those intending to progress to professional qualifications (such as ACCA, CIMA or ICAEW) and for those aiming to move into consultancy, corporate reporting, or management roles.

Keele emphasises employability through practical assessment, group work and opportunities to engage with employers; many students move into graduate programmes or secure roles with local, national and international employers after graduation. The research project also prepares students who wish to continue to doctoral study or research-led careers.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-centred learning environment with a supportive community and relatively small cohort sizes, which encourages close contact with academic staff. The business and management teaching combines research-led content with practical skills development in areas such as financial modelling, data analysis and professional communication.

Students benefit from dedicated academic support, careers and employability services, and opportunities to engage with employers through workshops, employer talks and networking events. Keele's approach aims to produce graduates who are technically competent, ethically aware and ready to meet the demands of professional accounting and financial management roles.