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Undergraduate Course

Accounting and Finance BA (Hons)

Prepare for a dynamic career in a finance profession. Develop numerical skills as well as an ability to analyse and problem solve.

Students and lecturer in classroom

If you are thinking of a career as an accountant, business owner or in a professional practice, a knowledge of accounting and finance is essential. Gain this knowledge, valuable experience and engage with businesses to excel in your future career.

  • ACCA Accredited Programme
  • Chartered institute of management accountants logo
  • logo for ICAEW partner in learning accreditation

York campus

  • UCAS code – N1N2 (N4N3 with placement year)
  • Duration – 3 years full time, 4 years full time with placement
  • Start date – September 2024, September 2025
  • School – York Business School

Minimum entry requirements

    104 UCAS Tariff points

    3 GCSEs at grade 4/C (or equivalent) including English Language. Grade 5 in Maths.

Tuition fees

    UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time

    International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time

Discover Accounting and Finance

Sarah Fitzgerald, Course Lead in Accounting and Finance, introduces us to the subject at York St John University.

Course overview

This course will introduce you to the principles and practice of Accounting and Finance. You will gain a thorough understanding of accounting concepts, which is ideal if you want to become a professional accountant. Having accounting and finance knowledge is an advantage in any profession today, from being a stockbroker to an economist. So even if you do not want to become a professional accountant, you will find this degree invaluable. 

You will take part in lectures, seminars, workshops, task focused activities, field trips and excursions as part of this course. You will also engage with industry practitioners. Each year we offer employer talk back events, this gives you the opportunity to hear from Accountants currently working in a variety of organisations and learn about their career paths and the opportunities for graduates in their organisations. 

Take a look at distinct course features that set it apart:

  • A focus on employability and getting you ready for the workplace. 
  • Tutors who are active researchers and will use their knowledge to help you develop yours. 
  • Dedicated 1 on 1 support from your personal tutor to help you reach your potential and seminar sizes of 20 to 25 students.
  • Focus on the areas of your learning that matter to you, with options on module focus and support specific to you.

You will have the opportunity to take part in the off campus Sage course, you will learn about Sage accounting software and how this is used in practice. Sage is the market leader for integrated accounting, payroll, and payment systems, supporting the ambition of the world’s entrepreneurs.

As a Business School we are passionate about social responsibility and sustainability. These values and this commitment will be embedded throughout this course. We are a Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) signatory for the United Nations. Our mission is to develop your potential so that you can make a difference in society. 

On completion of your studies you will have the opportunity to claim exemptions from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and /or Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). 

We are recognised as an ICAEW Partner in Learning, working with ICAEW in the professional development of students. As a global professional body for chartered accountants, they promote inclusivity, diversity and fairness. They believe that chartered accountancy can be a force for positive change and continue to work with governments, regulators and business leaders globally as their method to serve the public interest. 

Through the Accounting and Finance Course, you will have the opportunity to partake in the CIMA scheme, CIMA is the global professional management accounting body based in UK. They offer training and qualifications in management accountancy, focusing on accountants working in, or studying for a career in the industry. 

Course structure

Year 1

Our academic year is split into 2 semesters. This course can only be studied full time.

In your first year, you will study:

  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

 

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will learn the basic principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. You will develop an understanding of economic principles and techniques and learn how to apply them in business contexts. You will also investigate the different issues related to macroeconomic theories and gain insight into the impact of the macroeconomic environment on business decisions. 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module is your introduction to basic concepts and methods in a variety of business settings. You will explore the principles of financial control, including standard costing and budgeting. You will learn how to record, process and report on business transactions and events. You will also produce financial statements.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

During this module we will introduce you to the accountancy profession and the organisations and environments they operate in. This includes:

  • Capital markets
  • Financial institutions
  • Government, non-profit and business organisations. 

You will learn what an accountant’s role is within organisations and how they work and communicate with other stakeholders. Your tutors will help you identify and develop your skills in preparation for future employment opportunities.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will learn the process of preparing financial statements for unincorporated and incorporated entities. This will include partnership and limited company accounts.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module we will teach you the essential quantitative methods of modelling and analysis for financial data. You will also explore statistics and probability concepts. You can then use these theories to analyse practical situations.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module we will introduce you to the concepts of cost accumulation, allocation and apportionment in a variety of business settings. You will explore the principles of financial control, including standard costing and budgeting. You will also develop your skills in analysing accounting information and decision making.

Year 2

In your second year you will study:

  • 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
  • 4 compulsory modules in semester 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

In Year 1 you will have learned the basic principles of financial accounting. On this module you will develop these further and in greater depth. You will focus on the reporting of financial information for companies in accordance with relevant standards. Additionally, you will learn how to analyse and interpret the financial information of different companies.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module we will introduce you to the framework of English law. You will develop knowledge and skills in the areas of contract law, agency law and Tort (a wrongful act or an infringement of a right leading to legal liability). You will also learn about the formation and running of partnerships and companies. This will provide a foundation for study in Year 3 in the areas of corporate governance, directors and auditors as agents.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will study the principles of management accounting. We will introduce you to elements of strategic analysis and long term decision making. You will also consider how budgeting impacts human behaviour. This ensures you develop your understanding of management accounting techniques within the organisation as a whole.

Credits: 10

Compulsory module

On this module you will gain an understanding of the auditing procedure, along with learning about contemporary issues relating to this practice. Whether you aspire to a career as a professional accountant or in industry, commerce, or general management, a sound understanding of the principles underlying auditing is essential. You will gain an awareness of issues such as ethical conduct, quality assurance and practice development.   

Credits: 10

Compulsory module

On this module you will gain an understanding of taxation policies and principles, together with a detailed knowledge of income taxation. You will investigate the fiscal policies and principles of income taxation, and will learn how to understand and evaluate the mechanisms for calculating personal tax liabilities. You will also develop skills in tax planning and computation, and appreciate the importance of accuracy and integrity in a professional environment.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

Building on your knowledge from previous studies about investment, you will learn to use your skills in a broader business context that involves risk. This will include understanding the various sources of finance, as well as the overall cost of capital to businesses and investment opportunities.

 

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module will help you to further develop managerial accounting techniques. You will focus on skills related to planning, control and decision making at an operational and tactical level. You will learn about the ethical and financial consequences of such decisions.

Year 3

In your third year you will study:

  • A dissertation module. You can choose either a 20 credit option or a longer 40 credit option which is spread across semesters 1 and 2
  • 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 1
  • 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 2

You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.

Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.

Modules

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

This module builds upon your knowledge of financial management gained from the Corporate Finance module in Year 2. You will learn to critically examine the theory of business finance and its contribution to decision making. The valuation of a business or share is a crucial skill in financial management and we will introduce you to different techniques in the context of financial management. This includes the role of dividends and share buybacks.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will examine advanced issues in management accounting. You will learn about the accountant’s role in providing information for strategic planning and decision making, control and performance management. You will consider recent developments on cost management and the integration of cost accounting with modern manufacturing techniques. You will also investigate the connection between management accounting and strategic management.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module you will continue your exploration of accounting standards. You will learn how to produce consolidated financial statements for a group of companies, including an associate. You will also critically evaluate current developments and debates related to financial reporting.

Credits: 20

Compulsory module

On this module we will introduce you to corporate governance. You will explore its role in the regulation and direction of corporations. You will also investigate the role of directors and other key stakeholders. Corporate governance is an important part of everyday business. You will gain an understanding of how this process has developed and consider how to improve the behaviour of those involved in corporate governance in the future. This module aims to develop your understanding of the financial environment.

Credits: 40

Optional module

This module is your chance to plan and conduct a piece of independent research. You will be able to choose from the following projects:

  • Traditional dissertation: Plan and conduct a piece of independent research. Present your findings in a writing.
  • Business Research Project: Complete a small scale piece of individual research work.
  • Consultancy Project: Work with industry professionals and investigate a business project and produce a research based report.
  • Business creation project: Develop a full business proposal and plan. Use primary and secondary research to support your work.

Credits: 20

Optional module

This module will help you evolve your knowledge and understanding of auditing. You will learn about the technical language and practices of auditing. We will also teach you to review and test transactions and other financial events to arrive at an audit opinion.

Credits: 20

Optional module

On this module you will learn about taxation policies and principles. This will mean gaining detailed knowledge of:

  • corporate tax
  • Value added tax (VAT)
  • capital gains tax
  • inheritance tax computations

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning

All of your modules will be delivered using a variety of different teaching sessions. This includes:

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Guest speakers
  • Workshops
  • Events

Each module has 3.5 hours of contact time a week. This consists of a 1.5 hour lecture and a 2 hour seminar. 1 to 1 time can be booked through our tutorial booker system.

You will also have regular individual tutorial sessions with your academic tutors to support your learning. You will also have opportunities to gain work experience through modules which will take your learning beyond the classroom and into the city.

Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.

 

Assessment

We use a wide variety of assessment types, which help you to develop skills relevant to the workplace. This includes:

  • Written assignments
  • Individual and group presentations
  • Exams
  • Practical activities

You will receive feedback on your work throughout each module. This will help you to improve your work for your graded assessments. We will advise you on developing your skills, useful areas for research and how to extend your business knowledge further.

Professional Skills

We encourage you to extend your learning through Continuing Professional Development as you study. Our Success Lab provides extra events, short courses and opportunities to help you make the most of your degree. The academic and professional skills you develop through this will help to boost your employability when you graduate.

Career outcomes

Your future with a degree in Accounting and Finance 

This course will prepare you for a career in a finance profession. You will develop numerical skills as well as an ability to analyse and problem solve. The knowledge you gain of global business organisations and issues will open up a range of career options.

A degree in Accounting and Finance could be the first step in your career as a:

  • Chartered accountant
  • External auditor
  • Stockbroker
  • Data analyst
  • Economist
  • Mortgage adviser

Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.

You could also progress onto a postgraduate degree and take your learning even further.

Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.

Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

  • Employer events
  • LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
  • Workshops on application writing and interview skills
  • Work experience and volunteering opportunities
  • Personalised career advice

This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed.

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Minimum entry requirements

    104 UCAS Tariff points

    3 GCSEs at grade 4/C (or equivalent) including English Language. Grade 5 in Maths.

Calculate your UCAS Tariff points

International students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

 

 

This course is available with foundation year

If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.

Business foundation year

Mature Learners Entry Scheme

If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language and Maths or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.

Mature entry offer scheme

Advanced entry

Considering transferring to join us in year 2 or 3 of our Business Courses? Please see our Advanced Entry page for information on the courses available and how to apply.

Terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.

Fees and funding

To study for a degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.

UK 2024 entry

The tuition fee for 2024 entry onto this course is £9,250 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.

You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page.

Funding Opportunities

Placement year funding

If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.

Tuition fees

    UK 2024 entry £9,250 per year full time

    International 2024 entry £11,500 per year full time

International 2024 entry

The tuition fee for 2024 entry to this course is £11,500 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your degree.

International Fees and Funding

Additional costs and financial support

There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.

Course-related costs

While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include a DBS check, purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.

Study Abroad

For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.

Accommodation and living costs

For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.

Financial help and support

Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.

For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.

Course highlights

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