MSc Human Resource Management (Top Up)
The MSc Human Resource Management (Top-Up) program at the University of Gloucestershire...
BA Hons Accounting and Finance (Placement)
Oxstalls, Gloucester
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (Placement) at the University of Gloucestershire is designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue a career as a chartered accountant or in various finance professional roles. A significant highlight of this program is the potential for students to gain substantial exemptions from the Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). The university boasts a strong track record of graduate employability, with over 96% of its graduates in work or further study within 15 months of graduating (based on 2020/21 leavers, according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey published in 2023). The program also emphasizes a practical learning approach, incorporating simulations with companies in the accounting and finance sector and providing access to a state-of-the-art Trading Room for hands-on experience with live financial data. Students also benefit from the insights of specialist guest lecturers from the industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance (Placement) provides a comprehensive grounding in core accounting and finance principles, alongside an exploration of more contemporary and "futuristic" subjects. While the specific module titles and content can vary, the program typically covers fundamental areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, corporate finance, and taxation. In addition, the course aims to incorporate subjects like Data Analytics, Forensic Accounting, Wealth Management, and Social and Environmental Reporting, reflecting the evolving landscape of the accounting and finance professions. The program is structured to provide a practical introduction to the tools, concepts, and analytical skills crucial for making effective short and long-term managerial decisions. Learning methods often include student-led workshops, seminars, group work, reflective practice, computing workshops, problem-solving challenges, and presentations. 1 The "Placement Year" element offers a valuable opportunity for students to apply their academic learning in a real-world business environment, typically a 12-month paid work experience that enhances their skills and employability.
Research Focus: The University of Gloucestershire embeds research throughout its activities, encouraging both students and staff to contribute to and benefit from a vibrant research community. The university has identified several Research Priority Areas, building on existing strengths and pinpointing areas for future investment. While the specific research within the Accounting and Finance discipline would be a component of the broader "Applied Business and Technology" research priority area, the university overall emphasizes the creation and application of new knowledge that has a real-world impact on society and business. This research-informed environment directly influences the curriculum, ensuring that teaching is up-to-date and provides enhanced learning opportunities for students. Students themselves are often involved in the development and application of new knowledge, collaborating with staff and other students.
Industry Engagement: The University of Gloucestershire places a strong emphasis on working collaboratively with businesses to ensure that graduates possess the skills needed by employers and have access to rewarding career opportunities. The Gloucestershire Business School, located on the Oxstalls campus, is a testament to this commitment, designed with input from the business community. The university engages with industry in various ways, including providing placement opportunities for students. Annually, a significant number of students undertake industry placements, applying their skills with employers across different sectors. The university also fosters strong links with local, national, and international businesses, including firms like Hazlewoods, Pulsin, and Superdry, which can lead to potential placement and graduate career opportunities for students, including those on the Accounting and Finance program. The university also has a strategic partnership with Griffiths Marshall (GM), an Accounting and Wealth Management Firm, further underlining its commitment to real-world business engagement for Accounting and Finance students.
Global Perspective: The University of Gloucestershire welcomes a diverse body of international students and strives to provide a globally relevant education. The BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance course, with its focus on accounting and finance areas, also explores subjects that have a global context, such as international financial reporting standards or the global business environment in which financial decisions are made. The accreditations from global professional accounting and finance bodies, including ACCA, CIMA (CGMA), and AIA, mean that the qualifications gained are recognized internationally, offering graduates the potential to work outside the UK. The university's international student support services and the diverse student body contribute to a multicultural and globally-aware learning environment. The university's rankings in various global university ranking systems (though with varying positions) also indicate a degree of international recognition.
Location
Oxstalls, Gloucester
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 16600
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 64.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Gloucestershire offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are aimed at making education more accessible and affordable, allowing students to focus on their studies and enjoy their time in the UK without financial stress. The university provides several merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships to help ease the cost of tuition fees for international students.
International Scholarships: The University of Gloucestershire offers International Scholarships for students coming from various countries across the globe. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £3,000 per year, based on academic achievement and the chosen course of study. The scholarship is automatically awarded to eligible students upon acceptance of their offer to study at the university. These awards are designed to make studying in the UK more affordable and are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Excellence Scholarships: For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, the University of Gloucestershire offers Excellence Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have achieved exceptional academic results in their previous studies. The Excellence Scholarship can be worth up to £3,000 and is designed to recognize and support high-achieving students who show great potential in their chosen field of study.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, the University of Gloucestershire offers country-specific scholarships to students from certain regions. These scholarships are tailored to students from specific countries, helping to promote international diversity at the university. The scholarships vary in amount, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
A degree in Accounting and Finance opens doors to a diverse range of career paths across various industries. The placement year often provides a significant advantage, giving graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
Chartered Accountant: This is a very popular career path for Accounting and Finance graduates. Chartered accountants provide a wide range of financial services to individuals and businesses, including auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and business advice. Becoming a chartered accountant typically requires completing professional qualifications from bodies like the ICAEW, ACCA, or CIMA, often after gaining relevant work experience. The exemptions gained from an accredited degree significantly reduce the number of professional exams required.
Management Accountant: Management accountants work within organizations to provide financial information and analysis that helps with decision-making. They are involved in budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, and performance management. They play a crucial role in helping businesses achieve their strategic objectives.
Financial Analyst: Financial analysts evaluate investment opportunities and provide recommendations to clients or the companies they work for. They analyze financial data, market trends, and economic conditions to assess the performance of companies and the potential returns of investments.
Auditor: Auditors provide an independent examination of an organization's financial records to ensure their accuracy and compliance with relevant regulations. There are both internal and external auditors. External auditors work for independent firms and provide assurance to stakeholders, while internal auditors work within an organization to assess its internal controls and risk management processes.
Tax Advisor/Accountant: Tax advisors and accountants specialize in tax laws and regulations. They help individuals and businesses comply with tax requirements, minimize their tax liabilities, and plan their financial affairs in a tax-efficient manner.
Investment Banker: Investment bankers advise corporations and governments on financial transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and debt and equity financing. This is a fast-paced and demanding career that can be very rewarding.
Financial Manager: Financial managers are responsible for the overall financial health of an organization. They oversee financial planning, budgeting, investments, and risk management. This role is typically found in larger organizations and requires a strong understanding of all aspects of finance.
Forensic Accountant: Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes and disputes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. They use their accounting and investigative skills to analyze financial records, gather evidence, and provide expert testimony in legal proceedings.
Retail Banker: Retail bankers work with individuals and small businesses, providing a range of financial services such as current accounts, savings accounts, loans, and mortgages. They may work in high-street branches or in online banking roles.
Entrepreneur: The business and financial skills gained from an Accounting and Finance degree, combined with the practical experience of a placement, can provide a solid foundation for starting your own business. Many graduates choose to use their knowledge to manage their own finances and grow a successful venture.
