Accountancy BSc (Hons)

Gain the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to identify and deal with legal and ethical issues likely to be encountered in business. This includes an understanding of how the law and ethical frameworks operate, and the ability to apply the law and the frameworks to real-life scenarios. This module aims to cover the legal system, the law of contract, tort law (including professional negligence), business formation (including types of business: sole trader, partnership, limited company; funding and liability), the nature and function of various types of company structures and the rights and obligations of shareholders and directors.

This module also covers the fundamentals of business ethics and sustainable decision-making and the various dilemmas that individuals and organisations might face. You will consider the impact of business ethics and sustainability concepts within corporations, including decision-making, governance and corporate social responsibility within a global economy. This module will draw on local and global case study material and relevant academic literature drawn from a variety of business disciplines.

Compulsory

The Financial Reporting module focuses primarily on the preparation of published financial statements by public limited companies. Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and apply International Financial Reporting Standards and accounting theory in the preparation of published financial statements of entities, including a simple group structure. Develop the skills necessary to critically analyse and interpret financial statements and become aware of limitations in published accounting information. Throughout the module, you will apply theories and concepts to real-world examples, replicating scenarios that accountants regularly face.

Compulsory

This module introduces you to key concepts in financial management. You will learn about the function of financial management, the operations of capital markets, the trade-off between risk and return, how to price financial assets and the importance of the way a business finances its operations. The module is designed to develop numeracy and analytical skills within a sustainable, socially responsible and ethical framework.

Compulsory

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the UK tax system, including its core principles, administration and compliance requirements. Module content covers key areas of taxation such as income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax and value-added tax. Learn the necessary skills to compute tax liabilities for individuals and businesses, assess tax planning opportunities and understand the ethical considerations surrounding taxation. The module also introduces international tax concepts, including double taxation relief and the interaction between the UK and overseas tax systems. Through real-world case studies, you should develop key employability skills in tax preparation, reporting and advisory. By the end of the module, you should be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the UK tax system and make informed tax decisions in a professional setting.

Compulsory

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

This module is your chance to apply the knowledge and insights learnt on the course. It aims to develop you into an independent and ethical researcher. You will conduct a research project related to your course to evidence your intellectual, technical and analytical skills. You will receive personalised support and guidance from a supervisor and benefit from critical discussions and cross-fertilisation in group supervision sessions.

Compulsory

This module builds on the Principles of Management Accounting module covered in your first year. It introduces more complex techniques that can be used to facilitate organisational performance management and enhance the decision-making process. You should develop the knowledge and skills necessary to select appropriate management accounting techniques and apply these to business situations. Learn the limitations of techniques employed, appreciate the role of risk and uncertainty and consider the influence of behaviours that can undermine entity performance.

Compulsory

Get an understanding of the fundamentals of audit and assurance practices in relation to regulatory framework. Learn about the role of auditors, the principles and limits of audit and assurance, and how to assess internal controls and apply audit procedures for detecting material misstatements or fraud in financial statements. You will consider the professional values of auditing and how you can apply them to specific cases. This module will require you to demonstrate critical thinking skills and develop reasoned arguments by applying concepts and frameworks to case studies.

Compulsory

Choose one module from below:

Investment Analysis – 30 credits

This module focuses on the bond and equity markets. You will be introduced to discounted cash flow-related bond pricing techniques along with bond portfolio management and the associated risk immunisation methodologies. Concerning equity valuation, you will compare discounted cash flow methods with fundamental valuation approaches, including value investing and growth investing. Market timing is also explored through the application of technical analysis. You should gain a thorough understanding of identifying, assessing and mitigating various business risks. Module content also covers operational, financial, reputational and credit risks, emphasising effective strategies and tools for risk management.

Business Strategy – 30 credits

While the core purpose of business strategy has always been to help organisations succeed in dynamic and complex environments, contemporary strategy has evolved in its tools and approaches to better address today's heightened pace of change and uncertainty. To be competitive, businesses must be more flexible, including the ability to shift from one dominant strategy to another.

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of strategic leadership and management, strategic analysis and strategic decision-making within organisations. It also appraises what is required for high performance in an uncertain environment.

Optional