Department of Accounting | BA Accounting and Finance

BA Accounting & Finance at Durham University

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From preparing and presenting financial information to interpreting data and business planning, this degree opens the door to opportunities with leading organisations in both business and the financial sector and beyond.

Not sure what to study?: We have a suite of accounting degrees (BSc Accounting, BA Accounting and Management and BA Accounting and Finance). This degree combines accounting, with management and finance knowledge and skills. If you would prefer to study just accounting, please see BSc Accounting. If you would prefer to study more management, please see BA Accounting and Management.

Combining the study of accounting and the study of finance in a business context, the Accounting and Finance degree is an ideal foundation for many careers, including careers in the accountancy profession or across the wider business sector. You will study modules in accounting and finance developing a strong understanding of core business principles and practice that will provide you with the skills, knowledge and experience to move into a number of exciting careers or for further study.

Using examples from real businesses you’ll learn how a business’ finances impact on every aspect of an organisation. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to make finance, accounting and business decisions, relating to the legal, regulatory and social contexts within which accounting operates.

By carefully blending academic theory with real-world practice, the degree has been devised to give you the skills to succeed in the modern financial world. You will be introduced to the vast array of sophisticated financial products traded in today’s global financial markets. You will cover a diverse range of subjects from essential skills in financial and management accounting to the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data on the world of accounting.

The curriculum links academic theory with practical experience through a combination of core and optional modules that offer plenty of opportunities to tailor your studies as your interests evolve. You have the option to complete the course in three years or add a placement year or spend a year abroad.

What’s more, several modules will give you exemption from some of the ACA, ACCA and CIMA professional examinations (exemptions are subject to module choice and, in some cases, the mark obtained on the module). These industry-recognised qualifications can help boost your employability and fast-track your career.

The first year forms the foundation of the degree and as such introduces the key areas of accounting and business. As you progress through the course you can focus further on your specific areas of interest with a selection of optional modules. This culminates in the final year dissertation in an area of accounting of your choice.

Our students graduate with specialist knowledge in areas of accounting and of finance, as well as the analytical, IT and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers in the UK and internationally. This combination of academic knowledge and transferable skills will open up a range of career opportunities in the financial world and beyond.

Our focus on employability extends beyond the classroom. You will benefit from employability-focused events that will give you a competitive edge in the job market. From interview advice and employer talks to subject-specific careers fairs, we work with you to achieve your goals.

Previous graduates have gone on to work within the accountancy profession and for businesses as accountants, specialising as auditors, financial accountants, tax specialists, management consultants etc. Graduates have also specialise in areas of finance such as financial analysis, risk management and investment banking. For employers such as PWC, KPMG, Deloitte, EY, Grant Thornton, National Audit Office, Capita, Deutsche Bank and Sage Plc. Many have been offered places on graduate talent schemes across a range of sectors, while others have taken on roles in charitable organisations and in general management.

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