Program Overview
The Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) BA (Hons) from the University of Derby is an online program designed for professionals seeking a thorough understanding of accounting and business concepts. It equips students with the skills to critically analyze financial information, apply accounting tools, and communicate financial decisions effectively. The program includes optional modules tailored to specific areas of interest and provides opportunities to pursue professional qualifications like ACCA and CISI.
Program Outline
Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) BA (Hons) - University of Derby
Degree Overview:
This online Accounting and Finance top-up degree is designed for individuals seeking a thorough understanding of Accounting and Business concepts. It is ideal for those aspiring to become professional accountants or work within the financial services sector. However, the program also benefits individuals in other professions as a good understanding of Accounting and Finance is advantageous in any field. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:
- Critically analyze and evaluate financial information.
- Apply relevant accounting tools and techniques to support strategic decisions.
- Communicate financial decisions effectively.
- Understand the latest professional standards in accounting.
Outline:
The program requires students to complete a total of 120 credits, comprised of core modules (80 credits) and two optional 20-credit modules in their preferred area of Accounting and Finance.
Stage 1:
- Core Modules: It covers relevant theory, models, practical financial tools, and techniques, with real-life examples. The module emphasizes critical analysis and evaluation of financial information, communication skills, and leadership in seminar, workshop, and presentation settings. It aligns with the syllabus requirements of professional accounting bodies like CIMA, CPA Australia, IFA, and ACCA.
- Independent Study (20 Credits): This module allows students to explore a specific area of interest within Accounting and Finance in-depth.
- Management Accounting – Performance Evaluation (20 Credits): This module explores the role of management accounting in performance evaluation, covering topics like cost accounting, budgeting, and performance measurement.
- Optional Modules:
- Contemporary Reporting Issues (20 Credits): This module examines current trends and challenges in financial reporting, including sustainability reporting, corporate social responsibility, and international accounting standards.
- Financial Reporting (non-exam route) (20 Credits): This module provides a comprehensive understanding of financial reporting principles and practices, covering topics like accounting standards, financial statements, and reporting requirements.
- Financial Statement Analysis (20 Credits): This module focuses on the analysis and interpretation of financial statements, including ratio analysis, trend analysis, and cash flow analysis.
- Investing and Financial Market Behaviour (20 Credits): This module explores the principles of investment, financial markets, and investor behavior, covering topics like asset allocation, portfolio management, and market efficiency.
Assessment:
The program is assessed through 100% coursework, utilizing a variety of methods such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work, and practical reports.
Teaching:
The program is delivered online, with a flexible study pace. Students can choose to study one module per trimester (10 weeks) or two modules per trimester (accelerated study plan). The teaching staff are all professionally qualified and have both industry and academic experience. They also teach on professional body courses like ACCA and CIMA, ensuring their knowledge is up-to-date and relevant to the current business world.
Careers:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of accounting and finance careers, including:
- Professional Accountant: Working in public practice, industry, or government.
- Financial Analyst: Analyzing financial data and providing investment recommendations.
- Financial Controller: Overseeing the financial operations of an organization.
- Auditor: Examining financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance. The program is mapped against the CISI's Introduction to Investment foundation qualification, allowing students to take the exam upon completion of the course. Students pursuing the Introduction to Investment qualification receive a 50% discount on the exam fee and workbook, and a limited number of scholarships are available to cover the CISI registration fee, exam fee, and workbook. The Introduction to Investment qualification is recognized by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is beneficial for those interested in careers in wealth management, operational investments, financial planning, compliance and risk, and stockbroking. Upon completion of the foundation qualification, students can become CISI affiliate members (subject to annual membership fee).
UK fee£5,250 (2024/25) ‡ International fee£5,250 (2024/25) ‡
