Accounting and Management

The BA (Hons) in Accounting and Management at Durham University offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in accounting, finance, and business management. This programme combines core accounting principles with essential management skills, providing a well-rounded academic experience that emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical application. Students will explore various aspects of financial accounting, management accounting, corporate finance, auditing, and taxation, alongside modules covering organizational behavior, strategic management, leadership, and entrepreneurship. The programme's multidisciplinary approach ensures students gain an in-depth understanding of the financial environment and the strategic challenges faced by modern organizations. Delivered by expert academics with extensive industry experience, the course balances theoretical frameworks with real-world case studies and applied projects, encouraging active learning and problem-solving. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated finance labs and business simulation tools, fostering a practical learning environment. Throughout their studies, students develop vital skills such as quantitative analysis, effective communication, teamwork, and ethical decision-making, all of which are highly valued by employers worldwide. The programme also offers opportunities for work placements, internships, and networking events, allowing students to gain practical experience and establish professional connections. Graduates of this degree are well-equipped to pursue careers in accounting firms, financial institutions, consultancy agencies, or further study such as professional accountancy qualifications or postgraduate research. With its combination of academic excellence, practical focus, and employability skills, the BA (Hons) in Accounting and Management at Durham University provides a solid foundation for a successful career in the dynamic world of finance and business leadership.

Content

Year 1

In the first year you will study six compulsory modules:

• Introduction to Financial Accounting
• Introduction to Management Accounting
• People, Management and Organisations
• Foundations of Finance
• Introduction to Economics
• Quantitative Methods.

Year 2

The second year consists of four compulsory modules:

• Auditing and Assurance
• Corporate Finance
• Corporate Financial Reporting
• Management Accounting.

Plus two optional modules selected from a range which has previously included:

• Information Systems
• Managing in a Global Environment
• Principles of Business Law
• Entrepreneurship.
• Introduction to Taxation
• A language module.

Year 3

Students work on a Dissertation in the third year, along with three compulsory modules:

• Contemporary Issues in Financial Accounting
• Contemporary Issues in Management
• Financial Planning and Control.

Your final module is chosen from a range which has previously included, for example: 

• Corporate Governance
• Strategic Management
• Corporate Entrepreneurship.
• Leadership
• A language module.

Subject requirements, level and grade

In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:

• We require AAB from A-levels.
• We consider all A-level subjects, with the exception of General Studies – therefore General Studies would not be included in any offer.
• For all Business, Marketing, Accounting and Finance degrees a strong proficiency in Mathematics is required. If Mathematics is not taken as an A-level subject a grade A in Mathematics at GCSE is required.
• We consider each application holistically, on an individual basis and against the other applications we receive. Whilst academic achievement is important, it is not the only factor that we consider when assessing applications and applicants who have achieved, or are predicted to achieve, close to our typical offer, but who have not met it exactly, will be welcome to apply if they have a strong application in other key elements, for example if they can demonstrate merit and potential through their personal statement or their reference.
• We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications, please email us for more information.
• Applicants for whom English is not their first language will be required to offer IELTS of 6.5 (no component under 6.0); or the University approved equivalent. We also require proof of English Language proficiency for students from the European Union.
• We are willing to consider applications for deferred entry from those who have well- structured plans for work or travel, for example. We may, however, need to restrict the number of deferred entry offers we make because we have to be careful not to fill too many of next year’s places in advance. However, if you do apply for a deferred place and are unsuccessful, you are welcome to reapply the following year.
• You are welcome to apply if you are taking resits; we do not make higher offers to students who declare resits.
• If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Centre offers multidisciplinary degrees to prepare you for a range of specified degree courses.

Preferred Tests:

a. IELTS: 6.5 (no component under 6.0)

b. TOEFL iBT (internet based test): 92 (no component under 23)

c. Cambridge Proficiency (CPE): Grade C

d. Cambridge Advanced (CAE): Grade A

e. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English at Grade C or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

f. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language at Grade B or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

g. GCSE English Language at grade C or above

h. Pearson Test of English (overall score 62 (with no score less than 56 in each component))

Alternative accepted tests when those listed in a.-h. above are unavailable to the applicant (if the applicant requires a Tier 4 visa to study, advice on the suitability of these alternatives must be sought from the Student Recruitment and Admissions Office):

i. Certificate of Attainment (Edexcel)

j. GCE A-levels (AQA, CIE, Edexcel, CCEA, OCR, WJEC) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

k. International Baccalaureate with a minimum of grade 5 in Standard Level English or a minimum of grade 5 if taken at Higher Level.

l. NEAB (JMB) Test in English (Overseas)

m. Singapore Integrated Programme (SIPCAL) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

n. Singapore Polytechnic Diploma and Advanced Diplomas at GPA 3.0 or above

o. WAEC and NECO Grade B3 or above from Nigeria and Ghana

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Financing component of the Accounting and Management program at Durham University provides students with comprehensive knowledge and skills related to financial management, investment analysis, and corporate finance strategies. Throughout the course, students are introduced to key concepts such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, quantitative methods, and financial statement analysis. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding financial markets, capital allocation, and risk management practices essential for effective financial decision-making within organizations. Students are trained to analyze financial data, develop financial models, and make informed decisions based on quantitative and qualitative information.

The program also covers topics related to financial planning, budgeting, and control, enabling students to grasp the complexities of financial operations in various business contexts. Practical skills are developed through case studies, simulations, and project work that reflect real-world financial challenges faced by companies. Additionally, students explore the regulatory environment affecting financial markets and corporate governance, ensuring they understand the legal and ethical frameworks guiding financial activities.

Students benefiting from Durham’s strong industry links and research-led teaching gain insights into current financial innovations and global market trends. The program equips students with the ability to pursue careers in financial analysis, investment banking, consultancy, and corporate finance departments within multinational organizations, financial institutions, or government agencies. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical ability, and strategic planning skills necessary to excel in dynamic financial environments. Overall, the Financing studies offered in this program prepare graduates to contribute effectively to financial decision-making processes and support sustainable business growth.

The Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Management at Durham University offers students a comprehensive education in core principles of accounting, finance, and management, equipping them with the skills necessary for a successful career in the business and financial sectors. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic global economy. Throughout their studies, students explore a wide range of topics including financial accounting, management accounting, corporate finance, strategic management, leadership, and organizational behavior. The curriculum is designed to develop critical analytical skills, ethical judgment, and effective communication, which are essential in today's competitive business environment.

Durham’s rigorous academic approach is complemented by opportunities for professional development, including placements, internships, and engagement with industry professionals. The programme also emphasizes research skills and data analysis, enabling students to interpret complex financial information and contribute to strategic decision-making processes. Students benefit from Durham’s distinguished faculty who are experts in their fields, as well as modern teaching facilities and resources. The university’s strong links with businesses, accounting bodies, and professional organizations provide additional support, networking opportunities, and pathways for certification.

Graduates of the Accounting and Management programme are well-positioned for careers in accounting firms, financial services, consulting companies, and management roles across various industries. Many students go on to pursue professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ACA, supported by the university’s tailored advice and resources. The programme’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies through optional modules, enabling specialization in areas such as auditing, financial management, or corporate governance. Overall, Durham’s degree in Accounting and Management combines academic excellence with practical relevance, ensuring graduates are equipped to thrive in the fast-paced world of business and finance.