Accounting

Accounting at Durham University offers a comprehensive and rigorous education in the principles and practice of accounting, finance, and management. Designed to provide students with a strong theoretical foundation combined with practical experience, the programme prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in accounting, auditing, financial management, and related fields. Students will develop a deep understanding of financial reporting, auditing standards, management accounting, and corporate governance, alongside skills in critical thinking, analysis, and communication. The course structure includes modules on financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, corporate law, and ethics, equipping students with the technical expertise required in today's complex financial environment. Throughout the programme, students benefit from interactive lectures, workshops, case studies, and opportunities for internships and placements, which enhance employability and real-world understanding. The programme also offers pathways for those interested in pursuing professional accounting qualifications such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA, with dedicated support and resources. Durham's strong links with the accounting industry and its emphasis on academic excellence ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter competitive job markets or pursue further academic research. The university's vibrant academic community and state-of-the-art facilities foster an engaging learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Upon completing the programme, graduates will possess the knowledge, technical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to succeed in various accounting roles and to make a meaningful contribution to the financial health and integrity of organizations worldwide.

Content

Core and elective modules

1. Accounting Theory
2. Auditing and Assurance Services
3. Contemporary Issues in Accounting and Taxation
4. Corporate Governance
5. Corporate Reporting
6. Financial Planning and Control
7. Financial Statement Analysis
8. Research Methods & Methodology in Accounting

Dissertation/Business Project

In the third term you will complete a 12,000 word dissertation which could be a specific project with an organisation. Supervised by a faculty member with relevant experience, you’ll investigate in greater detail a subject that you’ve already studied as part of your programme.

This is an opportunity for you to develop your business insight and present your analysis and ideas in a scholarly and professional manner; combine critical discrimination and a sense of proportion in evaluating evidence and the opinions of others.

Adding to your experience

As part of your programme, you have the opportunity to enjoy presentations by academics and practitioners within your chosen area of interest. Past speakers have included representatives of major global multinationals and leading academics, providing an ideal opportunity to gain practical knowledge and progressive insight.

Subject requirements, level and grade

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

• You will need the equivalent of a UK first or upper second class honours degree. 
• You will need to complete an online application form.
• To support your online application form, you will need to provide the following documents.
• Two academic references using our standard form Official transcript of marksCopy of degree certificate (if available)
• Copy of English test results (if available).

You can either upload your supporting documents with your online application or email or fax them to the Postgraduate Admissions Office using the contact details below.

ACCA Pathway

Additionally, for students considering the ACCA pathway you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility to study. You will need to have passed ACCA's Fundamental level exams, F1-F9, or have exemptions from the Fundamental level.

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

Funding for the Accounting program at Durham University can be obtained through various sources. Students are encouraged to explore scholarships, bursaries, and grants offered by the university, which may cover tuition fees or provide living allowances. Durham University offers a range of merit-based scholarships for both home and international students, including the Durham University Scholarships for undergraduate students, which can provide significant financial support. Additionally, students can apply for government student loans available through the UK Student Loans Company if they meet the eligibility criteria. International students may have access to external funding opportunities or sponsor support, depending on their country of origin. Part-time work opportunities on or near campus can help students finance their studies while gaining valuable experience. The university's Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive advice on available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. Students are advised to start their financial planning early in the admissions process to ensure they can cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses throughout their studies. It is also advisable to consider health insurance costs, academic supplies, and personal expenses when planning finances. Durham University promotes financial transparency and aims to support students financially to focus on their academic and professional development. In summary, various funding options are accessible for students pursuing the Accounting program, including university scholarships, government loans, external grants, and part-time employment, all designed to facilitate a smooth educational experience.

ACCA pathway

This Masters programme provides an opportunity for students who have successfully passed ACCA's Fundamental s exams (papers F1-F9) or have exemptions from the Fundamentals exams from a previous qualification.

The main benefit of this Masters programme is that while you are studying at Durham University Business School, you can also study towards two ACCA Professional-level exams. They are: P1 Governance, Risk and Ethics and P2 Corporate Reporting.

This is an ideal programme to choose if you are looking to pursue a career in accountancy, finance and business which will give you a strong advantage when entering an increasingly competitive employment market.

There are many benefits to completing the MSc Accounting - Academic Professional Partnership Programme, including:

• studying at Durham University Business School, a top UK Russell Group University
• a one- year Masters degree programme that has been designed to include two of ACCA's Professional level papers
• a pathway specifically created for progression from BSc to MSc Accounting, while also completing ACCA Professional level papers
• studying within an international context gives you a competitive edge on a global level , will help increase your employability which is attractive to employers around the world.

ACCA exemptions and exam fees will be waived for the first 25 eligible students accepted onto the programme, upon sitting Professional exams: P1 and P2 during 2015/16 only.

The MSc Accounting programme is an ACCA Academic Professional Partnership Programme.