Computing with Accounting and Finance

The Computing with Accounting and Finance programme at the University of Buckingham offers a comprehensive education designed to equip students with a versatile skill set that integrates core concepts in computing, accounting, and finance. This innovative degree aims to prepare graduates for the rapidly evolving digital economy, where technological proficiency and financial acumen are increasingly essential. Throughout the course, students will develop a strong foundation in programming, systems analysis, and software development, alongside an in-depth understanding of accounting principles, financial management, and investment analysis. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enabling students to solve real-world problems using modern tools and methodologies.

The programme is structured over three years, with opportunities for work placements and industry exposure to enhance employability. In the initial stages, students learn essential computing skills including algorithms, data structures, databases, and computer networks. As the course progresses, they explore specialized subjects such as cyber security, ethical hacking, and software engineering, fostering critical thinking and technical expertise. Parallel to the computing modules, students study accounting principles, financial reporting, business law, and corporate finance, gaining a solid grounding in financial analysis and management techniques. The integration of these disciplines ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers that require both technological and financial literacy.

The programme also emphasizes practical skills through coursework, projects, and case studies that reflect contemporary challenges faced by businesses in digital transformation, data security, and financial innovation. Students will learn how to utilize software such as SAP, QuickBooks, and advanced Excel tools, alongside programming languages like Python and Java. The university’s dedicated support and resources, including modern laboratories and industry partnerships, facilitate experiential learning and networking opportunities. Graduates of this programme can pursue various career paths, including IT consultancy, financial analysis, accounting, data analysis, and roles within fintech companies. The curriculum is regularly updated to keep pace with technological advancements and industry needs, ensuring students graduate with relevant knowledge and skills to thrive in competitive job markets.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 14015 Year (EEA)
• EUR 19930 Year (Non-EEA)

Home/EU £11,250; International £16,000

• English

Course Content

Virtual learning environments, online /stand-alone computer-based packages and software tools are used to enhance the effects of teaching and learning.

The principle of progressive disclosure is adopted for classroom-based teaching. Reading, practising and staff-student interactions are general ways for learning. The opportunities for interaction include lectures, seminars, workshops, small group tutorials and practical classes.

To enable student-student interaction for learning, group projects, student seminars and workshops are organised.

Many of our Information Systems and Computing courses have supervised practical classes in the computer laboratories in which you can apply and practise the techniques you have learnt in the lectures. These practical sessions are usually two or three hours long. You will also be expected to study on your own, using the library for reading research and the computer laboratories to improve your practical skills.

Individual project

A particularly important feature of the BSc in Computing with Accounting and Finance is the project, which extends over the first three terms of the second year, and involves the specification, development and testing of a substantial piece of software. In support of this, you will learn to program in C++ and Java, as well as taking courses in database and human-computer interaction.

A pass in the project is a requirement for the award of a degree. The degree will not normally be awarded a higher classification than that awarded to the project.

The purpose of the project is to provide you with the opportunity to obtain in-depth knowledge in a chosen area of computing or information systems, to exercise judgment in solving a major problem and to develop a working software system. You will be expected to:

• Choose an appropriate project topic and identify a problem to work on.
• Identify the work required to solve the problem.
• Plan and organise the project work.
• Carry out the work and deliver a sound solution to the problem.
• Submit all required reports, program codes and prototype systems.
• Exercise judgment in chosen solutions throughout the project.

Through the project, you will gain experience in:

• Acquiring, organising and presenting knowledge in a field of study and applying the knowledge to solve an identified problem.
• Comparing and selecting suitable approaches and methods in solving the problem.
• Exercising initiative and sustained effort to set and achieve a clear set of objectives within stated deadlines.
• Developing solutions and implementing the solutions.
• Mastering a particular programming language, which can be different from the ones that you have learnt before.

This project may be the first large piece of work that you do completely by yourself. You should first choose a suitable project topic to work on and a supervisor to direct your work throughout the project development life cycle.

The project is a crucial element of the degree, counting for 45 units. It should cover one aspect of computing and should be based on theories of design, construction and use of information systems. It could involve the development of a practical system for a real user or the prototyping of a new technique in computing.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 60(Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 79

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Applicants who do not meet our minimum requirement of BBC at A-level may be considered for Access to Computing, depending on grades.

English language requirements

• IELTS: Average of 6.0 (with 5.5 or above in each component)
• TOEFL: (Internet-based) 79-80
• TOEFL: (Paper-based) 550
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): C or higher
• International GCSE English as a Second Language: C or higher on extended curriculum
• London University GCE O level Syllabus B in English Language: C or higher
• Oxford-ARELS Examination Higher Level: Credit or Distinction
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 50-57

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Buckingham.

Funding

Bursaries and scholarships can be a great way of financing your studies, and enabling you to achieve your potential. If you win a scholarship, you receive a discount on your fees and, most important, a scholarship on your CV will make you stand out to future employers.

How many bursaries and scholarships are available?

A number of scholarships and bursaries are awarded annually by the University which vary from partial fee to full-fee awards. These are thanks to the donations received from supporters of the University, including the Audrey Osborn Trust, The Headley Trust, Garfield Weston Foundation, Brunner Family Trust, RM & D Gregory, Eranda Foundation and John Desborough Memorial Bequest.

Applications are now closed for July and September 2012 applicants. We will be considering January and April 2013 applicants from Monday 17 September, the deadline for submission will be Friday 2 November.

The following Scholarships have specific entry criteria and / or deadlines:

• Sir Ray Tindle Scholarships
• The Paul E H Davis Awards Deadline for applications: 31 October 2012 for Exhibitions & flexible for Research Scholarship.

Entry requirements & procedure

It is the Universitys policy to ensure that bursaries and scholarships are awarded to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to benefit from a University education. In the case of some scholarships, at the request of the donor, academic merit will also be taken into consideration.

All awards are subject to your meeting the Universitys academic entry requirements and abiding by the rules and regulations. To be eligible to apply for a scholarship you will need to have been offered a place to study at Buckingham. In the case of UCAS applications, if you are made an award you will need to select Buckingham as your firm acceptance choice.

Please note: these awards are made to new students only, current students are not eligible to apply.

The Computing with Accounting and Finance undergraduate degree at the University of Buckingham offers students an integrated approach to developing strong technical skills in computing alongside a comprehensive understanding of accounting and financial principles. This innovative programme is designed to equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to excel in the fast-paced and evolving fields of technology, finance, and accounting. Throughout the course, students explore core areas such as programming, software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and systems management, while also gaining expertise in financial reporting, taxation, financial management, and auditing. The curriculum emphasizes the application of computing technologies to solve real-world financial problems, preparing students for careers in financial technology (fintech), accounting firms, banking, and other financial services sectors.

The programme is structured to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, combining theoretical instruction with practical projects, industry placements, and teamwork exercises. Students benefit from modern facilities, access to industry-standard software, and expert academic staff with extensive experience in computing and finance sectors. The university’s strong links with industry partners provide opportunities for internships and networking that can give students an edge in competitive job markets. Additionally, the course covers important topics such as data security, big data analytics, emerging financial technologies, and ethical considerations relevant to digital finance and accounting practices.

Students can also develop supplementary skills in business communication, presentation, and research, which are vital for professional success. The university encourages a collaborative learning environment that promotes innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, enabling students to undertake research projects or start own ventures related to finance and technology. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for employment or further postgraduate studies, with career options ranging from financial analyst, data analyst, and IT consultant to roles in accountancy firms, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions. The programme regularly updates its content to reflect industry trends and technological advances, ensuring graduates remain competitive in the global marketplace. Overall, Computing with Accounting and Finance at the University of Buckingham is a comprehensive degree designed to produce highly skilled, versatile graduates ready to meet the challenges of modern financial and technological environments.