Accounting and Finance
NN34Accountants are indispensable to every business; without them, a company would not know whether it was making a profit or a loss. But there’s so much more to modern accountancy than just balancing the books.
Course overview
Accountants are seen as business advisers, providing strategic financial guidance to senior executives, and are often cornerstones of criminal investigations. The people behind the successful conviction of Chicago crime boss Al Capone were none other than accountants!
Our hugely rewarding and highly useful Accounting and Finance course develops the technical knowledge and professional skills required for a modern finance professional in a complex, dynamic world in which technical roles are increasingly automated.
You are taught by academics with professional experience as accountants, who support your personal development and help kick-start rewarding and fulfilling careers in multiple fields.
Throughout the course, you develop a range of transferable abilities and professional practice skills highly valued by employers. These include critical evaluation, self-direction and problem-solving, as well as a sound grasp of analysis, presentations and negotiation techniques. Learning and teaching takes place in small class sizes to prepare you to work in management teams, and modules focus on applying theory to real business scenarios.
Before moving on to the final year, you may choose to spend a year on a paid work placement. A number of previous graduates took up well-paid trainee positions with large accounting firms such as Deloitte and PriceWaterhouseCoopers.
What you need to know
Course start date
September
Location
Winchester campus
Course length
- 3 years full-time
- 4 years sandwich
- 6 years part-time
Apply
NN34
Typical offer
104-120 points
Fees
From £9,250 pa
Course features
- Develop a systematic understanding of current issues in accounting to meet the needs of a globalised profession in the 21st century
- Option to spend a year on a paid work placement in business
- Receive exemptions from selected professional examinations of the main accounting institutes, depending on the choice of modules studied
- Accredited by The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
Course details
Our aim is to shape 'confident learners' by enabling you to develop the skills needed to excel in your studies here and as well as onto further studies or the employment market.
You are taught primarily through a combination of lectures and seminars, allowing opportunities to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups.
In addition to the formally scheduled contact time such as lectures and seminars, you are encouraged to access academic support from staff within the course team and the wide range of services available to you within the University.
Independent learning
Over the duration of your course, you will be expected to develop independent and critical learning, progressively building confidence and expertise through independent and collaborative research, problem-solving and analysis with the support of staff. You take responsibility for your own learning and are encouraged to make use of the wide range of available learning resources available.
Overall workload
Your overall workload consists of class contact hours, independent learning and assessment activity.
While your actual contact hours may depend on the optional modules you select, the following information gives an indication of how much time you will need to allocate to different activities at each level of the course.
Year 1 (Level 4): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 360 hours
Independent learning: 840 hours
Year 2 (Level 5): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 276 hours
Independent learning: 924 hours
Year 3 (Level 6): Timetabled teaching and learning activity*
Teaching, learning and assessment: 252 hours
Independent learning: 948 hours
*Please note these are indicative hours for the course.
Teaching hours
All class based teaching takes places between 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday during term time. Wednesday afternoons are kept free from timetabled teaching for personal study time and for sports clubs and societies to train, meet and play matches. There may be some occasional learning opportunities (for example, an evening guest lecturer or performance) that take places outside of these hours for which you will be given forewarning.
Our validated courses may adopt a range of means of assessing your learning. An indicative, and not necessarily comprehensive, list of assessment types you might encounter includes essays, portfolios, supervised independent work, presentations, written exams, or practical performances.
We ensure all students have an equal opportunity to achieve module learning outcomes. As such, where appropriate and necessary, students with recognised disabilities may have alternative assignments set that continue to test how successfully they have met the module's learning outcomes. Further details on assessment types used on the course you are interested in can be found on the course page, by attending an Open Day or Open Evening, or contacting our teaching staff.
Percentage of the course assessed by coursework
The assessment balance between examination and coursework depends to some extent on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessed by different assessment modes is as follows:
Year 1 (Level 4)*:
8% coursework
92% written exams
0% practical exams
Year 2 (Level 5)*:
42% coursework
58% written exams
0% practical exams
Year 3 (Level 6)*:
25% coursework
75% written exams
0% practical exams
*Please note these are indicative percentages and modes for the programme.
Modules
Please note the modules listed are correct at the time of publishing. The University cannot guarantee the availability of all modules listed and modules may be subject to change. The University will notify applicants of any changes made to the core modules listed. For further information please refer to winchester.ac.uk/termsandconditions
Modules
This module aims to provide an introduction to the main technical language and practices of financial accounting and to the application of this knowledge to different forms of business organisation. With a focus on using the IASB’s Conceptual Framework and accounting for transactions and events from first principles, students will develop their conceptual understanding of accounting, their knowledge of the main accounting terminology and their awareness of the nature and purpose of financial reporting.
Management accounting is a specialised service function primarily involving the collection, storage and recording of financial data, its conversion to useful information and the effective communication of this information. This information assists management in a complex and dynamic business environment to make optimal business decisions.
This module is an assessment module which requires students to demonstrate some of the programme level learning outcomes at level 4 and some of the module level learning outcomes at level 4 in the context of an integrated assessment.
This module aims to introduce the core concepts and key topics areas of business finance and financial environment. It will enable students to develop knowledge and understanding of how the financial markets operate, evaluate alternative sources of finance available to a business, analyse the cost of different sources of finance used by a company and the weighted average cost of capital. Students will also learn how to apply the cost of capital in the investment appraisal process and evaluate the investment projects using the main investment appraisal methods.
This module aims to provide students with a holistic view of how an entity’s performance can be affected by both its own internal operating environment and the external environment. Students will study various aspects of management theory, external environment mapping and uses of technology by finance professionals. In a complex, dynamic business environment, finance professionals must focus on their flexibility, resilience and relationship-building skills in order to develop their own career and add value to their clients or employers. Professional skills are a key part of the modern business environment; this module will enable students to explore professional skills frameworks and think critically about their own skills development.
Module content TBC
Whatever a student’s future career, there are certain professional skills that are required in the workplace. This module provides opportunities to acquire and apply essential skills for academic success, while also developing digital skills that are a prerequisite for a successful career.
Students will practice, and build confidence in wide ranging skills, as part of their transition into higher education. By establishing and pursuing a personal development plan, students develop a set of personal qualities such as self-awareness, confidence and resilience; and professional skills such as communication, teamwork, risk management, coaching and feedback. Whilst students learn to construct outstanding CVs and professional LinkedIn profiles, this module also aims to raise students’ digital skills competencies. The module will cover the general Microsoft Office suite and specific digital skills of particular relevance to the discipline that the student is studying. This module is taught as a mix of lectures, practitioner guest lectures, hands-on skills seminars and computer lab sessions.
Modules
This module aims to develop knowledge and skills in understanding and applying IFRS in the preparation of financial statements. This module acts as an introduction to corporate financial reporting and relies on and develops technical knowledge and academic skills acquired at level 4.
In a rapidly changing work environment, adaptability is seen as a key skill for career success and longevity.
This module seeks to promote the core skills that will enable students to secure a fulfilling, enjoyable and challenging graduate career. Students will develop a keen awareness of their individual knowledge, skills and experience acquired throughout their Degree programme and will learn how to effectively communicate these attributes to demonstrate employability and advance them in their chosen career path.
The practice of reflection will underpin the module to support students’ identification of their knowledge, skills and experiences and highlight areas for meaningful development.
The module aims to develop students’ knowledge of investment appraisal techniques, valuation techniques and dividend policy. Students will learn how financial markets operate and how to evaluate the alternative sources of finance available to a business. The module builds on students’ knowledge of finance and financial management from Level 4, as well as preparing students to study more advanced aspects of financial risk management and investing at Level 6.
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
- Data Analysis - 15 credits
- Financial Modelling - 15 credits
- Be Your Own Boss - 15 credits
Optional
This module aims to develop knowledge and skills in understanding and applying IFRS in the preparation of financial statements. This module acts as an introduction to corporate financial reporting and relies on and develops technical knowledge and academic skills acquired at level 4.
In a rapidly changing work environment, adaptability is seen as a key skill for career success and longevity.
This module seeks to promote the core skills that will enable students to secure a fulfilling, enjoyable and challenging graduate career. Students will develop a keen awareness of their individual knowledge, skills and experience acquired throughout their Degree programme and will learn how to effectively communicate these attributes to demonstrate employability and advance them in their chosen career path.
The practice of reflection will underpin the module to support students’ identification of their knowledge, skills and experiences and highlight areas for meaningful development.
The module aims to develop students’ knowledge of investment appraisal techniques, valuation techniques and dividend policy. Students will learn how financial markets operate and how to evaluate the alternative sources of finance available to a business. The module builds on students’ knowledge of finance and financial management from Level 4, as well as preparing students to study more advanced aspects of financial risk management and investing at Level 6.
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
- Data Analysis - 15 credits
- Financial Modelling - 15 credits
- Be Your Own Boss - 15 credits
Modules
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
Module content TBC
- Advanced Financial Reporting - 15 credits
- Contemporary Issues in Accounting and Finance - 15 credits
- Business and Corporate Taxation - 15 credits
- Strategic Leadership and Governance - 15 credits
- Volunteering - 15 credits
- Digital Finance - 15 credits
Entry requirements
Our offers are typically made using UCAS tariff points to allow you to include a range of level 3 qualifications and as a guide, the requirements for this course are equivalent to:
- A-Levels: BCC-BBB from 3 A Levels or equivalent grade combinations (e.g. BBB is comparable to ABC in terms of tariff points)
- BTEC/CTEC: DMM from BTEC or Cambridge Technical (CTEC) qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: To include a minimum of 2 Higher Level certificates at grade H4
- T Level: Merit in a T Level
Additionally, we accept tariff points achieved for many other qualifications, such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, UAL Diploma/Extended Diploma and WJEC Applied Certificate/Diploma, to name a few. We also accept tariff points from smaller level 3 qualifications, up to a maximum of 32, from qualifications like the Extended Project (EP/EPQ), music or dance qualifications. To find out more about UCAS tariff points, including what your qualifications are worth, please visit UCAS.
In addition to level 3 study, the following GCSE’s are required:
GCSEs in Mathematics and English Language at grade 4 or C, or higher. Functional Skills at level 2 is accepted as an alternative, however Key Skills qualifications are not. If you hold another qualification, please get in touch and we will advise further.
If you will be over the age of 21 years of age at the beginning of your undergraduate study, you will be considered as a mature student. This means our offer may be different and any work or life experiences you have will be considered together with any qualifications you hold. UCAS have further information about studying as a mature student on their website which may be of interest.
If English is not your first language, a formal English language test will most likely be required and you will need to achieve the following:
- IELTS Academic at 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in all four components (for year 1 entry)
- We also accept other English language qualifications, such as IELTS Indicator, Pearson PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and TOEFL iBT
If you are living outside of the UK or Europe, you can find out more about how to join this course by contacting our International Recruitment Team via our International Apply Pages.
2024 Course Tuition Fees
| UK / Channel Islands / Isle of Man / Republic of Ireland |
International |
|
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 2 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Year 3 | £9,250 | £16,700 |
| Total | £27,750 | £50,100 |
| Optional Sandwich Year* | £1,850 | £3,340 |
| Total with Sandwich Year | £29,600 | £53,440 |
Additional tuition fee information
If you are a UK student starting your degree in September 2024, the first year will cost you £9,250**. Based on this fee level, the indicative fees for a three-year degree would be £27,750 for UK students.
Remember, you don’t have to pay any of this upfront if you are able to get a tuition fee loan from the UK Government to cover the full cost of your fees each year.
UK Part-Time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £77.08 and a 15 credit module is £1,156. Part-time students can take up to a maximum 90 credits per year, so the maximum fee in a given year will be the government permitted maximum fee of £6,935.
International part-time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis of the full-time fee for a 120 credit course. The fee for a single credit is £139.14 and a 15 credit module is £2,087.
* Please note that not all courses offer an optional sandwich year.
**The University of Winchester will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
Additional costs
As one of our students all of your teaching and assessments are included in your tuition fees, including, lectures/guest lectures and tutorials, seminars, laboratory sessions and specialist teaching facilities. You will also have access to a wide range of student support and IT services.
There might be additional costs you may encounter whilst studying. The following highlights optional costs for this course:
Optional
Core Text: it is recommended that students purchase the latest editions of all of the core textbooks. Many of these texts relate to extensive online material for which you require an access code supplied with the textbook. It is possible for students to purchase second-hand copies where applicable. Indicative cost is £50 - £200 per year.
Volunteering and Placements: students may incur travel costs on optional volunteering placements in the second or third year of study. Indicative cost is £5 - £30 per day.
The University is pleased to offer our students a printing allowance of £5 each academic year. This will print around 125 A4 (black and white) pages. If students wish to print more, printer credit can be topped up by the student. The University and Student Union are champions of sustainability and we ask all our students to consider the environmental impact before printing.
Smart Clothing: students may be expected to dress formally for oral assessments. Costs will vary depending on the students existing wardrobe. Indicative cost is £0 - £50.
SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS
We have a variety of scholarship and bursaries available to support you financially with the cost of your course. To see if you’re eligible, please see our Scholarships and Awards.
CAREER PROSPECTS
Careers
Many of our Accounting graduates take up trainee accounting positions with accounting firms or departments and go on to become professionally qualified accountants. Others choose to enter a wide range of business careers such as banking, insurance, financial services and general management. Recent employers of accounting graduates include Deloitte, RSM, Ordnance Survey, Larking Gowen, Aztec Group and PKF Francis Clark.
The University of Winchester ranks in the top 10 in the UK for graduates in employment or further study according to the Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021, HESA.
Accreditation
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) all offer graduates of this programme exemptions from some professional examinations.
Pre-approved for a Masters
If you study a Bachelor Honours Degree with us, you will be pre-approved to start a Masters degree at Winchester. To be eligible, you will need to apply by the end of March in the final year of your degree and meet the entry requirements of your chosen Masters degree.
OUR CAREERS SERVICE
“My lecturers still show me so much support. they know you by name and as a person, rather than just a number"
