Accountancy is a multidisciplinary field that teaches you to record, classify, and report on a business's financial transactions. It also provides management feedback on an organisation's financial performance and status.
The process of recording and summarising financial data is called ‘bookkeeping’. Its purpose is to forecast a company's future economic developments, analyse its areas of business, and evaluate its potential. The UK, one of the world's biggest study hubs, is home to some of the world's best accounting universities.
Studying accountancy in the UK will provide students with:
- Flexible study options, along with placement-centric courses, also known as sandwich courses
- The opportunity to study at the biggest financial hubs of the world
- The chance to benefit from partnerships with some of the biggest companies in the world, which means better placement opportunities
Learn more about studying accountancy in the UK below, and if you would like to begin your application, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
Best Accounting Courses and Universities in the UK
The UK is home to some of the world’s best universities for accounting subjects. According to the Guardian University Guide 2024, here is the list of the top 10 best universities for accounting degrees in the UK.
1. London School of Economics
At the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), the BSc Accounting & Finance programme stands out for its international environment. As part of the prestigious Russell Group, LSE consistently ranks among the world's best universities. The programme uniquely blends accounting and finance with core social sciences, offering a holistic perspective.
Students delve into the intricate connections between accounting, accountability, financial management, risk, sustainability, governance, and more. This approach makes LSE graduates highly sought after globally, landing diverse roles in professional accountancy, investment banking, consultancy, and beyond. Successful completion may also lead to exemptions from professional accountancy exams.
- Suggested course: BSc Accounting & Finance
- Entry requirements: IB diploma - 38 points overall. 766 in higher-level subjects, including 6 in higher-level mathematics.
- International fee: £27,192
2. University of Warwick
The University of Warwick is a leading UK university which consistently ranks in the top 10 across all major university league tables. Warwick offers world-class programmes across various disciplines, state-of-the-art facilities, and student services. One of the pioneer universities of the UK, the University of Warwick is ranked in the top 10 by major league tables, including the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 and Guardian University Guide 2024.
- Suggested course: Accounting and Finance
- Entry requirements: IB diploma 38 points to include 5 in Higher Level Mathematics (either 'Analysis and Approaches' or 'Applications and Interpretation').
- International fee: £31,620
3. Durham University
Durham University stands out for its MSc in Accounting, tailored for graduates new to the field. This programme, hosted by Durham University Business School, covers key accounting areas, fostering a global perspective on finance and business. It deepens your understanding of accounting theory and practice and hones critical thinking skills like decision-making. With state-of-the-art facilities, Durham's Business School has an international reputation for excellence. Moreover, the programme offers professional exemptions from ACCA and CIMA, adding a valuable edge to your career in accounting.
- Suggested course: MSc Accounting
- Entry requirements: A UK first or upper-second-class honours degree.
- International fee: £32,750
4. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is renowned for innovation and pioneering research and is consistently targeted by the UK’s top employers. Among current and former staff and students, the University currently has 25 Nobel Prize winners, and 91% of Manchester’s recent graduates go straight into employment or continue their studies. In the prestigious Shanghai Jiao Tong Academic Ranking of World Universities, the University of Manchester is ranked 33rd in the world and sixth in the UK.
- Suggested course: BSc Business Accounting with Industrial Experience
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 36 points overall. 6,6,6 in Higher Level subjects.
- International fee: £30,000
5. Bangor University
The MSc Accounting at Bangor University is your gateway to success, offering a unique CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) specialist pathway. You'll gain skills to ace the CFA Level 1 exam, a prestigious accomplishment for both September and January intakes. Completing this programme grants 11 exemptions from CIMA exams, boosting your professional credentials.
Focused on decision-making in and out of organisations, the curriculum covers advanced topics like international taxation, financial analysis, and corporate risk management. With a strong emphasis on practical application, Bangor equips you to tackle complex accounting issues effectively.
- Suggested course: MSc Accounting
- Entry requirements: A good first degree at 2(ii) or higher or equivalent from a university or another approved degree-awarding body.
- International fee: £17,000
6. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the world's largest and most prestigious universities and is currently ranked within the top 20 in the QS World University Rankings. The University consists of more than 22 schools and 6,000+ international students enrolled. The Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021) results show that almost 90% of Edinburgh's research falls into the top categories – 4-star and 3-star. These are labelled as 'world-leading' and 'internationally excellent,' marking a 10% increase from the 2014 REF evaluation.
- Suggested course: MA Accounting and Finance
- Entry requirements: SQA Highers: AAAAA (achievement by end of S5 preferred). BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S5. A Levels: A*AA. IB: 39 points with 666 at HL.
- International fee: £26,500
7. University of Aberdeen
Begin a rewarding career in finance with the MSc Accounting and Finance programme at the University of Aberdeen. Whether you're a recent graduate or already working, this specialised one-year conversion programme equips you with essential skills for the financial sector.
Led by expert academics and industry practitioners, you'll delve into both theory and practical knowledge, mastering financial tools and key topics. The programme's industry focus ensures you're well-prepared for diverse roles, with workshops and projects offering real-world insights from renowned companies like Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, and EY.
- Suggested course: MSc Accounting and Finance
- Entry requirements: 2:2 (lower second class) UK Honours level (or a degree from a non-UK institution judged by the University to be of equivalent worth).
- International fee: £27,000
8. University of West London
Choose excellence in accounting and finance at the University of West London (UWL), where courses rank #1 in the UK for satisfaction. Recognised as a top 30% university nationwide and the best for student experience and teaching quality, UWL stands out.
UWL’s programme, guided by professional accountants, ensures knowledge and practical skills. Designed for success, it maximises exemptions from exams by prestigious bodies like ACCA, potentially accelerating your journey to a professional qualification. Join UWL for a leading-edge education and a competitive edge in the financial job market.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- Entry requirements: 112-120 UCAS points are required from level 3 qualifications; A-Levels at grades B, B, and C, or above.
- International fee: £14,250
9. University College London
The BSc in Statistics, Economics, and Finance at UCL is a unique blend of statistics, economics, and finance, creating a solid foundation in quantitative techniques vital for a finance career. UCL, located in London, the financial capital of Europe, provides proximity to major financial institutions.
Ranked 5th in the UK for Statistics and Operational Research, UCL ensures an excellent education, with diverse research interests enriching teaching. Benefit from small-group teaching and personal attention in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
- Suggested course: BSc Statistics, Economics and Finance
- Entry requirements: IB diploma 39 points; with a total of 19 points in three higher level subjects, including grade 7 in Mathematics, with no higher level score below 5.
- International fee: £37,500
10. Liverpool John Moores University
At Liverpool John Moores University, the BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance programme is one of the top 10 courses in the UK, recognised by the Guardian League Table. Delivered by tutors trained at prestigious firms like Deloitte and Ernst & Young, the course offers professional accreditation from major accountancy bodies.
With 97% of students praising teaching quality and accolades like the 'Outstanding Course Team' award, LJMU stands out. Gain real-world experience through industry placements, study abroad options, and secure exemptions from professional accountancy exams. LJMU's strong business links enhance your learning experience.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- Entry requirements: GCSEs and equivalents: Grade 4 or C or above in English Language and Mathematics/ Numeracy.
- International fee: £17,750
Study Accountancy in the UK
Book your free consultation with SI-UK London today to learn more about the best accounting university in the UK.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to study accounting in the UK?
To study accounting in the UK, you typically need A-levels or equivalent qualifications. You must also have strong grades in math, and business-related subjects are often preferred.
Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for accounting?
Universities like Liverpool John Moores, Bangor, or UWL have comparatively higher acceptance rates for accounting subjects.
How can I get a full scholarship to study accounting in the UK?
It is quite competitive to get full scholarships for accounting programmes in the UK; however, you can explore options like government scholarships, private foundations, or scholarships offered by specific universities. Academic excellence, relevant work or volunteer experience, and a compelling personal statement can strengthen your scholarship application.
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