Where can I Study Taxation in the UK? International Student Guide

Taxation is a vital aspect of any economy, leading to a surge in demand for skilled professionals to manage it efficiently. UK universities offer various taxation-focused degrees, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge for success in this field. Popular taxation courses include bachelor's and master's degrees in taxation, accounting and finance, business administration, and law with taxation. 

Taxation courses cover a broad spectrum of topics: tax law, policy and practice, tax planning, financial reporting, and auditing. Graduates have access to numerous career paths, such as tax consultants, financial advisors, tax accountants, and tax lawyers. The UK's strong economic standing offers diverse employment opportunities in private and public sectors, with graduates finding work in accounting firms, financial institutions, and government agencies.

Top 10 UK Universities to Get a Taxation Degree

1. London School of Economics

The MSc Accounting and Finance at LSE boasts a prestigious five-year reputation, offering a comprehensive and rigorous study of essential accounting and finance topics. Suitable for those seeking careers in business, consulting, and finance, as well as academic research in accounting or finance. 

Prior academic knowledge in financial reporting, management accounting, finance, economics, and quantitative methods is assumed, and additional courses may be required to strengthen the background. Specialisation pathways in finance, international accounting and finance, or accounting and financial management are available.

• Course to consider: MSc Accounting and Finance
• Entry requirements: 2:1 degree or equivalent in accounting and finance or related subject.
• International fees: £34,128

2. University of Warwick

The Accounting and Finance MSc at Warwick Business School offers a comprehensive and specialised study of accounting and finance. Ranked 6th most targeted university by top employers, the MSc delves into current theories and advanced techniques. Students explore the impact of accounting decisions on markets and companies, studying accounting within a broader social context.

• Course to consider: Accounting and Finance (MSc)
• Entry requirements: First Class Honours degree or a high 2:i undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a related subject.
• International fees: £32,250

3. University of Aberdeen

The Accountancy MA at the University of Aberdeen offers a comprehensive education in theory, practice, and business skills, taught by accounting experts with real-life employer integration. Students gain a pathway to professional accreditation and acquire the necessary skills and experience for success in the dynamic world of business and finance. 

Close links with employers, real-life business scenarios, and access to professional training facilities like the Bloomberg Finance Lab enhance the learning experience. The curriculum covers various essential topics, including finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, sustainability, audit theory, and public sector accounting, providing students with a well-rounded education in the field of accountancy.

• Course to consider: Accountancy, MA
• Entry requirements: A level- Standard: BBB. International Baccalaureate - 32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL. SQA Highers Standard: AABB
• International fees: £20,800

4. University of Edinburgh

The MA in Accounting and Finance at the University of Edinburgh is designed to equip students with the skills to tackle contemporary business, government, and non-profit challenges. Taught by industry professionals and researchers, the programme focuses on personal and professional development, fostering qualities like authentic leadership, ethical behaviour, sustainability, and effective communication.

• Course to consider: 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 fees: £24,500

5. University of Bath

The Accounting and Finance MSc at the University of Bath offers an in-depth understanding of accounting and finance theory, preparing graduates for successful careers in either field. Students work with industry experts, exploring topical issues in finance practice and developing sought-after skills, including programming, financial modelling, and FinTech applications. The course offers two options for the summer term: completing a dissertation or participating in an internship. Optional units allow customisation of the degree, while collaboration with international students fosters global insights.

• Course to consider: Accounting and Finance MSc
• Entry requirements: 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) undergraduate degree. Your degree can be in any discipline, but a quantitative background/aptitude is required.
• International fees: £29,500

6. University of Glasgow

The MAcc in International Accounting & Financial Management at Glasgow provides students with practical and theoretical accounting and financial management knowledge. It emphasises internal corporate management, external corporate reporting, and financial markets, fostering critical thinking about the financial business environment. 

The curriculum comprises four core courses and two optional courses, with a significant dissertation on an accounting-related theme. Core courses cover topics such as international corporate finance, financial accounting for multinational companies, management accounting, and accounting research. Optional courses include business ethics, international corporate reporting, audit and risk management, climate finance, and equity valuation. 

• Course to consider: International Accounting & Financial Management [MAcc]
• Entry requirements: 2.1 Honours degree or non-UK equivalent in any subject, with at least five courses in accounting or finance.
• International fees: £32,850

7. Bangor University

The Accounting and Finance BSc (Hons) at Bangor University offers a well-rounded three-year curriculum. In the first year, students cover topics like Economics, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, and Business Analytics, with optional modules available in Financial Techniques and Analysis and Personal Finance and Banking. 

Year two focuses on management accounting and corporate finance and offers optional modules in various areas, including econometrics and investment and portfolio management. Year three includes modules on taxation and optional topics like corporate governance, financial statement analysis, and fintech in banking and finance. Students can choose optional modules from various disciplines within the Business School or the University, subject to scheduling and prerequisites.

• Course to consider: BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
• Entry requirements: 104 - 136 tariff points from a Level 3 qualification. International Baccalaureate Diploma: accepted, pass required.
• International fees: £16,000

8. Durham University

BSc Accounting at Durham University offers a comprehensive three-year curriculum. In the first year, students cover Business Law for Accountants, providing an understanding of English law principles and its implications on businesses. Principles of Taxation introduces basic tax calculations and advice for individuals and companies. 

The second year focuses on Financial Management, Performance Management, and an in-depth study of Taxation. Year three includes Corporate Reporting, Tax Planning for Business, Corporate Governance, and Audit and Assurance modules, providing students with essential knowledge and skills for a successful career in accounting and finance.

• Course to consider: BSc Accounting
• Entry requirements: A-level offer - AAB. IB score - 36 to include 665 in higher-level subjects. If Mathematics is not taken at a higher level, then it is required at standard level 6.
• International fees: TBA

9. University of Leeds

The Banking and Finance BSc at the University of Leeds offers a comprehensive three-year curriculum. In the first year, students learn the fundamentals of finance and financial information analysis, supplemented by mathematics and economics. The second year includes compulsory modules on banking systems and commercial banking, along with specialised options like credit analytics and management accounting. The final year involves a research dissertation, financial analysis, and compulsory modules covering investment banking, risk management, international banking, and financial derivatives.

• Course to consider: Banking and Finance BSc
• Entry requirements: A-level: AAA. GCSE: 5 GCSEs at grade C/4 or higher, including Mathematics grade A/7 and English Language grade B/6 or equivalent, or an appropriate English language qualification.
• International fees: TBA

10. University of Strathclyde

The BA Economics & Finance degree at the University of Strathclyde Business School offers a comprehensive curriculum. In the first year, students study various business disciplines and core modules in international business, business knowledge, and academic skills. From the second year, they specialise in their chosen subjects. The Management Development Programme (MDP) is a key component, encouraging active problem-based learning and integration of business knowledge. 

• Course to consider: BA Hons Economics & Finance
• Entry requirements: Highers Standard entry requirements*: 1st sitting: AAAA/AAABB 2nd sitting: AAAABB. A Levels ABB-BBB. International Baccalaureate 32-30
• International fees: £17,400

Study a Taxation Course in the UK

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Taxation Degree FAQ

Where can I learn tax in the UK?

Universities such as LSE and Warwick Business School offer specialised tax courses in their accounting and finance programmes. Professional tax qualifications like the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or the Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA) from the Chartered Institute of Taxation provide comprehensive tax knowledge. Accounting firms and tax consultancy firms also offer training for aspiring tax professionals.

How do I become a tax accountant in the UK?

To become a tax accountant in the UK, you typically need a relevant degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. After completing your degree, gaining practical experience in tax-related roles, such as working in the tax department of a company or a tax consultancy firm, is crucial. Pursuing professional qualifications like ACCA or CTA will enhance your knowledge and credibility as a tax professional.

What is a master's degree in tax in the UK?

A master's degree in tax in the UK offers advanced and specialised education in taxation. It delves deep into various tax-related topics, including tax law, planning, policy, and international taxation. Students develop a strong understanding of complex tax issues, preparing them for challenging tax positions in corporations, consulting firms, or governmental organisations.

Which course is best for a tax consultant?

For practical tax skills, courses leading to the CTA qualification are highly regarded in the industry. Additionally, pursuing specialised Master's degrees in taxation can provide in-depth knowledge and a competitive edge in the job market.

Which degree is best for taxation?

For a successful career in taxation, degrees in accounting, finance, economics, or business administration are highly relevant. These degrees provide a solid foundation in financial principles and business concepts, which are crucial in understanding tax implications. Moreover, acquiring professional qualifications like ACCA, CTA, or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can significantly enhance expertise and career prospects in the field of taxation.

How do I study taxation?

To study taxation, consider enrolling in tax-related courses at reputable universities. Many institutions offer specialised tax courses, covering topics like tax law, policy, international taxation, and tax planning. Online platforms also offer various tax-related courses, enabling individuals to study at their own pace and gain essential knowledge in taxation.

What is the job description of a tax consultant?

A tax consultant is crucial in providing expert advice on tax-related matters to individuals and businesses. They analyse financial data, assess tax liabilities, assist in tax planning, and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations.