Top Five UK Universities for a Master's in Accounting

A master's in accounting allows international students to improve their career prospects by equipping them with skills and knowledge that they will need to build a future in the accounts and finance industry.

Be it for academic progress or forging a career as an accountant, a master’s degree in accounting courses helps students understand how financial decisions are made in a business environment and their repercussions on the broader society of financial and corporate decision-making.

The UK is home to 45,000+ accounting firms, 300+ banks and 3.1 million companies, meaning career opportunities for accountancy graduates are plenty. 16 out of the top 100 universities in the world for studying accounting and finance courses are also in the UK (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).

Learn more about postgraduate accounting courses below and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

Gaining an MS Accounting Degree

To study for an MS accounting degree in the UK, students must first study for an MSc in Accounting and Finance, the most popular master's degree in accounting. However, universities like Cambridge provide the Master of Accounting (MAcc).

To study for an MSc in Accounting and Finance, candidates need sound technical accounting knowledge and have completed their bachelor’s degree in accounting or relevant courses. At the master’s level, students will be provided with theoretical and practical knowledge to help them build and brush up their existing skills and accounting knowledge. The course is designed to improve intellectual and transferable skills, including presentation, analysis, appraisal, and research skills. 

After completing the course, students will be familiar with the theoretical complexities of accounts and finance. Candidates will also earn the required theoretical knowledge and practical skills to resolve the day-to-day issues as an accountant.

- Entry requirements for Master's in Accounting

Applicants must have a first or upper-second-class honours degree (2:1, with a 60% average) in accounting to study postgraduate courses in accounting across any UK university. Students also need to secure a good GMAT or GRE and anticipate a well-balanced score with a strong performance in the quantitative sections.

- Documents required for Master's in Accounting

• Personal statement
• Transcripts of all educational qualifications
• Updated CV
• Passport copy
• Passport size photographs
• Financial documents (loans taken, income tax details, bank statements)

- Cost of studying a Master's in Accounting

The cost of a master’s in accounting depends on the course types and fees. The average fee ranges from £14,000 to £65,150.

Top Five UK Universities for Master's in Accounting 

According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the top universities to study master's in accounting in the UK are:

1. University of Oxford

Renowned globally for its academic and research prowess, the University of Oxford is among the highly acclaimed universities for accounting studies. Located in the historic city of Oxford, this institution offers a Master of Science in Taxation, providing students with an in-depth understanding of financial reporting, auditing, and corporate finance. Oxford graduates are highly sought-after by top accounting firms and financial institutions globally.

• Suggested course: MSc in Taxation
• Entry requirements: A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours.
• International fee: £18,000

2. London School of Economics and Political Science

Located in the heart of London, LSE is renowned for its economics, finance, and accounting expertise. The institution offers a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance, attracting ambitious students from around the globe. LSE's programme focuses on critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing graduates for accounting, consulting, and financial analysis roles across various sectors.

• Suggested course: MSc Accounting and Finance
• Entry requirements: An upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or equivalent in accounting and finance or a related subject.
• International fee: £36,168

3. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge offers a Master of Philosophy in Accounting, a programme highly regarded for its interdisciplinary approach and cutting-edge research in accounting theory and practice. Situated in the picturesque city of Cambridge, students benefit from access to leading experts in the field and unparalleled networking opportunities with industry leaders.

• Suggested course: MPhil in Finance
• Entry requirements: A UK First class Honours Degree or equivalent.
• International fee: £30,991

4. London Business School

As one of the world's top business schools, LBS offers a Master of Science in Accounting and Financial Management, blending rigorous academic training with practical insights from industry practitioners. Situated in the vibrant city of London, students benefit from LBS's extensive corporate connections and access to London's financial hub, enhancing their career prospects in accounting and beyond.

• Suggested course: Masters in Finance
• Entry requirements: A relevant GMAT/GRE score with work experience.
• International fee: £62,500

5. Imperial College London

Known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, Imperial College London offers a Master of Science in Accounting and Finance, integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications in accounting and financial management. Located in London, students at Imperial benefit from a dynamic learning environment and opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in technology and finance.

• Suggested course: MSc Finance & Accounting
• Entry requirements: First or 2:1 in a quantitative discipline such as Finance, Accounting, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, Science or Business.
• International fee: £45,400

Study Master's in Accounting in the UK

To learn more about studying for a master's in accounting in the UK, arrange your free consultation with SI-UK London today.