Program Overview

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Introduction to the MSc Accounting and Finance Program

The MSc Accounting and Finance program at Birmingham City University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting and finance principles, as well as the practical skills needed to succeed in these fields. The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and is taught by professionally qualified academics with significant industrial and professional experience.

Program Overview

The MSc Accounting and Finance program is a postgraduate taught program that can be completed in one year full-time or 18 months with a professional placement. The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of accounting and finance principles, as well as the ability to apply these principles in a practical setting.

Key Features of the Program

• The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
• Taught by professionally qualified academics with significant industrial and professional experience
• Available with a professional placement option
• Open to international students
• Offers a high level of flexibility in terms of module choices

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the MSc Accounting and Finance program, applicants must meet the following essential requirements:

• A minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in Accountancy, Accounting and Finance, or a business-related area with significant accounting-related content from a UK institution or international equivalent
• ACCA Papers F1-9 / CIMA Operational and Management Levels (or equivalent)
• A full professional accountancy qualification (APEL may be available)
• A pre-Master's program approved by Birmingham City University

English Language Requirements

Applicants must also meet the English language requirements, which include:

• IELTS 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band, or equivalent

Fees and Funding

The tuition fees for the MSc Accounting and Finance program are as follows:

• UK students: £12,880 (2026/27)
• International students: £18,970 (2026/27)
• Professional placement option: £14,170 (2026/27) for UK students and £20,865 (2026/27) for international students

Funding Opportunities

There are several funding opportunities available to students, including:

• Graduate Scholarship: a 20% fee reduction for BCU graduates
• Master's loans: government-backed loans of up to £12,858
• Other funding opportunities: scholarships, loans, and bursaries offered by external organizations

Course Structure

The MSc Accounting and Finance program consists of the following modules:

• Advanced Management Accounting (20 credits)
• Project and Relationship Management (20 credits)
• Systems for Accountants (20 credits)
• Strategic Management (20 credits)
• Strategic Risk Management (20 credits)
• Financial Strategy (20 credits)
• Integrated Case Study (60 credits)
• Professional Placement (60 credits)

Employability

The MSc Accounting and Finance program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. The program has a strong focus on employability, with opportunities for students to gain practical experience through professional placements and industry-led projects.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Accounting and Finance program can pursue a range of career opportunities, including:

• Accountancy and finance roles in industry and practice
• Management consulting
• Financial analysis and planning
• Risk management and internal audit

Facilities and Staff

The MSc Accounting and Finance program is based in the Curzon Building, a £63 million development located on the university's City Centre campus. The building features state-of-the-art facilities, including a trading room, a marketing link agency, and a range of IT facilities.

Academic Staff

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics, including:

• Scott Pargetter, Senior Teaching Fellow
• Paul Withers, Senior Teaching Fellow
• Dr. Issahaku Salifu, Lecturer in Accounting
• Vijay Ramachandran, Senior Lecturer
• Professor John Fenner, Associate Professor in Accounting and Finance