MSc in Accounting

Program Overview

The MSc in Accounting at the National College of Ireland is a one-year program designed for non-accounting graduates seeking a professional accounting career. It provides a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices, with a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making. Graduates gain professional exemptions from recognized accounting bodies and are well-positioned for careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, financial services, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The MSc in Accounting at the National College of Ireland (NCI) is a one-year, Level 9 program designed to provide candidates with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices.
The program is particularly suitable for individuals with non-accounting undergraduate degrees who aspire to pursue a professional accounting career.
• Objectives: The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and professional recognition necessary to embark on a successful career in the field of accountancy.
It focuses on developing a critical and analytical approach to problem-solving in accounting contexts, enhancing skills in interpreting, analyzing, and communicating financial and other relevant information. Graduates will gain a broader business perspective, delve into effective leadership practices, corporate governance, and ethical issues, while also developing an understanding of business intelligence and data governance.
• Program Description: The program comprises six core modules (5 credits each) in Semesters 1 and 2.
Students can choose between two pathways: Pathway A: Includes a 10-credit Research Methods module over Semesters 1 and 2, culminating in a 20-credit Dissertation in Semester 3. Pathway B: Offers three 10-credit elective modules in Semester 3: Critical Perspectives in Accounting, Effective Leadership in the Organisation, and Accounting in Practice.

Outline:

• Content: The MSc in Accounting curriculum provides students with critical competencies essential for professional accountants in today's dynamic business environment.
Core modules cover a wide range of accounting topics, including:
• Financial Accounting
• Taxation
• Audit and Assurance
• Company Law
• Financial Management
• Management Accounting
• Financial Reporting
• Advanced Taxation
• Advanced Financial Management
• Performance Management
• Corporate Governance and Ethics
• Business Intelligence
• Structure: The program follows a structured format, with students completing the core modules in Semesters 1 and 2.
In Semester 3, students choose between Pathway A or Pathway B.
• Course Schedule: Classes are typically held on weekdays (Monday to Friday) between 09.00-17.00.
Full-time students may occasionally have classes after 5pm. Class days and times vary, and all modules are delivered on-campus.
• Module Descriptions: Detailed descriptions of each module are available in the module descriptors provided by NCI.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a practical and applied learning approach, fostering a strong theoretical foundation while emphasizing the application of knowledge in real-world situations.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in accounting and related fields.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates industry input and collaborations, ensuring that it aligns with current industry practices and trends.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the MSc in Accounting are well-positioned to pursue careers in various accounting fields, including:
• Public accounting
• Corporate accounting
• Financial services
• Auditing
• Taxation
• Opportunities: The program enhances graduates' career prospects by providing professional exemptions from recognized accounting bodies such as ACCA, Chartered Accountants Ireland, CIMA, and CPA.
• Outcomes: Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional recognition to succeed as professional accountants, effectively contributing to the accounting profession and the wider business world.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• Course Fee: €9,400 total fee (EU/Ireland applicants, fees revised annually)
• International Students' Fees:
• The course fee for international students for September 2024 is €15,000.
• From the January 2025 intake onwards, the course fee for international students will be €17,000.
• Fees will be revised annually.