Financial Management and Accounting BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
HNC/HND courses
Two students looking at a small screen between them

The Financial Management and Accounting BA (Hons) course aims to provide you with a solid grounding for building a career in accounting and finance.

Course option

Year of entry

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years sandwich
3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC
Flexible part-time

UCAS codes

392N / 393N / 394N

Start date

April 2024
June 2024

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
Contact us

Course overview

The Financial Management and Accounting BA (Hons) degree aims to enable you to make a valid contribution to managerial and accounting functions of any organisation such as sole traders, firms of partnerships, private and public companies, and charitable organisations.

Why you should study this course

  • further enhance your knowledge of mathematical and business principles, as well as the theories and concepts involved in investment risk and professional ethics
  • develop and embed your sense commercial awareness
  • demonstrate an understanding of the work of a finance organisation
  • comprehend the role a finance organisation plays in collaboration with the companies for which the organisation works
  • fit flexible studies around your other commitments and prepare for the world of work with this career-focused course.

What you'll study

The first year of this degree course is concerned with the application of skills for identifying and recording financial transactions in accounts and ledgers following the principles of double entry bookkeeping, drafting and interpreting the financial statements of sole traders, partnerships and limited companies. You will also acquire knowledge of information to be presented to users of the financial statements and how to apply the rules and principles established by international accounting standards (IAS and IFRS) to these financial statements.

At the end of Year 1, you should be able to evaluate the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems and communicate the results of your study or work accurately and reliably.

Modules

  • The specific aims of this module are to enable you to examine the institutional features of financial systems, as well as identify key issues and problems arising in Finance, both in a UK and international context.

    You will study the history and context of financial services in the UK, in addition to the regulatory changes that have come about as a result of recent events in the sector.

    Compulsory

  • You will learn how to apply the fundamental principles to economic problems and propose alternatives for resource allocation in order to meet the objectives of organisation. You should be able to understand the principle of supply and demand in the economy, and assess the implication of production and associated costs and revenue under short and long-run production capabilities.

    Compulsory

  • An entirely theoretical module - you will learn how to implement due diligence in both the macro and microenvironment. You will gain an understanding of how to operate within the legal remit, affecting precision and reliability to a high standard as an accountant. As businesses constantly enter contracts, you will also learn the basics of contract law and assess how the law impacts you as an accountant.

    Compulsory

  • This module is concerned primarily with competence in drafting and interpreting the financial statements of limited companies and budgeting which is an essential tool in planning, coordinating, authorising and cost control. You can expect to attain competence in drafting financial statements of business entities and acquire an understanding of the fundamental managerial accounting concepts and techniques.

    Compulsory

Year 2 of this course is concerned with providing the knowledge and skills of corporate finance, which forms the basis of investment analysis and decisions and enables you to undertake a variety of risk assessments relating to financial matters. You should expect to understand the models of financial risk management and their application within a range of professional settings.

At the end of Year 2, you should be able to critically analyse, propose solutions from analysis and communicate information to specialists and non-specialists.

Modules

  • You will be able to examine the key elements and range of investment theories, apply a range of techniques for determining working capital management, analyse the Capital Asset Pricing Model in relation to the Arbitrage Pricing Model and evaluate behavioural finance and how it affects investor behaviour.

    Compulsory

  • Upon successful completion of the accounting module, you will also be proficient in the use of double-entry accounting techniques and the maintenance of accounting records. You will be able to specify the components of financial statements and prepare and present non-complex accounts for a range of different business structures including sole traders, partnerships and limited companies.

    Compulsory

  • The module will widen your knowledge of corporate governance and explore the role of financial regulation and legal mechanisms in averting financial crises. The module will focus on UK and European corporate governance, financial regulation and practices, including international developments in the financial industry.

    Compulsory

  • This module provides an understanding of equity-based and fee-based contracts. You will also learn how to describe Intermediation contracts in Islamic Finance, and be introduced to the framework for the Islamic Financial System and investment, the Islamic Banking System and its financial products.

    Compulsory

Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our placement/study abroad offering here, it is often tailored for each course every year and depending on the length of placement or study abroad opportunities that are secured. Therefore, the placement and study abroad arrangements vary per course and per student2. Request further information about going on a placement or study abroad year.

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur before your final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

  • This module2 provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

    Optional

The final year is concerned with you being able to evaluate the concept of compliance and assurance, why compliance is required and the reasons for assurance engagements being carried out by appropriately qualified professionals.

At the end of the final year you should be able to critically discuss tax and ethical issues relating to it, evaluate an organisation’s strategic operations and evaluate incomplete data to make judgements.

Modules

  • This module will prepare you with the necessary knowledge and skills so that you are able to contribute to the assessment of internal controls and gathering of evidence on an assurance engagement. You will also develop a critical understanding of the importance of ethical behaviour for a professional accountant and be able to assess issues relating to integrity, objectivity, conflicts of interest, conflicts of loyalty, confidentiality and independence.

    Compulsory

  • This module assumes some basic knowledge of taxation and will enable you to develop knowledge in this area to include the processes for calculating income tax, national insurance contributions, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, taxation of trust, stamp taxes, corporation tax and Value Added Tax (VAT) in a variety of scenarios.

    Compulsory

  • You will be introduced to the application of models used for strategic planning, controlling and monitoring of organisational performance, assessing the impact of risk and uncertainty on business entity performance, incorporating technology into performance management information systems and advising business entities on how to recognise susceptibility to corporate failure.

    Compulsory

  • This module will provide you with the opportunity to explore a topic in accounting or finance that is current and relevant to the sector. You should be able to demonstrate the ability to use research and enquiry skills and to know how to conduct the research project from designing it through to writing up the research proposal.

    Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Our teaching methods for the degree courses are varied depending on which course/modules you take, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of our students, so in addition to lectures, we also utilise a blended learning approach, including online aspects, workshops and group work. We also operate an open-door policy, with additional availability via email and our current online learning platform, Aula.

Progression through the modules develops knowledge and skills, including communication (written and oral), study skills, research methods, project management, presentation and career development. We will also encourage you to consider your employability and/or entrepreneurial development.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end-of-year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework and phase tests, which are more reflective of our learning model.

Teaching contact hours

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from module to module, however, on average, it is likely to be around 20 contact hours per week. Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 30 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

The contact hours may be made up of a combination of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, and online classes and tutorials.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Assessment

The learning outcomes of modules, assignments and projects will be clearly stated. Your work will be marked according to how well you achieve these learning outcomes and your final feedback will refer to each outcome, as well as provide an overall percentage grade.

Assessment methods vary and include, practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, oral presentations, tutorial tasks and assessments which take place in week three and week six of each six-week block. This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending on the degree selected or the module.

Assessment methods could include:

  • Coursework (all years)
  • Phase tests (all years)
  • Presentations (degree)
  • Research/reports (degree)

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes. 

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, we offer a number of programmes to help you secure a place. Successful completion of one of the below programmes guarantees you a place on a degree course with us, subject to meeting specified criteria.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the CU Support Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background.

CU Support Scheme

Entry level What we're looking for
HNC 64 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
HND 80 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.
Degree 104 UCAS tariff points. Minimum 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 / A* - C including Maths and English. Minimum two A2 levels or BTEC equivalent qualification.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year. 

Visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on how to apply and travelling to and living in the UK.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 (with at least 5.5 in each component area)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £7,950 per year Not available
EU £7,950 per year with EU support bursary**
£16,800 per year without EU support bursary**		 Not available
International £16,800 per year Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees3 and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see the university’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of international scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees3 cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees3:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

All our facilities4 are located at Mile Lane. Our building has been designed to enable collaboration, creativity and innovation to flourish, and includes:

  • Indoor and outdoor social spaces, including a café
  • A library that includes loan laptops, over 115,000 eBooks and a silent study area
  • Open access IT suites 
  • Engineering lab
  • Student support and careers advice teams.

Some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

Careers and opportunities

Upon successful completion of the Financial Management and Accounting BA (Hons), you will be able to:

  • evaluate the legal, ethical and social context, in which accounting can be seen as operating in the accountancy profession - business entity, the capital markets and the public sector
  • apply the main current technical language and practices of accounting in regard to recognition, measurement and disclosure of financial statements, managerial accounting, auditing and taxation on a national and international basis
  • critically evaluate the main current technical language and practices of accounting in regard to alternative recognition rules and valuation bases, accounting rules applicable nationally and internationally, different managerial accounting methods used in management control and decision-making.
  • apply the relevant skills in recording and summarising transactions and other economic events, preparation of financial statements using international standards, performance measurement of managers and business entities, management control, analysis of financial ratios or performance indicators, discounted cash flow analysis, budgeting and forecasting, and financial options and associated risks. These skills must be in the contexts in which accounting data and information is processed and provided within a variety of organisational environments.
  • critically evaluate contemporary theories and empirical evidence, concerning the operation and effects of accounting, in the contexts of accounting and accountability, accounting and corporate governance, accounting and capital markets, accounting and sustainability, and auditing
  • appreciate the nature of the contexts in which finance can be seen as operating, including knowledge of the institutional framework necessary for understanding the role, operation and function of markets and financial institutions (e.g. the economic, ethical, legal, political, regulatory, social and tax environment, both national and international, the firm, the capital markets and the public sector)
  • develop an understanding of the financing arrangements and governance mechanisms and structures of business entities, and a better appreciation of how theory and evidence can be combined to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of such arrangements (e.g. decisions as to sources of finance and financial structure of the pricing of corporate securities, the market for corporate control, corporate governance, financial planning and the international dimensions of finance).

Where our graduates work

Key graduate job titles may range from Chartered and Certified Accountants, Finance and Investment Analysts, Taxation Experts, and Financial Managers and Advisors (additional qualifications may carry additional fees and eligibility criteria).

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2023/24 contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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