Professional Accounting BA (Hons) 2021/22 entry

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Course code:

NN1K - Degree
004N - HND
N400 - HNC

Study options:

4 years full-time with study abroad / professional placement
3 year - Degree
2 year - HND
1 year - HNC

Location:

CU London (Dagenham, London)

Starting:

May 2022
July 2022

Fees:

£6,700

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+44 (0) 203 873 0700


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Overview

Accountancy is a vital function in business, fulfilling a significant role in business development and profitability.

The ability to produce quality financial data is integral to strategic decision-making and could ultimately be the reason a business thrives or dissolves. Because of this, accountants and financial officers are in demand in both the public and private sector, as well as in not for-profit organisations such as charities.

At CU London, we will aim to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skillset to help you get into the accounting profession. Alongside your learning, you will also get the chance to conduct critical research with our experienced staff, learn from guest visitors and take part in practical modules.

Why CU London

We offer a style of education which is flexible and designed to fit around your life, allowing you to benefit from a modern, forward-thinking higher education institution, reinforced by the quality and reputation of Coventry University. We aim to provide career-focused courses, wherever possible, coupled with placement opportunities to help prepare you for the world of work. We are dedicated to making higher education accessible and enjoyable to everyone, so we keep our fees low and made it a policy to cover one module at a time, allowing you to become a specialist in each topic before moving onto the next.

COVID-19

The University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via emerging online technologies and methods across all courses. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2020/2021 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to Covid-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

Employability

Dedicated Careers & Employability department who will assist you in finding employment

Top Quality Courses

Taught by industry professionals, awarded by Coventry University

No End of Year Exams

Our modern teaching techniques mean no last-minute cramming and less stress

Professional Recognition

Specific courses contain additional industry recognised qualifications from awarding bodies

Your course in pictures

Accreditation & Professional Recognition

This course has been specifically designed to coincide with units taught at recognised, professional accounting bodies. This means graduates from our course leave with not only a degree, but additional professional certificates from a range of bodies, as outlined below, an attractive accolade to potential employers. In order to achieve these qualifications, students must complete the degree course and gain relevant work experience. Upon successful completion of the course you will have the opportunity to apply for exemptions from the professional bodies to work towards the professional qualification. This is not, however, a condition of academic credit: assessments for the professional qualification will be independent from that undertaken for the academic award. Should you decide to apply for exemptions of the professional qualifications there will be additional student membership fees and assessment fees.

Association of Accounting Technicians

Association of Accounting Technicians

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is a professional membership body. An AAT qualification is a route to some of the most in-demand skills in the world and provides you with a professional status. The AAT will grant exemption from the Level 4 AAT qualification. In addition, students can apply for membership of the AAT, providing they obtain the relevant working experience and demonstrate reading on professional ethics.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) offers qualifications recognised by employers and accountancy professionals. The ICAEW will grant exemption from eight of their units. Also, students can obtain the ICAEW Certificate for Finance, Accounting and Business (CFAB) providing the student completes their accounting exam.

The Institute of Financial Accountants

The Institute of Financial Accountants

The Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) is a professional body representing and providing certification for financial accountants in the United Kingdom. The IFA is a full member of the International Federation of Accountants. Graduates of CU London's BA (Hons) Professional Accounting degree programme meet the relevant qualification criteria to obtain Associate membership and will also need to provide evidence of having completed a minimum of three years' work experience in accountancy or a closely related field as part of their membership application. While you are gaining work experience you can become a Provisional Associate Member. Upon completion you can apply to use the IFA designations as well as practising certificate.

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What our students say

The great thing about my course is all of the exemptions for the professional qualifications such as AAT. It adds another level to the degree and gives me a competitive edge over other graduates. It means I am one step closer to my dream job.

Ishraq Hossain - 2nd Year Professional Accounting Student

Course information

This detailed course focuses on giving you the foundational knowledge needed for a successful career within accounting.

A wide and varied industry, we will provide you with not only theoretical insights but the practical knowledge needed to effectively deliver financial services. This programme covers a comprehensive range of themes including, taxation, financial reporting, budget management and business operations.

Due to the professional alignment of the course, examinations will be a common feature when it comes to assessments. However, a variety of methods will be used, and you’ll be required to deliver reports, presentations, essays and project plans, both individually and within a group.

Course Specification
Download PDF (451kb)

Modules

Overview

Exploration of financial practices, techniques and tools used in accounting is the focus of the first year, so that you have a solid foundation of basic principles. You will acquaint yourself with the key topics most accountants practice regularly, such as credit management control and analysis of financial statements. This year embeds level 4 of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and the Institute of the Financial Accountants (IFA) Level 4, providing you with the essential knowledge required for progression into years two and three. Students who complete year one are eligible for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Professional Accounting.

Modules

  • Financial Statement and Control in a Business Environment

    As an introduction, this opening module will teach you the fundamentals of accounting. You will look at key topics such as profit and loss sheets, solving balance sheets and even an introduction into budgeting and costing.

  • Budgeting in a Business Environment

    In this module, you will cover the bases of successful budgeting in relation to sales and production. In addition to the overview of budgeting practice, you’ll cover the critical processes, including creating and implementing budgets and comparing/monitoring results. There are practical elements too; you will demonstrate your knowledge through industry-style budgeting assessments.

  • Principles of Taxation

    In this module, you will look at taxation practices, legislation and the different types of tax. There is a focus on personal tax, what is required and the surrounding legislation. You will also explore other areas and factors that may affect taxation levels, such as income tax, benefits and capital gains tax.

  • Credit Management Control

    In business, companies very rarely use cash to pay for assets or products. As most organisations use credit, it is crucial in accountancy to maintain a respectable credit rating. In this module, you will look at credit management control and how to manage credit flow, from paying on time to monitoring liquidity.

Overview

This academic year builds on the knowledge gained in year one to cement a solid foundation of core principles. Now that you are working to a higher level after completing the HNC, you will begin building your knowledge and understanding of basic financial practices. In this year, you enter the management arena and will begin to focus on the role of leadership within accounting. Operating from a business point of view, you’ll focus strongly on the role of the accounting profession, legislation and governance. Students who complete year two are eligible for a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Professional Accounting.

Modules

  • Management Information

    Informed decision-making is an essential factor in business success. Therefore, you will learn how to identify the key features of effective performance management systems, select appropriate performance measures and calculate differences between actual performance and standards or budgets. You’re required to showcase your knowledge of this topic, in an independent written assessment or a collaborative group presentation. 

  • Financial Reporting

    Looking at sole traders, partnerships and limited companies, you’ll learn how to apply double entry principles in recording transactions, adjust financial records and formulate non-complex financial statements. As preparation for a role within a business setting, you’ll also learn to specify the components of financial statements and prepare and present non-complex accounts. 

  • Law for Accounting

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

  • Business Finance

    Working at an organisational level, you will study the theories and tools of finance and their relevance and application to practical problems within business. This module teaches you about the various finances businesses’ deal with, including loans, equity and venture capital.  

Overview

An optional placement or study aboard year gives you the chance to gain further insight into the industry or career you are seeking to follow, enabling you to apply your theoretical knowledge to the workplace. You can also choose to take an optional study abroad year* between years two and three. If you decide to take advantage of a placement year this version of the degree will help you acquire valuable work experience and gain an understanding of what employers seek in graduates. It is your responsibility to find a placement with an employer within your chosen sector. The Talent Team, alongside the course team, will support you throughout your placement year.

Overview

You are now preparing to advance into industry, so you will experience broader strategic thinking on the application of models and theoretical concepts. At this stage, you can confidently bring about rational and sensible conclusions, make sound recommendations and effectively manage decision-making. This year helps you to understand the importance of ethical behaviour for a professional accountant. You’ll explore issues relating to integrity, objectivity, conflict of interest, confidentiality and independence.

Students who complete the final year are awarded a BA (Hons) degree in Professional Accounting.

Modules

  • Assurance

    This module is centred on the assurance process and fundamental principles of ethics. You’ll learn the concept of assurance and why it is required in accountancy. In addition, successful completion of this module will give you exemption from the Assurance module of the ICAEW certificate.

  • Advanced Taxation

    Building on skills and knowledge gained in previous years, you will expand your knowledge of complex topics of taxation. You’ll critically analyse issues such as 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. 

  • Business Strategy Analysis

    Putting your knowledge of strategy into practice, you’ll elaborate on the role of business analysis in averting and managing financial crises. Taking control of your development, you’ll assess an organisation’s position, strategic choice and analyse the implementation of action in processes, people, finance and information technology.

  • Financial Management

    Working from a managerial point of view, you will explore provisions of finance and the framework in which a financial manager operates. You’ll identify and evaluate various investment appraisal techniques used for management decision-making and consider pricing models related to capital assessment. You’ll learn the art of balancing the interest of different stakeholders through the financial strategic options selected by the organisation.

15th

Coventry has been ranked top 15 in the UK for 5 years running in the The Guardian University Guide 2016-2020. CU London is part of the Coventry University Group.

In more detail...

  • This programme offers professional accreditations meaning you leave with multiple valuable professional qualifications in addition to the academic qualification. Holding professional qualifications can help you stand out from the crowd of recent graduates to prospective employers.
  • Upon completion of this course, you will receive a qualification awarded by Coventry University.
  • In order to make higher education accessible to as many people as possible, we keep our tuition fees competitively priced.
  • We deliver one module at a time during each block. This means you can dedicate your time to specialise in each subject without the distraction of numerous modules and multiple deadlines.
  • Small tutorial group sessions ensure that you receive the mentoring help and support you need.
  • You will have the opportunity for multi-campus learning in London, Coventry and Scarborough. (Depending on COVID-19 guidance)
Study themes
  • Language and practices: Understanding the main language and common practices used within accounting contexts. Understanding a number of alternative practices, such as recognition rules and valuation bases, approaches to control and decision making.
  • Analytical tools and techniques: Theories and models of pricing, management decision making and performance. Using analytical tools and techniques, you will look at the key tools and techniques used to analyse organisational performance, prepare budgets and construct reliable forecasts.
  • Legislation and governance: Assurance and professional ethics, the impact of civil law on business and professional services, company and insolvency law.
  • Management and leadership: A solid knowledge of planning activities, competence reviews, monitoring performance, coordination of activities and effective communication.
  • Accounting context: The role of accounting and finance, the accounting profession and the impact of the external environment. Also, core micro and macro-economic theory related to business objectives, functions and business structures.
How you'll be taught

This course is available as a full-time three year or optional four-year sandwich course, the latter incorporating a work placement or study year in a related field. Alternatively, part-time study is also available and with our Saturday University* programme, this course can be completed in as little as three years. Our teaching methods are varied, offering a number of teaching styles to suit the needs of all 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 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 is more reflective of our learning model.

* Advised there will be no part time from September 2020 onwards

How you'll be assessed

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 providing an overall percentage grade.

Assessment methods vary and include, practical class and project performance, written practical reports, project thesis, oral presentations, tutorial tasks, exams and assessments which take place at the end of each six-week block.

On completion

On completion, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate understanding and knowledge of the theoretical, analytical and practical aspects of policies, strategies and processes within a changing environment, to meet stakeholder interests.
  • Critically appraise theories related to the development of a successful budgeting and financial strategy including the risk factors that need to be considered including country, currency and competitor risk.
  • Be proficient in developing management level strategy.
  • Develop appropriate research and analysis techniques, alongside the ability to undertake reliable market research activities.
Teaching contact hours

Full-time

If you choose to study full-time you can expect up to 20 hours of learning activities per week, made up of face-to-face teaching, individual and group tutorials, online classes and independent learning.

Class groups are kept low. This way, students can take advantage of small numbers to increase contact time with lecturers.

What our students say

The great thing about my course is all of the exemptions for the professional qualifications such as AAT. It adds another level to the degree and gives me a competitive edge over other graduates. It means I am one step closer to my dream job.

Ishraq Hossain - 2nd Year Professional Accounting Student

Entry Requirements

Professional Accounting Higher National Certificate (HNC) 

64 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at 9-4/A*-C including Maths and English.

Professional Accounting Higher National Diploma (HND) 

80 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at 9-4/A*-C including Maths and English.

Professional Accounting BA (Hons) Degree

104 UCAS tariff points. All courses require 5 GCSEs at 9-4/A*-C including Maths and English.

All HNC/HND/Degree courses require at least two A2 level or a BTEC qualification.

What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for this course, successful completion of the below programme guarantees you a place on a degree course with us, subject to meeting specified criteria.

Foundation Year

This degree programme has an integral stage 0 attached to it, so if you do not meet the entry requirements you may enter at the foundation level. Successful completion of a relevant Foundation year will guarantee you progression onto this degree programme.

Why do I have to choose you as 'firm' choice?

CU London has assessed that you can achieve the required grades and we have demonstrated this belief by making you an offer. This is our commitment to you so then we ask that you reciprocate this commitment by selecting us as your ‘firm’ choice and activating your offer.

What if I'm not taking A-levels?

We will consider other qualifications for a pre-result unconditional offer if you have an appropriate proven performance at GCSE (or equivalent) level and predicted grades in line with grades that we expect to see at A-level. Other qualifications that we may consider for a pre-result unconditional offer include: The International Baccalaureate Diploma, BTEC Level 3 qualifications, Cambridge Pre-U and combinations of qualifications (e.g. BTECS plus A-levels).

What if I don't get the predicted grades?

An unconditional offer is what it says it is. So, if you don’t meet your predictions then your place is still guaranteed. However, we would hope and expect that you continue to work hard to make the most of your potential and be best prepared to study at university level.

Am I able to defer my unconditional offer?

No, the unconditional offer is only available to those who will take up their place in the year for which they applied.

What if I don’t meet the entry requirements?

If you don’t meet the entry requirements for this course, we have a number of programmes which upon successful completion and meeting any additional entry criteria, qualifies you onto a place on this degree course, such as Foundation Years.

What our students say

The great thing about my course is all of the exemptions for the professional qualifications such as AAT. It adds another level to the degree and gives me a competitive edge over other graduates. It means I am one step closer to my dream job.

Ishraq Hossain - 2nd Year Professional Accounting Student

Tuition Fees

We pride ourselves on offering competitive tuition fees which we review on an annual basis. Course fees are calculated on the basis of what it costs to teach each course and we aim for total financial transparency.

Starts

Fee

May 2022

£6,700

July 2022

£6,700

Fees & Funding

We price our courses competitively in an attempt to make higher education accessible for a wide range of people. Your tuition fees will cover all of your classes, online tutorials, some of the learning materials and access to our Library & Learning Services. 

Funding

As a full-time or part-time student resident in the UK or EU, you can apply for a loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees at CU London from Student Finance England.

What our students say

The great thing about my course is all of the exemptions for the professional qualifications such as AAT. It adds another level to the degree and gives me a competitive edge over other graduates. It means I am one step closer to my dream job.

Ishraq Hossain - 2nd Year Professional Accounting Student

Career prospects

With an ever-growing demand for accounting professionals in all industries, graduates of this course have an expansive list of career paths to explore.

Successful graduates will be knowledgeable across a range of accounting and management disciplines, giving an advantage over candidates who have gone through the traditional route of an independent and narrowly focused course. You will have gained several professional certificates in addition to your degree, giving you a good advantage for progression towards becoming a Chartered Accountant.

Where our graduates work

Graduates have gone on to further study with a master’s degree in within the finance industry at institutions across the UK. Specialist areas have included, Banking and Finance MA, Accounting and Finance MA and Business Administration MBA in Dubai.

Other graduates from this course have gone on to work successfully in leading global companies such as Santander, BDO Accountants, and RSM International.

What our students say

The great thing about my course is all of the exemptions for the professional qualifications such as AAT. It adds another level to the degree and gives me a competitive edge over other graduates. It means I am one step closer to my dream job.

Ishraq Hossain - 2nd Year Professional Accounting Student

Disclaimer

The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we 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. Following the UK’s planned exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance at that time.