The Finance and Accounting MSc/PGDip at University College Birmingham is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the complex global financial environment. Accredited by the University of Warwick, this course is tailored for individuals aiming to enhance their expertise in finance and accounting, whether to advance in their current careers or pivot into the financial sector.
This program emphasizes real-world application, encouraging students to engage with contemporary business challenges. Collaboration with professional practitioners and exposure to the latest industry technology are integral components of the curriculum. Students have the opportunity to learn in a live environment within the University's state-of-the-art Financial Trading Suite, one of the largest among UK universities and the first powered by Infront Professional Terminal. The course also offers pathways to apply for exemptions from professional exams upon graduation, enhancing employability in the finance sector.
The course comprises a series of core modules designed to provide a robust foundation in finance and accounting:
Corporate Finance: This module delves into the financial strategies of corporations, focusing on investment decisions, capital structure, and dividend policies. Students will analyze how companies maximize value and manage financial risks.
Financial Risk Management: Students will explore various financial risks faced by organizations, including market, credit, and operational risks. The module covers techniques and instruments used to mitigate these risks, such as derivatives and hedging strategies.
Management Accounting: Focusing on internal business processes, this module examines how management accounting information supports decision-making, planning, and control. Topics include budgeting, performance evaluation, and cost management.
Financial Reporting: This module emphasizes the principles and standards governing financial reporting. Students will learn to prepare and interpret financial statements in compliance with international accounting standards.
Global Financial Markets: An exploration of international financial markets, this module covers the functioning of equity, debt, and foreign exchange markets. Students will analyze the impact of global economic events on financial markets.
Research Methods: Preparing students for their dissertation or industry-based investigation, this module covers research design, data collection, and analytical techniques pertinent to finance and accounting.
For the MSc qualification, students must also complete a Dissertation or an Industry-based Investigation, allowing for in-depth research into a specific area of interest within the finance and accounting domain.