University of Cambridge
speciality:
Accounting & Finance
What is an Accounting & Finance degree?
An Accounting & Finance degree focuses on the management of monetary resources available to an organization. Such a degree is aimed at students who want to pursue careers in investment analysis, management, banking, auditing, consulting and financial management. It teaches students how to assess the assets and liabilities of an organization financially and manage the financial risk of their activity.
Accounting & Finance covers the core areas of financial accounting, management accounting and finance but also includes other aspects of the business activity, such as financial management and control, corporate finance, company accounts, investment and business law. Optional module options provided by different universities around the world often allow students to specialize in a particular area such as auditing, taxation, etc.
Benefits of an Accounting & Finance degree
The completion of an Accounting & Finance degree comes along with numerous benefits. Students develop strong analytical, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, which are highly demanded by employers in both the private and the public sector and result in graduates often finding employment in large multinational organizations that offer professional services such as PwC, KPMG and Deloitte. On top of that, established companies around the world offer excellent and well-structured graduate schemes, which help Accounting & Finance graduates to kick-start their careers.
Accounting & Finance degrees are mostly practically oriented. They allow students to put the knowledge and skills they acquire on a daily basis to practice through simulated and real-life business accounts management and work placement opportunities.
Most Accounting & Finance degrees are professionally accredited by professional bodies, such as ACCA, AIA, CIMA, ICAEW and CIPFA, which provides students with the opportunity to become chartered accountants. Students gain professional qualifications in accountancy, which eliminates the need for additional certifications after graduation.
Due to the nature of the Accounting & Finance Degree, which complements business-related subjects, students often have the opportunity to complete a joint honours degree.
Accounting & Finance Degree Structure
An Accounting & Finance degree’s duration varies depending on the country and degree level. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, Bachelor’s degrees in Accounting & Finance can be completed in three years. However, universities also offer students the option to take a sandwich course, which allows them to undertake a year-long placement between their second and third year, which extends the course to four years. Four years is the regular time of completion of this degree in other countries, such as the United States.
The first year of a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting & Finance introduces the core principles of accounting and finance, including financial accounting, management accounting and finance as well as economics and business law. The second year’s focus is usually on managerial and business economics, financial control, corporate finance and company accounts, but optional modules might enable students to pursue their interests in other aspects of Accounting & Finance such as auditing or strategic business analysis. At this point, students studying at Higher Education Institutions in the UK could choose to take an industry placement in order to apply the theoretical concepts and the acquired knowledge to practice in the professional environment. The next stage of this degree is dedicated to further-developing students’ knowledge of financial and management accounting. Optional modules might enable students to specialize in a particular area of their choice such as auditing or taxation in some countries like the UK.
Masters’ degrees in Accounting & Finance usually take between 12 and 18 months to complete depending on the country that students choose for their studies.
Research-based degrees, such as MPhil and PhD, can take anywhere between 1 and 7 years depending on the country and type of degree. MPhil degrees in Accounting & Finance in the UK usually take 12 months if it is studied full-time and 24 months for part-time studies. PhD degrees in the UK, on the other hand, take about 36 months to complete if studying full-time and 72 months for a part-time program. In the US, students may be required to dedicate between 4 and 7 years on their degree.
4 Student Reviews
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Accounting13 Feb, 2025
Jeff800-year-old University in UKThe University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the world. Its origins trace back to scholars fleeing unrest at the University of Oxford, who sought refuge in the city of Cambridge. Over time, this group of scholars evolved into a formal institution, receiving a royal charter from King Edward II in 1318.
Cambridge’s collegiate system began with the establishment of Peterhouse in 1284, the first of its 31 colleges. During the medieval period, the university focused primarily on theology, philosophy, and classical studies. It gained prominence as a hub for reformist ideas during the Reformation and played a pivotal role in the Scientific Revolution. Notable figures like Sir Isaac Newton, who developed the laws of motion and universal gravitation while at Trinity College, emerged during this time.
The 19th century saw Cambridge modernize its curriculum, expanding into the natural sciences, engineering, and the humanities. Charles Darwin, an alumnus of Christ’s College, revolutionized biology with his theory of evolution. By the 20th century, Cambridge had become a leader in research, with its scholars winning numerous Nobel Prizes across disciplines like physics, medicine, and chemistry.
In the 21st century, Cambridge continues to excel in education and research, addressing global challenges such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and public health. Its long-standing traditions, coupled with innovation, make it a beacon of learning and discovery. With over 800 years of history, the University of Cambridge remains a symbol of academic excellence and intellectual legacy.
View moreProgramme: AccountingDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2025Delivery Type: BlendedCampus: Cambridge13 Feb, 2025Jeff -
Accounting16 Sep, 2024 NsikakNGBest possible learning environment
I had a great time at the University of Cambridge. The campus is beautiful and has a welcoming atmosphere. I enjoyed learning there, and the food was exceptional. The only thing I think they need to improve on is the accommodation for students of colour within the colleges.
View moreProgramme: AccountingDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: BlendedCampus: Cambridge -
Accounting and ...19 Nov, 2023
StudentGBVarietiesUniversity of cambridge offerings are nothing short of remarkable. From its various educational programs to its excellent facilities, Cambridge has a lot to offer its students. But the true jewel in its crown is the international exchange opportunities it provides. With these, students can gain a global perspective that will serve them well in their future careers. Cambridges’ commitment to growth and innovation makes it the perfect place for those seeking to make their mark on the world.
View moreProgramme: Accounting and FinanceDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2025Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Cambridge -
Real Estate ...06 May, 2022 AnnaBest in G5
I graduated from LSE’s School of Economics and then started my one-year postgraduate study at Cambridge University. Cambridge is close to London, but it is a totally different town. I walk to school, or by bike because when you leave a big city like London, you should enjoy the environment. In short, the beautiful nature here can let you fully relax after your studies.
View moreProgramme: Real Estate FinanceDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2022Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Cambridge
