Accounting and Finance with Study Abroad BA (Hons)

Durham University

Course details

From preparing and presenting financial information to interpreting data and business planning, this degree opens the door to opportunities with leading organisations in both business and the financial sector and beyond.

Please note: The information on these pages is indicative of the current course structure and title and is subject to change. For 2024 entry we are reviewing all of our accounting programmes and, amongst other things, as a result of the review the title of this degree may change from BA to BSc (this will not affect the purpose or the aims of the degree, it will more accurately reflect a modern interpretation of an accounting-based degree).

Course structure

Year 1

Core modules:

Financial Accounting covers the basic concepts and techniques involved in financial accounting reports, including the preparation of basic financial statements. Fundamentals of Management Accounting. In this module you will learn about the role of the management accountant. The module introduces the basic concepts of management accounting and will give you an understanding of the objectives of management accounting within an organisation. Foundations of Finance introduces the key principles of corporate finance and their importance to firms. From bonds and stocks to capital structure and dividend policy, it provides you with a solid grounding in issues of finance as they relate to the business and financial markets. Introduction to Financial Economics introduces the basic principles of economics. The study of subjects like market structure, fiscal policy and economic growth will provide a solid foundation for further study. Quantitative Methods 1 introduces the mathematical concepts you will need throughout your degree. It supports other Year 1 modules and provides a foundation for further study. Business Law This is an introductory law module for accounting students. Specifically, the module aims to provide accounting students with an overview of the principles of English law, the legal framework within which businesses operate, and the requirements and restrictions imposed by relevant aspects of English law.

Examples of optional modules:

Principles of Taxation

Ethics and Finance

Global Financial Markets

Year 2

Core modules:

Financial Reporting builds on the skills introduced in Year 1. You will learn about preparation of financial statements for a single company and a company group, including the application of relevant International Financial Reporting Standards. Management Accounting further develops your knowledge of management accounting practice and helps you apply your knowledge to business scenarios and decision making. You will learn to present calculations, critically evaluate the benefits and limitations of management accounting techniques and provide reasoned recommendations. Assurance explores the audit process from planning and risk assessment, gathering evidence, drawing conclusions, through to reporting. Learning is set within the context of professional ethics. Corporate Finance provides theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of key theories in finance and corporate policy decisions.

Examples of optional modules:

Taxation

Business Strategy and Technology for Accountants

Financial Management for Accountants

Introduction to Financial Econometrics

Financial Markets and Institutions Banking and Finance Technology.

Year 3

Core modules:

Research Methods

The Dissertation

Examples of optional modules:

Big Data Analytics

Tax Planning for Business

Corporate Reporting

Audit and Assurance

Corporate Governance

Security Investment Analysis

Financial Econometrics 2

Financial Derivatives and Financial Engineering

Behavioural Finance

Real Estate Finance