Accounting and Financial Management BA

2024-25 entry
Management School

Our multi-disciplinary approach means that you learn practical skills to help you land the right job, as well as gaining the rigorous academic knowledge that you require to progress. We'll also put things into context - helping you to understand the role of accounting and financial management within an organisation is key to this course. You'll learn how it affects everything, from budgeting and control to environmental issues.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Two students working together in the Trading Room.

    Learn about how the accounting and financial side of an organisation can support decision making, and help shape information systems and business architecture with socially responsible financial management.

    Accounting and financial management plays a major role in all organisations. It extends way beyond a series of numerical techniques and processes. In this degree, we show you the bigger picture, help you to develop skills like digital literacy, teamwork and communication, and establish your business awareness – so you can take your career in any direction you choose.

    You'll explore the impact of financial decisions on societal welfare, the environment and company stakeholders. And you’ll use our industry-standard Trading Room, kitted out with Bloomberg and Refinitiv Eikon terminals, to enhance your technical knowledge.

    And if you want to gain some real, first-hand experience, you can decide to take a placement year between your second and third year – making it even simpler to step from your degree into the career you want.

    Why study this course?

    • Triple Crown accredited - Sheffield University Management School is accredited by AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB. The programme benefits from professional exemptions from ACCA, CIMA, CPA Australia, ICAEW and CIPFA which means by studying this programme you will have a head start in becoming a qualified chartered accountant.
    • Dedicated employability team - based in the department, they support you to get placements and internships, work with industry to ensure you develop the most in-demand skills and support you with career planning and CV workshops.
    • Community and wellbeing - the department runs a series of Balance and Belonging events, providing you with the opportunity to get to know your peers and students on other courses, and feel a sense of belonging within the Management School.

    The Management School is Triple Crown accredited by AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB.

    This course is accredited by the following bodies for the purpose of eligibility for Associate membership and exemption from some professional examinations: Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and CPA Australia.

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Accounting and Financial Management BA course structure
    UCAS code: N420
    Years: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
    First year

    The first year of the course gives you a broad understanding of accounting and finance. You'll learn the underpinning knowledge and workings of financial markets in a classroom scenario.

    Core modules cover the necessary accounting and financial management knowledge required by the profession. We'll also encourage you to start thinking about life in the workplace.

    You will quickly become familiar with the challenges faced by professional accountants. As your confidence grows, you'll develop your own views on how to approach these challenges.

    Core modules:

    Business Economics in a Contemporary Society

    This module is intended to provide students with a grounding in a range of business economics concepts that have immediate relevance to modern day businesses, society, and the economy. It will introduce theoretically diverse concepts that include and contend with mainstream business economics thought, so that students from disparate backgrounds are able to openly debate and engage with business economics topics. It is designed to challenge students' understanding of the economic environment in which businesses are embedded so that they become more cognizant with diverse ways of thinking about and understanding real world business economic issues.

    10 credits
    Introduction to Behaviour at Work

    This module is an introduction to psychological and behavioural approaches to the study of work and organisations. The major aim is to introduce students to some of the basic analytical tools and concepts from work psychology that encourage an understanding of the behaviour of individuals and groups in the workplace. The syllabus contains the following: Introduction to Organisational Behaviour, Individual Differences, Perception, Learning, Human Motivation, Job Satisfaction and Work Attitudes, Conformity and Obedience, Leadership, Groups at Work, the formal and informal organisation.

    10 credits
    Introduction to Management Accounting

    The aim of this module is to establish a firm understanding of the basic techniques of management accounting. The selection of accounting techniques is conditional on purpose; the management accountant's role therefore includes attention-directing, score-keeping, and problem-solving.

    20 credits
    Futures First: Professional Self Management

    This module is intended to provide a structured and supported process for students to reflect upon their own learning, performance and/or achievement, and to plan for their personal, educational and career development. It is designed to ensure students are fully prepared to gain the most from their academic studies and to be better placed to continue their development throughout and beyond their degree studies.

    20 credits
    Introduction to Financial Accounting

    Financial Accounting is concerned with the ways in which the financial transactions of a business are recorded and summarised in financial statements. This module provides an introduction to the construction of financial statements and an understanding and evaluation of the principles and concepts on which they are underpinned. Once the principles have been established, the module further develops the practical understanding of the preparation of financial statements and focuses on the preparation, interpretation and limitations of company financial statements and the regulatory framework in which they are prepared.

    20 credits
    Foundations in Financial Management

    This module aims to create a foundation of knowledge in the subject area of financial management, creating the required framework of skill and knowledge for financial decision making and to provide a base of knowledge for the related modules in levels 2 and 3. This module will achieve this by introducing the essential principles, theories and calculations within financial management. It will also introduce the contemporary issues and developments in financial markets. The module design and content expects to at least cover the contents of foundation level financial management related module syllabus of professional accounting bodies.

    20 credits

    You will take one of the following modules:

    Analysis for Decision Making A

    This unit will enable students to develop competencies in those quantitative techniques and tools which are essential for the collection, analysis and interpretation of data in a business context. Focusing on a variety of business problems, the unit will demonstrate how quantitative techniques can be used to support effective business decision making.

    20 credits
    Analysis for Decision Making B

    This unit will enable students to develop competencies in those quantitative techniques and tools which are essential for the collection, analysis and interpretation of data in a business context. Focusing on a variety of business problems, the unit will demonstrate how quantitative techniques can be used to support effective business decision making. The teaching is aimed at those who have not taken mathematics beyond GCSE or its equivalent.

    20 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    This course has been designed to enable you to follow a career in accounting, finance and wider business roles. We have worked closely with a range of professional bodies such as ACA, ACCA and CIMA along with leading global employers to develop a course that provides you with the knowledge and skills to excel.

    Our multidisciplinary approach means that you’ll gain transferable skills like teamwork, remote working and time management to help you land the right job, as well as gaining the rigorous academic knowledge that you require to progress throughout your degree.

    Our innovative teaching approach sees you attending lectures, seminars, workshops,  and other programme level teaching with small group sizes.

    You’ll be given reading or asked to prepare work in advance and contribute to discussions and group work during seminars. You’ll use a variety of software packages in different IT environments, including Microsoft Office, Google, and Bloomberg, to develop your IT and online collaboration skills.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    You'll be supported throughout your degree by your module leaders, tutors, personal tutors and our wider learning and teaching support such as the 301 Academic Skills Centre.

    The Accounting and Financial Management programme provides you with access to a comprehensive collection of specialist business and finance databases that are used by global companies, analysts and top researchers.

    These include Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon, Datastream, Thomson ONE, Compustat, MSCI, WRDS and CSMAR among others. These databases will give you access to market insights and the data that you'll need to complete your assessments, learn new skills and become work-ready.

    Our courses are based on world-leading research and our staff, many of whom have extensive industry experience, produce impactful research that influences policy and informs public debate.

    Assessment

    Your lecturers are here to support your development which is why you’ll be given extensive feedback on your work. We use a range of assessment methods including, exams, online tests, group/individual presentations and coursework.

    You'll also get lots of formative and summative feedback to help you progress and reach your potential.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB + A in a social science related EPQ; ABB + A in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers
    AAAAB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native Language A Levels can be accepted if taken alongside an acceptable A Level subject

    • GCSE Maths grade 6/B

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB + A in a social science related EPQ; ABB + A in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    33
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers
    AAABB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction and 15 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native Language A Levels can be accepted if taken alongside an acceptable A Level subject

    • GCSE Maths grade 6/B

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    Many of our graduates work in traditional accounting roles as trainee chartered accountants or management accountants, but a growing number work in audit, insurance, banking, investment and consultancy roles.

    Recent graduates are working for Barclays, British Airways, Ernst & Young, HSBC, Grant Thornton, KPMG and Santander.

    Management School

    We have a dedicated employability team who offer careers support, and can help you to find jobs or placement opportunities, and develop essential skills through workshops with industry experts. You're supported throughout your course and after graduation.

    We work with businesses and organisations to ensure the content of our courses are up-to-date and relevant, and that the skills and experience you'll gain meet the demands of future employers

    Sheffield University Management School careers

    May Than Thar Cho outside Weston Park Museum on graduation day.

    The Management School has excellent accreditations which have been really beneficial in my career so far

    May Than Thar Cho BA Accounting and Financial Management

    May Than Thar Cho, who is from Myanmar, graduated from the Management School in 2021 with a degree in Accounting and Financial Management. She is now based in London working as a Financial Services Audit Trainee at BDO UK LLP.

    Liam Priestman alumnus

    I really enjoyed the combination of theory and practical application, hands-on learning opportunities and the supportive atmosphere

    Liam Priestman BA Accounting and Financial Management

    Liam Priestman, who graduated from BA Accounting and Financial Management in 2021, is now working as a Data Analyst at HH Global.

    Management School

    We are a world leading management school with Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS).

    These awards have been achieved through the outstanding quality of our programmes, research output, support for students and alumni, and links with industry. We have a world-class reputation for high quality teaching, ground-breaking research and cutting-edge thinking.

    You’ll be part of a dynamic and engaging management school that puts you and your future at the heart of everything it does. We balance a rigorous academic foundation with practical skills to ensure you are ready for the world of work.

    We want you to develop skills so you can apply course content in a company setting. Our close links with organisations keep us in tune with the changing demands of the workplace. We know what employers are looking for.

    You'll learn from experts - many of our academics are former industry professionals and they work closely with businesses. Because our academics are world-leading researchers, your education will draw on the most current management theories.

    We want you to engage with the academic content, be conscientious and take an independent approach to study.

    We'll help you to be informed, innovative and proactive and do everything we can to support and enhance your career, steering you in the right direction with all the knowledge and skills you require.

    You'll benefit from tailored on-site and online professional careers support, dedicated skills sessions and events with experts from world-leading organisations and professional bodies. These activities will help guide your personal and professional development to help you secure the right work experience for you.

    Management School students are based in our building on Conduit Road.

    Facilities

    The Management School building includes learning facilities such as lecture theatres, seminar rooms, trading and computer rooms, our academic and professional staff, the Courtyard Café, and our Employability hub and Student Experience Office. Teaching takes place at various venues across campus.

    Explore facilities in the Management School

    The Management School has invested in an impressive, fully-equipped financial trading room, built around Bloomberg and Refinitiv Eikon.

    These terminals are used by traders, banks and multinational companies to trade financial securities, gain market insights and undertake research. You will also have the opportunity to gain certification that demonstrates competence in these systems, which will add real value to your CV.

    Management School

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    Management School

    Triple Crown accredited

    AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS

    90% of management school undergraduates are in employment or further study 15 months after completing their course

    Graduate Outcomes 2020-21

    Student profiles

    Velicia B. Hartono wearing a navy blue sweatshirt displaying the Management School's logo.

    After my A Levels, I wanted a change

    Velicia B. Hartono Accounting and Financial Management BA

    When Velicia arrived in Sheffield, she found community through the Indonesian Society, giving her a little flavour of home whilst being in another part of the world.

    Image of student Jack Whiteman

    Staying at home for University, for me, was the correct decision

    Jack Whiteman BA Accounting and Financial Management

    BA Accounting and Financial Management student, Jack chose to stay in Sheffield to study his degree.

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Placements

    You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year. 

    A placement year will help you to:

    • gain an insight into possible careers
    • develop a range of transferable skills
    • build a professional network
    • get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
    • add valuable work experience to your CV
    • gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
    • apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

    Previous students have undertaken placements at BHP Grant Thornton, IBM, BDO, Lloyds Banking Group, Volkswagen Financial Services UK and the NHS, as well as smaller local companies. They go into roles in finance and accounting, tax, insurance and auditing.

    Hear from our students about their placement experiences

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Our multi-disciplinary approach means that you learn practical skills to help you land the right job, as well as gaining the rigorous academic knowledge that you require to progress. We'll also put things into context - helping you to understand the role of accounting and financial management within an organisation is key to this course. You'll learn how it affects everything, from budgeting and control to environmental issues.