Skip navigation
Search
Search

Accounting and finance

Where precision meets strategy, accounting and finance paves the way for a solid understanding of financial landscapes and decision-making in the business world.

What's on this page?

If you choose accounting and finance it opens doors to a strategic understanding of the financial architecture that underpins every business. You’ll gain proficiency in financial reporting, budgeting, and analysis, honing the skills needed to navigate the world of corporate finance.

It can lead to many different career paths, from becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) or financial analyst, to going into roles such as financial management, investment banking, or corporate strategy. You could be at the heart of financial decision-making, contributing to the financial health of organisations and influencing business growth.

Whether ensuring regulatory compliance, conducting financial audits, or crafting investment strategies, accounting and finance offers a great opportunity for those looking for a rewarding career in the financial sector.

The impact you could make
  • Promote economic stability by advocating responsible financial practices.
  • Uphold ethical financial practices for more integrity in business.
  • Support small businesses by offering financial guidance and support.
What you could study
  • Financial markets
  • Taxation
  • Banking and investment
  • Corporate finance
  • Accounting
  • Business policies
  • Management accounting
  • Business ethics

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

Chat to a current accounting and finance student

Chat to a current accounting and finance student using UniBuddy.

Some conversation starters for you:

  1. Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
  2. Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
  3. Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
  4. Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
  5. Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
     

Chat to students powered by Unibuddy

See all

  • Andzhela

    City, University of London
    Economics BSc (Hons)
    Hi, my name is Angela and I am currently studying Economics at City. I was born in Smolyan, Bulgaria, however, I moved to London when I was 13. Ever since, I have enjoyed living and studying here as I strongly believe that a bad day in London is still better than a good day anywhere else! As an Economics undergraduate, I hope to secure a career in the financial industry. So far, my experience at the university has been very satisfying. I was recently appointed to be one of City’s brand ambassadors, which allows me to do what I love i.e. to communicate with different people. Given my knowledge and the skills I have secured in the past, I will be looking forward to receiving your questions and helping out as much as I can, so feel free to ask.

  • Frederick

    Durham University
    BA Economics (L100)
    Hey! I'm Fred. I'm a first year undergraduate studying Economics. I love music and anime!! I'm in the Durham University Finance Society and the Durham University Fencing Club. Feel free to come talk to me.

  • Ronnie

    Durham University
    BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) (VL52)
    Hi, my name is Ronnie and I am a 1st year at Durham University, Grey College studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics. I am not sure about future plans/careers but I will see how things go!

  • Natasha

    University of Northampton
    MSc Financial and Investment Analysis
    I aspire to become a specialist in Financial and Investment Analysis as a former banker and share to others what I know. I am currently working part-time at the University of Northampton as a Student Ambassador and as a UNI Club Tutor to Year 9 students for Maths and Finance. The outdoors always get me excited! :)

  • Alona

    University of Lincoln
    Business Economics - BA (Hons)
    Hi! I am Alona. I am 2 year direct-entry international student. I am Business Economics student. I have a passion for business and aspire to work in an international company.

  • Finn

    Solent University
    BSc (Hons) Accountancy and Finance
    Hello!! I am Finn and I am a second-year undergraduate student at Solent University studying (BSc) Accounting and Finance. I am also the Course Representative for my subject area. I chose to study this degree as I would like to become a Financial Analyst after I graduate. I am also part of the Badminton Society which involves league games and social events. Outside of university, there are lots of activities to do in Southampton. For me, I like the nightlife and raving scene, also enjoy watching the football at bars and chilled activities such as going swimming and late night walks! Please feel free to ask me any questions about life at Solent!

  • Hajar

    City, University of London
    Economics BSc (Hons)
    Hi, I am Hajar. Currently, I am studying Economics at City and I am finding it very interesting! I was born and raised in London, so it is great to attend a university that isn't too far from home. I am a WP, Marketing and Brand ambassador which allows me to meet a lot of students from different backgrounds. I have joined the ISOC society last year, which allowed me to take part in the charity week, it was so rewarding to be able to take part in helping people. My course offers a sandwich year, I am currently in the process of finalising my placement for next year :)!!! I am always happy to help, feel free to ask away.

  • Bryan

    Northeastern University London
    Economics BCs (Hons)
    Hi my name is Bryan Kaplan, and I’m a second year student studying Economics with Creative Writing at Northeastern University London. I moved abroad three years ago and have a huge passion for creative writing. I’m currently a published author, and in the future I want to pursue a career in economic theory writing. Feel free to reach out at any time!

  • Tamsin

    University of Lincoln
    Economics and Finance - BSc (Hons)
    Hi! I’m Tamsin, I moved from East London to study at the University of Lincoln because I really enjoyed attending the Open Day. I am half-Filipina, so I can definitely relate to many social struggles that others may have. I thought that studying Economics and Finance as my undergraduate degree would be a great choice because there is a large range of jobs and opportunities that require the skills gained across the 3 years. When I was choosing my course I had no thought of a specific job role I wanted to do in the future, but through being at the university the last few months the staff have given me plentiful ideas about what kinds of jobs are out there and what is suitable for me, especially jobs that I did not know much about. In the future I knew for sure I wanted to do something related to Finance and there are many resources at the University to find you experience and information on these things.

Start your search now

Get your UCAS Hub

Your place to discover your options and research your future.

Sign up today
Example module
"My favourite modules include finance, as it is useful to understand the corporate industry, and Excel computing as I can learn to use code to handle tasks efficiently."
First year accounting and finance student. University of Bath
Example assignment
"An employee relations vlog was a fun way of expressing what I learnt throughout the course. I also enjoyed any and all numerical based examinations as I am keen on the analytical side."
Second year accounting and finance student, University of Surrey

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some accounting and finance courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
Maths
Business
Economics
Statistics
Hard skills you'll develop
  • Ability to prepare accurate and compliant financial reports
  • Develop expertise in identifying and managing financial risks
  • Solid understanding of tax laws and regulations
  • Hands-on experience with accounting software used in the industry
Soft skills you'll develop
  • Analytical thinking
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Integrity and ethical decision-making

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying accounting and finance. The following information is based on a typical accounting and finance professional role.

Average salary
£49,035
Up to £86,581
Available jobs
221,753 vacancies in the past year
2.47% growth over next 8 years

Career options

Accounting and finance

Chartered and certified accountants

Finance and investment analysts and advisers

Financial account managers

Taxation experts

Business management

Business and financial project management professionals

Financial institution managers and directors

Management consultants and business analysts

Purchasing managers and directors

What is a… financial cyber-crime investigator

Financial cyber-crime investigators take on the role of digital detective, using advanced tools and expertise to protect financial systems from online threats. These investigators conduct in-depth analyses of cyber incidents, respond to security breaches, and use digital forensics to trace the steps of cyber-criminals. Their work involves collaborating with law enforcement, conducting security assessments, and staying ahead of emerging cyber threats. It’s a vital role in safeguarding digital landscapes against malicious activities, ensuring the integrity and resilience of financial institutions.
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study accounting and finance at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from accounting and finance applicants.
 

A levels
CCC
Scottish Highers
BBBC
Vocational
BTEC MMM
Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative
Accounting and finance apprenticeships
Check out our industry guide to help you decide if an accounting and finance apprenticeship might be right for you. 

Other subjects you may be interested in

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Deadline

    Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.

  2. Where to apply

    You apply directly through the employer.

  3. No limits

    You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.

  4. Apply to university and apprenticeships

    There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.

  5. Find out more

    Read our guide to accounting and finance apprenticeships.

Let’s talk about… finance & accounting apprenticeships

Please accept marketing cookies to watch this video.
Change your cookie settings
Not sure if a traditional degree is for you? Listen to our new podcast to learn more about studying degree apprenticeships in finance and accounting.
 
Apprenticeship vacancies
Check out live apprenticeship vacancies in accounting and finance.

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around accounting and finance with the following:

  1. Economist: Money Talks podcast

    This weekly podcast is a great way to keep up with current issues in the world of global economics.

  2. MoneyWeek magazine

    Keep up-to-date with financial and economic debates, so you’re one step ahead in your studies.

  3. Professional bodies

    There are professional bodies for various areas of accounting and finance – find the one nearest to your career interest and sign up to their newsletter.

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our application advice will help you get ahead in your accounting and finance journey.
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
  • Do you have hands-on experience with any accounting software like QuickBooks or Excel? Share how you use them academically and personally.
  • Have you ever entered a maths or finance-related competition, or maybe you were part of a maths club? They’re both great achievements to highlight.
  • Did you take (or are you taking) further maths at GCSE level? That’s a strong demonstration of your aptitude for numbers and learning.
  • Show your commitment to academic excellence by talking about achievements in related subjects like economics or statistics.
  • Are you able to communicate financial concepts and proactively engage with the subject through a blog or other platform?
 
Writing your personal statement

We asked admissions tutors to share their dos and don’ts for writing a strong and engaging accounting and finance personal statement. Here's what they told us.

Personal statement builder

Try our tool.

Get help structuring your statement.

Sign up today

Featured providers

See all
Search uni and colleges for accounting and finance courses

Explore courses

See all

Explore other Subject guides

See all

Sponsored articles