University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme begins with a foundation year designed to bridge gaps in subject knowledge and academic skills. Foundation modules typically cover basic numeracy and mathematics for business, introduction to accounting principles, fundamentals of economics, information technology for business, and academic study skills such as essay writing, research and communication.

After successful completion of the foundation year you progress to three years of undergraduate study in accounting and related business subjects. Typical topics across the degree years include:

• Financial Accounting – recording and reporting financial transactions, preparation of financial statements and an introduction to reporting standards and interpretations.
• Management Accounting – costing techniques, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-making information for managers.
• Business and Company Law – legal context for business, contracts, company formation and regulatory obligations affecting accountants.
• Taxation – principles of direct and indirect taxation relevant to individuals and companies, and practical aspects of tax compliance.
• Audit and Assurance – concepts of audit, assurance standards, ethical requirements and evidence gathering.
• Corporate Finance and Financial Management – capital budgeting, working capital management, sources of finance and investment appraisal.
• Quantitative Methods and Business Analytics – statistics, spreadsheet modelling and data analysis techniques applied to accounting problems.
• Research Project or Dissertation – an independent piece of work in the final year that develops research skills applied to an accounting or finance topic.

Optional modules often allow you to tailor the degree toward areas such as forensic accounting, international accounting, sustainability reporting, or financial markets. Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies and practical sessions using accounting software and spreadsheet tools. Assessment is by a mix of exams, coursework, projects and presentations.

Entry requirements

The Foundation Year route is designed for applicants who do not yet meet the standard entry criteria for direct entry to the BSc. Typical entrants will hold secondary school qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels, BTEC or other level 3 vocational qualifications, but without the grades required for direct entry to year one. The foundation year supports progression for applicants who can demonstrate potential and motivation for degree-level study.

All applicants are expected to show competence in numeracy and English. Mature applicants and those with relevant work experience or alternative qualifications are welcome to apply and will be considered on an individual basis. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to satisfy the university's English language requirements through an approved test or recognised qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Accounting with Foundation Year BSc follow a broad range of career paths in the accounting, finance and business sectors. Common roles include:

• Chartered or certified accountant (via further professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA or ICAEW, for which the degree may offer exemptions or exemptions mapping)
• Management accountant or financial controller
• Audit and assurance practitioner in practice or industry
• Tax adviser and compliance specialist
• Financial analyst, corporate finance or treasury roles
• Business analyst, forensic accountant or risk and compliance roles

Graduates also progress to postgraduate study (MSc Accounting, Finance or related fields) and professional training contracts. The foundation year route equips students with the academic grounding and study skills to succeed on the degree and then move into professional training or employment.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester delivers accounting education informed by research-active staff and by practical links with the accounting profession. The programme combines theoretical foundations with applied skills—such as spreadsheet modelling, tax computation and financial statement analysis—important to employers.

Students benefit from dedicated academic support, career and employability services, and opportunities to meet professional practitioners through guest lectures, workshops and recruitment events. Small-group teaching and seminar work help develop communication and teamworking skills valued by graduate employers. The university's central campus offers study resources and facilities to support accounting students as they prepare for professional qualifications and careers in accounting and finance.