University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme builds a firm grounding in financial and management accounting, corporate finance and economic context, while developing applied quantitative and IT skills. In the first year you study foundational topics such as financial accounting, introductory finance, business economics and quantitative methods to prepare you for more specialised study.

In the second year modules typically cover financial reporting and analysis, management accounting, corporate finance, taxation and auditing, together with options in areas such as business law, financial markets and applied econometrics. The final year focuses on advanced topics and independent study through a dissertation or an applied project, plus options that may include financial statement analysis, risk management, corporate governance and portfolio management.

The programme emphasises employability: practical casework, software-based assignments (spreadsheet modelling, accounting packages and data analysis tools), and opportunities to engage with employers. There is also scope to take a sandwich placement year or a period of study abroad where available, which can extend the programme by a year.

Entry requirements

Entry is at undergraduate level and applicants are expected to hold a recognised school-leaving qualification such as A-levels or an International Baccalaureate diploma, or an acceptable international equivalent. Mathematics at GCSE (or equivalent) is normally required and achievement in numerate subjects is looked on favourably.

Typical offers reflect standard university undergraduate entry criteria; mature applicants and those with relevant work experience or professional study will be considered on their merits. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate competence in English through a recognised qualification or test.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of careers in accounting and finance, including roles in audit and assurance, management accounting, tax advisory, corporate finance, financial analysis, banking, risk management and financial services. Many graduates enter graduate training schemes with accountancy firms, banks and professional services firms or join corporate finance and internal finance teams in industry and the public sector.

The degree provides a strong foundation for progression to professional qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW and other recognised accounting bodies; module content is designed to map closely to the knowledge requirements of these qualifications, helping graduates secure exemptions and prepare for professional exams.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers research-informed teaching and a supportive campus environment with dedicated academic and careers support. The School works to maintain links with employers and professional bodies to keep the curriculum current and to provide students with networking, guest lectures and recruitment opportunities.

Students benefit from a broad skills focus—technical accounting knowledge, quantitative analysis, communication and professional practice—together with opportunities for work experience, student societies and careers guidance that help smooth the transition into industry or further professional study.