Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This BA (Hons) Finance covers core areas of financial theory and practice across accounting, corporate finance, financial markets and investment analysis. The programme is structured to build from foundational subjects in the first year to specialist and applied modules in later years, with opportunities for an independent research project or dissertation in the final year. Typical topics include:

• Financial Accounting and Reporting – recording and interpreting financial statements, accounting principles and the use of financial information for decision-making.
• Management Accounting – budgeting, costing, performance measurement and tools used by managers to control and plan business activities.
• Corporate Finance – capital structure, valuation, financing decisions and dividend policy.
• Financial Markets and Institutions – structure and function of capital markets, financial intermediaries and market regulation.
• Investment and Portfolio Management – asset classes, portfolio theory, risk and return, portfolio construction and performance evaluation.
• Quantitative Methods for Finance – statistical techniques, time value of money, forecasting, modelling and spreadsheets for financial analysis.
• Risk Management and Derivatives – identification and measurement of financial risk, use of derivatives and hedging strategies.
• Business Law and Ethics – legal framework affecting business finance and ethical issues in financial decision-making.
• Final Project / Dissertation – an independent piece of applied research or a work-based project demonstrating synthesis of knowledge and analytical skills.

The course typically offers optional modules and short units to reflect current developments in fintech, sustainable finance and corporate governance. Students are encouraged to develop IT skills (spreadsheets, databases and financial software), presentation and team-working abilities alongside technical finance knowledge.

Entry requirements

Bournemouth University looks for applicants with a sound academic background and clear aptitude for numeracy and analytical thinking. Typical applicants hold A-levels (including mathematics is advantageous) or an equivalent vocational qualification such as a BTEC/HND in a business-related subject. Mature applicants and those with relevant work experience are also considered. International applicants are expected to present a recognised secondary school leaving qualification or an international diploma such as the IB.

All applicants should demonstrate competence in English; if your first language is not English you will normally need to provide evidence of an English language qualification. Where possible, admissions tutors look for applicants who can show interest in finance through study, work experience, clubs, or self-directed learning.

Career prospects

Graduates of BA (Hons) Finance go on to a wide range of roles across the financial services and business sectors. Common career paths include:

• Financial analyst or planning analyst
• Investment analyst or portfolio assistant
• Banking roles, including corporate and retail banking
• Risk analyst or compliance officer
• Management accountant or financial controller roles (often combined with professional training)
• Financial adviser or wealth management support roles
• Business analyst or data-focused roles in commercial organisations

The degree also provides a platform to study for professional qualifications such as the CFA, ACCA or CIMA, and many graduates follow postgraduate study or professional training programmes. Bournemouth University emphasises employability skills, helping students prepare CVs, interview techniques and professional networking.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University places strong emphasis on practice-based learning and employability. The Faculty of Management delivers finance education that combines academic rigour with application: you will work on case studies, live briefs and software-based financial modelling. Opportunities such as an optional placement year, short industry projects and guest lectures from practitioners help connect academic study with the workplace.

The university’s location offers good links to regional employers across the South West and beyond, and the campus environment supports student clubs and societies focused on finance, investment and entrepreneurship. Small-group teaching, accessible academic support and career services tailored to business students contribute to preparing graduates for careers in the competitive financial sector.