Keele University

What you'll study

The programme covers the principal areas of accounting and finance while developing analytical, IT and communication skills. You will study both financial and management accounting alongside modules in corporate finance and financial markets, and apply quantitative methods to real business problems.

• Core accounting – financial accounting, preparation and analysis of financial statements, and accounting principles.
• Management accounting – costing, budgeting, performance measurement and decision-making techniques.
• Finance – corporate finance, investment appraisal, financial markets and institutions, and risk management.
• Auditing, taxation and law – fundamentals of taxation, audit principles and relevant business law for accountants.
• Quantitative and IT skills – statistics, quantitative analysis, spreadsheet modelling and database techniques for finance.
• Professional and ethical skills – corporate governance, professional ethics and communication for accounting professionals.
• Optional and applied learning – options such as forensic accounting, international finance, and data analytics; opportunities for a placement year or study abroad (subject to module availability).

The degree typically progresses from introducing principles and techniques in the first year, to more specialised and applied modules in later years. Assessment is a mix of exams, coursework, group projects and practical assignments designed to reflect workplace tasks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education qualifications equivalent to typical UK A-levels. Typical offers are in line with standard undergraduate business and accounting programmes and may include:

• General qualification: A-levels or equivalent (e.g. BTEC, Access Diploma) with appropriate grades for progression to undergraduate study.
• Mathematics: an element of numeracy is important; GCSE mathematics at grade 4/C or equivalent is normally required and some prior study of mathematics or numeracy at A-level or equivalent is advantageous.
• International applicants: recognised international qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate with an appropriate point total, or other national equivalents.
• Additional considerations: personal statement, references and any relevant experience; mature applicants and those with vocational qualifications are encouraged to apply and may be considered on an individual basis.

Specific entry requirements can vary by year and intake; applicants should check Keele University’s official admissions pages for the precise requirements that apply to their circumstances.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of careers in accounting, finance and business. The degree provides a foundation for roles such as:

• Graduate trainee accountant or auditor with accounting firms and professional services firms.
• Financial analyst, management accountant, corporate finance analyst or treasury analyst in commerce and industry.
• Tax assistant, financial controller or payroll and reporting roles in public and private sectors.
• Roles in banking, investment firms, insurance and financial regulation.

The programme also provides pathways towards professional qualifications. Depending on module choices and results, graduates may be eligible for exemptions or credit from professional bodies such as ACCA, CIMA or ICAEW; many students progress onto graduate training schemes, professional accountancy training or further study including postgraduate Masters qualifications.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based learning environment with small-group teaching and accessible academic staff, which supports close contact and personal development. The university emphasises research-informed teaching and practical skills, so modules blend theory with real-world case studies, spreadsheet modelling and project work.

• Supportive campus – a single-site campus that brings teaching, libraries and student support services together, making it easier to engage with staff and peers.
• Applied learning – opportunities for placements or work-related projects that help build employability and professional experience.
• Professional links – modules designed to align with professional accounting standards and connections with employers that can help with graduate recruitment.
• Student support and development – dedicated careers and employability services, plus academic skills development for quantitative and communication competencies.

Prospective students should consult Keele University’s official programme pages for the most up-to-date information on course structure, available options and entry criteria.