Accounting and Finance

Accounting and finance is the study of how organisations record, report and manage their financial resources, combining the technical discipline of accountancy with the theoretical and analytical frameworks of corporate finance. Accounting provides the practical and conceptual foundation for understanding financial statements, management accounts, audit, tax and financial control. Finance builds on this with the theoretical understanding of how capital is allocated, how investment decisions are made and how risk is measured and managed in financial markets and within organisations.

At the University of Derby this programme offers a foundation year, making it accessible to students who need additional preparation before the main degree, alongside a sandwich year in professional practice and a year abroad. These features mean that by the time you graduate you will have both international experience and substantial professional exposure alongside your academic qualification. The programme prepares you for management positions in industry and commerce and for the professional accountancy qualifications offered by bodies recognised in the UK and internationally.

Accounting and finance graduates are among the most sought-after by employers across the private and public sectors. Roles in audit, tax, corporate finance, management accounting, treasury, financial analysis, investment management and financial consulting are all common career destinations. Many graduates proceed to professional training with the major accountancy bodies, which provides the recognised qualifications needed for practice in audit, tax and advisory roles.

Others move into management, consultancy, banking or financial technology, where the combination of accounting discipline and financial understanding is consistently valued. Postgraduate study in accounting, finance, financial management or MBA programmes is a natural route for those seeking senior roles.