Accounting and Management with Foundation

Accounting and management is a degree that prepares graduates both for professional accounting practice and for the broader management roles in which accounting knowledge is essential. Accounting provides the financial reporting, analysis and assurance frameworks through which organisations account for their performance and stewardship; management gives the strategic, operational and organisational context in which financial decisions are made and implemented. Together they develop a rounded understanding of how organisations work from both the financial and the managerial perspective.

The University of Reading offers this programme with a foundation year at the outset, providing a thorough grounding in the quantitative, analytical and academic skills the degree requires before the main content begins. This makes it an accessible route for students who would benefit from additional preparation. The full degree then covers the core areas of accounting, including financial reporting, management accounting, taxation, auditing and corporate finance, alongside management content in strategy, operations, marketing, human resources and organisational behaviour.

Reading's Henley Business School provides a stimulating context for this combination, with strong connections to the accounting profession and the broader business community.

The degree develops financial and analytical rigour, the ability to interpret and prepare financial reports, commercial awareness and the management skills that leadership roles demand. It also provides a strong foundation for the professional accounting qualifications offered by bodies such as ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA and CIPFA, potentially with some exam exemptions following graduation.

Graduates pursue careers in public accounting practice, management accounting within organisations, corporate finance, financial control, auditing, financial management in the public sector and a range of management roles where financial competence is essential. Postgraduate study in accounting, finance or management is available for those wishing to develop specialist expertise or pursue academic careers.