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Overview
If you studied a business subject at undergraduate level and now want to pursue a career in accounting or finance, this accredited Master’s course is a great first step to specialise in accountancy or get into finance in general.
You'll be introduced to financial and accounting topics at the start of your studies, before exploring how businesses work financially. You'll learn about markets, trades and shares, and use our industry-standard Bloomberg suite to monitor and interpret the same data that professionals use in the real world.
You'll explore human behaviour in relation to finance and learn to use numbers to plan business strategy.
With practical projects and coursework to apply your learning, you'll develop your analytical and problem-solving skills throughout your studies. You'll access career support and networking opportunities with businesses and fellow students to ensure you graduate ready for your career in industry.
To become an accountant you'll need to study an accredited qualification. If you studied a different business-related subject at undergraduate level, this accounting and finance Master's degree is a chance to become an accountant and graduate with exam exemptions from both the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), which will kickstart your accountancy career and prepare you for the industry.
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Eligibility
This course accepts UK, EU, and international students.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).
Course highlights
- Use our industry-standard Bloomberg terminals to monitor and analyse financial market data movements and trades
- Study a CIMA and ACCA accredited degree
- Learn to write and interpret financial statements, and to monitor, control and plan for an organisation's ongoing success
- Understand accounting and finance from both strategic and management perspective
- Explore business planning and strategic management accounting, as well as corporate financial management and corporate governance
- Learn from staff with experience in industry
The University has helped me understand the accountancy and finance industry better. The thing that I consider to be unique about MSc Accounting and Finance is that the course is accredited which increases my employability. I have the chance to work on Bloomberg, which is a financial software, and get a certificate for my learning.
Contact information
Entry requirements
September 2024 start
- A second-class honours degree in a relevant subject or equivalent qualification and/or equivalent professional experience
Please get in touch if you're not sure if your undergraduate subject is relevant to this degree.
Equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications will also be considered, such as previous study, employment, voluntary work and training courses, including courses and qualifications you didn't complete. Learn more about our Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
If you're applying as an international student with a non-UK degree, you’ll need to show you meet the UK entry requirements listed above.
To find out if your non-UK degree or other qualification is accepted, please visit our page for your country and view the UK equivalent of your qualification.
- English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 (or equivalent) with no component score below 6.0.
You do not need an IELTS or equivalent certification if:
- you have a UK degree
- you have a degree from a majority English speaking country (not taught by Distance Learning)
- you are a national of a majority English speaking country
Degrees taught solely in English from non-majority English speaking countries will be considered on a case by case basis. Find out more about our English language requirements.
If you do not meet the English language requirements yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Course costs and funding
Tuition fees (September 2024 start)
- Full time: £12,000
- Part time: £4,000 per year
(including Transition Scholarship)
- Full time: £12,000
- Part time: £4,000 per year
- Full time: £17,900
- Part time: £5,970 per year
University of Portsmouth graduates may receive a 20% alumni tuition fee discount.
Fees are subject to annual increase. Read our tuition fees terms and conditions.
You'll be able to pay your fees in instalments. Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Funding your studies
Explore how to fund your studies, including available scholarships and bursaries.
If you're a UK student, you may be eligible for a Government Postgraduate Master's Loan, which you can use to help with course fees and living costs.
International student scholarships are available across the University.
Loans, scholarships and bursaries
Browse funding such as the Government Postgraduate Loan, our scholarships for new and returning students, and subject specific loans.
Funding for international students
Learn more about sponsorships, scholarships and loans for students applying from outside of the UK.
Fees and funding for Master's courses
Explore Master's funding options, including loans, scholarships, bursaries and more.
Additional costs
These course-related costs aren't included in the tuition fees, so you'll need to budget for them when you plan your spending. Additional costs could include:
- Accommodation: Accommodation options and costs can be found on our accommodation pages.
- Recommended reading: You can borrow key texts from the library and if you choose to purchase these texts they may cost up to £60 each.
- General costs: Such as photocopying, memory sticks, printing charges, binding and specialist printing. We suggest budgeting £75 per year.
- Final project transport or accommodation: where necessary, which related to your research activities. The amount will depend on the project you choose.
Read more about tuition fees and living costs, including what your tuition fees cover.
Modules
Full-time
Core modules
Students are introduced to key concepts and issues in conceptualising, designing, conducting and communicating research in the general fields of accounting, economics and finance and their sub-fields like financial technology, digital economy etc., informed by best practices across the subject disciplines. The module provides opportunities for students to engage with the practical application of research techniques and the chance to discuss research issues and ideas in an incubator type environment. The teaching sessions enable students to reflect upon the empirical research ideas and concepts introduced throughout the study programme across all units and to discuss, with academic staff field specialists how this prior research may inform their own research project. The module will also provide the opportunity to gain competence in the navigation and use of platforms and secondary data sources such as Bloomberg, Capital IQ etc. and in acquiring independent study skills under guidance of an assigned supervisor.
This will be achieved by introducing advanced theoretical advancements, guided critical research, and analysis.
The lectures will provide a foundation for independent learning, promoting the attainment of all learning outcomes. The workshops will involve students in formative problem-solving activities and discussions, addressing all learning outcomes. The teaching will be delivered through 2-hour weekly workshops.
The unit will develop a critical understanding of the role of accounting information in capital markets and provide a platform to understand the recent development in financial reporting from professional and academic perspectives.
This module provides opportunities for students to acquire key graduate skills including: - Research and critical analysis skills - A range of communication skills (written & oral) - Problem solving (quantitative and qualitative) skills.
They will also be able to implement investment strategies based on portfolio theory, through presentation of theoretical developments, guided critical analysis of research and application of quantitative models to real world data, including live data.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes.
The Hallmarks that the module seeks to address are:
- Think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries.
- Be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies.
- Be able to communicate clearly and effectively, in a range of forms and to different audiences.
- Be able to work in a range of environments, responding positively to new situations by being aware, flexible, adaptable and realistic in their expectations.
Students critically evaluate the factors that influence the investment decision-making process and how an understanding of behavioural finance may contribute to better financial decisions. Lectures introduce principles and theory, supporting independent learning. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving and discussions that address all learning outcomes. Independent learning is facilitated by online resources, including Moodle and selected websites.
The module contributes to a course accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes. A discrete series of practical classes on spreadsheet skills will also be delivered to enable Learning Outcome 3. A business game will be employed to further develop student understanding of key business planning and control issues and the potential role of accounting in this process.
The module develops a critical understanding of advanced theoretical models and methods and explores empirical research and case study evidence to illustrate theory in practice. Lectures provide students with key concepts and essential information to support independent learning. Seminars incorporate formative training exercises, discussions, and analyses. Students taking this module achieve the following graduate Hallmarks: Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries; be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society; be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies; be informed citizens, with a sense of responsibility allied to a commitment to ethical practice and social justice issues, such as equality, respect and sustainability.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes.
The Hallmarks that the module seeks to address are:
- Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries.
- Be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society.
- Have an enterprising spirit, bringing innovation and productivity to the groups and communities to which they belong.
Part-time
Core modules
This will be achieved by introducing advanced theoretical advancements, guided critical research, and analysis.
The lectures will provide a foundation for independent learning, promoting the attainment of all learning outcomes. The workshops will involve students in formative problem-solving activities and discussions, addressing all learning outcomes. The teaching will be delivered through 2-hour weekly workshops.
The unit will develop a critical understanding of the role of accounting information in capital markets and provide a platform to understand the recent development in financial reporting from professional and academic perspectives.
This module provides opportunities for students to acquire key graduate skills including: - Research and critical analysis skills - A range of communication skills (written & oral) - Problem solving (quantitative and qualitative) skills.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes. A discrete series of practical classes on spreadsheet skills will also be delivered to enable Learning Outcome 3. A business game will be employed to further develop student understanding of key business planning and control issues and the potential role of accounting in this process.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes.
The Hallmarks that the module seeks to address are:
- Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries.
- Be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society.
- Have an enterprising spirit, bringing innovation and productivity to the groups and communities to which they belong.
Core modules
They will also be able to implement investment strategies based on portfolio theory, through presentation of theoretical developments, guided critical analysis of research and application of quantitative models to real world data, including live data.
Lectures will introduce principles and theory, providing and facilitating a basis for independent learning on the part of the student, contributing to the achievement of all Learning Outcomes. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving activities and discussions addressing all Learning Outcomes.
The Hallmarks that the module seeks to address are:
- Think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries.
- Be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies.
- Be able to communicate clearly and effectively, in a range of forms and to different audiences.
- Be able to work in a range of environments, responding positively to new situations by being aware, flexible, adaptable and realistic in their expectations.
Students critically evaluate the factors that influence the investment decision-making process and how an understanding of behavioural finance may contribute to better financial decisions. Lectures introduce principles and theory, supporting independent learning. Seminars engage students in formative problem solving and discussions that address all learning outcomes. Independent learning is facilitated by online resources, including Moodle and selected websites.
The module contributes to a course accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.
The module develops a critical understanding of advanced theoretical models and methods and explores empirical research and case study evidence to illustrate theory in practice. Lectures provide students with key concepts and essential information to support independent learning. Seminars incorporate formative training exercises, discussions, and analyses. Students taking this module achieve the following graduate Hallmarks: Have a critical and reflective knowledge and understanding of their subject, with both the ability and readiness to question its principles, practices and boundaries; think independently, analytically and creatively, and engage imaginatively with new areas of investigation within and across discipline boundaries; be able to synthesise new and existing knowledge to generate ideas and develop creative solutions of benefit to the economy and society; be intellectually curious, embrace challenges and seize opportunities for development; be able to locate, access and critically engage with information, using current and emerging digital technologies; be informed citizens, with a sense of responsibility allied to a commitment to ethical practice and social justice issues, such as equality, respect and sustainability.
Core modules
Students are introduced to key concepts and issues in conceptualising, designing, conducting and communicating research in the general fields of accounting, economics and finance and their sub-fields like financial technology, digital economy etc., informed by best practices across the subject disciplines. The module provides opportunities for students to engage with the practical application of research techniques and the chance to discuss research issues and ideas in an incubator type environment. The teaching sessions enable students to reflect upon the empirical research ideas and concepts introduced throughout the study programme across all units and to discuss, with academic staff field specialists how this prior research may inform their own research project. The module will also provide the opportunity to gain competence in the navigation and use of platforms and secondary data sources such as Bloomberg, Capital IQ etc. and in acquiring independent study skills under guidance of an assigned supervisor.
Changes to course content
We use the best and most current research and professional practice alongside feedback from our students to make sure course content is relevant to your future career or further studies.
Therefore, some course content may change over time to reflect changes in the discipline or industry. If a module doesn't run, we'll let you know as soon as possible and help you choose an alternative module.
Facilities and specialist equipment
Bloomberg Suite
Access data from the world's global financial markets and gain experience using industry standard software.
How you'll spend your time
We recognise that you'll probably be juggling more demands when you do your Master's degree, as you may be working or you may have family responsibilities.
We'll give you as much indication here as we can of how much time you'll need to be on campus and how many hours you can expect to spend in self-directed study, but please note that these indications are always subject to change. You should receive your full timetable several weeks before you start with us.
Course structure
If you study this course full-time, you’ll study 4 modules in teaching block 1, and 5 modules in teaching block 2. You’ll work on your dissertation project across both teaching blocks.
You should plan to attend scheduled activities every weekday during term time.
If you study this course part-time, you'll study 5 modules in your first year, 4 modules in your second year, and work on your dissertation project in your final year.
Teaching
Master's study is deeper and more specialised than an undergraduate degree. This means you'll focus on something that really matters to you and your career as you work closely with academics committed to the subject.
You'll spend more time in independent study and research than you did for your undergraduate degree, but the majority of your teaching time will be in-person and face-to-face.
Teaching methods on this course include:
- lectures
- seminars
- tutorials
- practical sessions
- student presentations
- case studies
How you're assessed
You'll be assessed through:
- assignments
- group work
- course work
Full details of assessment can be found in the modules in the 'What you'll study' section.
You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark.
You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future.
Teaching staff
Miss Lena Itangata
Term dates
September start
The Master's academic year runs from September to the following September. There are breaks at Christmas and Easter. Over the summer you'll be writing your project/dissertation.
Career development
This accounting and finance masters degree will prepare you for a range of careers in industry.
To become an accountant you need to study an accredited qualification. If you studied a business subject at undergraduate level and now want to pursue a career in accounting or finance, this masters course is a great first step to specialise in accountancy or get into finance in general.
As this course is accredited by CIMA you'll be exempt from all five Certificate Level CIMA papers when you graduate. You'll also have the opportunity to sit one paper which combines your Management level papers P2, F2 and E2, thanks to CIMA's 'Gateway' route. If you complete this successfully you'll be exempt from all of CIMA's Operational level and Certificate level papers.
As this course is accredited by ACCA, when you graduate you'll be exempt from Fundamentals Level papers F1 - F4.
Graduates from this course have gone on to roles in:
- financial management
- investment analytics
- cost accountancy
- auditing and assurance
- accounting
- general business
- entrepreneurship
- finance
- other professional services
Career planning
During your course you'll have expert career support from our Careers and Employability Centre, your tutors and our Business and Law Career-Ready Programme. This support will continue for 5 years after you graduate.
Career support
You'll benefit from:
- Networking events
- Regular emails from the Career Ready Programme sharing job opportunities, application tips and events
- Applied projects with companies such as IBM, Boeing and Hampshire County Council
- Workshops to enhance your employability skills
- Recruitment events including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
- 1-to-1 appointments
- CV and cover letter advice
- Interview preparation and practice
- Support starting your own business
Supporting you
Master's study is more focused on independent learning than undergraduate study, but you'll get lots of support via video, phone and face-to-face from teaching and support staff to enhance your learning experience and help you succeed. You can build your personalised network of support from the following people and services:
Types of support
Your personal tutor helps you make the transition to independent study and gives you academic and personal support throughout your time at university.
As well as regular scheduled meetings with your personal tutor, they're also available at set times during the week if you want to chat with them about anything that can't wait until your next meeting.
In addition to the support you get from your personal tutor, you'll also have access to our student engagement officers. They can give you confidential, impartial advice on anything to do with your studies and personal wellbeing, and refer you to specialist support services if you need extra help or support.
The Maths Cafe offers free advice and help with maths skills in a friendly, informal environment. You can come to our daily drop-in sessions, develop your maths skills at a workshop, or use our online resources.
You'll have help from a team of study support tutors. Based within the Faculty of Business and Law, these tutors are familiar with the specific requirements your assignments and work closely with faculty academics. This means they can give you focused support with the specific study skills you need to be successful on your course. They're available face-to-face, by phone, email, and by video call.
They can help with:
- academic writing (for example, essays, reports, dissertations, projects and literature reviews)
- reflective writing skills
- critical thinking skills
- delivering presentations (including observing and filming presentations)
- understanding and using assignment feedback
- managing your time and workload
- revision and exam techniques
If you're a mature student, specialist support to help you return to learning is available.
As well as support from faculty staff and your personal tutor, you can use the University's Academic Skills Unit (ASK).
ASK provides one-to-one support in areas such as:
- academic writing
- note taking
- time management
- critical thinking
- presentation skills
- referencing
- working in groups
- revision, memory and exam techniques
Library staff are available in person or by email, phone, or online chat to help you make the most of the University’s library resources. You can also request one-to-one appointments and get support from a librarian who specialises in your subject area.
The library is open 24 hours a day, every day, in term time.
Our online Learning Well mini-course will help you plan for managing the challenges of learning and student life, so you can fulfil your potential and have a great student experience.
You can get personal, emotional and mental health support from our Student Wellbeing Service, in person and online. This includes 1–2–1 support as well as courses and workshops that help you better manage stress, anxiety or depression.
If you require extra support because of a disability or additional learning need our specialist team can help you.
They'll help you to
- discuss and agree on reasonable adjustments
- liaise with other University services and facilities, such as the library
- access specialist study skills and strategies tutors, and assistive technology tutors, on a 1-to-1 basis or in groups
- liaise with external services
If English isn't your first language, you can do one of our English language courses to improve your written and spoken English language skills before starting your degree. Once you're here, you can take part in our free In-Sessional English (ISE) programme to improve your English further.
Feel at home in our international community and our diverse city. You'll be joining over 5,000 international students from more than 150 countries who are studying with us.
Learn more about international student life and how we can help you with visas, applications, arrival and settling in.
Apply
Unlike undergraduate applications, which go through UCAS, applications for this Master's course are made directly to us.
There's no deadline for applications to this course. We accept applications right up until the start date in September, as long as there are places available. If you wait until September to apply, you may find that the course is full.
If you're applying as an international student, remember that you'll need to leave plenty of time to get your visa organised.
You can find more advice about applying in our Master's application checklist. International students and current students and recent graduates of the University of Portsmouth also have some different application options, which are detailed below.
Extra information for international students
If you're an international student, you can apply directly to us using the same application form as UK students.
You could also get an agent to help with your application. Check your country page for details of agents in your region. To find out what to include in your application, head to the how to apply page of our international students section.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements for this course yet, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Apply now
I'm a current Portsmouth student, or a recent Portsmouth graduate
If you're currently in your final year of study at Portsmouth, or you graduated since July 2023, you're eligible to make a fast track application. You'll have:
- a shorter application form to complete
- access to the 20% Alumni fee discount
- a guaranteed conditional offer, for most Master's courses
After you apply
Once we receive your application, we may ask you for further information. We will then either make you an offer or suggest alternatives if your application is unsuccessful.
You'll usually get a decision within 10 working days, so you shouldn't have to wait too long. Some courses have an interview stage – we'll let you know if you need to prepare for one.
Learn more about how we assess your application.
Admissions terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Portsmouth, you also agree to abide by our Student Contract (which includes the University's relevant policies, rules and regulations). You should read and consider these before you apply.