Accounting and Finance with a Foundation Year - BSc (Hons)
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Looking for a foundation course in accounting in Birmingham? Our BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance with a Foundation Year course has lower entry requirements and can lead to a full undergraduate qualification....
- Level Foundation
- Study mode Full Time
- Location City Centre
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2025
- Fees View course fees
- School Birmingham City Business School
- Faculty Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
Looking for a foundation course in accounting in Birmingham? Our BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance with a Foundation Year course has lower entry requirements and can lead to a full undergraduate qualification.
This course has been specifically designed to allow home and EU students, who do not initially meet the Birmingham City University entry requirements for our standard Accounting and Finance degree, to undertake additional level 3 study designed to ensure they are successful on their chosen degree course. The foundation year itself will equip you with the required knowledge and skills to proceed on to any of our undergraduate degree courses offered within Birmingham City Business School.
Delivery of the course is flexible and includes a blend of lectures, workshops, field trips and online learning. The modules, which feed into the course are broad and cover key current topics, such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and help you to appreciate accounting and finance from a range of perspectives. Ultimately, decision making in this field, calls for one to exercise judgement and intuition and this course helps you to strengthen that judgement.
This course has been designed to be accredited by the major professional accounting bodies, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), offering significant exemptions from their professional qualifications.
What's covered in this course?
The BSc (Honours) Accounting and Finance degree at Birmingham City Business School provides a valuable insight into the worlds of accountancy practice, commerce, industry and finance. We create graduates who possess a global outlook, with the conceptual and applied knowledge in the fields of accounting and finance that will enable them to make a positive impact on society.
This course offers an accounting and finance curriculum that is up to date, vocationally relevant, challenging and reflects the complex and challenging nature of the accounting and business environment.
You will gain expertise in areas including financial and management accounting, corporate finance, international accounting and finance issues, data analysis and business technology. You will have the opportunity to use software relevant to the modern business environment, equipping you with the skills and experience sought by employers.
You will develop scholarly attributes, becoming an independent learner with the ability to critically evaluate data and evidence, draw reasoned conclusions and communicate effectively in a professional manner.
With our practice-based approach to teaching, you will learn from professionally qualified academics with a wealth of industry experience, and research active academics whose research underpins and informs our approach to teaching.
You will be actively supported and encouraged to undertake an additional professional placement year, providing the opportunity to improve your employability skills. Our students have worked for industry leading accountancy practices including PwC and EY, as well as for organisations such as the NHS, IBM and Vodafone.
The international focus of the course is derived through a variety of means including the study of international accounting standards, student body, the teaching team and the use of international teaching materials. Moreover, you can choose to spend a full semester studying their modules overseas at a partner institution.
This course shares a common level 4 with other accounting courses within the Business School with full transferability between courses at the end of the year.
Accredited By
This course is accredited by:
Part of my decision to come to BCU was the fact that the Accounting and Finance course offered the sandwich year. As soon as I saw that, I didn’t have to think twice!
Christopher Cocksedge, Accounting and Finance student
Why Choose Us?
- We have a strong focus on employability and through placement opportunities and our links with local businesses, we aim to ensure you graduate not only with your degree but also with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on your chosen career.
- The STEAMhouse offers amazing opportunities for entrepreneurial students to kick start and build a business. Services available include the Incubator which helps focus and solidify business ideas and the Hatchery which offers support in getting your business off the ground.
- We pride ourselves on being the University for Birmingham and supporting and giving something back to the local business community. We have strong links with local businesses in the city across several industries. These links help us enhance students’ experiences by giving them access to industry experts for guest lectures, exciting placement opportunities and other chances to engage with the business community as a whole.
- We aim to infuse learning with exposure to real-world experiences. Through the Tax clinic and City Trading Room we give students the chance to work on real-life projects using industry-standard software and with real-world clients. These offer a unique opportunity for students to gain this invaluable experience while they study.
- This course is accredited and meets the high standards of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Open Days
Join us for an on-campus Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 19 October 2024
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2025/26.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
80 UCAS Tariff points. Learn more about UCAS Tariff points.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 Years
- £9,250 in 2025/26
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2025
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 Years
- £17,690 in 2025/26
Guidance for UK/EU students
UK and EU students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
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Course in Depth
Foundation Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
This module will provide you with an introduction to the business environment to help you develop an understanding of how key elements affects business and their different functions. Using case studies you will explore different organisations types and how different business functions relate to each other. Considering how businesses operate within their context will allow you to develop a broad approach to understanding how businesses work and inform your future degree and career choice.
This module will help guide you to develop the essential academic skills required to be successful in Higher Education and introduce essential business skills required in the business context. Within a supportive class environment this module will help you to develop basic research skills, academic writing, reflective skills, and professional and employability skills. Acquiring these skills will aid your transition to the higher levels of study associated with your chosen degree programme and future career. In parallel with this module you are expected to achieve your Graduate+ Bronze award.
This module will help you develop a range of essential skills required to be successful in Higher Education as well as developing key employability skills in the business context. Within a supportive class environment this module will help you to develop the professional presentation, time management team working and marketing skills needed in your subsequent study at BCU and in graduate employment. Acquiring these skills will aid your transition to the higher levels of study associated with your chosen degree programme and increase your self-awareness, confidence and assertiveness.
This module will introduce you to the basics of accounting but from a personal perspective. You will be able to examine the various factors that affect personal finances at various stages of an individual’s life. Through seminars/workshops and case studies, you will have the opportunity of learning different instruments and skills which will enable you to look after your finances effectively.
The Foundation Practice Project module is a practical piece of extended work related to your chosen degree. It will require you to apply the knowledge and skills developed throughout your current level of study and will enhance your ability to work individually and as part of a team.
An Introduction to Management and Leadership will provide an overview of the essential skills, attributes and actions of a successful manager in today’s business environment. Students will explore the differences between a manager and a leader as well as what good leadership and management looks like.
First Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Ethical behaviours and professional standards are underpinning elements of business activities and as such important parts of any business based education. The module will cover the fundamental principles of ethics and ethical conflict, giving you practical examples and activities that will encourage you to develop your appreciation and understanding of the content and purpose of the differing frameworks, values and attitudes.
Whilst your degree is a highly valued indicator of achievement and ability for employers, a successful career is also dependent on the development of the right attitudes and behaviours. This is reflected in the findings from a survey undertaken by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), which identifies that, in addition to qualifications, employers also look for broader skills when recruiting individuals straight from education.
This module is designed to develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of economic theory at introductory level and to basic finance as well as the financial world within which businesses operate. The Finance aspect of this module includes concepts such as Financial Objectives of Firm, Financial Environment, Time Value of Money, Investment Appraisal, Sources of Short and Long Term Finance, and Cost of Capital, will be introduced. It has many mathematical calculations which include the arithmetic underlying compounding and discounting of financial investments.
This module introduces the preparation of financial statements for a sole trader and develops the financial statements for a simple limited company. This module covers in depth the recording, processing and reporting of business transactions and events and will help you develop knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles and concepts relating to financial accounting and give you the opportunity to learn and use the system of double entry.
This module is designed to develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of management accounting techniques. It will introduce you to the use of these accounting techniques to support management in their planning, controlling and decision making processes, both within industry and the service sector.
This module is designed to develop your fundamental knowledge and understanding of management accounting techniques. It will introduce you to the use of these accounting techniques to support management in their planning, controlling and decision making processes, both within industry and the service sector.
Second Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete the following CORE module (totalling 20 credits):
This module aims to provide you with the sound conceptual understanding and core practical skills necessary to be able to articulate a critical review of the relevant literature applicable to an accounting and/or finance issue. This will enable you to develop the applied skills needed to source, read widely and reference academic literature.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete 60 credits in semester one from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules: 40 credits from the following optional modules:
This module will develop your skills in both the preparation of financial statements for single and group companies (in accordance with the IASBs Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting and relevant International Financial Reporting Standards) and the analysis and understanding of such financial statements. This module will also help develop your skills in ratio analysis and interpretation.
This module builds on the prior management accounting knowledge and it is assumed that you have a basic understanding of how costs behave, short term decision making and the major accounting systems (absorption and marginal costing). The content will develop your knowledge of budgetary control and then focus on applying your learning to various short term decision-making scenarios.
Or:
The purpose of financial accounting and management accounting is to provide useful information to external and internal users. Whilst financial accounting provides information to external stakeholders, management accounting provides information to satisfy the needs of internal users, however both financial and management accounting are part of the total accounting information system.
AND
20 credits from the following list of optional modules:
Corporate Finance is a rigorous and comprehensive module that is designed to broaden your understanding of the main issues in modern corporate finance. Corporate Finance is concerned with how businesses raise funds and invest those funds to provide a return to investors. This module aims to equip you with the skills and knowledge required by a financial manager to make appropriate investment and financing decisions for a business in a global environment.
In this module, you will study the financial management of entrepreneurial firms (small and medium sized) and venture firms. You will first consider different sources of financing for entrepreneurial firms including bank loans, government funding, angels, venture capital, peer-to-peer financing, on-line banking, and various types of private equity as well as the process of obtaining these sources. It will also include innovative ways of raising funds such as crowdfunding. You will then consider short-term financial planning and cash management, which are crucial to the early stages of an entrepreneurial firm’s development.
In order to complete this course you must also successfully complete 40 credits in semester two from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:
This module will introduce aspects of UK taxation to develop knowledge relating to the tax system applicable to individuals and companies. The module will enable you to develop skills relating to the general principles of taxation, the UK tax framework and regulatory environment. The module will introduce the computational aspects of income tax, national insurance contributions, capital gains tax, inheritance tax in respect of individuals and introduce corporation tax and value added tax for businesses.
This module will guide you to develop your understanding of the technologies of the modern age and how they are transforming the business world and the finance function.
This module focuses on the tools and techniques used by Operation Managers within service, manufacturing, private and public sector institutions to ensure activities are aligned with corporate and market objectives. The module requires you to apply a range of operations management tools and techniques to given scenarios in order to produce a range of verbal, written and numerical solutions focussed on the efficiency, effectiveness and economy of an operation’s processes.
This module introduces you to personal investments and wealth management of individuals. You will learn about the wealth management process and be able to develop investment policy statements for individuals given their unique goals, constraints and circumstances. In addition, you will develop a thorough understanding of the different global tax regimes. You will also develop analytical skills in estate planning and risk management of personal investments.
The financial crisis of 2008 exposed the failings of the conventional financial system and an alternate was sort. Islamic Finance is a type of financing activities that must comply with Islamic law (Sharia). The concept can also refer to the investments that are permissible under Islamic Law.
You also have the option to study a semester abroad:
A semester abroad is a fantastic opportunity to explore your subject in an international context at one of our partner institutions. Spending a period of time abroad as part of your degree allows you to understand a different culture, and gain specific knowledge about working practices in your host country. Connecting with fellow international students can broaden your network and increase your graduate prospects.
If you choose this option, you will study 60 credits of modules at the overseas partner institution and fewer modules at BCU.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Final Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 40 credits):
This module will enable you to develop your organisational leadership and consultancy capabilities and relevant professional skills. You will develop an understanding of how leaders make strategic decisions and how effective strategic leadership can influence organisational behaviour and decision- making.
The Accounting For The Planet module aims to develop your understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility, and introduce you to the areas of Sustainability and Environmental reporting. The module will offer you the opportunity to examine the reporting practices of companies concerning non-financial disclosures, and the opportunity to discuss how businesses are taking greater responsibility in helping to move towards a cleaner and more sustainable planet. The module will also consider the six main elements of integrated reporting.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 80 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
This module builds upon your earlier studies of Principles of Taxation at Level 5 and seeks to explore more complex aspects of income tax, national insurance contributions, capital gains tax, corporation tax value added tax and inheritance tax with an emphasis on tax planning.
This module will introduce you to the financial system including the banking system, financial markets and institutions. In addition to exploring the characteristics and functions of financial system, you will be provided with analytic framework that uses economic principles to develop systematic understanding about the determinants of interest rate, the role of monetary policy and bank risk management.
This module will introduce you to assurance engagements with focus on external and internal audit. You will explore the nature and purpose of these engagements as well as the role of assurance to stakeholders and the capital markets including the increasing pressure for public accountability. You will look to understanding the overall regulatory framework and governance for companies and auditors.
This module will contribute to the intellectual and personal development of students to the level of an honours graduate in the Accountancy field by offering a body of current theoretical knowledge and technical skills relevant to the advanced study of financial reporting at Level 6.
You will explore the concept of planning an operational change within an organisation through the use of project management tools and techniques. You will be introduced to industry recognised project management tools and techniques.
This module is designed to further develop knowledge and skills in the application of management accounting techniques. Building on the knowledge gained from levels 4 and 5, this module investigates how relevant strategic management accounting techniques, both quantitative and qualitative, can assist managers to control the performance of their business. Strategic management accounting is presented as a service function; a means to an end rather than an end itself. The aims are for you to understand and critically analyse the techniques, to be able to apply them to business situations, to be aware of their limitations, and make appropriate recommendations.
This module will help students in developing knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles and concepts relating to corporate finance and give the theoretical underpinnings of financial management in corporates. The course gives a broader understanding of the philosophies behind the financial management decisions, capital structure, dividend policies and current developments in and modern theories of finance. The module will enable students to evaluate research and synthesise information about corporate financial issues and problems, ability to solve quantitative problems, presentation of ideas, and participation in debates.
This module introduces you to the financial systems, products and services offered by Islamic financial institutions in the Islamic Banking and insurance (takeful) industries. The module will discuss the product features and mechanisms that are specialised due to the Sharia compliance aspect. It highlights the pertinent risk management issues relevant to the financial institutions involved in Islamic financial activities. You will understand how schools of Islamic jurisprudence permit some forms of transactions, but exclude others, through principles such as the requirement of risk sharing within contracts, the avoidance of excessive risk and the use of real contracts.
This module will introduce you to the not for profit environment including the charity and public sectors. In addition to exploring the differences in structure, financing, governance, management and performance measurement of organisations within the not for profit environment, you will review and evaluate the challenges associated with accounting for not for profits and the implications on their operations.
Financial technology (Fintech) integrate technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and data science into traditional financial services to make them safer, faster and more efficient. It is one of the fastest-growing industries, with companies innovating in almost every area of finance from mobile banking and insurance to cryptocurrency and investment apps, Fintech has broad applications.
The aim of this module is to provide insight into the methodological foundations of business research, which will enable you to conduct a substantial piece of disciplinary research.
The aim of this module is to provide a framework for you to undertake a substantial piece of disciplinary-relevant research. It is founded upon Birmingham City Business School’s teaching and learning philosophy which integrates theory and practice.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Download course specification
Download nowYou have the flexibility to transfer to any standard undergraduate course offered within Birmingham City Business School after successful completion of your foundation year.
Some of the Accounting and Finance related course you could go on to are:
BSc (Hons) Business Finance is designed to equip you with the expert knowledge and technical skills required by the Association of Corporate Treasurers qualification and the wider industry, this flexible course will encourage your development towards becoming a successful business finance professional.
BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment is focused on a practical application of financial skills in the investing world, qualities that are in high demand in modern business. Designed to equip you with technical knowledge and skills, the course will encourage your development and commitment in becoming an investment professional.
Go Abroad
Undergraduate students can apply to study on an exchange programme for one semester at one of our partner universities across the globe. The opportunity to apply will depend on which course you study. The majority of courses offer this in the second semester of your second year. You will obtain credits which are recognised by BCU. Find out more about Go Abroad.
Alternatively, each year, the University offers students the chance to volunteer or study overseas at one of our partner institutions/organisations during the summer. In previous years, our students have been to France, Spain, Brazil, Fiji, India, Mexico, South Korea, and USA on a variety of activities. All students are eligible to apply, although PG and PhD students may require academic approval. Find out more about Go Abroad.
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
ACCA is the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. They are a thriving global community of 241,000 members and 542,000 future members based in 178 countries that upholds the highest professional and ethical values.
ACCA provides the skills and resources to help forward-thinking finance professionals thrive in the public sector.
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) for the purpose of exemption from some professional examinations through the Accredited degree accelerated route. This accreditation is dependent on particular modules you choose.
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
Accredited by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales for the purpose of exemption from some professional examinations.
Employability
Enhancing employability skills
Your course will prepare and equip you for a career in accountancy, finance, management or business, by relating your studies to the latest practice-based business developments.
Throughout the course, we have regular visits from professional bodies such as the ICAEW, CIMA and ACCA. These visits help ensure that you are learning the exact skills organisations and regulator bodies are looking for.
You will also have the opportunity to attain the Microsoft Office Specialist – Excel qualification, enhancing your employability prospects.
International
Birmingham City University is a vibrant and multicultural university in the heart of a modern and diverse city. We welcome many international students every year – there are currently students from more than 80 countries among our student community.
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Details of the entry requirements for our courses
- Some of the good reasons why you should study here
- How to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Information relevant to applicants from your country
- Where to find financial support for your studies.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
- Explore some of the good reasons why you should study here
- Find out how to improve your language skills before starting your studies
- Find all the information relevant to applicants from your country
- Learn where to find financial support for your studies
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
Facilities & Staff
Our Facilities
We are constantly investing in our estate and have spent £400 million on new learning facilities.
The Curzon Building
This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other Social Sciences, Law and Business students.
The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.
The Business floors house an extensive number of IT facilities, breakout areas, and specialised rooms. The Marketing Link Agency is designed to replicate a modern marketing firm, allowing students to get real-life experience of working in the marketing sector. There is also the City Trading Room, which features state of the art stock market tracking equipment, keeping you up to date with all the financial comings and goings of the London Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
The Curzon building is also conveniently close to Birmingham’s business and financial centre, allowing for strong links between your studies and the real world.
The Curzon Building also features:
- An impressive library with access to over 65 million full text items and stunning views of Eastside City Park
- Your Students’ Union which is located in a beautifully restored 19th century pub, The Eagle and Ball
- A modern 300-seat food court with space to study and socialise
- Accessible IT facilities with full Office365 for all students for free
- Shared facilities with the wider campus including the Parkside Building and Millennium Point
Our staff
Samantha Roberts
Head of Accountancy, Finance and Economics
Samantha Roberts holds an honours degree in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Accounting and Financial Management. She is ACMA, CGMA qualified and after a 15 year career in the banking and finance sector Samantha moved into higher education.
More about SamanthaMargaret Saunders
Senior Teaching Fellow / Academic Lead in Teaching Excellence and the Student Experience
Margaret Saunders is a qualified management accountant who gained substantial experience in industry prior to making the transition into education. She is currently the Academic Lead for Teaching Excellence and the Student Experience in addition to being a Senior Teaching Fellow in Management Accounting.
More about MargaretShaista Mukadam
Senior Lecturer
After completion of her Chartered Accountancy Professional Qualification from India, Shaista Mukadam worked and audited in many of the multi-national companies in India. She retrained as a lecturer, and now teaches on accounting modules at Birmingham City University. In December 2021, Shaista was presented with Womani Award for 2021 by...
More about ShaistaKulvinder Singh
Senior Teaching Fellow in Financial Accounting
Kulvinder is a senior teaching fellow in financial accounting. He is part of the course management team and is the course leader for the BSc Accounting and Finance course. He has taught at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as on the professional ACCA programme.
More about Kulvinder