Accounting and Finance with a Foundation Year - BSc (Hons) *
Currently viewing course to start in 2027/28 Entry.
Our Accounting and Finance with Foundation Year course provides a supportive route into undergraduate study, helping you develop the knowledge, confidence and academic skills you need to progress onto a degree within BCU Business School....
- Level Foundation
- Study mode Full Time
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2027
- Fees View course fees
- Subject
- Location City Centre
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
Our Accounting and Finance with Foundation Year course provides a supportive route into undergraduate study, helping you develop the knowledge, confidence and academic skills you need to progress onto a degree within BCU Business School. It is particularly suited to those returning to education after a break, changing career direction, or looking to strengthen their skills before beginning degree-level study.
During the Foundation Year, you will gain a broad introduction to business, exploring areas including accounting and finance, marketing, the business environment and contemporary business issues. You will also develop the academic, professional and transferable skills needed to support your future studies.
After successfully completing the Foundation Year, you will have the opportunity to progress onto a range of Accounting, Economics and Finance courses within BCU Business School, including BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance, BSc Business Finance, BSc Economics and BSc Finance & Investment. This gives you the opportunity to explore different areas of business before choosing a degree that matches your interests and ambitions.
What's covered in this course?
Foundation Year (Year One)
During your Foundation Year, you will study six modules covering areas including accounting and finance, business, marketing, diversity and inclusion, and academic and professional skills. Through case studies, workshops and practical activities, you will develop your understanding of how businesses operate while building skills in research, communication, problem-solving, teamwork and self-reflection. You will bring your learning together through a Foundation Project, giving you the opportunity to apply your knowledge to an extended piece of work and develop the independence and confidence needed for degree-level study.
BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance (Years Two-Four)
Our BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance degree will help you develop the technical knowledge, analytical skills and professional judgement needed to pursue a career in accounting, finance or the wider business environment. You’ll explore how financial information is prepared, interpreted and used to support business decisions, while developing the ability to evaluate complex information, solve problems and communicate financial insights clearly.
The course combines academic study with practical application, helping you understand how the principles and techniques you learn are used in professional settings. You’ll gain experience using industry-standard software such as Sage, Xero and Microsoft Office, explore the growing role of AI and data analytics in finance, and consider the ethical, sustainable and international factors that influence financial decision-making. With opportunities to gain experience through placements, internships and other forms of work experience, the course is designed to help you develop both the expertise and professional experience to support your future career.
You’ll study a broad range of accounting and finance topics, giving you a strong foundation before developing your knowledge in areas relevant to contemporary financial practice. These include Financial and Management Accounting, Corporate and Venture Finance, International Accounting Issues and financial reporting. You’ll develop your ability to analyse financial information, understand its implications for organisations and use it to support effective business and financial decision-making.
We place a strong emphasis on applying your learning to realistic business situations. Using professional accounting systems and industry-standard software, you’ll work through complex case studies and explore financial problems that reflect situations you could encounter in the workplace. Your learning will be supported by a range of teaching approaches, including lectures, workshops and tutorials, alongside employer-led masterclasses, field trips, and online and blended learning activities.
The course supports your progression towards professional accountancy qualifications and is mapped to align accreditation from major professional bodies including the ACCA, ICAEW and CIMA. When you graduate you may be eligible for exemptions from professional examinations, providing a distinct head start on your journey to becoming a qualified accountant.
You’ll have opportunities to build experience alongside your academic studies through live projects from businesses, a professional placement year, internships and virtual work experience. These opportunities can help you apply your learning in a professional environment, develop your CV and build a portfolio of experience before graduation. You’ll also receive support from the University’s Careers team and have opportunities to engage with our network of local, regional and national employers.
Accountancy and finance operate within an increasingly international business environment, and this is reflected throughout the course. You’ll develop an understanding of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and consider international accounting issues, while learning alongside students and academics from a range of backgrounds. You may also have the opportunity to spend a semester studying abroad at one of our partner universities, giving you the chance to experience a different academic and cultural environment.
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 City Trading Room we give students the chance to work on real-life projects using industry-standard software and work with real-world clients. This offers 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 Day
Join us for our next 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: 10 October
Course in Depth
Foundation Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Digital Markets and Financial Decision-Making 20 credits
This module introduces the essentials of accounting and finance, equipping you with practical knowledge and skills crucial for effective financial management in modern businesses. You will learn fundamental accounting principles, including how to prepare and interpret basic financial statements and apply management accounting techniques such as budgeting and performance evaluation. The module also covers the fundamentals of finance, including investment basics, the role of financial institutions, and the sources of funding available to organizations.
The environment in which businesses operate is vital to their operating activities. In some cases, it can determine the success or failure of a business. Therefore, understanding the context of business will offer dynamic and comprehensive knowledge about critical issues impacting business from diverse perspectives.
The Business & Professional Skills module is designed to equip students with essential academic and business skills required for success in a professional environment. This foundation module covers fundamental areas such as purposeful reading, effective academic and report writing, and key employability skills like business communication and self-reflection.
This specialist module introduces you to the concept of marketing, its strategic importance, and the marketing process. The emphasis is on understanding the customer, ensuring that products and services meet with customers’ needs and ways of influencing customer behaviour. The module provides an opportunity for you to research and investigate the market strategy of a business operation.
The Foundation Project module is a practical piece of extended work related to your chosen degree. It requires 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. The module will equip you with essential skills and knowledge that form the basis for successfully managing future projects in various settings. During the project, you will be given the space, time, and facilities to support a deeper appreciation for your specialisation and you will be encouraged to demonstrate creativity in the design, planning, and execution of a project.
First Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
Fundamentals of Accounting & Business 20 credits
Professional & Digital Skills for Accounting & Finance 20 credits
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 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 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.
Second Year
To complete this course, a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules in Semester one totalling 40 credits: These represent core accounting skills; students can either opt for the PSRB accredited route or the non accredited route.
Semester One
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.
Or
Company Reporting 20 credits
And either:
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
Cost Accounting 20 credits
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.
Financial Data Science 20 credits
Entrepreneurial and Sustainable Finance 20 credits
Semester Two
To complete this course, a student must successfully complete the following CORE module in semester two, totalling 20 credits:
Governance, Ethics and Accountability 20 credits
To complete this course, a student must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules in semester two:
Business Tax 20 credits
Digital Accounting in the Age of AI 20 credits
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 is aimed at improving your professional identity and employability capabilities by undertaking work-based learning such as short-term internships, virtual work experience/live briefs, or volunteering. Alongside the work experience you will be exposed to the skills required to successfully compete for a graduate job and progress within your future career.
This module will help you to have more certainty about your future career path and an awareness of the skills you need for a successful career. You will be able to navigate the graduate recruitment process with more confidence and progress within your chosen career after graduating.
Risk Management and Insurance 20 credits
This module, where a programme of study enables it, is open to Business students, who choose to undertake an international Study Abroad mobility experience within their second year of study.
*If you choose to study abroad for a semester you will substitute the BCU semester two modules with the equivalent of 60 credits of study from the host University course. If you are unable to cover all 60 credits with the host University modules you may need to choose and complete the 20 credit BCU Study Abroad option module.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Final Year
To complete this course, a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 40 credits):
Semester One
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.
OR
Strategic Corporate Reporting & Analysis 20 credits
Semester Two
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.
OR
Performance Measurement & Value Creation 20 credits
To complete this course, a student must successfully complete at least 80 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:
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.
Social & Environmental Accounting 20 credits
Financial Markets & Institutions 20 credits
Personal Tax 20 credits
Research Design and Practice 20 credits
Charity Accounting & Governance 20 credits
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.
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.
*Only an option if QME60XX Research Design and Practice module is chosen in Semester One.
Business Transformation 20 credits
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 nowIf you progress to BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance following successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will continue to develop your knowledge and skills through the following modules. Please note that the modules listed above apply to the Accounting and Finance degree only. If you choose to progress onto a different undergraduate course, the modules and course content will be different. Please refer to the individual course page for full details.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is integrated throughout our courses, helping you develop the digital skills, critical thinking and professional judgement needed in the modern accounting and finance profession. You’ll learn to use AI responsibly and transparently, while critically evaluating its outputs and considering issues such as accuracy, bias, data privacy, academic integrity and intellectual ownership.
You’ll apply AI through areas including digital accounting, data analytics and financial technology, developing your ability to verify AI-generated information and make informed professional decisions. AI is used in different ways across learning and assessment, and course content is regularly reviewed to reflect emerging technologies, professional practice and developments in the accounting and finance sector.
Sustainability, SDGs and Ethics
Sustainability, ethics and responsible practice are embedded throughout our courses, reflecting their growing importance to the accounting and finance professions. You will explore how financial and business decisions can affect organisations, people, society and the environment, developing your ability to consider wider responsibilities alongside financial and commercial objectives.
Throughout our your course, you will consider areas such as professional ethics, corporate governance, responsible investment, sustainability reporting, environmental and social considerations, and the responsible use of digital technologies and AI. You will also be introduced to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping you understand how global challenges, such as climate change, inequality and responsible economic growth, relate to accounting and finance. These perspectives are developed alongside your technical knowledge, supporting you to make informed, ethical and responsible professional judgements.
Professional alignment
The professional accreditations, exemptions or memberships referenced on this page apply specifically to the BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance degree and are not associated with the Foundation Year itself. If you choose to progress onto a different undergraduate course, the relevant accreditations and professional recognition will vary. Please refer to the individual course page for full details.
Our Accounting and Finance degree is aligned to a range of professional bodies. The main benefit of this is that you will may be exempt from a range of professional body exams when it comes to graduating. It also ensures you’re fully prepared for the world of work, undertaking tasks that’ll stand you in good stead for your future.
Exemptions available will depend upon modules selected in the second and further years of study and are at the discretion of the awarding professional body.
*The professional accreditations, exemptions or memberships referenced on this page apply specifically to the BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance degree and are not associated with the Foundation Year itself. If you choose to progress onto a different undergraduate course, the relevant accreditations and professional recognition will vary. Please refer to the individual course page for full details.
This course is aligned to the following organisations
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.
The Institute of Financial Accountants
Accredited by The Institute of Financial Accountants (IFA) for the purpose of exemption from some professional examinations.
ICAS
A global professional membership organisation and business network for Chartered Accountants.
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2027/28.
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 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 Years
- £5,760 in 2027/28
- 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 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 4 Years
- £19,220 in 2027/28
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
Register with UCAS
Login to UCAS
Complete your details
Select your course
Write a personal statement
Get a reference
Pay your application fee
Send UCAS your application
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.
Facilities & Staff

Accounting, Finance and Economics facilities
Take a look around the facilities available to you as an Accounting, Economics and Finance student at BCU.
Our staff
Dr Issahaku Salifu
Lecturer in Accounting
Issahaku is a Lecturer in Accounting and is passionate about teaching and learning in Higher Education. Over the years, he has gained significant teaching experience in HE in Ghana and the UK. Prior to his appointment, he has been studying a PhD programme with Birmingham City University, which has shaped his research orientation and perspectives....
More about IssahakuSamantha Roberts
Head of Department 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 SamanthaShaista 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
Associate Professor in Accounting
Kulvinder is an Associate Professor in Accounting. He is part of the course leadership team across the undergraduate and postgraduate accounting suite of courses. He is the college subject lead for Accounting, and works closely with the course leaders across the portfolio of courses.
More about Kulvinder






