BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Accounting and Finance - MSc
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€22k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- CIMA AccreditedProfessional Accreditation
- Maximise CIMA exemptionsProfessional Recognition
- Optional Professional Placement (18 months)Practical Experience
- Flexible module choicesTailored Study
- Strong links with CIMAIndustry Connections
- Taught by professionally qualified academicsExpert Faculty
The MSc Accounting and Finance program at Birmingham City University is specifically designed for students aiming for a career in accountancy, finance, or management. Taught by experienced, professionally qualified academics, this Master's degree is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). The curriculum focuses on both the practical application of accounting in real-world scenarios and the theoretical aspects of related research, with a strong international perspective. You will explore global accounting standards and benefit from a diverse student body and teaching team. Students have the option to undertake a professional placement of 20 weeks after completing their taught modules. This placement offers valuable hands-on experience and enhances employability, allowing you to develop professional skills and behaviours relevant to the postgraduate job market. While the university provides support in finding placements, securing one is competitive and not guaranteed.
Careers
This MSc prepares you for a career in various financial and management roles, enhancing your professional qualifications and practical skills.
- Accountant
- Financial Manager
- Management Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students for the MSc Accounting and Finance program?
- For 2026/27 entry, the one-year full-time program is £18,970. The 18-month program with professional placement is £20,865. These fees apply to the first year and may increase in subsequent years.
- What is the duration of the MSc Accounting and Finance program?
- The program can be completed in one year of full-time study. Alternatively, you can opt for an 18-month program which includes a professional placement.
- What are the entry requirements for this Master's program?
- You need a UK honours degree with a 2:2 in Accountancy, Accounting and Finance, or a business-related field with substantial accounting content. Professional accountancy qualifications or completion of a pre-Master’s program are also accepted.
- Does this program offer any professional accreditations or exemptions?
- Yes, the MSc Accounting and Finance program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). It offers significant CIMA exemptions, including all Management and Strategic level papers (excluding case studies).
- What English language proficiency is required for international students?
- International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each band.
- Are there any costs not included in the tuition fees?
- Tuition fees include access to computer equipment, print credit, essential field trips, and software. Costs not included are excess printing, personal stationery, placement expenses, and optional CIMA membership/exam fees.
Entry requirements
UK Honours DegreeA minimum of a 2:2 honours degree in Accountancy, Accounting and Finance, or a business-related area with significant accounting content.
Professional Accountancy QualificationsACCA Papers F1-9 / CIMA Operational and Management Levels (or equivalent), or a full professional accountancy qualification (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning - APEL - may be available).
Pre-Master’s ProgrammeCompletion of a pre-Master’s programme approved by Birmingham City University.
IELTS6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band.
If you do not meet the academic or English language requirements, or have been out of education for some time, consider joining Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) for preparatory study.
Fees
Tuition (international)£18,970 for the one-year full-time program, or £20,865 for the 18-month program with professional placement (2026/27 entry). These fees are applicable to the first year of study and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation (capped at 5%).
Tuition (home)£12,880 for the one-year full-time program, or £14,170 for the 18-month program with professional placement (2026/27 entry). These fees are applicable to the first year of study and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation (capped at 5%).
LivingAccommodation and other living costs are not included in your tuition fees. As part of your Student Visa application, you will need to demonstrate sufficient funds for your first year of study, covering both tuition and living expenses.
Course fees include access to computer equipment, £5 print credit per year, essential field trips, Microsoft Office 365, key software (SPSS, Nvivo), and subscriptions to key journals. Costs not included are excess printing, personal stationery (approx. £30 per year), placement expenses (accommodation and travel), and CIMA membership/exam costs (optional, but required for full CIMA membership).
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsVerify that you meet both the academic and English language requirements for the MSc Accounting and Finance program. International applicants should review country-specific requirements on the university's international pages.
2. Prepare Your DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language proficiency test results (e.g., IELTS), and any professional qualifications. If you have a professional qualification (ACCA, CCAB, CIMA), you may be eligible for credit transfer.
3. Submit Your Application OnlineAccess the university's online application portal for your chosen intake (September 2026 or January 2027) and complete the application form. Fill in your personal details, academic history, and any relevant work experience.
4. Track Your ApplicationAfter submission, you can usually track the status of your application through the online portal or by contacting the admissions team.
5. Respond to OfferIf you receive an offer of admission, follow the instructions provided to accept it. You may be required to pay a deposit to secure your place.
6. Prepare for Visa and Finances (International Students)Once your offer is confirmed, begin preparing for your Student Visa application. You will need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living costs for your first year of study. The university's international office can provide guidance on this process.
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). The accreditation offers extensive CIMA exemptions, including all Management and Strategic level CIMA papers (excluding the case studies). Tuition for the Final Strategic Case Study is included upon completion of your MSc.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students for the MSc Accounting and Finance program?
+
For 2026/27 entry, the one-year full-time program is £18,970. The 18-month program with professional placement is £20,865. These fees apply to the first year and may increase in subsequent years.
What is the duration of the MSc Accounting and Finance program?
+
The program can be completed in one year of full-time study. Alternatively, you can opt for an 18-month program which includes a professional placement.
What are the entry requirements for this Master's program?
+
You need a UK honours degree with a 2:2 in Accountancy, Accounting and Finance, or a business-related field with substantial accounting content. Professional accountancy qualifications or completion of a pre-Master’s program are also accepted.
Does this program offer any professional accreditations or exemptions?
+
Yes, the MSc Accounting and Finance program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). It offers significant CIMA exemptions, including all Management and Strategic level papers (excluding case studies).
What English language proficiency is required for international students?
+
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each band.
Are there any costs not included in the tuition fees?
+
Tuition fees include access to computer equipment, print credit, essential field trips, and software. Costs not included are excess printing, personal stationery, placement expenses, and optional CIMA membership/exam fees.