This programme offers a comprehensive platform to launch or progress your career in accounting and finance. Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced professional looking to broaden your expertise, this programme is designed to enhance your understanding of key financial principles and their application in the modern business world.
If you already have a Level 7 vocational qualification in accounting (and finance) such as the CGMA (CIMA), ACCA, ACA, ACAI or OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance, you can apply to take the shorter top-up route comprising of just research methods and project.
You will gain deep insights into areas such as financial accounting, management accounting, corporate reporting, financial management, ethics, audit, taxation, assurance, and governance, with a strong focus on research, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, leadership, consultancy, and emerging technologies like AI and automation. By the end of the course, you will have developed not only essential technical skills but also critical leadership and decision-making capabilities. These skills will enable you to navigate global and local financial environments with confidence, applying ethical and sustainable practices to real-world business problems.
Improving our students’ learning experience and wellbeing is at the centre of everything we do, and that is why we are implementing an innovative learning approach known as block teaching. This will enhance our students’ educational journey and emotional wellbeing.
"One of the best things about my course was the professional development programme, that was a module that was really focused on improving your career prospects and your employability.
Oluwadamilola Smart
MSc International Accounting and Finance
Financial analyst, Talbot
Why International Accounting and Finance at Aston University?
Recognised for quality
Aston Business School is proud to be among 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation
2nd in the UK
We have been ranked 2nd in the UK and 13th in Europe (Accounting; Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings, 2024)
66th in the world
We’ve been ranked as 66th in the world for business and management studies (QS World University Rankings By Subject 2024)
Top 100 in Europe
We've been ranked 17th in the UK and 97th in Europe (Financial Times European Business Schools ranking 2024)
Joint 11th the UK
Aston Business School is ranked joint 11th the UK (Eduniversal Business School Rankings 2024)
Raveena's story
Hear how MSc International Accounting and Finance student Raveena Shekhar gained a global advantage.
Student life in Birmingham
Oluwadamilola Smart talks through his reasons for choosing the course at Aston University and his plans for after graduation
We're serious about employability
As a postgraduate student, you will have access to dedicated careers guidance with specialist support from our experienced team of careers consultants
Gain a competitive edge
As well as opening doors, an Aston University postgraduate degree builds on your experience, develops your skills and gives you a competitive edge in a crowded job market.
Course description
MSc International Accounting and Finance
The MSc International Accounting and Finance programme offers a comprehensive understanding of accounting, finance, and governance, with a focus on ethical practices and emerging technologies, preparing graduates to tackle global business challenges and excel in leadership roles within today’s dynamic business and social landscape. The top-up route allows suitably qualified candidates to take the research methods and final project.
What we will provide First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you. On this course, you’ll learn about complex topics within accounting and finance, including corporate reporting, taxation and financial analysis. This will be underpinned by key strategic business topics, and the chance to specialise in areas of interest to you.
We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.
What you will provide It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies – understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, a willingness to learn and an ambition and drive to excel.
What skills we teach The course develops your expertise in financial management, corporate reporting, risk assessment, audit, taxation, technology use, data risk, governance, and sustainability practices. You will gain proficiency in advanced accounting and finance models, concepts, and techniques, strategic financial planning and management, and critical problem-solving including research report writing, empowering you to drive value in complex, global business environments.
Career prospects You’ll be taught by our exceptional teaching staff who have a range of experience and expertise, with qualified accountants who have worked for prestigious global companies as well as leading academics who are at the forefront of research in the field of accounting and finance. This means you will benefit from various perspectives and insights that will help you develop a solid understanding of accounting and financial theories and practice.
How you will learn
Our MSc International Accounting and Finance programme offers you the opportunity to comprehensive learning experience through a combination of lectures, seminars, and hands-on workshops engage in lab workshops with accounting and finance software and tutorials that apply your knowledge to real business scenarios. Aston University's virtual learning environment supports your journey, providing resources like e-books and online journals.
Throughout the programme, you will undertake projects such as preparing financial reports, conducting risk assessments, and analysing corporate governance structures, all of which mirror professional tasks. Interaction with guest speakers from the accounting and finance industry, along with access to networking events and career fairs, will connect you with industry experts and potential employers, enriching your educational experience and preparing you for a successful career in accounting and finance.
In the Aston Global Advantage module, you will gain a competitive edge by honing your professional skills and preparing for success in a fast-paced global environment. You will tackle real-world challenges, dive into entrepreneurship and work on team-based business simulations.
At the start of your course, you will be allocated a personal tutor who can offer individual study advice and guidance. You will also benefit from access to the University Library's extensive collection of over 25,000 books and electronic journals.
Gain the advantage
Our flagship professional development module provides a range of opportunities to apply your learning and increase your employability.
Our programme integrates core financial management, risk management, governance, and advanced accounting techniques. Emphasising real-world application, it equips you with the knowledge to navigate complex financial challenges and make strategic decisions in both corporate and global contexts.
In the taught stage, you will explore key areas such as financial reporting, management accounting, taxation, audit, and sustainability, while mastering tools like AI-driven financial technologies and data analysis. The programme fosters a strong understanding of ethical practices and governance, preparing you for roles that require critical thinking and leadership.
In the dissertation phase, you will conduct independent research on a finance or accounting topic of your choice, demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world financial issues, with a focus on ethical considerations, innovative solutions, and emerging trends in the industry.
Well balanced
Reflecting on her time at Aston University, Lan Xu described her course as “well balanced in terms of theory and practice” with lecturers who were “very helpful”.
Provides a programme that equips you with an understanding of the place of accounting and related fields in contemporary society that draws on relevant research and theory.
Develops and enhances leadership and lifelong learning, with a strong emphasis on fostering both global and local perspectives in accounting and related fields, enabling graduates to make a meaningful impact in their operational contexts and the broader world.
Develops a critical understanding of aspects of Financial and Management Accounting applied to organisations through ethical and sustainability lenses.
Equips you with relevant and emerging technological, digital and AI skills in financial accounting and related areas, while fostering a strong understanding of ethical practices and governance, preparing you to excel and contribute positively in a data-driven and technological landscape by navigating, contributing to, and upholding ethical standards.
Provides you with the opportunity to enhance your employability skills by equipping you with key professional skills and competencies required for success in a global business context.
In the taught stage you will study the following core modules in Term 1:
Module Title
Credits
Accounting and Society You will examine accounting and finance within their broader social and organisational context. Rather than viewing accounting as merely a technical and neutral practice, you will challenge this perspective by considering its social and political dimensions. By integrating case studies and real-world examples into your learning, you will gain a deeper understanding of how accounting and finance operate in practice and the impact they have on society and organisations. In doing so you will explore and critically evaluate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, as well as financing techniques and tax policy.
15
Contemporary Issues in Corporate reporting In a dynamic business environment, understanding the importance of qualitative corporate reporting is essential. This module will equip you with the skills necessary to prepare and evaluate corporate reports, focusing on the role of the Corporate Reporting Accountant in managing contemporary reporting challenges. You will explore the key principles that underpin financial accounting and reporting, applying these concepts to current reporting standards and practices. The module will also guide you in critically assessing emerging and contemporary issues in corporate reporting, ensuring you are prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of financial reporting.
15
Foundations of Accounting and Finance We focus on building essential accounting and finance skills, grounded in key accounting theories, models, and techniques that are fundamental to effective financial management and decision-making. You will engage with real-world case studies and explore emerging technologies in accounting, while participating in practical financial simulations that foster applied learning. By the end of the module, you will have developed critical knowledge, technical skills, and professional behaviours essential for success as an accounting and finance professional, enhancing your career prospects in this dynamic field.
15
In Term 2 you will study the following core modules:
Module Title
Credits
Ethics and Governance We will provide you with the foundations of responsible business and governance, equipping you to implement ethical practices effectively. You will explore ethics both theoretically and practically, understanding how decisions can be assessed as ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ while focusing on making the ‘best’ choices. Governance will be introduced as an extension of ethics and best practice, allowing you to explore real-world applications of governance principles. By the end of the module, you will appreciate the essential role ethics plays in the healthy functioning of businesses and society. This will deepen your understanding of how effective governance can be established and sustained, preparing you for employment in this increasingly important field.
15
AI and Automation in Accounting and Finance You will explore how AI and automation are transforming accounting and finance by enhancing efficiency, decision-making, and accuracy. You will engage with key concepts, theories, and the latest advancements in AI-driven technologies and their application within the industry. Throughout the module, you will explore cutting-edge tools, techniques, and ethical considerations related to AI and automation. Through real-world case studies and hands-on projects, you will develop essential skills that are crucial for employability and innovation. The module emphasises practical learning, equipping you to lead and drive change in future accounting and finance roles. Additionally, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are integrated into the learning process to align with modern governance demands. This module will provide you with the expertise needed to navigate and excel in the evolving landscape of accounting and finance.
15
The Aston Global Advantage The Aston Global Advantage is our professional development programme that runs throughout all MSc programmes at Aston Business School. Focusing on professional development and employability, this integrated module gives you the opportunity to identify, develop and apply the key transferrable skills you will gain throughout the year.
15
In Term 3 you will study the following core modules:
Module Title
Credits
Management Accounting and Control You will explore how management accounting plays a critical role in the direction and control of an enterprise. You will begin by understanding the strategic landscape of businesses and then apply this knowledge to key management accounting tools. These tools will be examined through the lenses of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and entrepreneurship, providing a practical, hands-on learning experience. Through this module, you will develop essential employability skills and prepare for roles as financial controllers in contemporary organisations, focusing on ethical practices and forward-thinking strategies.
15
Applied Research Methods and Skills This is an exciting opportunity for you to develop key problem solving and research skills which will allow you to follow your passion, use the strengths and interests developed during your degree, and creatively learn how ethically to explore this. This module equips managers and leaders of the future with the skills critically to evaluate research-based information. It covers various research methods and techniques, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.
15
You will choose one of the following optional modules:*
Module Title
Credits
Sustainability and Accounting We address the complexities of today’s business environment by focusing on sustainability, accountability, transparency, auditing, and ethical responsibility. You will develop the skills to make informed, responsible, and sustainable decisions within a global business and regulatory context. We offer not only enhances technical expertise in accounting and finance but also emphasizes ethical decision-making and accountability, preparing you to navigate complex business and regulatory challenges. You will be equipped for diverse career opportunities as pioneers in sustainability and accountability, with a focus on delivering environmental, social, assurance, and accountability solutions across various industries.
15
Coaching Self and others This module equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills to coach both themselves and others effectively, a critical competency in today's dynamic business environment. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and experiential learning, you will develop the self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills required for effective coaching. The module explores key coaching models, techniques, and their application across business contexts. You will engage in reflective practice and peer coaching sessions to enhance their ability to facilitate personal and professional development. With a focus on employability, leadership, and team dynamics, this module prepares you to foster individual and organisational growth in alignment with ethical practices and the UN SDGs.
15
Fundamentals of Business Analytics We introduce you to key analytical techniques widely used in industry to support data-driven decision-making. You will explore fundamental topics in statistics, including types of data, data distributions, sampling methods, and statistical tests, all of which are essential for discovering important patterns and relationships within data. We cover basic statistical modelling methods, such as linear regression, to help you model economic outcomes and assess the effects of various factors. By the end of the module, you will be equipped with the skills to apply relevant analytics techniques to address practical business challenges effectively.
15
Risk Management This module provides you with an advanced understanding the multiple sources of risk faced by companies in the two main categories: operational and financial risks. It develops the basic models for risk measurement and control. The mathematical models and methodology will be integrated with empirical evidence to provide you with the tools to operate as a risk manager in the financial industry. In addition, students will develop a critical understanding of the limitations and risks associated with the advancements of financial technology and the changing regulatory environment.
15
Business Forecasting This module introduces you to modern tools and techniques for business forecasting, equipping them with essential skills for data analyst roles. You will learn a range of foundational and advanced forecasting methods, gaining the ability to apply these techniques within the context of a modern organisation. The module covers various forecasting applications commonly encountered in different business settings, providing you with a practical understanding of how to implement effective forecasting strategies to support organisational decision-making.
15
Blockchain and FinTech We introduce you to blockchain technology and its transformative impact on the financial services sector. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of blockchain principles, enhancing your employability by acquiring sought-after skills in this rapidly growing field. We will foster an enterprising mindset by exploring real-world blockchain applications and encouraging the creation of innovative business solutions. Through experiential learning, case studies, and practical examples, you will critically assess the impact of blockchain and cryptocurrencies on global markets. The module gives consideration Ethical, social, and governance (ESG) principles which are integrated throughout the module, allowing you to evaluate the broader implications of these technologies. The module will be well-prepared to navigate and contribute to the evolving fintech landscape.
15
*Availability of any optional modules will be subject to staff availability and a minimum number of students who express an interest in studying the optional modules.
Dissertation stage modules
In the dissertation stage you will study the following core module:
Module Title
Credits
Independent Project The research project offers a unique opportunity for you to take the initiative and dive deep into a specific topic, fostering personal and academic growth. Building on the foundational knowledge gained in the taught portion of the programme, this module sharpens essential analytical and academic skills for lifelong learning in today's dynamic business landscape. By conducting independent empirical or theoretical research, you gain a deeper understanding of their chosen subject and contribute to the field. Additionally, this module serves as a stepping stone for those considering further research degrees.
45
Programme outcomes
On successful completion of both the taught and dissertation stage, you will be able to:
Demonstrate a systematic understanding and application of relevant accounting and related concepts, critically analysing and addressing contemporary issues within the discipline, including sustainability and ethical considerations.
Critically evaluate complex accounting and finance issues with a focus on ethical, sustainable practices and sound judgement in decision-making. applying relevant theoretical knowledge, concepts, and techniques.
Demonstrate advanced leadership and decision-making abilities, effectively navigating and responding to both global and local financial reporting environments, particularly under uncertain and complex conditions.
Students will be able to appraise relevant and emerging technological, digital and AI skills in financial accounting and related areas, while fostering a strong understanding of ethical practices and governance, preparing them to excel and contribute positively in a data-driven and technological landscape by navigating, contributing to, and upholding ethical standards.
Critically evaluate and apply a diverse set of transferable skills essential for a successful career in accounting and related fields, contributing to enhanced employability.
Undertake independent research by formulating well-defined research questions, critically evaluating and applying appropriate research techniques, and drawing informed conclusions and recommendations.
We may update our courses to reflect best practices and academic developments. If we do, we’ll let you know of any changes at the earliest opportunity by updating our course webpages. If you have already received an offer, we’ll write to you directly to let you know of the changes.
Entry requirements
One of the following:
2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent
Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University (see international students tab below for more information
To study MSc International Accounting & Finance you must have completed your first undergraduate degree in accounting, finance or a related subject area.
You will also need to provide:
A professional reference
If you are a current student or recent graduate (within the last 2-3 years), we will ask for an academic reference
If you are currently employed and not a recent graduate, we will ask for a professional reference
An official academic transcript of your university grades to date
A completed application form.
Aston University is a diverse, close community and welcomes international students on many of our postgraduate programmes. Students from over 120 countries choose to study with us every year. Based in the centre of Birmingham, Aston is not only a great place to study but also a great place to live.
Qualifications in your country
For details of equivalent qualifications in your country, use our area pages below:
Aston University provides a range of opportunities for international students to join our community and study on our campus. A key part of our strategy is our relationships with teaching partners, providing multiple pathways to Aston.
Aston’s professional work placements can improve your chance of securing a graduate job. Placements give you experience, confidence and opportunities and, as an Aston student, you’ll be better prepared for your future career. One of the great things about Aston is our focus on employability. Our close links with businesses, industries and professions make this possible.
Aston University welcomed the creation of a new Graduate Immigration Route which enables international students to remain in the UK for two years after you complete your studies to find work. This new post-study work visa applies to international students completing full-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, we have a range of pathway programmes offered by our partner, ONCAMPUS Aston, which you can complete to progress onto one of our degrees.
We recognise the value of extensive professional experience. If you do not have the academic qualifications but have extensive and relevant professional experience and a proven ability to succeed, we would welcome your application.
The information contained on this website details the typical entry requirements for this course for the most commonly offered qualifications.
Applicants with alternative qualifications may wish to enquire with the relevant admissions teams prior to application whether or not their qualifications are deemed acceptable. For less commonly encountered qualifications this will be judged on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the academic admissions tutor.
Professional accounting full or partial qualifications
Candidates who are fully or partially qualified with professional organisations such as ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW can apply to the programme. Candidates should provide the following documents:
The list of the professional exams passed (and evidence thereof). *See minimum requirements. Supporting Document: A curriculum vitae outlining professional experience. Candidates should provide evidence that they have passed at least one exam from each stream below. *Minimum requirements
Candidates should provide evidence that they have passed at least one exam from each stream:
Stream A
Stream B
Financial Accounting (FA) - ACCA
Management Accounting - ACCA
Financial Reporting (FR) - ACCA
Performance Management - ACCA
BA3 Fundamentals of Financial Accounting - CIMA
Advanced Performance Management - ACCA
F2 Advanced Financial Reporting - CIMA
BA2 Fundamentals of Management Accounting - CIMA
Accounting - ICAEW
P1 Management Accounting - CIMA
Financial Accounting and Reporting: IFRS-ICAEW
P2 Advanced Management Accounting
Financial Accounting and Reporting: UK GAAP-ICAEW
Management Information - ICAEW
Corporate Reporting - ICAEW
Candidates may also be interested in our main routes of entry for UK or International/EU student applicants if they carry the minimum academic requirements. Alternatively, they may be interested in our extensive work experience stream.
Candidates who do not have any accounting and finance background, but have an academic qualification in an unrelated area may be interested in our MSc Accounting and Finance course.
Speak to our Admissions Team
If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:
The United Kingdom government has confirmed that European Union (EU), other European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals commencing academic courses in England from August 2021 will no longer be charged the same tuition rates as UK students.
Tuition fees for students are reviewed annually and may increase in subsequent years in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI) to take account of the University’s increased costs of delivering the Programme. Any such increase shall always be in accordance with the law. When undertaking a placement year, a placement year fee applies.
At Aston University we are committed to supporting the most talented and hardworking students to achieve their potential by providing a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs.
There are a variety of assessment methods, including portfolio, coursework, group or individual presentations and group work. For our assessments, we use real or fictitious business scenarios. The practical assessments help you to develop the skills and competencies required for future job roles.
Career prospects
With the increasing complexity of financial regulations and global markets, graduates of our MSc International Accounting and Finance programme are in high demand. They are well-equipped for a variety of roles across diverse sectors, including self-employment, family businesses, international organisations, public bodies, and non-profit sectors, armed with the advanced knowledge necessary for the ever-evolving landscape of accounting and finance. The transferable skills developed throughout the programme enable graduates to excel in various roles, including:
Financial analyst
Risk manager
Audit consultant
Tax advisor
Corporate financial planner
Compliance officer
Management accountant
Our graduates have gone on to work at leading firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, EY, Barclays, HSBC, and other global financial institutions.
Persistence pays
Paras Khistriya proves that hard work pays off, advising others to “keep going until you hit the jackpot and always have positive people around you”.
Our graduates achieve amazing things all over the world – whether it’s setting up their own businesses, landing jobs with high profile organisations, or making real differences within their communities.
Why study International Accounting and Finance at Aston University?
As well as a strong understanding of the methods and models in accounting and finance, you’ll get to develop the skills that are in high demand across the financial sector and more broadly in business, particularly within an international context, with practical experiences and applying your learning to real world situations.
You’ll gain a breadth of practical learning and professional experience, whether that’s providing support to live projects, undertaking an internship or studying abroad. Not only does this bring your learning to life, but it will also really help you to progress to your next step once you complete the course.
What is the ‘Aston Global Advantage’?
Embedded in all our masters degrees, this assessed module aims to develop professional and personal transferrable skills relevant to any workplace and create a bridge between the degree and the world of work.
Why should I study my postgraduate degree at Aston University?
There are lots of benefits of studying a postgraduate degree at Aston University.
Watch this video from MBA student, Monique, who talks about just a few of them:
Is Birmingham a good place to study?
Our campus is based in the centre of Birmingham, the youngest major city in Europe and a great place to live, work and study.
Great music and entertainment with a vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, pubs, live music, festivals, concerts. Whatever your tastes, there's something here for everyone.
Fantastic food. Birmingham's diverse community means you can try anything from the famous Balti triangle, the Chinese Quarter, high street chains, halal and vegan food, and Michelin-star dining.
World-class shopping. The Bullring and Grand Central is a shopper's paradise. From the world's biggest Primark to luxury brands at the Mailbox.
Arts and culture. Museums, galleries, theatres, concerts and Birmingham's art collection is as wide as it is impressive - not to be missed.
Green, open spaces. One of the greenest cities in Europe, Birmingham has hundreds of publicly accessible parks and green spaces across the city.
Sporting action. Birmingham has some of the most exciting venues for watching or participating in sport in the UK.
We understand how important it is to know your timetable in advance for planning around work, childcare, or other responsibilities. Here's some basic guidance on what to expect regarding your student timetable.
Full-time programmes
As a rough estimate, full-time postgraduate students in the College of Business and Social Sciences should expect to spend about 12-15 hours per week in lectures and on-campus seminars. This is in addition to independent study, and there may be additional guided learning activities during certain weeks. The exact distribution of these hours will vary depending on your course and module choices.
Part-time programmes
Part-time students will have fewer weekly on-campus hours compared to full-time students. This reduction is proportional to the number of modules you're enrolled in.
Timetable availability
Complete timetables are usually released shortly before the start of your programme. This timing is necessary to ensure that we accommodate all course requirements and that rooms are allocated based on the number of students likely to enrol on each programme. We aim to provide these timetables as early as possible, to assist you in your planning.
As your induction week approaches, you will be sent more information about your timetable via email, and you will be able to access your timetable by logging into MyAstonPortal. For any further queries or information regarding your timetable, you can reach out to your programme director or the Student Support team.
Online/distance learning programmes
The above information also applies to students enrolled in online/distance learning programmes. Please note that both full-time and part-time distance learning students are still required to attend scheduled synchronous learning sessions.
What can I get involved in at Aston Business School?
At Aston Business School, you will dive into a dynamic blend of innovative learning and hands-on experiences. With our acclaimed triple-crown accreditation, we offer you academic excellence and a track record of producing successful graduates.
Located in Birmingham, the UK's vibrant second city, Aston Business School provides you with a culturally rich environment and superb connectivity. You will benefit from real-world business engagements, international study opportunities and entrepreneur support programmes like BSEEN and Pitchfest.
You can also engage in practical consultancy at the Aston Business Clinic and collaborate with global peers in events such as the Maastricht Case Competition or the Universities Business Challenge. Our partnership with The Prince’s Trust, alongside a range of student clubs including TEDx and Enactus further enriches your learning experience.
