BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance Bachelor's degree at Lancaster University

You will build a strong foundation in essential mathematical concepts and statistical skills relevant to accounting and finance. Key techniques you will learn include differentiation, integration, systems of multiple equations, and optimisation. These skills will provide you with the tools to find optimal solutions, whether with or without constraints. You will explore random variables and distributions, and use descriptive statistics for data analysis, presentation and visualisation. With a practical approach, this module will enhance your mathematical and statistical knowledge, as well as your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This preparation will help you tackle the more quan

Discover how various stakeholders utilise accounting information for decision-making. This module provides a foundation in financial and management accounting. You will begin by exploring the fundamental principles of financial accounting along with the regulatory environment in which accountants operate. You will develop essential skills in preparing basic financial statements and applying key techniques that support financial reporting. You will learn how to interpret financial statements and understand the significance and the limitations of financial reporting, particularly its external focus. The module then introduces key concepts in management accounting. You will explore how strategi

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to economic principles with a more mathematical approach. It explores the workings of modern economies at both the microeconomic and macroeconomic levels. At the microeconomic level, you will examine the decision-making processes of individuals and firms, investigating concepts such as supply and demand, market structures, and consumer behaviour. At the macroeconomic level, you will explore key national economic indicators, including national income, unemployment rates, inflation, and the implications of economic policy.

This practical module provides you with a strong foundation in statistics and econometrics for data analysis. It focuses on implementing these concepts in Python and R, two programming languages highly sought after in the finance industry. You will learn how to perform statistical tests and use descriptive statistics for data analytics. You will also explore linear regression and ordinary least squares (OLS) to model and estimate relationships between variables, enabling you to make predictions. The module also covers hypothesis testing for conducting inference, teaching you how to specify the most appropriate model for different tasks. You will learn to manage complex data features, such as

This module provides an engaging introduction to the world of financial markets and trading. You will explore the role of financial institutions and gain an understanding of key markets, including stock, options, futures, and foreign exchange (FX) markets. You will cover fixed income securities, such as bonds, and examine the growing sectors of crypto and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), offering insights into their impact on modern finance. We will discuss commodities and their significance in global trade and investment. Additionally, you will explore how financial institutions and markets are regulated to maintain stability and ensure their proper functioning. Through a practical approach and

The Management School is committed to your professional development. We provide study skills to equip you to learn effectively from day one, along with employability skills to help you in securing placements and jobs during and after your degree. The module is tailored to the needs of Accounting and/or Finance students. In this module, you will develop core academic skills that are important for your success. This module will introduce you to the broader business environment in which accounting and finance professionals operate. You will explore core business functions such as marketing, human resources, and management. This module also emphasises the development of important professional sk

This module introduces you to corporate finance. It focuses on key concepts that drive decision-making in businesses. You will explore the roles and interests of key stakeholders and understand their influence on decision-making within an organisation. You will also explore the core functions of a company, examining how governance structures shape company strategies and support growth and stability. Key topics we will cover in the module include capital structure, investment and financing decisions, and dividend policy, all of which are essential for a company’s financial health. By the end of this module, you will have a solid foundation in corporate finance, preparing you to tackle more co

Understand the key financial reporting principles for publicly listed companies that adhere to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). You will gain a thorough understanding of accounting regulations and financial reporting by examining various theoretical and practical issues, including regulatory requirements and their enforcement, the IFRS conceptual framework, taxonomy, and digitalisation. The topics covered will include segmental reporting, leases, impairments and accounting for financial instruments. While exploring the technical aspects of accounting, the module will also emphasise the importance of judgment and management goals in financial reporting. By the end of the mo

Explore the essential concepts of management accounting and control, while understanding the evolving role of management accountants as trusted business advisors. You will develop skills in measuring, analysing, and reporting information to support management decision-making. Specifically, you will learn to apply a range of costing techniques, such as variable, absorption and activity-based costing. This module will also address control systems, including budgeting, variance analysis, and performance measurement. You will look at how these systems affect motivation and the organisation. Additionally, you will study Accounting Information Systems (AIS) which support management accounting proc

This module improves your employability skills within the accounting and finance sector. You will learn about the requirements and expectations of accounting, finance, and audit professionals, such as codes of conduct. You will also gain hands-on experience with practitioner software and financial databases such as Bloomberg, WRDS, CRSP and Compustat. The module's content and delivery format will be tailored to your career aspirations, for example, through opportunities for internships or placements, or study abroad at one of our international partners (subject to availability). Throughout the module, you will reflect on, consolidate, and evaluate your professional development. You will cont

This module develops your knowledge and understanding of the legal framework relevant to business operations, while also equipping you with the skills to identify when specialist legal advice may be required. You will explore key areas of business law and regulation, learning about the distinctions between different types of law and how law shapes business practices. The key content of the module includes topics such as: the law of obligations contract formation and content unfair contract terms breaches of contract available remedies. You will examine the impact of employment law on businesses and corporations, legal personality status, different methods of financing and the scope of direct

Discover the tools and models used in asset pricing. You will learn how financial markets value assets, starting by exploring time value of money, risk and return, risk aversion and utility functions. These concepts are crucial for understanding how individuals make decisions when faced with uncertainty. Next, you will learn about portfolio theory, mean-variance frontiers, and the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM). CAPM is one of the most widely used models in finance for estimating the expected return of an asset. Furthermore, you will learn how modern investment decisions are driven by sustainability considerations. You will explore topics such as contingent claims, discount factors and c

Explore advanced topics in financial markets and develop a deeper understanding of the complexities that shape today’s financial landscape. You will explore private equity and gain insights into different investor classes, from retail to institutional investors, including mutual and hedge funds. You will also study how behavioural factors affect financial decisions and the principles of rational decision-making. Market microstructure will be covered, giving you an understanding of how markets operate at a granular level. In addition, you will explore the transformative world of Fintech (Financial technology), DeFi (Decentralised Finance), and blockchain technology, highlighting their impact

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of audit principles, risk assessment, and internal controls. You will learn how to evaluate financial integrity and regulatory compliance. You will also explore the role of auditors in corporate governance and fraud detection, focusing on how audit functions contribute to stakeholder confidence and corporate accountability. Through examples and real-world applications, you will develop skills to identify audit risks, create effective audit procedures, and use professional judgment in financial statement audits. The module covers key regulatory frameworks and international auditing standards, ensuring you understand the evolving responsibilit

This module explores complex corporate reporting issues, focusing on advanced application of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) along with sustainability reporting. You will critically examine advanced topics such as accounting for complex entities, hedge accounting and foreign currency translation. Other key topics include consolidation techniques, goodwill impairment, and employee benefits, ensuring you can understand complex financial transactions. The module also explores regulatory developments in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting, and examines business practices in this area. Focusing on ESG frameworks and emerging topics such as carbon accounting, th

This capstone module provides you with the opportunity to apply everything you have learned throughout your accounting and finance journey to a real-world project and enhance your employability profile further. You will choose a topic from key areas such as control systems and accountability, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), financial markets, corporate finance, and investments. You will conduct an in-depth analysis that reflects current trends and challenges in the fields of accounting and finance. You will be encouraged to think critically, research, and apply accounting and finance theories to contemporary issues. Guided by expert lecturers, you will develop your analytical ski

Learn how to apply corporate finance theory to real-world situations, with a focus on the decision-making processes that drive business success. You will explore optimal decision-making strategies, gaining insight into how companies make critical choices to maximise value. The module covers mergers and acquisitions, teaching you the fundamentals of how businesses expand and grow through strategic deals. We will also cover rational decision-making, examining how companies weigh risks and rewards in their financial strategies. You will discover the increasing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and how Natural Language Processing (NLP) plays a role in financial de

You will examine how management accounting supports strategic decision-making, with a focus on cost management, performance evaluation, and long-term value creation. A range of advanced management accounting techniques such as balanced scorecards, strategic costing, and value-based management will be explored. You will explore how organisations integrate Environment, Society and Governance (ESG) factors into management control systems, sustainability reporting, and performance measurement to ensure responsible and transparent business practices. Using practical examples, you will learn to interpret both financial and non-financial data to support strategic decision-making. Given a range of c

This advanced module equips you with the skills to interpret and analyse financial statements for evaluating corporate performance, valuation, and making investment decisions. You will apply financial ratios, cash flow analysis, and forecasting techniques to assess financial health, profitability, and risk. Through real-world examples, you will develop the ability to critically evaluate corporate reports, applying analytical frameworks to investment, credit, and strategic business decisions. The module will also explore the growing connectivity between financial and non-financial reporting, highlighting how Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) and other non-financial data are increasingl

This comprehensive module provides a foundational and applied understanding of taxation. You will explore corporate and personal tax systems, focusing on: income tax corporate tax Value Added Tax (VAT) capital gains tax international tax issues Through case studies and problem-based learning, you will analyse tax planning strategies, compliance requirements, and ethical considerations in tax decision-making. The module also examines the economic and policy implications of taxation, including the role of tax in government revenue, business decision-making, and global tax regulation. By the end of the module, you will be able to apply tax principles to real-world scenarios, assess the impact o

This module explores advanced topics in audit and assurance, equipping you with the skills to navigate complex audit environments. Through real world examples, you will develop expertise in detecting financial misstatements, assessing fraud risks, and evaluating internal controls. You will also consider how recent financial scandals have changed the auditing industry and examine the implications for auditor liability and independence. By examining the evolving regulatory frameworks and professional ethics, as well as corporate governance challenges, the module prepares you to critically assess the role of auditors in maintaining financial integrity. By integrating theory with real-world scen

This module provides a solid foundation in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), climate and energy finance by exploring the financial aspects of transitioning to a sustainable future. You will explore how businesses integrate ESG factors into strategy and operations, addressing investor expectations, regulatory demands, and societal pressures. The module covers: ESG data collection measurement reporting frameworks, including TCFD, GRI, and national regulations It also examines the challenges of incorporating ESG into risk management, supply chains, and corporate performance assessments. Additionally, you will study how financial markets, investment strategies, and policy decisions al

This module is designed to equip you with a deep understanding of the evolving financial landscape. You will explore the dynamic world of financial technology (Fintech), focusing on innovations such as blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and algorithmic and high-frequency trading. Simultaneously, you will dive into the intricacies of market microstructure, learning how financial markets operate at a granular level and how factors like liquidity, order types, and trading mechanisms influence market behaviour. This module provides practical insights into how technology and market structures impact trading strategies, risk management, and regulatory frameworks. With real-world applications and cuttin

This module provides a solid foundation in banking and behavioural finance. You will explore the fundamentals of banking, including the role of financial institutions in the economy and the complexities of their business activities, such as lending and risk management. The module highlights the role of regulation and supervision in the banking industry, highlighting how these aspects differentiate banking from other industries, and how crises reshape regulation in banking. You will be introduced to the fascinating world of behavioural finance, where you will discover how psychological factors and cognitive biases such as overconfidence, loss aversion and herding behaviour influence decision-

This Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 1 preparation module is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully tackle the CFA Level 1 exam. It focuses on key topics such as: financial reporting and analysis ethical standards quantitative methods economics corporate finance portfolio management This module provides a solid foundation in the core areas of the CFA curriculum. Through structured lessons, practice questions, and exam strategies, you will develop a thorough understanding of the material and the analytical skills necessary for the exam. You will also learn time management techniques and test-taking strategies to optimise your performance on the exam