What is the ACCA in the UK?
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a global professional accounting organization that provides professional accountancy qualifications and other certifications. With over 227,000 members and 544,000 pupils in 176 countries, it is acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost professional accounting bodies. Its headquarters are situated in the United Kingdom. Providing individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the accounting profession, the ACCA qualification is internationally recognized and highly respected by employers.
Start a successful career with an ACCA-accredited program from UK universities
The United Kingdom provides a plethora of opportunities for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in accountancy and finance to acquire the requisite skills and qualifications. A world-renowned education that is highly respected in the field is available through numerous top universities in the UK that offer Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) accredited programs. These programs are intended to equip you with the necessary skills to succeed in the field of finance and accounting. They encompass a diverse array of subjects, including auditing, taxation, management accounting, and financial accounting.
Furthermore, the universities in the United Kingdom that offer the ACCA program provide state-of-the-art facilities, experienced professors, and opportunities for practical experience and networking. Acquiring an ACCA certification from a UK university can provide a plethora of career prospects in finance and accounting, regardless of whether one is a UK resident or an international student.
Why study at ACCA-certified universities in the UK?
If you are contemplating enrolling in a university in the United Kingdom that is accredited by the ACCA, the following are several compelling reasons to assist you in making an informed decision:
- High employability: ACCA graduates are in high demand worldwide, and a degree from a UK university further enhances the value of your qualification. Six months following graduation, 97% of UK students who earned an accounting or finance degree were either employed or pursuing further education, as reported by the Higher Education Careers Services Unit.
- Prestigious institutions: The United Kingdom is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, which offer ACCA-accredited programs that are recognized on a global scale. The University of Warwick and the University of Manchester are among the many UK universities that are regarded as the top institutions for accounting and finance.
- A broad selection of courses: ACCA universities in the United Kingdom provide a diverse selection of courses that are tailored to your career objectives and interests. A diverse array of courses, including financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, and more, are available for students in undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- Access to professional networks: Numerous universities in the United Kingdom have established strong relationships with industry professionals and organizations, which offer valuable opportunities for networking and practical experience. This is especially advantageous when pursuing employment subsequent to graduation.
Top ACCA-certified universities in the UK
Top universities in the United Kingdom that are accredited by the ACCA are listed below. These institutions offer exceptional networking opportunities, comprehensive support services, and top-tier education to assist you in achieving your professional objectives within the industry:
| University | QS World University Ranking 2023 |
| Durham University | 92 |
| Lancaster University | 146 |
| Newcastle University | 122 |
| University of Birmingham | 91 |
| University of Edinburgh | 15 |
| University of Glasgow | 81 |
| University of Leeds | 86 |
| University of Liverpool | 190 |
| University of Manchester | 28 |
| University of Reading | 229 |
| University of Sheffield | =96 |
| University of Southampton | 78 |
| University of Strathclyde | =325 |
| University of Warwick | 64 |
ACCA-certified courses in the UK
Numerous universities in the United Kingdom provide ACCA courses, both as standalone courses and as components of more comprehensive accounting and finance programs. The purpose of these courses is to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in a career as a professional accountant, as well as a comprehensive comprehension of the principles of accounting and finance. Additionally, certain universities provide specialized pathways within their ACCA courses, including those in financial reporting, taxation, or audit. The duration of ACCA courses in the United Kingdom can fluctuate; however, the majority of students complete them within one to three years, contingent upon whether they are enrolled in a full-time or part-time program.
Below are succinct descriptions of several of the ACCA curricula that universities in the United Kingdom offer:
- ACCA Professional Accountancy: This course is available at numerous universities in the United Kingdom and equips students with the practical skills necessary to succeed in the field, as well as a thorough comprehension of the fundamental concepts of finance and accounting. It encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects, such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, audit, and financial reporting.
- MSc Accounting and Finance with ACCA: This program integrates a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance with an ACCA qualification. It is intended for students who hope to acquire professional accreditation from ACCA and acquire advanced knowledge in accounting and finance. Topics such as international accounting, financial analysis, and corporate finance are addressed in the course.
- BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance with ACCA: This program is intended for students who wish to combine a conventional accounting and finance degree with the ACCA qualification. It encompasses a variety of subjects, such as audit, taxation, management accounting, and financial accounting.
- Top-Up ACCA Professional Accountancy: This course is intended for students who have already completed a relevant undergraduate degree and are interested in obtaining the ACCA qualification. It encompasses the same subjects as the standard ACCA course, but it is conducted in a reduced amount of time.
Universities in the United Kingdom provide a variety of ACCA curricula, including these few examples. It is crucial to conduct thorough research on each course to determine the one that is most appropriate for your objectives and requirements, as the entry requirements and course content may vary.
Studying at an ACCA university in the UK can provide access to a diverse array of career opportunities, both domestically and internationally, due to its global recognition and strong reputation for academic excellence. Pursuing the ACCA qualification at one of these universities can establish a solid foundation for a successful career in the field, regardless of whether you are a UK resident or an international student. For additional information regarding ACCA universities, please contact our international education specialists at IDP, who will assist you in the admissions process.