When you study BSc Accounting and Finance at Lancaster University, you join an innovative, research-led programme that equips you with the necessary expertise, skills and confidence to pursue a successful, well-compensated and rewarding career within a broad range of commercial and financial settings in an ever-changing business landscape. Career paths include Financial Controller, Tax and Financial Advisor, Financial Manager, Analyst, Management Accountant, Consultant and Auditor.

Our curriculum is industry-leading, contemporary and accredited by professional accounting bodies, which allows you to qualify for exemptions. You will learn to work collaboratively and develop analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills while engaging with the latest developments in accounting and finance.

There are opportunities to study abroad, complete an internship and pursue an advanced specialised MSc at top UK and international universities for further study.

Why study Accounting and Finance BSc at Lancaster University?

Our BSc Accounting and Finance allows for a high degree of flexibility and optionality, including the possibility to switch to other suitable BSc programmes offered in the Accounting and Finance department after the first year, tailor your courses more towards a career in Accounting or in Finance, and choose electives and a capstone project according to your personal interests.

We will provide you with a perfect blend of theory and practice, covering topics such as:

Financial and managerial accounting

Auditing, financial markets

Statistics, economics

Professional ethics

Employability skills

You will learn how different stakeholders use accounting and finance information, as well as the broader context within which accounting and finance professionals operate. You will have the flexibility to personalise your learning, gaining expertise in key areas that align with your developing interests and career goals. You will learn to work collaboratively, think critically, solve complex business problems and develop highly sought-after professional skills.

The course is delivered by prestigious academics who engage with the latest developments in the field, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG), sustainability and professional ethics in accounting and finance.

You will benefit from our department’s strong connections with professional accounting bodies, global graduate employers including Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC, leading financial institutions, local and national government and the NHS. Get a head start in your career with our sector-leading specialist Accounting and Finance Career Coaching Team, providing you with opportunities to carry out internships and placements in industry.

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Lancaster University Management School

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Introducing your course

Find out what it's like to study Accounting and Finance at Lancaster University Management School.

Transcript for Accounting and Finance at Lancaster University

[Beth Jones] I'm studying Accounting and Finance, mainly because my dad runs his own business. He inspired me. I was questioning where his numbers came from and all the figures associated with the business, and that's where my interest sparked.

[Dr Wendy Beekes] A graduate at Lancaster is going to be a confident individual, able to deal with figures and numbers.

As to why you would come to Lancaster, Lancaster has a great academic department. We also have great student communities. So we have a number of societies which are linked to the departments like the Accounting Society and the Investment and Finance Society. There's also a great college environment, so it's a really fun and active place to be.

[Beth Jones] The Accounting and Finance programme is unique because it offers specialisation into different modules. There are some opportunities to specialise in, say, tax and actually other modules from other departments. For example, I'm doing project management, so it offers some specialisation into your career choice.

[Dr Wendy Beekes] In the department, we have specialists in Accounting and Finance, so both areas and we work together quite closely. We have a big research community, so lots of research is going on which is informing our teaching, and that means that our teaching is up to date, and we've always got changes going on in the teaching. So that makes sure that we're meeting all the professional accreditations.

[Beth Jones] The Management School has completely changed me as a person, mainly because I was quite a quiet individual. I was from a small background, from a small town, and I thought it would be quite hard to adjust to living in a city but the Management School have been really accommodating to any worries that I've had.

My future ambition is to be a chartered financial planner, mainly specialising in ESG investments and sustainability. The Lancaster Management School have really supported me through this journey and ambition of mine, through specialised career support. There are two career specialists in the Accounting and Finance departments, specialising in Finance and Accounting.

Now the best thing about Accounting and Finance is you get taught by some fantastic academics. It's a fun course to study, and it's going to stand you in good stead for your future career.

Key facts

Features of the BSc Accounting and Finance course you should know about:

Course accreditations

Lancaster University's BSc Accounting and Finance is accredited by ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW and ICAS.

Careers support

Specialist Accounting and Finance Career Coaches who have industry experience within the accounting and finance sectors will support you with careers advice and skills development.

Opportunities

Study abroad at one of our international partners, spend a year on an industry placement, or complete an internship as part of your course.

Recognised for our quality

Lancaster University is highly ranked globally for Accounting and Finance

Is the BSc Accounting and Finance degree accredited?

Lancaster University's Accounting and Finance BSc is accredited by five major accounting bodies:

the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

the Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy (CIPFA)

the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)

the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS)

You can gain exemptions from exams with these professional bodies, depending on the specific modules you take.

Professional Exam Exemptions

Spend a year in industry

This course is also available with the option to spend your third year on an industry placement, building your skills and putting your learning into practice before returning to Lancaster to complete your degree in year four.

Fees for your placement year are only 20% of the standard course fee. Discover LUMS placements

As a BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance graduate, you will leave Lancaster with a profound knowledge of your subject area, coupled with valuable problem-solving and team-working skills, preparing you for a well-compensated and rewarding career within a broad range of commercial and financial settings.

What jobs do Accounting and Finance graduates from Lancaster University go on to?

Past students have joined companies such as:

Barclays

Deloitte

Morgan Stanley

Unilever

Our alumni work with professional firms and financial institutions, as well as large commercial and local government organisations in roles such as:

Financial controller

Tax and financial advisor

Financial manager

Management accountant

Consultant

Many of our graduates are also inspired to continue their academic studies and embark on postgraduate education, such as pursuing a specialised master’s at Lancaster or other top universities in the UK or overseas.

What careers support is available for Accounting and Finance students at Lancaster University?

The Management School has an award-winning careers team that provides dedicated careers and placement services, offering a range of innovative services for LUMS students. Our high reputation means we attract a wide range of leading global employers to campus, allowing you to interact with graduate recruiters from day one of your degree.

Lancaster University is dedicated to helping you earn a highly respected degree while equipping you with essential life and professional skills. We are proud to offer every student the opportunity to participate in The Lancaster Award. This programme allows you to engage in valuable activities, such as work experience, volunteering, company projects, student societies, and sports clubs. Visit our careers section for more details.

What specialist careers support is available?

LUMS Careers Service provides a range of innovative services for Accounting and Finance students, including support for finding Spring Weeks and internships. Some services begin before you start your studies at Lancaster.

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Before you arrive

Industry-focused careers webinars

Support in finding first-year Investment Banking and Asset Management Spring Weeks and, subsequently, Financial Services internships, beginning virtually in the four weeks leading up to the start of your course

During your studies

Embedded careers education throughout the degree

Career information, advice, and guidance appointments with our specialist careers coaches

Weekly workshops on key employability skills

Exposure to international career options and networks

Connections to strong networks of employers and alumni

Support in finding and acquiring work experience opportunities, including placements and internships

On graduation

Access to our LUMS Accounting and Finance Alumni Community

Continued access to all LUMS Careers services for life

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

Qualifications and typical requirements accordion

A levels

Access to HE Diploma

36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level at grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade AB plus BTEC at D

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Distinction overall

GCSE requirements

Mathematics grade 6/B. We will consider grade 5 on a case-by-case basis. English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.

Help from our Admissions team

If you are thinking of applying to Lancaster and you would like to ask us a question, complete our enquiry form and one of the team will get back to you.

We also have more details on our website about:

Other qualifications we accept

International qualifications

How to apply and what happens afterwards

International foundation programmes

Delivered in partnership with Lancaster University International Study Centre, our one-year tailored foundation pathways are designed to improve your subject knowledge and English language skills to the level required by a range of Lancaster University degrees. Visit the Lancaster University International Study Centre for more details and a list of eligible degrees you can progress onto.

Contextual admissions

Contextual admissions could help you gain a place at university if you have faced additional challenges during your education which might have impacted your results. Visit our contextual admissions page to find out about how this works and whether you could be eligible.

Course structure

We continually review and enhance our curriculum to ensure we are delivering the best possible learning experience, and to make sure that the subject knowledge and transferable skills you develop will prepare you for your future. The University will make every reasonable effort to offer programmes and modules as advertised. In some cases, changes may be necessary and may result in new modules or some modules and combinations being unavailable, for example as a result of student feedback, timetabling, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes and new research. Where the course offers optional modules, they may not all be available every year.

core modules accordion

Quantitative Methods

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 quantitatively focused subjects offered in all our undergraduate accounting and finance courses.

Foundations of Accounting

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 strategic and operational considerations drive internal reporting needs and how internal controls help manage resources effectively to implement company objectives.

Foundations of Economics

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.

Data Analytics for Accounting and Finance

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 dependence in cross-sectional and time series data.

You will have hands-on practical experience using Excel and SQL alongside Python and R. This will teach you to handle, manipulate, and visualise large datasets, as well as manage databases effectively. By the end of the module, you will feel confident using a wide range of statistical and visualisation tools to analyse data and solve real-world problems.

Foundations of Financial Markets, Securities and Institutions

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 real-world examples, you will develop a strong foundation in how financial markets operate and how traders and investors navigate them.

By the end of the module, you will have a solid understanding of various asset classes, preparing you to tackle more advanced topics and engage confidently with the financial world.

Professional Development for Accounting and Finance

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 skills and aims to improve your employability. You will refine your communication skills in both individual and group settings. You will participate in certified software training, engage in management simulations, and create and reflect on your CV as an aspiring accounting and finance professional.

In your second year, you take four core modules and choose two optional modules from the four listed below.

Principles of Corporate Finance

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 complex financial challenges in your studies and future career.

Financial Reporting

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 module, you will be able to evaluate how accounting rules, policies, and management choices affect reporting decisions.

Management Accounting and Information Systems

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 processes. You will examine system documentation, key design features, and the relationship between AIS and financial reporting.

By the end of this module, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of both management accounting techniques and the functionality of AIS. This will allow you to confidently evaluate short- and long-term management decisions such as pricing strategies and capital allocations.

Professional Development and Experiential Learning

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 continue to develop essential professional skills through activities like exploring personality dynamics, participating in advanced business simulations, working in groups, and completing mock assessment centre exercises. You will also improve your project management skills to prepare for your final year capstone project and learn basic research methods and independent learning techniques.

Optional

optional modules accordion

Business Law

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 directors’ duties. Additionally, you will examine the sale and supply of goods, the law of torts, and the principles of negligence, all explored through real-world examples and case law. Case law will serve as a core lens for examining corporate behaviour and fraudulent practices. This module is particularly valuable for students seeking professional accounting exemptions.

Foundations of Asset Pricing

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 consumption-based models. With real-world examples, their implementation in Python and R and clear explanations, this module gives you the theoretical and practical tools to understand how assets are priced in financial markets, enabling you to make informed investment decisions.

Financial Markets

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 on financial systems and future trends. This module also covers regulations and ethics in finance, focusing on the frameworks that govern market behaviour and the ethical considerations that guide financial decision-making. By the end of this module, you will have the advanced tools, concepts and ethical understanding needed to navigate modern finance with confidence.

Auditing and Control/Accountability

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 responsibilities of auditors in the changing business environment.

By combining theory with practical learning, this module will develop your analytical and critical thinking skills. You will be able to confidently engage with key issues in external and internal auditing, risk management, and compliance.

In your third year, you will take four core modules and choose two optional modules from the seven listed below.

Advanced Financial and Sustainability Reporting

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, this module provides insight into the increasing role of non-financial disclosures in corporate transparency and investor decision-making.

Through real-world examples, you will learn to take a holistic view of corporate reporting, including financial and non-financial disclosures, to evaluate company performance.

Contemporary Issues in Accounting and Finance

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 skills and gain practical experience in reviewing academic literature, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, financial modelling, and reporting.

By the end of the module, you will have produced a comprehensive project that showcases your knowledge and demonstrates your ability to tackle complex problems.

Advanced Corporate Finance

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 decision-making. Essential topics such as raising capital through bonds and equity, risk management techniques, and the international aspects of corporate finance will also be covered.

By the end of this module, you will have the tools and knowledge to understand and engage with the complex financial decisions that shape today’s global business landscape.

Strategic Management Accounting

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 contexts, you will learn to select appropriate techniques and explain their advantages and disadvantages. By the end of the module, you will have the skills to drive financially sound, ethical, and sustainable business strategies, preparing you for career in management accounting, consulting, corporate strategy, and financial planning.

Financial Statement Analysis

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 increasingly used to assess corporate performance and long-term value creation.

By the end of the module, you will have the expertise to extract meaningful insights from corporate disclosures. This will support careers in equity research, corporate finance, risk analysis, and investment banking, where financial statement interpretation is a core competency.

Taxation

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 of taxation on individuals and businesses, and navigate evolving tax laws and international frameworks. This module is strongly recommended for students pursuing careers in accounting, financial advisory, tax consultancy, and corporate finance.

Advanced Auditing and Assurance

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 scenarios, this module will enhance your problem-solving, analytical, and professional judgment skills. It will prepare you to engage with complex issues in external and internal audit, risk management, and assurance of non-financial information.

ESG, Climate and Energy Finance

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 align with global climate change efforts, including green bonds, climate risk assessments, and sustainable finance. The module also explores the financial aspects of both traditional and renewable energy markets.

Combining theory with practical insights, this module prepares you to navigate the growing field of sustainable finance and contribute to the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Fintech and Market Microstructure

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 cutting-edge concepts, this module prepares you for a career in one of the most fast-paced and transformative sectors in finance.

Banking and Behavioural Finance

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-making in financial markets.

By combining traditional banking concepts with the latest insights from behavioural finance, this module offers a unique perspective on the interplay between human behaviour and financial systems. With real-world examples, you will gain practical insights into how these concepts apply to both individual and institutional decision-making.

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level One

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 day.

Whether you are planning to take the CFA Level 1 exam soon or in the future, this module will ensure you are well-prepared to succeed. By the end of the module, you will feel confident in your ability to master the CFA Level 1 content and advance towards your professional finance career.

Fees and funding

Our annual tuition fee is set for a 12-month session, starting at the beginning of each academic year.

Our Undergraduate Tuition Fees for 2027/28 are:

International

Fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

Additional costs

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small college membership fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2026 or 2027, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

Study abroad courses

In addition to travel and accommodation costs, while you are studying abroad, you will need to have a passport and, depending on the country, there may be other costs such as travel documents (e.g. visa or work permit) and any tests and vaccines that are required at the time of travel. Some countries may require proof of funds.

Placement and industry year courses

In addition to possible commuting costs during your placement, you may need to buy clothing that is suitable for your workplace and you may have accommodation costs. Depending on the employer and your job, you may have other costs such as copies of personal documents required by your employer for example.

What is my fee status?

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status.

Fees in subsequent years

Home fees are subject to annual review, and are liable to rise each year in line with UK government policy. International fees (including EU) are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years.

Fees for study abroad and work placements

We will charge tuition fees to Home undergraduate students on full-year study abroad/work placements in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard tuition fee

Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard tuition fee

International students on full-year study abroad/work placements will also be charged in line with the maximum amounts permitted by the Department for Education. The current maximum levels are:

Students studying abroad for a year: 15% of the standard international tuition fee during the Study Abroad year

Students taking a work placement for a year: 20% of the standard international tuition fee during the Placement year

Please note that the maximum levels chargeable in future years may be subject to changes in Government policy.

Scholarships and bursaries

You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status:

Fee status:

Any fee status

Home students

International students

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries.

Course scholarships

Scholarships and bursaries for eligible students applying to Accounting and Finance degrees at Lancaster University

Becketts Scholarship

A scholarship for widening participation students from the Fylde Coast studying programmes in Accounting and Finance, Business Management, Economics and MORSE.

ICAS Foundation programme

An opportunity for Accounting and Finance students from lower-income backgrounds to receive bursary funding and mentoring support.

Student testimonial

"The university has strong partnerships with many different businesses, and you will have the opportunity to network with the representatives during numerous career fairs. I was lucky enough to do my placement year at Ernst & Young (EY)."

Paula Robezniece

More student stories

Student societies

Take advantage of our range of academic societies that help you learn and network outside your studies. You may be interested in the Accounting Society or the Economics and Finance Society. Management School student societies

Alumni for life

When you join Lancaster University, you become part of a global network of over 170,000 graduates across more than 190 countries.

As a Lancaster University Management School alumnus, you’ll belong to a vibrant community of fellow graduates worldwide.

Connect with graduates who work in the job sector that interests you and use your network to get advice and learn about career opportunities.

After you graduate, you'll enjoy a variety of benefits and services exclusive to Lancaster University Alumni, including:

careers support for life

free online journal access

discounts

Show more

Alumni stories

Hear from our alumni about their experience studying Accounting and Finance at Lancaster University, and their careers since graduation.

Accounting and Finance alumni stories

Alumni profiles

Link: click to see Oliver Kay

Oliver Kay

BSc Accounting and Finance (Industry), 2020

I can almost certainly say I would not have found my career path without the Lancaster experience.

Link: click to see George Dalton

George Dalton

BSc Accounting and Finance, 2026

I had no idea how in-depth and wide-reaching the topics I would learn about would be.

Top 100 in the world for Accounting and Finance

Lancaster University is ranked 14th in the UK and 84th in the world for Accounting and Finance according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, one of 11 subjects at Lancaster to be featured in the top 100 in these prestigious listings.

QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

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Important information

The information on this site relates primarily to the stated entry year and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information.

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. Find out more about our Charter and student policies.

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