International Finance and Accounting Degree Exchange

5 Months On Campus Certificate Program

Saxion University of Applied Sciences

Program Overview

The International Finance and Accounting exchange programme at Saxion gives students the chance to spend a semester in the Netherlands while gaining practical knowledge of global finance and business operations. It is a great option for students who want to strengthen their understanding of accounting, financial decision-making, and international business while studying alongside a diverse community of international students.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Foundation Stage – Enschede campus)
In the early stage of the programme, students focus on building a strong base in finance and business. Courses such as Financial Accounting, Microeconomics/Macroeconomics, Financial Management, and Business Communication introduce how companies record financial information and make strategic decisions. Students also develop practical skills through modules like Computer Skills and Marketing & Management, which prepare them for modern business environments.

Year 2 (Intermediate Business and Finance Knowledge – Deventer campus)
At this level, the curriculum shifts toward deeper financial understanding and organisational strategy. Students study subjects such as Management Accounting, Corporate Governance, Financial Management, and Human Resource Management, learning how companies manage financial resources and leadership structures. Courses like Ethics and International Law also help students understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of financial professionals in a global context.

Year 3 (Advanced Financial Expertise)
In the advanced stage, students refine their professional finance and accounting skills. Modules such as Auditing, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, and Accounting Information Systems help students analyse financial reports, ensure compliance, and evaluate organisational performance. Additional subjects like Business English and MIS/ICT support professional communication and digital financial analysis skills.

Focus Areas

Financial accounting, corporate finance, auditing, corporate governance, accounting information systems, international business ethics, financial analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Students graduate with the ability to interpret financial data, support strategic decision-making in organisations, and apply international accounting standards within global business environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The broader International Finance and Accounting programme at Saxion is aligned with professional accounting standards and may provide exemptions toward the ACCA qualification, helping graduates progress faster toward becoming certified accounting professionals.

Reputation (Employability)

Graduates develop strong financial and analytical skills that prepare them for roles such as financial analyst, accountant, financial controller, or business consultant in international companies, banks, and consulting firms.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Saxion, learning goes far beyond traditional lectures. The International Finance and Accounting exchange programme focuses on helping students develop practical financial skills through interactive classes, real business cases, and collaborative projects with international classmates. Throughout the programme, students apply financial theories to real-world scenarios, using digital tools and business simulations that mirror how companies manage finances in practice.

Students build these hands-on skills through several applied learning opportunities:

Business simulation projects: Students take part in simulations where they manage the finances of a virtual international company, making strategic financial decisions and analysing business performance.
International group projects: Students work in multicultural teams to solve real business and finance challenges, strengthening collaboration and global communication skills.
Digital finance and IT tools: Courses such as Computer Skills and MIS/ICT introduce students to digital systems used for financial analysis and information management in modern organisations.
Case-based learning: Many modules are built around real business scenarios where students evaluate financial reports, analyse company performance, and propose solutions.
International classroom environment: Students learn in small, interactive classes alongside peers from around the world, encouraging discussion, teamwork, and knowledge sharing.
Campus learning resources: Students have access to Saxion’s libraries, collaborative study spaces, and modern campus facilities, supporting both independent research and group work.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Students who study International Finance and Accounting develop strong financial analysis and business decision-making skills that are highly valued by global employers. The programme prepares students for careers in areas such as corporate finance, accounting, and financial management. Many graduates go on to roles like financial analyst, financial accountant, financial controller, or business consultant, working in international companies and financial institutions.

As students approach graduation, Saxion supports their career development through practical learning and professional connections:

Strong employability prospects: A large proportion of graduates from finance-related programmes at Saxion find employment in professional roles within about one to one and a half years after graduation, demonstrating strong demand for their skills.
Career opportunities in global industries: Graduates work in sectors such as banking, consulting, multinational corporations, and financial departments of international organisations.
Professional qualification pathway: The programme is aligned with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), meaning graduates may receive exemptions for several ACCA exams, helping them progress faster toward a globally recognised accounting qualification.
Real-world preparation: Through projects, financial case studies, and collaborative assignments, students gain practical experience that closely reflects the work they will do in professional finance roles.
International career readiness: Studying in an international classroom helps students develop intercultural communication skills that are valuable for careers in global organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the programme, students can continue their studies with a master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related business fields at universities in the Netherlands or internationally. This allows graduates to specialise further and open doors to more advanced leadership and finance roles.