MSc Accounting and Finance

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Loughborough University

Program Overview

The MSc Accounting and Finance at Loughborough University is designed to give you a strong foundation in both accounting and finance while showing how these skills work in the real world. It’s perfect for anyone looking to boost their career in finance, whether you’re coming from a different background or already have experience in the field. You’ll gain practical skills, confidence in financial decision-making, and insight into how businesses operate on a global scale.

Curriculum Structure

Foundational Development

At the start, you’ll build your core understanding with modules like Corporate Finance Fundamentals, exploring finance theory, valuation, and decision-making tools. International Financial Accounting and Reporting will get you comfortable with global standards, while Management Accounting: Decision Making introduces practical budgeting, cost analysis, and strategy. These modules set the stage for advanced learning and real-world applications.

Expanding Technical Expertise

As you progress, you’ll choose from optional modules such as Financial Markets and Institutions, Sustainability Accounting and Accountability, and Financial Statements Analysis & Valuations. These courses let you dive deeper into market analysis, ESG considerations, and complex financial data, preparing you to tackle real challenges in modern businesses.

Practical Application & Integration

Finally, you’ll bring everything together in the Consultancy Project, a hands-on assignment with real clients. This experience sharpens your teamwork, consulting, and problem-solving skills — helping you graduate with the confidence and experience employers value most.

Focus areas

Accounting, finance, corporate finance, sustainability, management accounting, consultancy skills.

Learning outcomes

Build a solid understanding of accounting and finance, develop analytical and decision-making skills, gain practical experience with real-world projects, and graduate ready to succeed in global business environments.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Loughborough Business School is triple-accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, meaning your degree is recognized worldwide by employers and professional bodies.

Reputation (employability rankings)

The programme ranks Top 10 in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Guardian University Guide 2026) and is highly rated for graduate prospects, showing that Loughborough graduates are in demand across industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Loughborough, the MSc in Accounting and Finance is all about learning by doing. You won’t just sit in lectures — you’ll get hands-on experience applying accounting and finance concepts in real-world situations. From working with live business data to tackling real consultancy challenges, the programme gives you practical skills that employers value. You’ll have access to excellent facilities, collaborative spaces, and digital tools that make learning interactive, immersive, and fun.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience during your studies:

Real consultancy work: In the Consultancy Project, you’ll work in small teams on live business challenges provided by external organisations, giving you a taste of real professional problem-solving.
Teamwork and communication: Many modules include group projects and workshops, helping you sharpen collaboration, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Professional software skills: You’ll gain confidence in industry-standard tools like Excel, Word, and PowerPoint through the Professional Skills for Success module — exactly what you’ll use in the workplace.
Data analytics experience: Optional modules like Data Analytics for Accounting and Finance let you analyse real datasets, giving you hands-on experience with data-driven decision making.
Modern study spaces: The LB Hub and Business School facilities provide collaborative zones and tech-enabled rooms where you can work on projects, prepare presentations, or revise with peers.
Campus resources: Loughborough’s extensive library and computer labs are at your disposal, giving you everything you need to research, model, and practice your skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Loughborough’s MSc Accounting and Finance go on to exciting careers in the finance world. Many step into roles like Financial Analyst, Management Accountant, Investment Associate, or Corporate Finance Specialist, equipped with the knowledge and practical skills gained during the programme. With Loughborough’s strong support and industry links, you’ll be ready to confidently launch your career and make an impact from day one:

Dedicated careers support: Loughborough Careers Network provides personalised guidance, from one‑to‑one career coaching and CV advice to mock interviews and networking opportunities with employers.
Strong employment outcomes: Around 95% of Accounting graduates go on to work or further study within 15 months of finishing, reflecting the programme’s strong preparation for professional life.
Competitive starting salaries: Graduates report typical earnings of about £33,000 within 15 months, with potential for rapid growth as experience builds.
Professional recognition: The MSc helps prepare you for professional qualifications like ACCA, CIMA, CFA, or ICAEW, giving your career a valuable long-term boost.
Industry connections: Loughborough’s reputation and partnerships with global organisations ensure your degree opens doors to exciting opportunities across finance, consulting, and corporate sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue learning, this MSc sets a solid foundation for professional qualifications or research degrees. Many graduates pursue ACCA, CIMA, CFA or ICAEW certifications, while others continue to PhD or research-based programmes to specialise further. The knowledge and skills you gain here make these next steps far more achievable and meaningful.