Accounting and Finance, MSc

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The MSc Accounting and Finance at the University of Aberdeen is a well-balanced postgraduate degree designed to give you a strong command of both accounting practices and financial decision-making. It suits students who want to build a solid finance career foundation, whether you’re transitioning into accounting and finance or strengthening your existing knowledge for professional growth.

Curriculum Structure

Year / Stage 1 – Core Foundations

In the first stage of the programme, you’ll focus on developing a strong understanding of how financial information supports business decisions. Modules such as Accounting for Business Decisions help you interpret financial statements and understand their role in organisational performance, while Economic Analysis builds your ability to evaluate economic environments. You’ll also study Issues in Corporate Finance, gaining insight into investment decisions and financing strategies, alongside Portfolio Analysis and Financial Markets and Regulation, which introduce you to investment theory, risk management, and the structure of global financial systems.

Year / Stage 2 – Applied Learning and Projects

The final stage is designed to put your knowledge into practice through hands-on analytical work. You’ll complete a Business Analysis Project, where you assess real business performance using financial and strategic tools, and an Investment Project, allowing you to apply portfolio management concepts in a practical setting. These projects are particularly valuable for building confidence, problem-solving skills, and professional-level financial judgement.

Focus Areas (in a string):

Financial accounting, corporate finance, investment analysis, portfolio management, financial markets and regulation, business performance analysis

Learning Outcomes (in a string):

Ability to analyse financial information critically, apply accounting and finance theory to real business challenges, and produce professional-standard financial and investment evaluations

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The programme is aligned with the expectations of the accounting and finance profession and supports career pathways linked to professional accounting bodies and finance roles through its industry-relevant curriculum

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

The University of Aberdeen is internationally recognised for Accounting and Finance and appears in global subject rankings, reflecting strong academic quality and positive employability outcomes for graduates

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Aberdeen, the Accounting and Finance MSc isn’t just about learning theory — it’s about putting knowledge into practice. You’ll get hands-on experience with tools used by professionals, like Bloomberg Terminals in the Virtual Finance Lab, where you can explore real-time financial data, analyse markets, and practise investment strategies. Throughout the course, you’ll take part in group projects, case studies, and industry-based scenarios that mirror real-world finance challenges. You’ll also meet guest speakers and finance professionals, giving you insight into the industry and helping you build your professional network. Combined with access to the university’s research resources, libraries, and virtual learning environment, these experiences make sure you graduate ready to step confidently into a career in accounting or finance.

Here’s what you can expect in practice:

Virtual Finance Lab: Work on Bloomberg Terminals to analyse live market data, test investment strategies, and experience real-world financial decision-making.
Group projects and case studies: Collaborate with peers on practical business scenarios that develop teamwork, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Industry engagement: Attend workshops, talks, and seminars led by finance professionals to connect your studies with current industry practice.
Networking opportunities: Meet and learn from visiting practitioners, building valuable professional contacts before graduation.
Research and faculty support: Access research centres and academic expertise to explore contemporary finance and accounting issues as part of your coursework.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Accounting and Finance at the University of Aberdeen are well-prepared to step into exciting careers in finance and accounting, with roles such as Financial Analyst, Management Accountant, Investment Analyst, or Corporate Finance Associate. The programme equips you with practical skills, analytical thinking, and professional knowledge, giving you the confidence to succeed in competitive workplaces. You’ll also benefit from strong career support and industry connections that help turn your academic achievements into real-world opportunities:

Career support services: The University’s Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one guidance on CVs, interviews, and job applications, plus access to graduate jobs, internships, and events connecting you with potential employers.
Employment stats and salary insights: Graduates in accounting and finance often start with salaries in the mid‑£20,000s, with strong prospects for growth as experience and professional qualifications accumulate.
Professional accreditation and long-term value: The programme’s alignment with professional bodies like ACCA, CIMA, and ICAS helps you earn exemptions toward chartered qualifications, giving your career international recognition and long-term benefits.
Industry engagement and partnerships: You’ll have opportunities to work with firms like Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, and EY through workshops, live projects, guest lectures, and careers fairs, helping you build valuable networks and gain insight into industry practice.
Graduate outcomes: Aberdeen graduates are highly sought after in sectors such as corporate finance, auditing, investment analysis, and consultancy, supported by the university’s strong academic and research reputation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, you could choose to continue your studies with research degrees like an MSc by Research or a PhD in accounting, finance, or business-related fields. Alternatively, you might pursue specialised postgraduate diplomas or professional qualifications in areas such as taxation, audit, or financial strategy, while completing certifications like ACCA, CIMA, or ICAS to open doors to senior roles and leadership positions.