Accounting and Finance (MSc)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of St Andrews

Program Overview

The MSc Accounting & Finance at the University of St Andrews is designed for students who want a strong, well-rounded understanding of how financial information supports real business and investment decisions. It’s a great fit if you’re aiming for a career in finance, accounting, consulting, or further research, and want to develop practical, data-driven skills in a highly respected academic environment.

Curriculum Structure

Year of Study (One-Year Full-Time)

At the start of the programme, you’ll focus on building a solid analytical foundation. Through Financial Accounting, you’ll learn how financial statements are prepared and interpreted, while Applied Financial Econometrics develops your ability to work with financial data, statistics, and research methods used in modern finance.

As the year progresses, learning becomes more applied and decision-focused. Modules such as Management Accounting help you understand how accounting supports planning and control inside organisations, while Financial Statement Analysis and Valuation teaches you how to assess company performance and estimate firm value. You’ll also gain hands-on experience using real market data through Financial Data Analysis with Bloomberg.

In the final stage, you’ll tailor the programme to your interests by choosing optional modules such as Corporate Governance, FinTech, or Sustainable Finance. The programme concludes with a 15,000-word dissertation, allowing you to explore a topic in accounting or finance in depth and demonstrate independent research skills.

Focus Areas

Financial accounting, management accounting, financial econometrics, valuation and investment analysis, financial data and Bloomberg tools, corporate governance, fintech, sustainable finance

Learning Outcomes

Strong ability to analyse and interpret financial statements and market data, confidence in applying accounting and finance concepts to real-world problems, advanced quantitative and research skills, clear communication of financial insights to professional audiences

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme integrates industry-relevant tools and certifications, including Bloomberg Market Concepts and ESG-focused learning, ensuring graduates are well prepared for professional finance and accounting roles.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The University of St Andrews is internationally recognised for academic excellence and consistently ranks among the UK’s top universities for student satisfaction and graduate outcomes, strengthening the value of your degree in the global job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At St Andrews, learning goes far beyond lectures — you’ll get hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world finance and accounting roles. From the very first module, you’ll be using professional tools like Bloomberg to analyse live financial markets, tackling group projects that mirror workplace challenges, and exploring research insights from leading academics. The programme is designed to help you build confidence, practical skills, and professional networks while applying classroom theory to meaningful, real-life scenarios:

Bloomberg Trading Suite & Financial Data Terminals — Analyse live market data, practise financial modelling, and interpret real-world trends using the same platforms professionals rely on.
Simulations & Applied Workshops — Participate in immersive exercises that bring concepts like trading, investment, and corporate finance to life.
Collaborative Group Projects — Work in teams to solve accounting and finance challenges, mirroring the way professionals operate in the workplace.
Masters Extra (MX) Career Development — Join workshops, networking events, and guest lectures to build industry connections and professional confidence.
Research Centres: CSEAR & CRBF — Learn alongside experts tackling sustainability, governance, and responsible finance issues.
Dissertation Project — Conduct an independent research project on a topic you’re passionate about, supported by a supervisor and tailored to your career goals.
Student Societies & Networking — Engage with finance-focused student societies to discuss trends, share ideas, and expand your network.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc in Accounting & Finance at St Andrews are well prepared to step confidently into the world of finance, accounting, and consulting. Many go on to exciting roles such as financial analyst, management accountant, investment associate, or consultant, working with organisations around the globe:

University Careers Support: The St Andrews Careers Centre provides personalised guidance, workshops, one‑to‑one appointments, and access to jobs and internships — support that’s available for up to three years after graduation, helping you transition smoothly into your first role.
Employment Outcomes: Around 94 % of St Andrews graduates are in meaningful work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree, with many finding rewarding positions in finance and related fields.
Industry Connections: Through Masters Extra (MX) events and networking sessions, you’ll meet employers and alumni from firms like Citibank, EY, Microsoft, and Morgan Stanley, opening doors to real career opportunities.
Professional Credentials: Gain Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) and ESG certifications as part of your studies, giving you practical, recognised skills that stand out to recruiters.
Global Alumni Network: Joining St Andrews connects you to an international alumni community, offering mentorship, job referrals, and lifelong networking opportunities.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: For aspiring entrepreneurs, the Entrepreneurship Centre provides mentorship, start-up training, and access to investors to help bring business ideas to life.

Further Academic Progression:
If research or academia appeals to you, many students continue to PhD study at St Andrews or elsewhere. The university offers funding options like ESRC awards and Business School studentships, supporting your advanced research and helping you develop into a specialist in accounting, finance, or related fields.