Triangle

Course overview

It is run collaboratively by the Business School, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and prestigious accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). You will benefit from our teaching, insight and unique international experience, alongside leading professional practice during your time on placement with PwC. 

You will qualify for accreditation for all of the Certificate and Professional stage papers in ICAEW’s Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification. This means you can become a fully qualified chartered accountant just over a year after graduation, subject to successfully completing the Advanced stage papers and practical experience required by ICAEW.

Paid placements

Offered in collaboration with one of the 'big four' accountancy firms, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), this course includes paid work placements. You'll spend part of your second, third and fourth years at PwC.

If you graduate with a 2:1 or higher, PwC may offer you a full-time position at Senior Associate level.

Our accreditation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) also means that you'll be exempt from a number of the exams required to become a Chartered Accountant.

Key facts

  • This course includes paid work placements with PwC, within their Audit practice
  • On successful completion of the course, you will be eligible for exemption from the Professional stage papers for the ICAEW's Associate Chartered Accountant qualification
  • You can become a fully qualified Chartered Accountant just over a year after graduation (having successfully completed the Advanced Stage papers of the ICAEW's Associate Chartered Accountant qualification)
  • One of the UK's leading centres for management education, part of an elite group of global EQUIS accredited business schools
  • Nottingham University Business School is recognised as an ICAEW Partner in Learning

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2020 entry.

UK entry requirements
A level AAB

Please note: Applicants whose backgrounds or personal circumstances have impacted their academic performance may receive a reduced offer. Please see our contextual admissions policy for more information.
Required subjects

GCSE maths, 6 (B) or above, and English, 5 (B) or above
IB score 34

A levels: AAB excluding general studies, critical thinking, and citizenship studies
GCSEs: GCSE maths, 6 (B) or above, and English, 5 (B) or above

English language requirements

IELTS: 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element)

For details of other English language tests and qualifications we accept, please see our entry requirements page.

British Council accredited

If you require additional support to take your language skills to the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional course at the Centre for English Language Education, which is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

Students who successfully complete the presessional course to the required level can progress onto their chosen degree course without retaking IELTS or equivalent.

International applicants

For country-specific information including entry requirements, contact details and representatives, see our website. If you need a visa to study, the University can provide all the information and advice you need.

Mature students

At the University of Nottingham we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information in our guide for mature students.

Alternative qualifications

Our admission process recognises that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and may have followed various educational pathways. Please view the alternative qualifications page for details.

Flexible admissions policy

In recognition of our applicants’ varied experience and educational pathways, the University of Nottingham employs a flexible admissions policy. We may make some applicants an offer lower than advertised, depending on their personal and educational circumstances. Please see the University’s admissions policies and procedures for more information.

Notes for applicants

Following the review of your UCAS application, we may also invite you to complete some online assessments which will include an online interview. Selected applicants will then be invited and attend an open day and assessment centre which includes a group exercise before a decision is made on an offer.

All applicants who are made an offer are invited to visit the Business School and meet members of staff and students at our offer holder events.

We welcome applications from mature candidates and consider academic and professional backgrounds on an individual basis. We also consider other qualifications in addition to those listed above.

Please note we do not accept entry, or transfer from another university, into year two or above on any of our undergraduate degrees.

Mature Students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the mature students webpage.

Learning and assessment

How you will learn

How you will be assessed

Study Abroad and the Year in Industry are subject to students meeting minimum academic requirements. Opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update information as quickly as possible should a change occur.

Modules

Your first year will cover financial and management accounting, assurance, principles of taxation, business law, principles of economics, quantitative methods, organisation studies and business computing.

You will also find out where you will be placed with PwC in year two onwards.

Core modules

Assurance

This module will cover:

  • process of assurance
  • introduction to internal control (including revenue and purchases systems)
  • internal audit
  • audit sampling
  • substantive test
  • independence, objectivity and integrity
Business Finance

This module provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of finance and will help you:

  • understand that there is a relationship between the risk of an investment and the expected returns
  • understand the concept of the time value of money and be able to calculate the present value of a single and multiple future cash flows
  • to be able to apply NPV to project appraisal in realistic situations
  • understand the fundamental ideas or portfolio theory and be able to apply the CAPM
  • to be able to estimate cost of capital for equity (CAPM and dividend growth model) and bonds (market value and IRR)
Business Law

This module will cover:

  • UK legal framework
  • impact of EU legislation
  • law of contract - essential elements, performance and remedies
  • business and the law of tort
  • employment law
  • law in a local and global context
  • agency
  • legal personality; sole traders; partnerships and limited companies
  • purpose and legal status of memorandum and articles
  • management and the administration of a company
  • insolvency
Computers in Business

This module will introduce the use of computers and IT in business today - and in particular spreadsheet modelling - via a lab based assessment and a case study group report and presentation.

Economic Principles

This module introduces you to the microeconomic theory of the market, firm and consumer, and to the nature and scope of the macroeconomic policy agenda, developing the analytical frameworks necessary for the evaluation of policy instruments. The module enables you to understand the economic arguments that underlie different views and to evaluate relevant arguments.

Topics include: market demand, supply and equilibrium; firm production and costs; market structure (perfect competition, oligopoly, monopoly); consumer theory; market failure; asymmetric information; externalities; aggregate demand; money and interest rates; aggregate supply; unemployment and inflation; balance of payments and exchange rates.

This module provides you with the opportunity to apply for CIMA accreditation in the CIMA paper: Fundamentals of Business Economics. It also provides you with the foundations to build upon in quantitative and econometric modules which provides you with the opportunity to apply for additional CIMA accreditation.

Fundamentals of Financial and Management Accounting

This module covers:

  • key accounting concepts
  • the impact of accounting policy selection
  • the recording and collating of accounting information, including double entry bookkeeping
  • preparation of financial statement from accounting data
  • cost concepts and allocation of manufacturing overheads
  • absorption and variable costing
  • cost-volume-profit analysis
  • relevant costing
  • budgeting
Principles of Taxation

This module covers:

  • introduction to income tax
  • employment income
  • national insurance contributions
  • corporation tax
  • trading profits and basis of assessment
  • capital allowances
  • capital gains tax (individuals)
  • value added tax
Quantitative Methods 1B

This module covers:

  • economic application of calculus
  • confidence intervals
  • introduction to hypothesis testing
  • partial differentiation
  • optimisation of two variables
  • probability
  • random variables
  • sampling distributions

One from:

Quantitative Methods 1A

This module introduces you to:

  • numbers
  • algebra
  • functions
  • equations
  • exponents
  • logarithms
  • descriptive statistics
  • differentiation
  • optimisation
  • integration
Work and Society

This module explores the nature of work and society. It will look at the development of our understanding of work and society. The development of the industrial and the post-industrial society will be explored and its impact on the nature of work, organisation and management.

There will be a historical and critical review of the schools of thought and key writers. Examples of research into individual and group experiences of work, organisation and management will be discussed.

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on Friday 04 September 2020.

After a study block in early September on audit and assurance, you will spend September to December on placement with PwC. You will assist on real client work, applying the knowledge you have learnt earlier in the course.

Returning to your studies in January, you will take modules on tax compliance, financial accounting and reporting, and corporate finance.

Core modules

Audit and Assurance

This module provides an in depth consideration of critical aspects of an assurance engagement, including acceptance, planning, managing, concluding and reporting.

Corporate Finance

This module concentrates on the major investment and financing decisions made by managers within a firm.

Financial Accounting and Reporting I

This module will introduce the nature and purpose of financial accounting. Key accounting concepts, the impact of accounting policy selection, accounting standards and the recording and collating of accounting information will be presented. Financial statements will be developed via double entry bookkeeping from accounting data.

Tax Compliance

This module will develop your understanding of:

  • income tax
  • inheritance tax
  • national insurance contributions
  • corporation tax
  • capital gains tax (individuals)
  • value added tax and stamp taxes
  • ethics and law

Plus a paid work placement with PwC from September to December.

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on

You will start year three by undertaking another block of study in early September on financial accounting and reporting.

Following this, you will spend September to December on placement, where you will take on more complex work before returning to your studies in January.

Core modules

Business Planning: Taxation

The module covers:

  • ethics
  • income tax and NIC
  • employee remuneration
  • unincorporated businesses
  • capital gains tax
  • capital gains tax reliefs
  • inheritance tax
  • personal tax - international aspects
  • the taxation of trusts
  • corporation tax for a single company
  • raising finance
  • corporation tax losses
  • anti-avoidance
  • group relief and consortia
  • chargeable gains groups
  • international expansion
  • corporate anti-avoidance
  • VAT and stamp taxes
  • choice of business structure
  • transformation of owner-managed business
  • corporate re-organisations
Financial Accounting and Reporting II

This module covers reporting framework, concepts and ethics, preparation of single entity and consolidated financial statements, and application of international financial reporting standards.

Management Accounting and Decisions

This module introduces:

  • cost concepts and allocation of manufacturing overheads
  • absorption and variable costing
  • cost-volume-profit analysis
  • relevant costing
  • budgeting 
Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage

This module provides you with a theoretical and applied overview of strategic management in today's operational environment. It introduces and analyses the key concepts, frameworks and techniques of strategic management, which allow them to diagnose complex situations related to real-world business development.

Optional modules

Technology Entrepreneurship in Practice

This module aims to provide you with the skills, knowledge and practical experience required to respond to the challenges involved in managing, commercialising and marketing technological innovation and new business development.

Risk Management Processes

This module will discuss the processes utilised by corporate enterprises to manage the risk of fortuitous loss. Once corporate risks have been identified and their impact on the firm measured, risk management attempts to control the size and frequency of loss, and to finance those fortuitous losses which do occur. 

Strategic Innovation Management

This module introduces you to key strategy and innovation concepts and tools which are relevant to dynamic markets in which there is rapid change in knowledge and skills, technologies, products, and services. Topics covered include:

  • creating and sustaining competitive advantage in dynamic markets
  • dynamic capabilities
  • first and second mover advantages in innovation
  • industry life cycles
  • new product development and technology lock-ins
  • innovation in services (public and private sector) 

Plus a paid work placement with PwC from September to December.

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on

Starting your final year in late September, you will study contemporary issues in accounting, also choosing from a range of optional modules.

Your studies at the University will conclude in early February and you will then undertake the Professional Practice module during your final placement, ending in May.

After the course, if you have performed strongly, you could be offered a full-time role at PwC.

Core modules

Contemporary Issues in Accounting

This module will consist of a range of topical issues from accounting, finance and taxation which build upon the knowledge gained in these areas in the degree so far.

Professional Practice

An introduction to a variety of models and exemplars to support you in understanding and articulating your personal learning style and negotiation of the journey from new undergraduate to BSc Accountancy graduand.

This is the final module undertaken in the degree. It emphasises the employability skills and professional development aspects of the programme and also requires you to reflect upon the integrated placement segments of the programme.

Example optional modules

Plus 40 credits of approved optional modules.

Business, Government and Public Policy

You will be encouraged to understand the political and institutional frameworks within which business operates. Businesses do not simply react to policies set by government however; they are intimately involved in the processes of policy formation and decision making will be examined. You will be encouraged to think critically about policy formation and the role of business in this process.

Exploring Perspectives in Entrepreneurship

This module covers:

  • definitions of entrepreneurship/entrepreneurial activity
  • the theoretical perspectives underpinning the study of entrepreneurship
  • understanding what shapes the practice of entrepreneurship both in different settings (for example, social entrepreneurship) and due to contextual influences (for example, entrepreneurship in the media and the influence of gender)
International Finance

This module discusses and analyses the management of the international finance function of firms. Typical issues include:

  • foreign exchange markets
  • foreign exchange and other international risks
  • international financial markets
  • international investment decisions
  • foreign trade 
Law and Economics

This module covers:

  • introduction to law and economics: the Coase theorem, property rights and transaction costs
  • economics of corporate law: ownership, agency and governance structures
  • economics of contract law: efficient breach and efficient remedies
  • economics of tort law: efficient liability rules
  • economics of criminal law: fines and imprisonment
  • economics of legal processes: litigation, settlement and trial
  • competitive markets: products liability
  • non-competitive markets: economics of antitrust law and regulation
Risk, Information and Insurance

This module examines individual decision-making under conditions of risk and uncertainty, and investigates the effectiveness of insurance as a means of controlling risk.

Corporate Restructuring and Governance

This module examines the antecedents and consequences of corporate restructuring. Factors triggering corporate restructuring are considered in a number of alternative organisational settings. In particular, the role of corporate governance in inducing and shaping corporate restructuring receives special attention (in particular, executive compensation and the market for corporate control).

The process of restructuring is discussed against a background of resource-based, agency and behavioural theories of the firm. The impact of corporate restructuring on the size, complexity, incentive systems and ownership structure of large firms is examined. Finally, the evidence relating to the effects of corporate restructuring on performance, employment, R&D and corporate governance is examined.

Plus a paid work placement with PwC from February to May.

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. Modules (including methods of assessment) may change or be updated, or modules may be cancelled, over the duration of the course due to a number of reasons such as curriculum developments or staffing changes. Please refer to the module catalogue for information on available modules. This content was last updated on

Fees and funding

UK students

£9,250
Per year

International students

£18,420*
Per year

*For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable), see our fees page.

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses.

You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though the library will hold only a limited number of copies of core texts and these are in high demand during term and revision periods, so purchasing your own copy is advisable.

The cost of travelling to placements will be dependent on location of placement and proximity to term-time address. Placements on this course are held with PwC and are paid ~£15,000 per annum, pro rata.

Please note that these figures are approximate and subject to change.

Scholarships and bursaries

The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of bursaries and scholarships. These funds can provide you with an additional source of non-repayable financial help. For up to date information regarding tuition fees, visit our fees and finance pages.

Home students*

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our financial support pages.

* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.

International students

We offer a range of international undergraduate scholarships for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.

International scholarships

Careers

The Business School's careers and recruitment service provides targeted and bespoke support to help steer you onto a career path of your choice. You will have opportunities to network with top employers throughout your degree, with many of these companies choosing to sponsor prizes for the highest-performing students in different years of study or particular subjects.

Professional accreditation

ICAEW

Nottingham University Business School is recognised as an Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) Partner in Learning, working with ICAEW in the professional development of students.

Successful completion of the programme will lead to you completing 80% of the ICAEW Chartered Accountancy modules along with relevant practical work experience that will count toward your training agreement.

Employability and average starting salary

If you graduate with a 2:1 or higher, PwC may offer you a full-time position at Senior Associate level, where you will earn a very competitive salary.

Average starting salary and career progression

85.8% of undergraduates from Nottingham University Business School secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £32,026.*

* HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).

Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales

The school is recognised as an ICAEW Partner in Learning.

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" I'm looking forward to putting the knowledge I’ve gained in lectures and seminars into action on my PwC placement in London. "
Kira Eilfield, BSc Accountancy

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Important information

This online prospectus has been drafted in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content) are likely to occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for the course where there has been an interval between you reading this website and applying.