• Undergraduate

Accounting and Finance with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

The UK (home) student tuition fee is £5,760 for Foundation Year 1 only and then £9,250 per year for Year 2 onwards, subject to Government regulation. See more information about fees below.

Why study at the University of West London? 
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Our Accounting and Finance courses are ranked #1 in London for modern universities* - Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Why study this course?

This accounting and finance degree at the University of West London will help you gain both knowledge and practical experience.

You will learn from professional accountants who will support your academic and career goals, equipping you to compete in the financial jobs market.

The course is designed to maximise exemptions from the exams set by professional accountancy bodies such as the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

This means you will sit fewer ACCA exams and you could shorten the length of time it takes you to gain your professional qualification.

Foundation year

The foundation year course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to continue onto your Honours degree. You will study a range of subjects that will underpin your future study and also gain valuable experience of university life, with full access to campus facilities. Successful completion of the year allows you to progress straight onto Level 4 of this course. Please note that a £2000 Path to Success bursary is available to all UK foundation year students, which is non-repayable. 

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
Without Foundation Year
Duration: 3 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Accounting and Finance with Foundation Year with us?

Why study Accounting and Finance with Foundation Year with us?

A collage of students
A collage of students
A collage of students
A collage of students
A collage of students

What our students say…

At first, I was not 100% sure whether I wanted to be an accountant for the rest of my life. However, I found accounting very interesting (thanks to my lecturers at the Claude Littner Business School) and now, I cannot imagine myself in a different position."

- Gabriele Loukbache, Finance Officer at The Royal College of Emergency Medicine

Over my four years at the Claude Littner Business School, I have learnt, networked and grown more than I had thought was possible, and this has given me the mental and career boost which everyone should have."

Azeem Rahman, Finance Intern at GE Aviation

Thanks to the Claude Littner Business School, I secured a finance placement within the NHS. This role has shown me that cross-collaboration is integral to the finance function and the valuable practical experience I gained would also help in working towards my ACCA membership."

- Twinkle Sharma, Finance Placement at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Gaining this degree boosted my career! The Claude Littner Business School provided me with a good level of academic and career support every step of the way, and prepared me both intellectually and socially for professional work life."

- Martyna Santkiewicz, Finance Manager, Elmech Ltd.

Studying Accounting and Finance at UWL has enhanced my career in various ways. The course is high quality as it's fully supported by ACCA and also provides virtual practical implementation on work experience. This is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable technical skills which I needed to stand out."

Helena Auala
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This course is accredited by ACCA
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Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

On this accounting and finance course you will learn essential principles while developing the practical skills you need to succeed.

Our professionally qualified tutors all have industry experience, most of them with the Big Four accounting firms; with their guidance you will grow your understanding of current practices. 

As a team, we do everything we can for our students, but do not take our word for it. Since the student satisfaction ratings were first introduced, this course has frequently featured in the top ten accounting degrees in the country.

Alongside your specific professional abilities, we will encourage you to develop the transferable skills that will help you to stand out to potential employers. These include analytical, research and communication skills.

All our teaching staff pride themselves on putting students first, and you will always have academic support when you need it. Your tutors will work with you as an individual to make the most of your career opportunities.

You will listen, learn, discuss and gain hands-on experience of how business and finance work through:

  • lectures
  • seminars
  • tutorials
  • workshops

When you graduate you will be awarded up to nine exemptions from ACCA and it is possible to become a qualified accountant within two years of graduation.

Foundation year

There are many reasons for joining a foundation year course; you may not have the exact subjects or grades at A level to meet the entry requirements, you may have been living abroad or want to change direction with your career. Whatever your starting point, the foundation year offers a firm grounding in the skills and knowledge that you will need to get the most from your studies and thrive at University. Successful completion of the foundation year allows you to progress straight onto Level 4 of this course.

Compulsory modules

  • Introduction to Business

    During this module you will gain a basic knowledge and understanding of business organisations and the way they operate in the UK economy.

  • Recording Business Transactions

    During this module you will cover the methods of bookkeeping and financial accounting used by organisations to record their financial transactions.

  • Personalised Learning

    The Personalised Learning module is intended to equip you with the study skills needed to successfully progress onto level 4, the first year of undergraduate study. Tutor group sessions are an integral part of the module, where you will consolidate your learning and frame it in the context of your subject area. The module will focus on various aspects of study skills, such as those skills related to reading and writing, learning approaches, problem-solving techniques, critical thinking, researching, referencing, plagiarism, legal research and time management.

  • Data Handling and ICT

    You will develop skills and confidence in the use and application of numerical data and analysis. 

    You will also prepare, present and process data using business software.

  • Managing People and Systems

    In the course of this management module you will explore people management within business structures and how they lead to the fulfilment of business goals.

    You will learn about recruitment, different personalities, team dynamics, people assessment systems and understand basic theories of motivation and leadership.

  • Study Skills for Success

    This module will enable you to read critically, present an argument, and distinguish between the quality and suitability of materials. It will prepare you to use and evaluate a range of evidence sources throughout your degree.

Compulsory modules

  • Introduction to Financial Accounting

    The module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the underlying principles and concepts relating to financial accounting and technical proficiency in the use of double-entry accounting techniques including the preparation of basic financial statements. Upon successful completion of this module, you should have a solid base from which to continue onto Level 5 Financial Accounting and Level 6 Financial Reporting. 

    This module is a pre-requisite for Level 5 Financial Accounting.

  • Digital Skills for Accountants

    The aim of this module is to provide you with a range of digital skills required to succeed in the workplace as well as throughout your studies. You will be introduced to research skills and methods in the field of accounting and finance, both of a quantitative and qualitative nature. You will also learn to critique, prepare and present findings in an impactful manner to specialist and non-specialist audiences, and reference your findings using the Harvard referencing system.

    You will also develop data analysis and general IT skills through spreadsheet modelling and using accounting software which are essential for accountants. You will be exposed to social media platforms for professional networking (Eg: LinkedIn), learn to use online platforms (Eg: Canva) to design your CV, and engage in career-focused activities.

  • Quantitative Methods

    The module aims to provide an understanding of the role of data analysis in business and finance. Develop basic analytical and numerical skills into an ability to approach and solve business problems and develop the ability to interpret numerical results as an aid to decision-making.

  • Introduction to Management Accounting

    The module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of management accounting techniques to support management in planning, controlling and monitoring performance in a variety of business contexts. Upon successful completion of the module, you should have a solid base from which to continue on Level 5  Management Accounting and Level 6  Performance Management and Control. 

    This module is a pre-requisite for Level 5 Management Accounting.

  • Introduction to Sustainability in Accounting

    This module aims to give you a deeper understanding of sustainable business operations and the important role played by professional accountants in helping companies embed sustainability into their corporate strategies to deliver long-term value to stakeholders. The module also explores the important role of data analytics in sustainable business practices. 

  • Introduction to Economics

    The aim of the module is to help you to develop an awareness of the economic environment in which business operates, within a local, national and international context.

Compulsory modules

  • Auditing in Context

    The aim of this module is to enable you to demonstrate an understanding of auditing principles and regulations in a business context for organisations in the UK. You will learn to apply the audit procedures in a variety of simple practical situations. Upon successful completion of this module, you should have a solid base from which to continue onto Level 6 Auditing.

    This module is a pre-requisite for Level 6 Auditing.

  • Financial Accounting

    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level 4 - Introduction to Financial Accounting (AC40035E).

    The aim of the module is to build and further develop the knowledge and skills taught in Level 4 Introduction to Financial Accounting. You will gain a deeper understanding of applying accounting standards and the theoretical framework in the preparation of financial statements of entities, and how to analyse and interpret those financial statements. 

    Upon successful completion of the module, you should have a solid base from which to continue onto Level 6 Financial Reporting. 

    This Level 5 module is a pre-requisite for Level 6 Financial Reporting.

  • Taxation

    The module aims to develop knowledge and skills relating to the tax system as applicable to individuals. Upon successful completion of this module, you should have a solid base from which to continue on to Level 6 Personal and Corporate Taxation. 

    This Level 5 module is a pre-requisite for Level 6 Personal and Corporate Taxation.

  • Business and Corporate Law

    The module aims to develop knowledge and skills in understanding the general legal framework and specific legal areas relating to business, recognising the need to seek further specialist legal advice where necessary.

  • Financial Management

    The module aims to develop the knowledge and skills expected of a finance manager, in relation to investment, financing, and dividend policy decisions. Upon successful completion of this module you should have a solid base from which to continue on to Level 6  Corporate Finance.

    This Level 5 module is a pre-requisite for Level 6 Corporate Finance.

  • Management Accounting


    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of or exemption from Level 4 - Introduction to Management Accounting (AC40033E).

    The module aims to build on knowledge and skills taught at Level 4 (Introduction to Management Accounting) and develop an understanding of management accounting techniques to support management in planning, controlling and monitoring performance in a variety of business contexts. Upon successful completion of this module, you should have a solid base from which to continue onto Level 6 Performance Management and Control.  

    This Level 5 module is a pre-requisite for Level 6 Performance Management and Control.  

Compulsory modules

You will study all the compulsory modules and will choose THREE of the optional modules

  • Corporate Finance

    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level 5 - Financial Management (AC50028E).

    This module builds on knowledge and skills taught at Level 5 (Financial Management) and aims to develop the skills expected of a finance manager, in relation to investment, financing, and dividend policy decisions.  

  • Financial Reporting

    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level - Financial Accounting (5AC50026E).

    The aim of the module is to build and further develop knowledge and skills taught at Level 4 (Introduction to Financial Accounting) and Level 5 (Financial Accounting) in understanding and applying accounting standards and the theoretical framework in the preparation of financial statements of entities, including group entities, and how to analyse and interpret those financial statements. 
     

  • Performance Management and Control


    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level 5 - Management Accounting (AC50027E).

    The module aims to build on knowledge and skills taught at Level 4 (Introduction to Management Accounting) and Level 5 (Management Accounting and develop knowledge) helping develop skills in the application of management accounting techniques to quantitative and qualitative information for planning, decision-making, performance evaluation, and control. 

Optional modules

  • Personal and Corporate Taxation

    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level 5 - Taxation (AC50029E).

    The module aims to build upon the knowledge and skills gained at Level 5 (Taxation) and develop knowledge and skills relating to the tax system as applicable to individuals, single companies, and groups of companies.

  • Auditing


    Pre-requisite: Successful completion of, or exemption from Level 5 - Auditing in Context (AC50025E).

    This module builds on Level 5 Auditing in Context and aims to enable you to demonstrate a detailed understanding of auditing principles and procedures applicable to business organisations and to select and apply those procedures in a variety of practical situations.

  • Analysis Report on Current Issues in Accounting and Finance

    The module aims to enable you to engage in a knowledge-based debate with your peers on selected current issues in accounting and finance.

    This is not a taught module, it is a research project that focuses on the current issues in the accounting and finance profession.

  • Blockchain Technologies in Finance

    The module aims to demystify the world of blockchain technology for accountants and will enable you to get to grips with technological advances and digital disruptors, give a clearer understanding of what they mean to the role of a professional accountant, and how to make informed decisions about adopting and using new technologies. 
     

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

72 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A-Levels at grades B and C (if you have two A-Levels) or grades D, D and D (if you have three), or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Merit, Merit, Pass
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T-Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Looking for BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
5.5 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents. 

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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September 2025 tuition fees

Foundation Year 1 - full-time UK (Home) student: £5,760, full-time international student: £16,250

Year 2 onwards (subject to change) - currently full-time UK (Home) student: £9,250, full-time international student: £16,250 
 

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Foundation year bursary

If you are a UK student joining a foundation year course with UWL, you will receive a £2000 Path to Success bursary to support your studies. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. You will receive £500 per year subject to your attendance, engagement and progression through your studies. 

To find out more, explore our Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page.

Funding your studies
{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year*


September 2025 tuition fees

Foundation Year 1 - full-time UK (Home) student: £5,760, full-time international student: £16,250

Year 2 onwards (subject to change) - currently full-time UK (Home) student: £9,250, full-time international student: £16,250 
 

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Erfan Ovee Nomaan has short black hair, and is wearing a smart black suit and blue tie.

Erfan Ovee Nomaan

Ovee joined the University of West London’s Claude Littner Business School in 2014 after completing his PGCE from UCL. He is an academic, specialising in Business, Accounting and Economics.

Ovee joined the University of West London’s Claude Littner Business School in 2014 after completing his PGCE from UCL. He is an academic, specialising in Business, Accounting and Economics.

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

Two people looking at stats and charts

Accounting firms – especially large international ones – offer a wide range of career opportunities and jobs for accounting and finance graduates, including:

  • auditing and assurance work
  • corporate finance
  • human resources
  • insolvency
  • IT consulting
  • management consulting
  • tax planning.

Most of our students go on to study for the ACCA examinations. When you graduate you will be awarded up to nine exemptions (no institution offers more) from ACCA and it is possible to become a qualified accountant within two years of graduation.

Alternatively, you could develop a related specialism or explore a new area on one of our postgraduate courses.

How to apply

How to apply

Search for courses

Industry insights

Students from UWL’s Claude Littner Business School (CLBS) visited Accountex, Europe’s largest annual business event for the accounting and finance profession, at ExCel London.

At the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) stand, students met members and practitioners and took pictures with the ‘Tuk Tuk to Success’, reminding them that with the globally recognised ACCA qualification they will be able to work in any sector anywhere in the world.

I had an excellent time interacting with accounting professionals and getting informed about practical and technological updates,"

said Shafinaz Shaikh, a BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance student.

CLBS students at the Accountex event

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.