Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

MA Accountancy and Finance

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Accountancy and Finance at Heriot Watt University UK is designed for ambitious individuals seeking to excel in the dynamic fields of accounting and financial management. You will explore core principles of financial accounting, management accounting, and corporate finance, alongside critical areas such as taxation and auditing. This postgraduate degree is ideal for students aiming to develop a sophisticated understanding of global financial markets and the strategic decision-making processes that drive business success. You will gain a robust foundation in quantitative methods and financial modelling, preparing you for complex analytical challenges.

This full-time, on-campus MA programme is studied over one year, immersing you in a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with real-world case studies, potentially utilise financial modelling tools, and undertake a substantial dissertation project in your final semester, allowing you to delve deeply into a chosen area of accountancy or finance. You will graduate with advanced analytical and technical skills, positioning you for successful careers in public practice, corporate finance, investment banking, or financial analysis, with many graduates pursuing professional accreditations.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master's program provides a comprehensive education in accountancy and finance, covering foundational principles in the first year and progressing to more advanced topics in subsequent years. Students will delve into financial accounting, management accounting, corporate finance, and quantitative methods, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as auditing, taxation, financial modeling, and risk management through optional modules in the later stages. The curriculum culminates in a dissertation, allowing for in-depth research in a chosen area of accountancy and finance.

1 Year 1

Introduction to Accounting and Finance Compulsory
Management in a Global Context Compulsory
Introduction to Marketing Compulsory
Academic Skills Compulsory
The Economy Compulsory
Discovering Business Compulsory
Becoming a Professional Compulsory

2 Year 2

Fundamentals of Finance Compulsory
Principles of Accounting Compulsory
Financial Markets Theory Compulsory
Management Accounting in Organisations Compulsory
Financial Accounting Compulsory
Quantitative Methods 1 Compulsory

3 Year 3

Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Compulsory
Intermediate Financial Accounting Compulsory
Corporate Financial Theory Compulsory
Business Research Methods Compulsory
Business Law and the Law of Corporate Governance Compulsory
Auditing and Assurance Optional
Taxation (Tax Law) Optional
Managing Corporate Value Optional
Applied Financial Modelling in Python Optional
Financial Derivatives Optional
Introduction to Commercial Law Optional
Mergers and Acquisitions Optional
Fundamentals of Financial Technology Optional

4 Year 4

Accounting and Finance Dissertation 1 Compulsory
International Trade Optional
Topics in World Economic History 1 Optional
Agency Theory and Corporate Governance Optional
Accounting Theory Optional
Managerial Accounting: Decision Making Optional
Risk Management and Derivatives Optional
Accounting and Finance Dissertation 2 Compulsory
Development Economics 2 Optional
Economics of the European Union Optional
Professional and Critical Theory Optional
Contemporary Issues in Finance Optional
Corporate Reporting Optional
International Accounting Optional
Equity Markets and Fund Management Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

15% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 23,102.00 USD 27,142.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,142.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,142.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,386.00 USD 81,426.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Automation & RoboticsEconomic Research & PolicyEnergy Trading & MarketsHydropower & Alternative RenewablesIndustry 4.0 & Digital ManufacturingLogistics & Warehouse ManagementNuclear EnergyOil & Gas Exploration & ProductionQuality Control & AssuranceSupply Chain & Procurement

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte

EY

Lloyds Banking Group

NatWest Group

SLB

Shell

Why Study MA Accountancy and Finance at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Accountancy and Finance at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in the UK, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll in this program, you need to meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum score requirements across various sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as financial analysts, investment bankers, audit managers, taxation experts, or corporate finance specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program covers essential topics like financial accounting, management accounting, and corporate finance. Students will also explore taxation and auditing, preparing them to navigate global financial markets effectively.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Accountancy and Finance program has an intake month in September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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