Queen's University Belfast

Presently we have substantial available exemptions for ACCA and AICPA/CIMA - you can find the full list here. For both, we have among the highest number of exemptions available to MSc programmes in the UK and Ireland, including the unusual ACCA audit exemption, if you complete the Semester 3 Audit Ethics and Capstone Project module. Informed by our conversations with employers, we are applying for exemptions from a third prestigious accrediting body, which we hope to secure for the 25/26 academic year. 

We will teach Excel, PowerBI and machine learning using Python coding language, across our Analytics and Research Methods modules. This may change over time as we will keep the course relevant to the profession. We will assume no prior knowledge of these technologies.  We teach such technologies using a combination of computer lab-based classes, independent work (assessed and non-assessed, with feedback), third-party online platforms, clinics, and employer masterclasses (such as for Excel and PowerBI). 

In the final semester (i.e. 3^rd semester May- September), students can choose between the Audit, Ethics, and Capstone Project option or the traditional Dissertation option. A traditional dissertation involves detailed literature review and research, with the support of a supervisor. Alternatively, students complete taught modules in Audit and Ethics (securing the ACCA audit exemption, available to very few MSc programmes) and then complete a shorter project which builds on the analytics content through the programme, to analyse real world data, and present findings with visualizations to a professional audience, providing a dynamic and practical learning experience. This flexibility allows students to tailor their learning to their career goals and interests.

There are four modules in each of the first two semesters and each module normally requires a weekly attendance of 3 hours. Hence, weekly attendance is likely to be 12 hours (4 modules * 3 hours)  in the first two semesters. Additional activities including employer events, business games and networking events also occur across the term. In the third semester, the expected attendance depends on your choice of module. As a full time student, your commitment is around 12 hours per week per module, including contact time and your independent study. 

Students will be taught by leading academics who are well connected with industry and the accountancy profession and able to combine cutting edge theory with real-world practice. Many of our staff have backgrounds in industry and/or practice and so bring the lessons learned from their most recent research and/or experience as an accountancy professional into the classroom, giving students access to critical business thinking and contemporary real-world examples and scenarios. More details about our academics can be found by clicking here.