BSc (Hons) Accounting

The BSc Accounting is a distinctive broad business degree. It is unique in that it prepares students for a career in business and finance and for the pursuit of a professional accounting qualification, to further enhance career progression in business. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects including finance, law, management, economics, information systems, accounting, marketing and statistics.

The programme is delivered by top-tier, friendly and supportive lecturers. Lecturers include experienced academics and professionals; who have worked in a variety of major accounting firms, financial institutions and leading industrial companies. Some lecturers also teach at professional accounting level for the main professional accounting bodies. They have PhDs and are research active in UCC. Lecturers also consult for industry and publish regularly in international journals that are pertinent to industry and practice.

The programme boasts relatively small class sizes (approximately 70 students). This creates a student-friendly environment in which students benefit from high levels of guidance, support and peer networking, forming an excellent foundation for the development of life skills, critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork.

The degree is designed to produce high-quality graduates equipped with skills to succeed in a variety of diverse roles while also offering a fast track into a career as a professional accountant. The programme maximises the exemptions from professional accounting body exams relative to other UCC undergraduate degrees (see Professional Accountancy Qualification below for more information).

The majority of graduates go on to qualify as professional accountants and subsequently go on to pursue successful careers in diverse roles in a range of sectors. Careers include finance managers, business analysts, advisory, investment managers, risk management, business owners, teaching, as well as professional accountants. Recruitment of UCC accounting graduates remains exceptionally high among leading firms nationally and internationally. Employment prospects are excellent with nearly 100% of recent (2017 & 2018) graduates in employment (70% average) or further study (27% average). As a professional accountant, you will have an interesting and well-rewarded career.

The BSc Accounting is an excellent springboard for students with the ambition to succeed in business.

· Breadth of subjects:

•  Students can study law, marketing, IT, economics, statistics, management, accounting, finance, tax and auditing.

· Career preparation:

• Graduates are well supported and are professionally focused.
• Work Experience on placement – paid work placement in 3rd year in leading Irish and International companies e.g. PWC, KPMG, EY Deloitte, Apple.
• Post-placement 80% of students are offered a graduate contract with their respective placement organisation.
• Students obtain the highest number of possible professional accounting body exemptions available from an undergraduate degree.

· Quality of teaching:

• Experienced lecturers many of whom have extensive academic and industry experience.
• Small class sizes – students receive exceptional guidance and build a strong professional network.
• Success of past graduates in professional accounting exams.

· Reputation:

• The programme is highly regarded by leading employers, including the big 4 accountancy firms.
• Exceptional employment record and prospects – graduates are well-rewarded and in high demand (see - National Skills Bulletin 2019 Page 86).

Placement or Study Abroad Information

In year 3 of the programme students have to opportunity to go on a 6-month paid work placement with some of world’s leading companies, organised by UCC Careers Service. Extensive preparation for placement commences at the start of year 2. During placement, students are supported by both academic and business mentors.

Students gain experience in high-quality professional environments in globally renowned firms including Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PWC, AIB, Apple, CITCO, Eli Lilly and FDC. As a result, students successfully apply and contextualise academic studies, develop professional skills and explore career opportunities. Students also have the opportunity to secure their placement abroad for example in London, Luxembourg etc.