Become a leading professional in Accounting and gain skills to take your business career anywhere.

The BA in Accounting and Finance at Dublin City University (DCU) is a full-time, three-year undergraduate degree (Level 8 NFQ) that provides a robust academic and practical foundation in both accounting and financial disciplines. Tailored for aspiring finance professionals, this programme develops analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills required for high-impact careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, banking, and corporate finance. Delivered by the triple-accredited DCU Business School, this degree blends theoretical knowledge with real-world application, ensuring graduates are career-ready.

Programme Overview

This interdisciplinary degree merges the precision of accounting with the analytical edge of finance. With broad coverage of business functions and alignment with professional standards, the programme prepares students for graduate roles and fast-tracked professional certifications. Opportunities such as work placements and study abroad make this a globally competitive qualification.

Key Features

• Professional Accreditation: Significant exemptions from major accounting bodies including ACCA, CPA, CAI, and CIMA.

• Practice-Focused Curriculum: Real-world case studies, financial systems, and ethics.

• Career Preparation: Optional INTRA placement offers hands-on industry experience.

• Flexible Progression: Graduates are equipped for both employment and further professional or academic study.

Programme Structure

Year 1 – Business & Accounting Fundamentals

• Introduction to Financial Accounting

• Principles of Micro and Macroeconomics

• Business Law and Ethics

• Business Mathematics and Statistics

• Management Principles

• Business Communication

Year 2 – Intermediate Finance and Management

• Financial Reporting

• Management Accounting Techniques

• Corporate Finance

• Taxation Principles

• Financial Systems & Analytics

• Organisational Behaviour

Year 3 – Strategy and Specialisation

• Strategic Management Accounting

• Auditing and Assurance

• Advanced Corporate Finance

• Financial Decision-Making

• Ethics, Governance, and Compliance

• Optional Modules (e.g. International Finance, Financial Modelling)

• Optional INTRA Placement or Study Abroad Opportunity

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, graduates will be able to:

• Interpret and prepare financial statements using international standards.

• Apply costing, budgeting, and performance analysis techniques.

• Evaluate business investments and funding options using financial principles.

• Demonstrate ethical awareness in financial decision-making.

• Communicate effectively with financial and non-financial stakeholders.

• Leverage digital tools for financial analysis and reporting.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are well-positioned for roles in global finance, audit, consulting, and public service. The degree provides a competitive edge in roles such as:

• Trainee Accountant

• Finance Associate

• Investment Analyst

• Tax Consultant

• Auditor

• Budget Analyst

Employers include: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, Grant Thornton, Citi, Bank of Ireland, State Street, Revenue Commissioners, and multinational finance teams.

Professional and Academic Progression

Graduates can pursue full accreditation with:

• Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)

• ACCA – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

• CPA – Certified Public Accountants Ireland

• CIMA – Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

Further study options include:

• MSc in Accounting

• MSc in Finance

• Graduate Diplomas in Tax, Audit, or Risk

• Professional accountancy training programmes

Why Choose DCU?

• Triple-accredited DCU Business School (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)

• Top 2% of global business schools

• Ranked among the Top 500 globally for Accounting and Finance (QS Rankings)

• Focus on employability and international experience

• Central location in Dublin, a European finance and tech hub

*Special Note – Scholarships*

Scholarship for Non-EU Students:

A €2,000 scholarship is available for high-achieving international (non-EU) applicants. Awards are based on academic merit and are automatically considered upon application.