Options is a leading managed services and IT infrastructure products provider to the global capital markets community. Founded in 1993, the company began life as a hedge fund technology services provider. Today over 200 firms globally leverage the Options platform, including the leading global investment banks, hedge funds and exchanges. We currently employ over 400 employees worldwide and are continuing to grow across offices in New York, Chicago, Belfast, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Why Options?
Global travel:
We have offices in New York, Toronto, London, Belfast, Dublin and across Asia.
Continuous career development opportunities:
We provide professional skills development and technical training
The chance to be a part of a self-sufficient, successful team:
The Options team operates in a fast paced environment with endless opportunities for innovation and forward thinking.
Competitive salary:
In addition to a competitive salary, Options reward employees with a range of bonus incentives and benefits.
Working for us
The positions will be based around apprenticeship requirements, per your course, paid and based in Belfast initially, although there will be opportunities to gain experience from company offices such as New York, Hong Kong, Singapore, Auckland and London for those who have successfully completed their apprenticeship.
We welcome applications from a broad range of disciplines including those with technical and engineering backgrounds, as well as science, business, mathematics, marketing and finance. We have a fresh new team expanding in our Belfast office and we want to hear from candidates that are motivated, self-driven and have a passion to learn and develop their skills in the world of financial technology.
At Options we are focused on creating a learning environment that enables you to develop and flourish in all aspects of your work. You own your career, you choose your own path, and we provide the opportunities to make it happen.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
Strong research, writing and communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced and changeable working environment.
Customer service experience (comfortable working with senior management and business owners).
Exceptional organisational skills and strong attention to detail.
Desire to travel and see the world.
Ability to work independently and manage your own projects in a professional manner.
Solid competency in the following: Word, PowerPoint and Excel.
Candidates must successfully secure a position at the relevant apprenticeship training provider
Desirable Criteria
Previous start-up, technology or business experience.
A passion for start-ups, innovation and financial technology.
Strong interpersonal skills with client facing experience.
Project management skills and proven ability to manage own workload.
(In the case of applications for technical positions, examples of previous work are encouraged.)
All applicants MUST be willing to travel, pending availability during studies.
Applicable courses
Accounting and FinanceUlster University
Description
A unique accounting and finance course enabling you to take your first steps to become a future business leader.
Summary
This course will enable you to distinguish yourself from other Accounting and Finance graduates as it can be taken as part of a Higher-Level Apprenticeship (HLA), meaning you can secure a job in an accountancy business or in a finance team, whilst studying part-time for your degree. As a Higher Level Apprentice, you will have the benefit of 'earning as you learn' and will be able to apply the skills learned in the classroom to workplace projects and vice versa leading to a rich learning experience. [This part-time programme is also available through self-funding].
This course will be accredited by the major accounting bodies including Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). Upon graduation, you have the opportunity to gain the maximum amount of exemptions available for an undergraduate degree from these professional bodies.
While studying this course you will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of key skills such as analytical problem solving, teamwork, the ability to undertake research, commercial awareness and the ability to organise and communicate information.
This course is designed to produce industry focused graduates with an in-depth knowledge of core accounting and finance principles and a strong practical understanding of how theory informs professional practice.
About
This programme offers an equal focus on accounting and finance through extensive use of work-based learning and practical application. It aligns to the growing needs of the professional services sector.
The Ulster University Business School has developed the BSc Hons Accounting and Finance (HLA), working in partnership with employers, developing a programme which offers students the opportunity to take this degree as part of a Higher Level Apprenticeship Scheme.
Recruitment to this programme for Higher Level Apprenticeship funding, is conducted through the University and jointly with employers.
Otherwise, for direct entry self-funding students, recruitment is conducted solely by the University.
Real World Experience:
Opportunities to learn from local practitioners and visiting lecturers who will bring real-world experience to the classroom.
Apply the skills you learn on the course to your workplace projects and vice versa.
Earn as you learn – you can work 4 days and attend university 1 day per week.
If you are interested in following a career in accountancy or in finance and going on to obtain professional accounting and/or finance qualifications, then this course is suitable for you. This course will be accredited by the major accounting bodies including Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). Upon graduation, you have the opportunity to gain maximum exemption from the above mentioned professional body examinations. The level of exemptions available will depend on your achievements in your modules.
The Department of Global Business and Enterprise has strong ties with the major professional accountancy, finance and taxation bodies. All accounting staff in the department are members of professional accountancy bodies including:
Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA)
The Irish Taxation Institute (ITI)
Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI)
Attendance
The programme can be completed in a minimum of three years. However, the completion time can be extended to five years where an apprentice/part-time student wishes to study modules at a slower pace.
Weekly Attendance Class-based modules will take place on Mondays only, during semesters.
Start dates
September 2023
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
Teaching and learning
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. A course handbook is also made available. All teaching will take place on Mondays only, on this course.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. As an undergraduate course, you will study 20-credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points over two semesters. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort. This course enables you to complete a maximum of 60 credit points per semester. There are three semesters per academic year.
Class contact times for this course will always take place on a Monday during term time. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). The precise model will depend on the module and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be via one method or a combination e.g. examination and coursework . Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessment. The precise assessment will depend on the module and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification and the assessment timetable. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have four learning outcomes, and no more than two items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised.
Calculation of the Final Award
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6 (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award.
The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.
Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:
the requirements of any professional, regulatory, statutory and accrediting bodies.
Attendance and Independent Study
As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until near the start date and may be subject to change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days of attendance will often be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.
Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10- or 20-credit modules and postgraduate course typically 15- or 30-credit modules.
The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.
Postgraduate Masters courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.
Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be via one method or a combination e.g. examination and coursework . Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes. You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessment. The precise assessment will depend on the module and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification and the assessment timetable. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.
Normally, a module will have four learning outcomes, and no more than two items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised.
Calculation of the Final Award
The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6 (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).
Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Masters degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.
All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study. In Masters degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.
Figures correct for academic year 2019-2020.
Academic profile
The Department of Global Business and Enterprise has strong ties with the major professional accountancy and taxation bodies including:
Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA)
The Irish Taxation Institute (ITI)
All accounting staff in the department are members of professional accountancy bodies with a number of lecturers also having obtained additional qualifications in areas such as taxation and financial services. Many staff have trained and worked in the Big Four professional services firms as well as having experience advising within small and medium sized practices and in industry.
All lecturing staff within the Department of Global Business and Enterprise are Fellows/Senior Fellows of the Higher Education Academy.
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 59% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (25%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (20%) or Lecturers (55%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic staff (81%) are accredited fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advanced HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures correct for academic year 2021-2022.
Modules
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
Year one
Introduction to Financial Accounting
Year: 1
The module establishes a strong foundation for students as they undertake the study of accounting. As such, the module identifies, develops and assesses a range of skills that are important within the context of double entry book-keeping, preparing financial statements, undertaking financial reporting and performing detailed analyses supporting aspects of the internal financial management of a business entity.
Digital Accounting and Analytics
Year: 1
Digital technologies for accounting and finance have advanced rapidly. Digital accounting has a major impact on how organisations collect, process, control and analyse accounting and financial data. This module offers students an opportunity to evaluate different digital accounting software packages for the purpose of ensuring they meet an organisation's needs.
Introduction to Finance, Taxation and Ethics
Year: 1
A knowledge of professional responsibility and ethics, finance and taxation are essential for students intending to pursue a career in Accounting and are an essential part of most financial and economic decision making. This module provides a foundation for future modules which will build upon the fundamentals covered in this module.
Academic and Business Analytics Skills
Year: 1
The module establishes a solid foundation for students as they make the transition to become effective learners at third level and beyond. As such, the module identifies, develops and assesses a range of skills that are important for academia and business. The module provides and introduction to the business analytical skills which are necessary to address challenges and opportunities in the current global business environment.
Year two
Financial Accounting I
Year: 2
The form and content of published financial statements; profit and loss account; balance sheet; cash flow statements; introduction to group accounts; analysis and interpretation of financial statements; regulatory framework of accounting.
Management Accounting
Year: 2
An important role of management accounting is to present accounting information to assist managers to plan, make decisions and measure performance. Key elements of practice in the discipline include approaches to costing, use of management accounting information, absorption costing, marginal costing, breakeven analysis, decision making, budgeting, standard costing, variance analysis, investment appraisal, statistical approaches, activity based costing and ethical issues.
Principles of Management
Year: 2
This module introduces the fundamental concepts of management and cognate topics, including the business environment, business ethics, motivation, problem solving and decision making, planning, human resource management, organisational structure, change and innovation, and operations and quality.
Students will acquire an understanding of the issues and challenges facing managers in both domestic and global environments.
The Economic Environment of Business
Year: 2
This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts and principles of economics and provides an essential underpinning for more advanced study of economics and economic issues.
Year three
Managerial Finance
Year: 3
Managerial Finance in an international context, Foreign Direct Investment, Foreign Currency Management, Business Valuation Issues, Interest Rate Risk Management, Corporate Restructuring, Takeovers, Dividend Policy, Market Based Accounting Research, Business mathematics. Issues in personal finance, financial planning, financial life cycle, personal financial investment and ethics.
Financial Accounting II
Year: 3
The nature and purpose of accounting theory; the role of accounting regulation including the development of the latest accounting standards; contemporary issues in accounting; recent and future trends in financial reporting; accounting for transactions in financial statements and group financial statements.
Business Law
Year: 3
The module deals with the main principles of the law of contract and law of tort as well as providing explanations of the legal structures within which businesses operate. These legal formats of business organizations are critically explored as are the methods whereby businesses are managed and analysed and how the external environment, in terms of legal regulation, impacts on the operation of businesses. The topics under examination provide a solid framework for understanding of the legal basis in which businesses operate and enable students to undertake further study of related Business and accounting subjects.
UK Taxation I
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module provides an insight into the economic, legal and practical background to the UK taxation system and its application to personal, corporate, capital and business decisions.
Organisational behaviour
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module will introduce the fundamental concepts of Organisational Behaviour and encourage students to develop an understanding of managing and developing people in a business context. The module will examine a range of theoretical approaches that will be used to help analyse and evaluate situations and issues relevant to behaviour within organisations.
Data Analytics for Business
Year: 3
This module is optional
There is an increasing use of analytics in the current global business environment. Data analytics is an important part of this trend, as it gives insights into an organisations business performance and plays an important role in increasing the value of an organisation. Today's businesses need timely information that assists them to take important decisions within business scenarios. This module will give students a strong understanding which is becoming increasingly important as business and technology evolve.
Year four
Managerial Finance II
Year: 4
Managerial Finance in an international context, Foreign Direct Investment, Foreign Currency Management, Business Valuation Issues, Interest Rate Risk Management, Corporate Restructuring, Takeovers, Dividend Policy, Market Based Accounting Research, Business mathematics. Issues in personal finance, financial planning, financial life cycle, personal financial investment and ethics.
Managing Financial Performance
Year: 4
This module traces the development of management accounting theory and practice in the context of change in the modern business environment. The module examines the social, technological and international challenges to management accounting.
Professional Skills Development
Year: 4
This module is designed to provide students with the necessary tool kit to lead their own professional credibility, during and after their under graduate study. It will provide an interactive and experiential learning environment for students whereby they can learn about the kind of business leader they want to become and how to achieve this
Taxation Policy and Practice
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides insight into the theory, concepts, procedures and practices of UK taxation with particular focus on income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax and VAT.
UK Taxation II
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides an insight into the economic, legal and practical background to the UK income, corporate, VAT and capital taxation systems and their application to business decisions and also a taxpayers family/personal decisions regarding asset transactions.
Year five
Leadership and Strategy
Year: 5
This module equips students with an understanding of leadership dynamics and strategic vision in organisations and the challenges associated with leading organisations through strategic change. The module will examine a range of theoretical approaches that will be used to help analyse and evaluate leadership and strategy in organisations.
Audit and Assurance
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module introduces the student to the conceptual and theoretical fundamentals of auditing combined with the practical application of auditing principles and the issues encountered in a financial reporting and audit environment. It identifies the skills that a professional auditor must have and how best to utilise those skills in the audit of economic sustainable profit and non profit organisations.
Advanced Data Analytics for Business
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module is designed to introduce the student to advanced data analytic approaches used in business. The module students with the skills and knowledge to work with data and use predictive analytic and modelling techniques so to make evidence-based decisions around future business trends.
Award
BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
Validated By
Eligibility
18+ Fully Funded
Entry Criteria
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
A level
BBB or BBC if undertaking one of A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting
If you are a mature applicant who lacks formal academic qualifications, you may be admitted to the course if you can satisfy the Course Committee of your ability to complete the course satisfactorily.
Exemptions may be granted from parts of the course where you already hold a higher academic or professional qualification providing evidence of relevant previous studies.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard (provided subject requirements are met). Examples of combinations include:
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2012 Suite) Award profile of range DD plus A Level Grade B or DM plus A Level Grade B (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2016 Suite) Award profile of DM plus A Level Grade B or DM plus A level Grade C (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Introductory Diploma (2012 Suite) Award profile of D plus A level grades BB or M plus A Level Grades BB (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Certificate (2016 Suite) Award profile of D plus A level grades BB or M plus A Level Grades BB (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
For further information on the entry requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in Contact details.
Irish Leaving Certificate
120 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher level). The overall profile must include English at minimum grade H6 at Higher Level or grade O4 at Ordinary level plus Mathematics at minimum H5 at Higher level or Grade O3 at Ordinary Level.
OR
112 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher level). The overall profile must include English at minimum grade H6 at Higher Level or grade O4 at Ordinary level and grade O3 or H5 in Ordinary or Higher Mathematics.
One Higher Level subject must include minimum grade H3 from Higher level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting.
Overall mark of 65%. To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 60% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics at 60% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma or GCSE Maths grade C*/5.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
The majority of students enter this programme in year 1 – Level 4. However, applicants who provide evidence of previous relevant successful study may be considered for entry to level 5 of the programme. Exceptionally applicants may be considered for entry at Level 6. The transfer will normally be admitted with exemptions depending on prior accredited knowledge.
There is a facility for transfer to other undergraduate degree programmes depending upon the nature of the subject matter of the other degrees and academic achievement.
Students who transfer from another university can present module information. Ulster can consider giving them module exemptions on a like for like basis for prior studies.
Duration
3
Start Date
Tuesday 16 September 2025
End Date
Wednesday 20 September 2028
Progression Pathway
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course are now working for:
PricewaterhouseCoopers
EY
Deloitte
PKF-FPM
CITI
Northern Ireland Civil Service
MooreNI
Job roles
With this degree you could become:
Trainee Chartered Accountant
Trainee Chartered Certified Accountant
Trainee Management Accountant
Financial Analyst
Graduate Management Role
Career options
Accounting specialists with knowledge of accounting, finance and the business environment are always in great demand. The combination of subjects you will study on this course will provide you with a sound basis to become a future business leader. The knowledge you will acquire will enable you to work in any industry sector and across all areas of business including financial reporting, accounting, finance, taxation or management in public, private or not-for-profit organisations.
Due to the exemptions available, you will also be a step ahead in your professional accountancy training. On successful completion of this course, it may be possible for you to progress to a Postgraduate Diploma / MSc International Accounting with Analytics on the Magee Campus, Ulster University.
Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) for the purpose of exemption from some professional examinations through the Accredited degree accelerated route.
Accounting with ManagementUlster University
Description
⚠️ Please apply to the course using the link below and indicate that you are applying for the HLA and not the part-time course.
This course provides you with flexibility both, in your choice of modules to match your interests and career aspirations, and in the length of time over which the course can be completed. Accreditation from previous relevant programmes of study may allow you to progress more rapidly to the final level of the course. The Course Committee encourages interest from mature students who have shown an aptitude for the advanced study of accounting and management.
The course is academically rigorous and includes a variety of different disciplines which place accounting in a wider business and management context. You will develop analytical and problem solving skills, through the study of the theory and practice of accounting and management. Resultingly, you will become more confident with the challenges of a changing accounting and management environment. Opportunities to acquire these skills are provided through independent research, group learning situations, practical application, in class-based activities, computer lab work, and skills workshops.
On successful completion of the course, you will have the opportunity to continue your studies at postgraduate/masters level or to pursue further professional accounting qualifications.
Modules
Year one
Introductory Accounting
Year: 1
Introductory accounting provides the student with an understanding of the concepts underpinning financial reporting for sole traders and partnerships.
Principles of Financial Accounting
Year: 1
Principles of Financial Accounting provides the student with an introduction to the concepts underpinning corporate financial reporting for single companies and simple groups of companies. This provides students with the foundations required for further study in Financial Accounting module.
Principles of Management Accounting
Year: 1
This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of management accounting. It examines the role of the management accountant within an organisation and how management accounting information contributes to making judgements and decisions. The module focuses primarily on the theory and practice of cost accounting and introduces students to various cost accounting concepts, techniques and processes. It provides a firm foundation for further study in the area of management accounting.
Academic, Professional and Managerial Awareness
Year: 1
This module provides students with an opportunity to consider, reflect on, and develop key skills that will provide a strong basis for successful study in higher education and in their future professional life. It provides opportunities to consider personal strengths and learning styles, and develop strategies to maximise their learning potential.
Information Skills for Business
Year: 1
This module provides the student with a solid understanding of information management principles, applications and value in modern organisations. Particular attention is awarded to technological tools and business process improvement techniques. The opportunity to construct a simple data analytics dashboard system is provided. On completion of the module students will be equipped with the skills necessary to join the workforce having an appreciation of the own personal information management skills and an understanding of the roles/skills required in a sustainable learning organisation.
Business and the Economy
Year: 1
This module will provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts and applications of economics as they affect individuals, firms and governments, as well as the policy decisions taken in industry, commerce, and local government. An emphasis will be placed on the application of economics to the world around us.
Year two
Management Accounting
Year: 2
Having completed this module the student will be able to: understand the role of the management accountant and how this contributes to the achievement of organisational objectives; understand the role of modern management accounting practices which enable organisations to develop and assess performance; and apply appropriate management decision tools to a specified range of scenarios.
Skills for Work
Year: 2
Understanding the diverse career options within Accounting and Finance is essential if students are to understand and develop the skills and attributes that employers across different markets are seeking. This module aims to engage students in their own employability development as well as aid their understanding of what recruiting employers look for and in particular why they look for specific attributes.
Risk Management
Year: 2
This module introduces the student to the conceptual and theoretical fundamentals of business risk management combined with the processes surrounding risk management in both the private and public sector organisations. It identifies the skills that a professional services accountant must have and how best to utilise those skills in today's challenging business environment.
Law for Accountants
Year: 2
This module introduces students to basic legal structures, principles and concepts relevant to business and the business environment in the United Kingdom (with a particular emphasis on Northern Ireland). It also enables them to acquire certain skills, such as those of instant recall, analysis, argumentation and articulation, which will prove useful in their work as business professionals.
Year three
Personal and Business Finance
Year: 3
This module introduces students to finance decision making for individuals and small to medium sized national companies. Within the personal finance part of the course students will study the financial lifecycle, the financial plan and the main personal finance decisions (debt, savings, investments, insurance, mortgages and pensions). Within the business finance element of the module students will study the role of business finance, ethics in financial decision making, the influence of the environment on financial decision-making, the time value of money, capital investment appraisal, working capital management and sources of short and medium-term finance, and cost of capital.
Financial Accounting
Year: 3
Financial accounting provides the student with an understanding of the concepts underpinning corporate financial reporting for single companies and groups of companies. The role of financial accounting regulation, particularly International Financial Reporting Standards is examined and students are provided with the skills to apply these to practical examples.
Governance, Risk and Ethics
Year: 3
The module informs and equips students to effectively respond to the governance challenges organisations face today. The module aims to investigate the key components for securing the highest standards of effective corporate governance.
Audit and Assurance
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module introduces the student to the conceptual and theoretical fundamentals of auditing combined with the practical application of auditing principles and the issues encountered in a financial reporting and audit environment. It identifies the skills that a professional auditor must have and how best to utilise those skills in today's challenging business environment.
Organisation Design
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module is concerned with exploring why differences in structure and design exist across organisations. It considers ways of describing, analysing, classifying and differentiating organisations and the factors that cause this differentiation.
Managing and Developing People
Year: 3
This module is optional
This module explores the changing nature of HRM and people management and development in organisation. The impact of changes within the economy, in demographics, in legislation and advances in technology will be considered. Taking a broadly employee life-cycle approach the module covers the core functional areas of HRM to include recruitment and selection; equality, diversity and inclusion; learning and development in organisations; performance management; pay and reward; the employment relationship and employee engagement; and employee health and well-being: the topics are presented via a HRM lens but the importance of their understanding for aspiring line managers is emphasised.
Year four
Advanced Management Accounting
Year: 4
An important role of management accounting is to present accounting information to facilitate decision making, planning, control and performance measurement. The module will develop further the students' appreciation of management accounting. This will involve the in-depth study and critical appraisal of advanced practices and theories of the discipline.
Corporate Financial Reporting
Year: 4
Corporate Financial Reporting provides the student with an understanding of both accounting theory and the practical application of international financial reporting standards.
Public Sector Accounting
Year: 4
This module is optional
Public sector accounting analyses organisational structures and management control in central government, local authorities and National Health Service. This module will introduce students to the financial accounting and management accounting techniques and methods within public sector. The module also provides an insight into the nature of recent managerial and accounting reforms within public sector organisations.
Taxation
Year: 4
This module is optional
A knowledge of taxation is essential to students intending to pursue a career in accounting and is an essential part of most financial and economic decision making. This module provides a fundamental undertaking of the main aspects of the UK tax system covering personal, business taxation, corporation tax, inheritance tax and capital gains tax as well as an understanding of the administration of the self-assessment system.
Year five
Advanced Financial Management
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module examines some of the fundamental concepts underpinning managerial finance, including agency theory, EMH, theories on capital structure and dividend policy. The module focuses on financial management decision-making in large companies that interact with the capital markets and have an international presence.
Strategic Business Planning
Year: 5
This module is optional
The module introduces the concept of strategic business planning. With the dynamic business environment and the requirement for enterprise development to be linked to strategic management architecture, there is a need to enhance the level of understanding and competency in business planning.
Forensic Accounting
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module allows students to combine their understanding of accounting, finance and governance structures, with the evidence gathering, investigative techniques, and report writing skills necessary to be a forensic accountant.
Quality Management
Year: 5
This module is optional
Total Quality Management is a holistic approach to managing organisations, which focuses on continual improvement in all areas, achieved by the active involvement and participation of all employees. At its core are the processes involving customer/supplier chains, supported by the 'hard' elements of Teams, Systems, and Tools, interwoven with the 'soft' elements of Culture, Commitment, and Communication, all combined into an effective whole.
Supply Chain Management
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module should assist students in the analysis of contemporary developments affecting the role of supply chain management and should enable them to develop and manage supply chain strategies to meet corporate objectives. Topics to be covered include the evolution of purchasing and supply management; supply chain strategies and achieving strategic fit; supply chain drivers; e-commerce and the supply chain; outsourcing; supply chain relationships and supply chain dynamics.
Award
BSc (Hons)
Validated By
Ulster University
Eligibility
18+ Fully Funded
Entry Criteria
A level
BCC
Applied General Qualifications
Overall BTEC Level 3 QCF Extended Diploma with profile DDM in a relevant subject.
OR
BTEC Level 3 RQF National Extended Diploma with profile DMM in a relevant subject.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard (provided subject requirements are met). Examples of combinations include:
A levels with BTEC Level 3 QCF Subsidiary Diploma or BTEC RQF National Extended Certificate
A level with BTEC Level 3 QCF Diploma or BTEC Level 3 RQF National Diploma.
For further information on the entry requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in Contact details.
Irish Leaving Certificate
104 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of four subjects at Higher level and one subject at Ordinary level. The overall profile must include English and Mathematics minimum H6 at Higher Level or Grade O4 at Ordinary Level.
Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency
View tariff point chart
Access to Higher Education (HE)
Overall Access overall Access profile of 60% to include NICATs Maths.
GCSE
GCSE Profile to include Mathematics with a minimum grade C/4.
GCSE Profile to include English Language with a minimum grade C/4
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Applicants without formal academic qualifications may be admitted if they can demonstrate their ability to complete the programme through accreditation of prior experiential learning.
Exemptions and transferability
Students enter this course in year A (level four). However applicants who provide evidence of previous relevant successful study may be considered for entry to year B (level five) of the course.
Transfer will normally be admitted with exemptions. There is a facility for transfer to other undergraduate degree courses depending upon the nature of the subject matter of the other degrees and academic achievement.
Duration
5
Start Date
Thursday 11 September 2025
End Date
Sunday 30 June 2030
Progression Pathway
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