Dalbir Khangura
Deputy Dean
level:PG;top_up:true;international:true;foundation:false;clearing:false;full_time:true;part_time:false;start_month:September, January;location:Distance Learning
Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) MSc
Key Facts
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Duration
Distance Learning: 1 Year
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Level
Master'sPG MSc
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Distance Learning: £2,750
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Distance Learning: £2,750
Updated 03/02/2026
Updated 03/02/2026
Overview
Our MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-up) aims to extend and enhance the understanding and competence gained via professional qualifications and to enhance the ability of students to think strategically about management and organisational change within accounting and finance.
This programme is designed for AIA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAP or CPA Australia graduates and provides a means to support the continuing professional and personal needs of accounting practitioners.
Highlights
- Converts professional qualifications like ACCA into an MSc/MA.
- Networking opportunities with other professionals.
- Distance learning is supported worldwide.
Image shows an aerial view of the Learning Hub on Waterside Campus. Also visible are various green spaces next to the River Nene, as well as several university buildings including Halls of Residence.
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Entry Requirements
If you have successfully completed professional qualifications such as AIA, ACA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAP or CPA Australia graduates then you will be eligible to apply for this course. Please note that some professional qualifications must be awarded on the basis of exams passes (without exemptions) in order to be accepted for entry onto this course.
International equivalents may be accepted such as OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance (RQF).
All International and EU students applying for a course with us must meet the following minimum English language requirements:
- Minimum standard – IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) for study at postgraduate level.
For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.
What You'll Learn
This programme will broaden your specialist knowledge previously gained at a professional level, turning leading qualifications like ACCA into a recognised masters degree. In particular the module, ‘Accounting & finance research project’ guides you to research into the key challenges accounting and finance professionals face in the industry. This module aims to equip accounting and finance professionals with the necessary skills to undertake independent project work within a business context.
The Research Methods element provides you with an introduction to research, types of research methodology, formulating and planning a research project, data collection, analysis and presentation of research findings based upon an actual industry specific or corporate focused topic.
Compulsory Modules
The purpose of this module is to apply knowledge gained on the programme by carrying out independent research on a relevant topic of their choice and develop an ability to present, analyse and evaluate information in a reflective and critical manner.
Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 25/26. The modules relating to the academic year 26/27 will be available from June 2026.
What is distance learning?
Distance learning is an excellent way of gaining a qualification around a busy home life or job. The University of Northampton recognises that many of our students have family and work commitments and offer various online courses which work flexibly around your requirements.
Our programmes of study encompass a wide range of methods of learning, teaching and assessment to help you gain the skills you will need for your working life.
The complete course runs over one year via part-time distance learning.
How will I be assessed?
The only assessment for this course is a dissertation.
What are the special features of this course?
- converts professional qualifications like ACCA into an MSc/MA.
- networking opportunities with other professionals
- distance learning is supported worldwide
Fees and Funding
2026/27 Tuition Fees
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 26/27 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
- Distance learning: £2,750
There are no additional costs for this course for students beginning their studies in September 2026. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.
Please note that this course is not eligible for Postgraduate Master’s Loan funding.
For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 25/26 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years.
- Distance learning: £2,485
Staff
Ali Khan
Senior Lecturer in Finance
Careers and Employability
The course is concerned with broadening your professional knowledge and aims to provide you with the necessary skills to contribute to the effective management and development of organisations. Combining leading qualifications like ACCA into a masters degree, our MSc Accounting and Finance Top-Up course will enhance your professional and career development.
