How is the Master in Finance and Accounting different from a pure MSc Finance?

A pure MSc Finance leans heavily toward markets, valuation and quantitative methods. The Master in Finance and Accounting keeps that analytical content but adds substantial financial reporting, controls and management accounting material, which suits learners who want to work inside corporate finance teams rather than only on the trading or advisory side.

Will the Master in Finance and Accounting help with ACCA or CIMA exemptions?

Exemptions are awarded by the professional bodies themselves and depend on the modules you complete. We recommend confirming the current exemption position with ACCA or CIMA directly before enrolment, as their mapping policies change periodically.

Do I need a finance or accounting bachelor's degree to apply?

A finance, accounting, economics or business background is the most direct route in. Applicants from other disciplines are considered on a case-by-case basis where there is evidence of numeracy and relevant work experience, so it is worth discussing your profile with admissions before applying.

Can I study the Master in Finance and Accounting online?

Yes. Supported distance learning is available alongside the on-campus route in London. Online students still complete the full curriculum, with assessments submitted remotely. Some live sessions may be scheduled to suit a UK time zone.

How long does the Master in Finance and Accounting take to complete?

The standard postgraduate duration applies, with start dates aligned to scheduled intakes. Part-time and accelerated patterns may be available depending on the cohort — the exact length is confirmed when you enrol.

What are the fees for the programme?

Fees vary by mode of study, intake and applicant nationality. Admissions will share a current fee schedule and any available payment plans when they respond to your application.

Master in Finance and Accounting | HICL London | Harold International College of London

Master in Finance and Accounting at HICL

The Master in Finance and Accounting is built for graduates and working professionals who want to sit comfortably in both rooms — the one where the numbers are prepared, and the one where they are interpreted. It treats finance and accounting as a single discipline with two complementary languages, which is closer to how senior roles actually work in practice.

If you have worked in audit, treasury, FP&A or financial reporting and now need a postgraduate qualification that takes you toward controller, finance manager or analyst-track positions, the Master in Finance and Accounting is positioned for that step. Equally, if you are coming from an adjacent degree such as economics or business and want to commit to the finance side of the profession, the programme provides a structured way in.

Why the Finance and Accounting Combination Matters

Most strategic finance work sits at the intersection of two questions: what do the books say, and what do the markets say? Pure accounting masters lean toward reporting and assurance; pure finance masters lean toward valuation and capital markets. A Master in Finance and Accounting deliberately holds both together — useful if you intend to work in corporate finance, investment analysis, or financial leadership where you need to read a 10-K critically and also model a transaction.

Who This Master's Programme Is For

Finance and accounting graduates pursuing senior or chartered-track roles.
ACCA, CIMA or ICAEW part-qualified professionals consolidating their academic credentials.
Mid-career analysts moving toward corporate finance, FP&A or controller posts.
International students seeking a UK postgraduate qualification in the finance field.

Where Graduates Typically Progress

Graduates of the Master in Finance and Accounting typically progress into roles such as financial analyst, management accountant, corporate finance associate, internal audit manager, FP&A lead and treasury specialist. Some move into industry finance teams in sectors like manufacturing, technology or hospitality; others gravitate to professional services or in-house investment functions. As with any postgraduate finance qualification, outcomes depend on prior experience, location and the wider hiring market.

How the Programme Is Delivered

Delivery options include on-campus study in London and supported distance learning for students unable to relocate. Teaching combines case work, financial modelling exercises and applied research. Module structure, assessment weighting and the intake calendar are confirmed at enrolment, so it is worth speaking with admissions about your preferred mode before applying.

Entry Requirements

A recognised bachelor's degree, ideally in finance, accounting, economics, business or a numerate discipline.
Applicants from other backgrounds may be considered with relevant professional experience.
IELTS 6.0 (or accepted equivalent) for international applicants whose first language is not English.
Minimum age 21 at the point of enrolment.

Apply for the Master in Finance and Accounting

If you are ready to commit to a postgraduate route into senior finance work, click Enroll Now and submit your transcripts and CV. The HICL admissions team will respond within one working day with next steps and a fee breakdown for your preferred mode of study.