BSc Accounting

This course introduces students to quantitative methods for analysing accounting and finance data. In the first semester it covers describing data, probability, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression; in the second semester it focuses on applied quantitative tools for decision making, including functions and optimisation, basic calculus and matrix methods, linear programming, time value of money, time series and simple simulation. Throughout, students use spreadsheets to implement methods, interpret outputs and develop the analytical skills needed for later accounting and finance courses. 

Core for BSc Accounting w/without IPE and BSc Business Accounting with IPE.

Core module for BSc Accounting and BSc Business Accounting. 

The unit aims to:

• introduce core quantitative methods for mathematical and statistical modelling used in accounting and finance;

• provide opportunities for students to apply these methods to accounting and financial data and interpret the results in practical contexts;

• provide opportunities for students to build quantitative skills in data analysis and modelling using spreadsheets and other digital tools; and

• encourage a critical approach to the use of quantitative models and data in accounting and finance, including awareness of their assumptions and limitations.

On successful completion, students wishing to pursue a career in accounting and finance will be able to analyse problems using mathematical and statistical methods. By applying the tools covered throughout the course and using Excel spreadsheets, students will learn how to manage and analyse accounting and finance data. The course also prepares students for the second and final year courses, including BMAN23000 A & B (Foundations of Finance), BMAN30091 (Financial Derivatives), and BMAN30242 (Financial Engineering). 

Semester 1

Describing Data

Data sources, data quality and basic issues such as errors and bias

Probability Theory and Random Variables

Conditional Probability and Tree Diagram

Probability Distributions

Estimation and Confidence Intervals

Hypothesis Testing of One Sample and Two Samples

Regression Analysis

Semester 2

Functions and curves in business and finance

Univariate and Multivariate Functions

Applied Calculus: Differentiation, Partial Differentiation, and Integration

Introductory Linear Algebra

Business Modelling and Optimization

Linear programming

Decision Making

Time Value of Money and Asset Pricing

Time Series and Forecasting  

Simulation 
 

Notional hours of learning: 200 hrs.

Contact Hours: 50 hrs

Lectures: 36 hrs

Seminars: 14 hrs

Independent study: 150 hrs 

Explain the role of quantitative methods in analysing accounting and finance data.

Identify basic techniques used to analyse quantitative data. 

Select appropriate quantitative methods to solve accounting and finance problems.

Interpret numerical results in the context of an accounting or finance question and draw reasoned conclusions. 

Carry out quantitative analyses for accounting and finance problems, showing clear workings and correctly presented numerical results. 

Construct tables, charts and other numerical summaries and explain what they indicate about an accounting or finance situation.

 

Assess the quality and limitations of quantitative data used in business decisions in straightforward cases. 

Written Examination

Semester 1 (50%)

Semester 2 (50%)

Feedback methods include providing advice and discussion during lectures by undertaking polls and solving questions during interactive seminar sessions. In addition, students can post their questions on the discussion forum, where a teaching staff member will answer those questions. Students can also book an appointment for office hours. 

 

 

Textbook: Swift L and Piff S (2014). Quantitative Methods for Business, Management and Finance 4th Edition. Palgrave Macmillan: Basingstoke, Hampshire. Available as online e-textbook (Kortext) from BB module website.

Supplementary Text: Zhang, Z., & Shafer, D. (2016). Introductory Statistics. Available on the website https://stats.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Introductory_Statistics/ Introductory_Statistics (Shafer and_ Zhang)

Dewhurst F (2006). Quantitative Methods for Business and Management, 2nd Edition. McGraw Hill: New York 
 

Pre-requisite course: n/a

Co-requisite course: n/a

Dependent courses: n/a

Programme restrictions: BSc Accounting and BSc Business Accounting students only

 

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2027 will be £10,050 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £34,800 per annum.

For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

We know that student finance can be complicated. The links below provide further information to help guide you.

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As an international student you may be eligible for our Global Futures Scholarships . This is open to students starting their studies in September 2027.