BA (Hons) in Accounting & Finance

Finance and Accounting Courses
Type
Undergraduate
Duration
3 Years
Validated by
QQI
Mode
Full-Time / Part-Time / Blended Learning
Campus
Dublin / Cork / Limerick
NFQ Level
8
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Course Overview

Gain the accounting, finance and management skills needed for a dynamic career in the world of finance and business.

The BA (Hons) in Accounting and Finance degree is delivered on a full-time, part-time and blended learning basis and is ideal for students interested either in a career in the accounting profession or who wish to develop the expertise to analyse business activities from a financial perspective.

Why Study Accounting and Finance at Griffith College?

This Accounting and Finance degree reflects the multiple requirements of today’s business and finance world, preparing you for a career in accounting, banking, stockbroking, currency trading, management, insurance, or positions in the financial sector. Whether you want to change career, improve job prospects or are a school leaver, the BA (Hons) in Accounting and Finance is an excellent choice to develop your analytical techniques, economic expertise and strategic insight needed for a successful career within financial and business sectors.

  • Students will be introduced to the course with a broad range of modules across a variety of disciplines.
  • This course is ideal for students who are interested in the application of numerical techniques and the interpretation and communication of financial information.
  • Students will develop a deep understanding of business, legal and socio-economic environments in which finance and accounting operate.
  • Students will build fluency in the technical languages and practices of the financial and accounting sectors.
  • Once completed, students will have the necessary skills to pursue a dynamic rewarding career in accounting and/or the broader sector of finance/banking.
  • The city centre location delivers the programme in the evening on a part-time basis.
  • Students can qualify for 9 ACCA exemptions, ACA CAP 1 exemptions and a number of CPA exemptions.
  • Students will receive lecturing from vastly experienced professionals from a wide range of industries.
  • Core areas of study such as tax, audit and assurance, wealth management and management accounting will be covered.
  • Students have the choice to switch in year 2 to the BA (Hons) in Business Studies/HRM/Marketing if they wish.

Course Highlights

  • Excellent reputation within industry
  • Excellent rates of graduate appointments
  • Convenient part-time city centre location
  • Gain an honours degree in three years
  • Excellent study progression opportunities

Intake Dates

  • Dublin - Full-Time - September 2024
  • Dublin - Part-Time - September 2024
  • Dublin - Blended - September 2024
  • Cork - Full-Time - September 2024
  • Cork - Part-Time - September 2024
  • Limerick - Full-Time - September 2024
  • Limerick - Part-Time - September 2024

Worried about commuting to class, have you considered Blended Learning?

Blended Learning combines traditional classroom based learning with online formats like webinars and lecture videos meaning you only have to travel to class one Saturday per month on campus. Read more about the blended learning course option here

    Are you applying through the CAO?

    Check out our CAO HUB for everything you need to know about applying through the CAO!

    Course codes

    • Dublin: GC401
    • Cork: GC401

    What our students say

    Accounting and Finance Courses
    Enrolling in the Accounting & Finance part-time degree was a huge decision, but the lecturing staff, and indeed everyone at Griffith College, made the transition easy and enjoyable. Managing a full-time job along with studies was made easier by the consistent level of support. I found the classes to be a fantastic open environment full of discussion as well as structured lectures and great reading material. I would highly recommend anyone considering studying Accounting & Finance to choose Griffith College.

    Sam Mc Dougall
    BA (Hons) in Accounting and Finance (part-time)

    Course Details

    The Year One and Two finance/accounting and management modules act as a perfect introduction and development for the final year modules. In Year Three, three electives must be chosen. Elective modules are offered subject to demand.

    If you have any questions in relation to this please contact the Admissions Office, [email protected].

    Year One

    On completion of this module, learners are able to apply the knowledge and understanding of the context, scope, principles and concepts that underpin management accounting. It highlights the importance of costs and the drivers of costs in the production, analysis and use of information for decision-making in organisations. It provides competencies on how to analyse information on costs, volumes and prices and how to take short-term decisions on products and services.

    The module aims to provide a balanced approach to both the theory and application of economic concepts. It introduces learners to the fundamentals of microeconomics and exposes them to the principle theories and models used in microeconomics. It also demonstrates how economics can be used by individuals and businesses alike to assess problems and develop solutions. The learners are encouraged to become more astute participants in the economy by employing economic principles and recognising the role of their behaviour, and that of others, on the world around them. In particular, the module introduces economic concepts, an analysis of demand and supply, theories of the firm, competition, elasticity, and behavioural economics.

    The principal objective of this module is to outline the role of technology in business and how information technology enables business processes so that an organisation can function and strive in a competitive environment: in other words, how technology is used to benefit business. This is achieved through the acquisition of practical information technology skills but also through an awareness and understanding of the overall role of technology. For all information technology skills that are developed the learners understand the role that these skills play in the overall business function.

    This module aims to develop an awareness and understanding of the core functions, skills and challenges of management in a dynamic global business environment. Learners apply management theories and concepts to current business situations, both in Ireland and internationally. Contemporary business management issues are explored using practical examples, case studies and lectures.

    Research has shown that the transition from school to college can be a very difficult time for young adults. The initial weeks at college where deadlines are explained, VLEs are demonstrated and college classes begin, can be overwhelming. This module seeks to facilitate this transition to third-level education by providing academic support, personal development skills and a time for reflection in a non-threatening environment.

    Learners on first-year business courses often present with a fear of mathematics which they have held since secondary school. This module aims to dispel this fear and instil in learners the confidence to approach problems with an analytical lens. Equipped with this confidence, learners can interpret data and summary statistics, thus contributing to solutions based on solid scientific principles. 

    This module introduces learners to the key fundamentals of marketing, its role in modern organisations, the importance of understanding customers and aligning marketing activities to create customer value. This module provides academic underpinning via relevant theory and frameworks. This is combined with real-world case studies and examples enabling learners to gain a broad perspective on marketing and its role within organisations. 

    This module introduces learners to the macroeconomic environment and the principles underlying macroeconomic policies. In particular, it addresses the causes and consequences of aggregate changes in the economy such as inflation, GDP, unemployment and economic growth. Macroeconomics also examines and explores the role of government in influencing the direction of the economy through fiscal and monetary policies. This module also provides learners with real-world scenarios of how economies throughout the globe interrelate.

    The aim of this module is to introduce learners to the application of the required knowledge and understanding of the context, scope, principles and concepts that underpin financial accounting. In addition, learners are taught how to apply the principles of double-entry book keeping and prepare financial statements for sole trader entities. 

    Year Two

    This module aims to foster learners’ understanding and knowledge of the general principles of Irish law which are introduced in relation to the effect, influence and impact of law in business. Learners are enabled to apply relevant law to practical business situations. Learners acquire a knowledge of the areas of law most pertinent to business such as Contract, Agency, and Employment Law. Learners develop a particular understanding of company law, with emphasis on the Companies Act 2014.

    This module builds on the basic financial accounting techniques introduced in Financial Accounting at stage 1 and further develops knowledge and understanding of more advanced financial accounting and reporting concepts and principles. In this module, learners are introduced to the regulatory and legal framework in which financial reporting in Ireland occurs. Additionally, this module introduces learners to accounting for partnerships in Ireland. 

    Upon completion of this module, learners are able to understand and apply the nature, scope and role of financial reporting; including the preparation and analysis of financial statements for unincorporated entities. 

    The objective of this module is to develop the knowledge and skills required of a finance manager in relation to investment, financial analysis and financing decisions.

    This module provides the learner with skills to explore the financial environment in which an entity and its managers must operate, to assess capital investment situations, as well as to understand the various methods that can be used to finance capital investments. This module aims to demonstrate the importance of working capital management and the tools to manage it. It also provides the learner with the means to conduct financial analysis, measure performance and efficiency.

    This module is designed to broaden the learner’s knowledge with particular emphasis on the software used in accounting, finance and business management. The module builds on the skills that have been acquired in the stage 1 modules such as Technologies for Business and Financial Accounting. 

    This module builds on the basic financial accounting techniques introduced in previous modules at stage 1 and further develops knowledge and understanding of more advanced financial reporting concepts and principles. International Financial Reporting standards are introduced to learners and developed for incorporated entities. 

    Learners gain an understanding of the conceptual framework and legal underpinning of group accounts and are equipped with the skills to account for basic business combinations.

    The aim of this module is to ensure that learners develop the required knowledge and understanding of the various cost accounting principles, concepts and techniques appropriate, for planning, decision-making and control, and the ability to apply these techniques in the generation of management accounting reports.

    The objective of the module is to enable learners to acquire soft skills by undertaking a work-based project in a community business (profit/non-profit) environment. The module provides an opportunity to build skills, including written, verbal, research and problem-solving, which allow learners to improve their employability skills. The module permits learners to undertake context-specific projects focusing on the enhancement of their existing skills and continuing professional development. This is a learner-directed, work-based learning module.

    Year Three - Mandatory Modules

    This module further develops the principles of financial management outlined in the Financial Management and Analysis module and introduces other topics appropriate to the strategic aspects of finance. The aim of this module is to provide learners with an understanding of how entities acquire resources and allocate them among present, and future, activities and projects. 

    The learner develops the knowledge and skills required of a finance manager in relation to finding and allocating capital to increase the wealth of the firm’s shareholders. Over the course of the module, concepts such as corporate objectives, capital investment appraisal, business risk, financial risk, weighted average cost of capital (WACC), working capital management techniques, the valuation of financial assets and risk management are studied.

    The aim of this module is to develop the learner’s skills in interpreting, understanding and applying the principles and legislation governing the Irish taxation system in relation to income tax and value added tax (VAT). The module provides learners with knowledge of the various reliefs and exemptions available to individuals. It develops the ability to apply knowledge and skills in providing taxation information to individuals on the impact of income tax on the transactions of individuals and partners. 

    This module builds on the concepts, conventions and principles introduced in the Financial Accounting, Financial Accounting and Analysis and International Financial Reporting modules at stages 1 and 2 of the programme.

    The module aims to develop learner knowledge and skills in understanding and applying accounting standards, and the theoretical framework involved in the preparation of financial statements for single business entities. 

    This module builds on the concepts, conventions and principles introduced in the Financial Accounting and Financial Accounting and Analysis modules at stages 1 and 2 of the programme. The module aims to develop the learner’s knowledge and skills in understanding the application of accounting standards, and the theoretical framework involved in the preparation and analysis of financial statements for business combinations including the analysis of not-for-profit business entities. 

    This module builds on the knowledge acquired at stage 2 of the programme in modules such as Management Accounting. The aim of the module is to provide the learners with an understanding of performance management principles. It enhances and further develops the learner's ability and awareness of performance management techniques to support management in planning, controlling and monitoring performance in a variety of business contexts. 

    On completion of this module, the learners are able to apply the knowledge and understanding of the costing techniques, planning, analytical and decision-making tools and concepts, and performance measures techniques that underpin performance management. 

    Elective Modules

    The aim of the module is to prepare learners for future accounting and finance professions. Graduates require the skills to adapt to a fast-paced industry where technology is key to the future of the professional world. 

    This module considers the impact of political, technological, social and ethical influences on the accounting and finance professions, in both national and international contexts. The learner explores current and emerging issues that impact the professional world. Technology is a key focus of the module with research on the impact of emerging technologies on the accounting and finance professions.

    The module encourages graduates to look beyond numbers to the future of the financial world.

    This module aims to develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of the workings of the Irish tax system, in relation to corporation tax and capital gains tax, for both companies and individuals. Learners develop the ability to apply knowledge and skills in providing taxation information to individuals and corporations on the impact of these taxes. Learners are provided with the opportunity to explore the impact of these taxes on the transactions of individuals, partners and companies.

    This module covers the basis of portfolio theory from the relationship of portfolio characteristics to security characteristics, to the method of computing sets of portfolios that investors find desirable. It introduces learners to the main characteristics of different asset classes and the theory of modern portfolio analysis.

    The aim of the module is to develop learners’ understanding of the underlying rational portfolio choice and what this means for prices determined in the marketplace.

    This module provides learners with an understanding of security analysis and valuation from both a theoretical and empirical perspective. It is designed to provide the tools required to analyse the performance of securities, value securities and assess returns on active investment strategies. The module analyses how investments add value to the firm. The module provides learners with the skills to evaluate if a corporate strategy is working.

    Industry is struggling to understand how to identify and incorporate the right technology into their digital strategy and compete against modern rivals. Learners study how technology is disrupting the business landscape and how leading organisations leverage technology to adapt their business model to remain competitive.

    The aim of the module is to provide learners with an opportunity to experience the techniques and practical approaches to managing projects. This includes the core concepts of project management focusing on project justification, the strategic relationships between project and the organisational vision and mission, choosing project alternatives, creating an awareness of risk and implementing control mechanisms. Understanding project constraints in terms of time, cost, quality and client acceptance provides a sound introduction to project management. Alternative methodologies are also introduced to learners along with an awareness of new trends in the field. 

    This module is designed to broaden the learner’s knowledge with particular emphasis on the software used to analyse data. The module builds on previous spreadsheet skills by focusing on data specific analysis and related tools. It also is designed to help learners become aware of the ever-increasing discipline of data analytics and business intelligence used by the organisation.

    Upon completion of this module, the learner attains the appropriate knowledge and skills to apply and exercise good judgements in the understanding, analysis and conclusion of the assurance and non-assurance engagement, in the context of best practice and current developments in the field. The module enables the learner’s understanding of the application of underlying regulations and professional standards relevant to the assurance and non-assurance engagement. The learner considers and reflects on the ethical and professional requirements of the auditor in selecting clients, performing assurance and non-assurance engagements and reporting on these engagements.

    The aim of this module is to provide learners with the opportunity to grasp the theoretical principles behind corporate governance and to examine its application in specific cases. The module focuses on the similarities and differences that exist between the different corporate governance regimes around the globe with an emphasis on looking at a principle versus rules-based system. International practices along with specific national codes are examined accordingly.

    The module evaluates the social responsibility of business. It considers the ethical and social areas of corporate responsibility and the impacts these have on the reputation and success of an enterprise. Learners develop an awareness and understanding of the current challenges and opportunities facing companies in identifying and managing their responsibilities to diverse stakeholders. The aim is to sensitise learners to ethical business issues which, in turn, allows them to recognise potential problems and more responsible business decisions.

    Timetables

    How to Apply

    Entry Requirements

    Leaving Certificate

    2 H5 and 4 O6/H7 grades, to include a language (English, Irish or another language) and Maths.

    QQI Level 5 Award

    A minimum Full QQI Level 5 Award with 3 Distinctions and a Pass or higher in all other remaining subjects.

    International Applicants

    Please contact the International Office Team to enquire about entry requirements for international qualifications.

    English Language
    If English is not your native language, you must show that your English level is of a suitable standard. For further information please contact a member of the Admissions Team.

    Griffith College is accepting the online Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency. Please see here for further details.

    How to Apply

    Applicants under 23 years of age:

    Applicants under 23 years of age on the 1st of January of the year they wish to enter must apply through the CAO. Please consult the CAO website for information on important dates for applications.

    CAO Codes

    • Dublin - GC401
    • Cork - GC201
    • Limerick - GC301

    Applicants over 23 years of age (mature students):
    If you are 23 years of age on or before the 1st  January of the year you want to enter, you may apply as a mature student. Mature students must apply to Griffith College directly online using the Apply Online facility on the website homepage or the button below. Mature applicants will be asked for a copy of their passport.

    Fees

    For purposes of fee calculation, residence is counted from time of application.

    Please note that not all study modes may be offered at all times; for confirmation, refer to the Intake dates on the Overview tab.

    Tuition Fees

    Study Mode: Full-Time

    Dublin : EUR 6,200.00
     

    Cork : EUR 4,850.00
     

    Limerick : EUR 4,750

     

    Study Mode: Part-Time

    Dublin : EUR 4,350.00
     

    Cork : EUR 3,100.00

     

    Limerick : EUR 3,250
     

    Study Mode: Blended

    Dublin : EUR 4,350.00

    Study Mode: Full-Time

    Please refer to the Irish/EU Living Abroad Fees

    Study Mode: Full-Time

    Please refer to our Non-EU Tuition Fees section.

    Non-EU students: a Student Services and Administration fee of EUR200 is payable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted below.

    An Academic Administration Fee of €250 is payable each September at the start of term. For students starting in the January/February term, €125 is payable in February, and then €250 will be payable each September from then onwards. 

    A 2% Learner Protection Charge is applicable each academic year in addition to the fees quoted. The fees above relate to Year 1 fees only.

    Flexible payment options

    Students wishing to pay their fees monthly may avail of our direct debit scheme. Please view our Fees information page for more information and assistance.

    Sponsorship

    Is your company paying for your course?

    They will need to complete a Griffith College Sponsorship Form and send this to the Student Fees Office:

    • Post: Student Fees, Griffith College Dublin, South Circular Road, Dublin 8
    • Email: [email protected]

    Cork

    2% Learner Protection Charge

    All QQI accredited programmes of education and training of 3 months or longer duration are covered by arrangements under section 65 (4) of the Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Education and Training) Act 2012 whereby, in the event of the provider ceasing to provide the programme for any reason, enrolled learners may transfer to a similar programme at another provider, or, in the event that this is not practicable, the fees most recently paid will be refunded.

    QQI Award Fee

    Please note that a QQI Award Fee applies in the final year of all QQI courses. To find the relevant fee for your course level, please see the Fees page.

    Progression

    Academic Progression

    Upon successful completion of their honours degree course, graduates may wish to continue their studies with a postgraduate qualification in Griffith College or with one of the many third level institution in Ireland or abroad.

    The Griffith College Graduate Business School offers a portfolio of programmes which may be of interest. The following programmes prepare graduates for the world of international business; at MSc and MBA levels, and in full and part-time modes

    • The MBA in International Business programme is divided into three stages, taking one year to complete full-time and approx. two years part-time.

    • The MSc programme is divided into three stages, taking one year to complete full-time and approx. two years part-time.

    • The MSc Accounting and Finance programme is divided into three stages, taking one year to complete full-time and approx. two years part-time.

    Professional Accountancy Exemptions

    Graduates of this programme may wish to pursue further studies to qualify as an accountant. They can gain substantial examination exemptions from the following professional accountancy bodies:

    • 9 ACCA Fundamental exemptions

    • ACA CAP 1 exemptions

    • CPA Formation 1, Formation 2 and Professional 1 exemptions (subject to electives chosen).

    Griffith College School of Professional Accountancy provides tuition for a number of professional body examinations. You can review available online, part-time and e-learning tuition options here.

    Career Progression

    The programme gives you an understanding of the business, legal, and social environments in which accountancy operates and enables you to be conversant in the technical languages and practices of the accounting sector in a market economy. These include measurement and disclosure in financial statements, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation and business law. While typical careers focus on the world of finance and accounting in particular, any aspect of the business arena is open to graduates. Read more about alumnus Johanna Walsh’s story who is group CFO within an artificial intelligence company. A significant advantage is the many exemptions from the professional exams for which graduates of the course are eligible. Students who do not wish to focus on a career as an accountant will find numerous opportunities in banking, stockbroking, currency trading, management, insurance or positions in the financial sector.

    Ready to take the next step?