ACCA x University Of London = BSc

ACCA and the University of London have collaborated on the launch of a new BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy programme. ACCA’s Alan Hatfield tells us more.

Deciding whether to study for a professional qualification or a degree is a dilemma that many of you will be familiar with. There are the pros and cons to weigh up: time, career benefits and not least cost are factors that aspiring young professionals have to seriously consider as they plan their journey towards becoming a professional accountant.

That’s why we’re delighted to announce our new collaboration with the world-renowned University of London to give ACCA students the opportunity to gain a BSc degree as they study for their accountancy qualification. This new route offers a great career launchpad for those who want to do both at the same time.

Let’s run through some of the key questions: What is the BSc programme? This innovative programme integrates studies for the ACCA qualification with those for the University of London BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy into one study route, meaning that students can achieve both as part of their route to becoming ACCA members.

How does it work? The BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy has been designed to fit into a student’s journey through the ACCA qualification, with a clear pathway for those wanting to attain a degree.

How can I study for it? Students will have the flexibility to study for the BSc online anywhere in the world. They can choose between supported online learning or, as it becomes available, faceto-face tuition support, through the University of London’s network of Recognised Teaching Centres.

What’s the timescale for registration? ACCA students can register their interest now and will be able to apply for the degree from December 2025. The first cohort will begin their studies in March 2026.

We plan to offer two cohorts every year, in spring and autumn after the exam result releases.

How long does it take? The programme involves undertaking two 30-credit points modules mapped to the ACCA’s Performance Management and Financial Management exams and a 60-credit points project module. Successful completion of the programme can take as little as 12 months and exempts you from these exams in the ACCA syllabus, and can be done at the same time as preparing for other exams in your journey.

Is it flexible? Yes – it gives students the flexibility to study for a University of London degree programme from anywhere in the world with ACCA. The programme is also flexible so students can choose to take a break from their studies due to personal reasons as long as they complete the programme within a three-year period from enrolment.

How much does it cost? Tuition fees are charged dependent on where the student is based and the method of learning. By completing the BSc, students will save tuition costs on the Performance Management and Financial Management papers and associated exam fees that would normally be incurred. On successful completion of the BSc modules we’ll apply the exemptions to their ACCA record for no additional fee.

Students can choose to study online or at local recognised teaching centres (RTCs) where they will pay a lower tuition fee to the university but will pay a fee to the RTC for teaching. We’ll be sharing more details on RTCs in coming months.

University tuition UK fees are £4,000 for online study or £3,300 if you choose an RTC. How will the degree classification be determined? The degree classification is purely based on the 120-credits completed with University of London.

Why did you choose to collaborate with the University of London? University of London is a world-renowned university with a global reach and values that mirror ours. This new route supports our efforts to increase inclusion and opportunity in the accountancy profession, and to bridge the accountancy skills gap that exists in many countries.

Sounds great – what are my next steps?

Simply visit our website and register your interest. We’ll send you more information and get in touch when registration opens in December.

To summarise, this BSc programme gives students the best of both worlds – gaining both credentials simultaneously to improve their career prospects in global accountancy.

We’re looking forward to helping develop the next generation of qualified professionals who can meet the evolving demands of the business world. So what are you waiting for? Find out more here

• Alan Hatfield is executive director of content, quality and innovation at ACCA

‘We have a longstanding commitment to innovating the way we provide accessible, quality, distance education to students around the world. This includes providing courses that allow students to choose the best learning experience to suit them and their needs, whether professional or academic.’

• Dr Sky Zheng, Executive Director of University of London Worldwide