Oxford brookes university OBU the degree of bachelor of science in applied accounting

Description

Oxford Brookes University (OBU), a dynamic public research university in Oxford, England, is renowned for its innovative, career-focused education that blends academic rigor with professional relevance, particularly in business, finance, and accounting. Founded in 1865 as the Oxford School of Art and granted university status in 1992, OBU serves over 16,000 students from 140+ countries across its modern Headington and Harcourt Hill campuses in the historic city of Oxford. Ranked top 50 in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Guardian University Guide 2026) and 1st in the South East for student satisfaction in Business (National Student Survey 2024), OBU’s Business School is a leader in applied financial research, with 85% of outputs rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Applied Accounting is a unique undergraduate program developed in partnership with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), allowing students to earn a full honors degree alongside professional qualification. This flexible qualification (360 UK credits at Level 6), completed via research and analysis project submission after ACCA Fundamentals, awards a prestigious OBU degree certificate or diploma with honors classification (First Class: 70%+), providing exemptions from ACCA exams and preparing graduates for roles in auditing, taxation, and financial management, with 95% entering professional positions within six months.

A Legacy of Professional Accounting Education

OBU’s BSc Applied Accounting, launched in 2000 as a collaboration with ACCA, has become a global benchmark for integrating academic study with professional certification, enabling students to “earn while learning” through distance or blended modes. The program emphasizes practical application of accounting principles, financial reporting, and ethical decision-making, supported by OBU’s Oxford Brookes Business School, which ranks top 20 in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Complete University Guide 2026). It addresses the evolving demands of the £100B+ UK financial services sector, fostering alumni who lead at Big Four firms like PwC and Deloitte, contributing to regulatory reforms and sustainable finance initiatives. Note that the program is phasing out after May 2026, transitioning to a new collaboration with the University of London for BSc Professional Accountancy.

Diverse Degree Programs and Diplomas

OBU’s applied accounting portfolio prioritizes accessibility, with the BSc (Hons) Applied Accounting requiring completion of ACCA Fundamentals (F1–F9) and submission of a Research and Analysis Project (RAP). Delivered online or via supported centers worldwide, it culminates in a classified honors diploma. Key highlights include:

• Core Structure (BSc Applied Accounting): The program is assessed through a single RAP (6,500–8,000 words), where students analyze a real-world accounting issue (e.g., financial reporting in SMEs or ethical auditing). It draws on ACCA Fundamentals knowledge, requiring skills reports on communication, analysis, and presentation. Compulsory elements include ethical considerations, data interpretation (e.g., using Excel for ratios), and reflective practice, with assessment via the RAP (100%). The project must demonstrate application of three ACCA papers (e.g., Financial Reporting, Audit and Assurance).
• Admission Requirements: Completion of ACCA Fundamentals (F1–F9) with passes; no prior degree required. English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 overall, no subscore below 5.5). Applications via OBU’s portal or ACCA; submission deadlines: May 2026 (final intake). Up to 5,000 submissions annually worldwide.
• Variants and Pathways: Standalone BSc for ACCA affiliates; progression to MSc Accounting and Finance; or exemptions toward ACCA Strategic Professional. Shorter Skills and Learning Statement as a preparatory element. Online delivery suits global learners.

Why Pursue a BSc in Applied Accounting at Oxford Brookes University?

Enrolling in the OBU BSc Applied Accounting offers a flexible, professional pathway with mentor support for the RAP, ideal for working accountants. The program’s ACCA integration—praised for its “practical, career-boosting” focus (NSS 2024)—builds networks through OBU’s alumni events, preparing graduates for roles like financial accountant (£30,000–£40,000 starting salaries) at KPMG or PwC. OBU’s top-50 UK ranking for Accounting graduate prospects (Guardian 2026) and diverse global cohort ensure strong outcomes, while its emphasis on real-world analysis aligns with industry demands.

In summary, the Oxford Brookes University Bachelor of Science in Applied Accounting is a professional degree certificate that elevates accounting careers. For ACCA students, OBU’s BSc delivers academic validation and momentum.