Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) MSc
Online, United Kingdom
MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up)
Arden University
Accounting and Finance
MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) at Arden University
The MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) at Arden University is a fast-track master's course designed for fully qualified CCAB accountants who want to advance their professional and academic credentials. If you hold qualified accountant status through the ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, or an equivalent professional body, you receive six module exemptions totalling 120 credits from the standard MSc Accounting and Finance course.
You only need to complete one module, the Financial Management Project (60 credits), to graduate with a full Master of Science award. This module gives you the opportunity to undertake an in-depth analysis of the latest technologies in accounting and finance, including blockchain, fintech, cloud computing, and distributed ledgers.
Delivered fully online through Arden's ilearn platform, this programme offers unmatched flexibility, allowing you to study from anywhere in the world while continuing your professional career. The course is aligned to the Strategic Professional Level syllabus of the ACCA qualification and is also CIMA approved.
Key Program Highlights
- Fast-track route to a full MSc for qualified ACCA, CIMA, or ICAEW accountants with only one module to complete
- Fully online delivery via Arden's ilearn platform, enabling study from anywhere worldwide
- Course aligned to ACCA Strategic Professional Level syllabus and CIMA approved with a Gateway fast-track route
- Membership of the Business Graduates Association (BGA) and access to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) network
Curriculum and Module Structure
As a top-up programme, the MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) grants you exemptions for six modules (120 credits) based on your professional accounting qualifications. You complete just one core module, the Financial Management Project, worth 60 credits. The exempted modules from the standard MSc are listed below for reference, as they represent the knowledge base you bring to this programme.
Financial Management Project
60 creditsThe sole assessed module of the top-up programme. You undertake an in-depth research project analysing innovative technologies in accounting and finance such as blockchain, fintech, cloud computing, and distributed ledgers. Assessment comprises a Performance and Development Plan (80%) and a Project Pitch (20%).
Strategic Financial Management (Exempted)
20 creditsCovers advanced financial management strategies for organisations, including capital structure decisions, investment appraisal, and corporate financial planning. Exempted for qualified CCAB accountants.
Financial Reporting and Analysis (Exempted)
20 creditsFocuses on the interpretation and critical analysis of financial statements, international accounting standards, and regulatory frameworks. Exempted for qualified CCAB accountants.
Management Accounting and Control (Exempted)
20 creditsExamines the role of management accounting in strategic and operational decision-making, including costing methods, budgeting, and performance measurement systems. Exempted for qualified CCAB accountants.
Audit and Assurance (Exempted)
20 creditsCovers the principles and practices of auditing, internal controls, governance frameworks, and professional ethics in assurance engagements. Exempted for qualified CCAB accountants.
Corporate Governance and Ethics (Exempted)
20 creditsExplores contemporary corporate governance structures, ethical frameworks in finance, stakeholder management, and regulatory compliance. Exempted for qualified CCAB accountants.
Specialisation Focus Areas Within the Financial Management Project
Admission Requirements
The MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) is specifically designed for fully qualified professional accountants. Entry is restricted to individuals who have completed all assessments with a recognised CCAB accounting body. Arden University also considers non-standard entry on a case-by-case basis, taking into account your work experience and previous qualifications.
Academic Requirements
- Professional QualificationFully qualified member of ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, or an equivalent professional accounting body
- Qualification RecencyMust have qualified within the past ten years
- Membership StatusMust have completed all units of assessment and hold full membership of the recognised body
- Work ExperienceProfessional experience in accounting or finance is advantageous and considered during application review
- Non-Standard EntryApplicants with significant work experience or alternative qualifications may be considered on a case-by-case basis
English Language Requirements
- IELTS6.5 overall (no less than 6.0 in any component)
- TOEFL iBT90 overall
- PTE Academic59 overall
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Arden University offers a range of scholarships and regional pricing offers to make postgraduate study more accessible for international students. Funding opportunities vary based on your region, programme, and mode of study. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on which scholarships you may be eligible for.
Arden University International Scholarship (Online)
Through the Global Tiers programme, international online learners from selected regions can receive tiered fee reductions. Eligibility is based on your country of residence and chosen programme.
Arden University International Fee Reduction (UK Campus)
Up to GBP 5,000International students studying at Arden's UK study centres may receive a fee reduction on their chosen course of study. This offer is available for select intakes and subject to terms and conditions.
Regional Scholarships for International Students
25% to 40% tuition fee discountStudents from eligible countries may qualify for regional scholarships offering significant tuition fee reductions. These scholarships are applied on a prorated basis throughout the duration of your studies.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduating with an MSc Accounting and Finance (Top-Up) from Arden University positions you for senior roles across the accounting and finance sector. The programme equips you with cutting-edge knowledge of financial technologies and strategic financial management, making you highly competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Potential Career Roles
Industries and Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Arden University is a UK private institution focused on flexible online and blended learning. While it does not appear in traditional league tables such as QS World or Times Higher Education due to its specialist focus on distance learning, it holds notable recognition for student satisfaction and professional accreditations in accounting and finance.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Student Satisfaction (Overall Positivity) | National Student Survey (NSS) | 5th in the UK |
| Online Learning Quality | QS Stars Rating | 5 Stars |
| Accounting and Finance Accreditation | ACCA / CIMA | Approved Programme |
| Business School Membership | AACSB / BGA | Member Institution |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Accounting and Finance - BA (Hons)
London Metropolitan University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
April 2025
Gross Tuition
15500 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Accounting and Finance (including foundation year) - BA (Hons)
London Metropolitan University, London, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
April 2025
Gross Tuition
15500 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Accounting
Texas State University, San Marcos, United States
Earliest Intake
February 2027
Gross Tuition
24520 $
Master's & Postgraduate
60 months
Professional Accounting B.S./MBA
Manhattan University, Bronx, United States
Earliest Intake
September 2025
Gross Tuition
20160 $
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
Accounting
Manhattan University, Bronx, United States
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
44100 $
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
