ACCA and University of London launch streamlined BSc in Professional Accountancy
In a significant advancement for aspiring accountants, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has announced a partnership with the University of London to introduce a new Bachelor of Science (BSc Hons.) in Professional Accountancy. This agreement, announced on 28 May 2025, aims to integrate the ACCA qualification into a comprehensive undergraduate programme, thus enhancing educational opportunities for students in Mauritius and beyond.
The BSc (Hons.) Professional Accountancy will allow students to pursue their ACCA studies in tandem with university-level coursework, creating a streamlined educational pathway. To be eligible for this programme, candidates must have passed seven Papers within the ACCA Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills segments. They will then complete two additional modules at the University of London, which align with the ACCA's management performance and financial management courses. Following this, students will undertake a Project Module, facilitating the attainment of their BSc while positioning them for future success in completing the ACCA Strategic Professional exams.
This innovative curriculum is designed to be completed in a minimum of 12 months, with a maximum flexibility of three years for students to finalise their studies. The programme not only equips students with a globally recognised professional qualification from ACCA, which boasts over 252,000 members and 526,000 students in 180 countries, but also a prestigious degree from one of the world’s leading universities.
Dr Sky Zheng, Executive Director of University of London Worldwide, emphasised the dual benefits of this new programme, stating, “This programme offers students the best of both worlds: obtaining two degrees simultaneously will enhance their career prospects in international accounting.” He cited the increasing demand for globally competent professionals capable of adapting to the evolving landscape of business as a driving force behind this initiative.
Alan Hatfield, Executive Director of Content, Quality and Innovation at ACCA, also highlighted the significance of this offering for students who often face a critical decision between pursuing a professional qualification and a university degree. He commented, “This new pathway provides an excellent launching pad for those who wish to combine both,” underscoring the necessity of diversifying career options within the accounting profession to address the critical skills gap many nations face.
Established in 1836, the University of London has a longstanding tradition of inclusivity and innovation in education. It was the first university to admit students without regard to gender, ethnicity, or religion and was also the first in the UK to award degrees to women. ACCA aligns closely with these values, striving to support a diverse accounting community. Their collaboration to provide this BSc programme builds on a prior partnership that allowed ACCA members to access a Master’s degree, marking a continuity of efforts to enhance educational pathways for accounting professionals.
This collaboration is seen as a vital step in addressing the skills deficit within the accounting sector, particularly in regions where access to quality education remains a concern. Students enrolled in the BSc (Hons.) Professional Accountancy will have the option to undertake their studies online globally or benefit from in-person instruction at recognised teaching centres affiliated with the University of London.
The introduction of this dual qualification pathway highlights the ongoing commitment by both ACCA and the University of London to innovate and expand educational opportunities for future accountants at a time when the global demand for skilled professionals in this field is surging. By bridging the gap between academic excellence and professional readiness, they aim to cultivate a new generation of accountants equipped to thrive in a dynamic and competitive marketplace.