If you are considering a career in the professional world of law or accounting, why not consider both through this innovative programme.
The BSc Hons Accounting and Law produces highly qualified professional graduates, equipped with both legal and financial knowledge. It is a four-year programme with an equal weighting of accounting and law-based modules taught each year.
This degree provides you with the opportunity to maximise professional exemptions from many of the professional accounting bodies AND also gain a qualifying law degree. This combination provides significant opportunities upon graduation. Employers value the mix of legal and professional services knowledge supported by economic and financial analytical skills.
Both subjects complement one another with a cross-over in these two sought after professions for aspects of commerce, including acquisition and disposals; restructuring and insolvency; taxation compliance and planning; assurance and governance. Throughout your studies, you will develop an understanding of the law, critically reflect on contemporary law developments whilst at the same time assimilating and putting into practice the main principles and theories of accounting and finance.
If you want to learn more about this programme before deciding on your final career choice in accounting or law, and you are ready to be stretched and challenged, then this is the degree for you.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
In this section
The overall aim of the degree is to:
Diploma in Professional Practice DPP
Diploma in Professional Practice International DPPI
Diploma in International Academic Studies DIAS
Typically 18-20 timetabled hours per week for lectures, workshops and tutorials plus up to 10 hours per module as independent study equating to 40 hours per week.
Learning and Teaching Methods include: lectures, tutorials, seminars, case studies, experiential learning, guest speakers, practitioner master classes, workshops, directed and independent study, computer assisted learning including contemporary interactive learning technology to help enhance your learning.
Assessment Methods include: examinations, class tests, completion of worksheets, reflective logs, portfolios, critiques, reports, subject-specific essays and oral presentations, using both individual and group projects, and interactive technology.
The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 59% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.
Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (25%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (20%) or Lecturers (55%).
We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic staff (81%) are accredited fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advanced HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.
The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise. The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff. This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.
Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.
Figures correct for academic year 2021-2022.
High quality apartment living in Belfast city centre adjacent to the university campus.
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At Student Wellbeing we provide many services to help students through their time at Ulster University.
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The Belfast campus is situated in the artistic and cultural centre of the city, the Cathedral Quarter.
Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.
Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.
In this section
Year: 1
Status: C
Introductory accounting provides the student with an understanding of the concepts underpinning financial reporting for sole traders and partnerships.
Year: 1
Status: C
Principles of Financial Accounting provides the student with an introduction to the concepts underpinning corporate financial reporting for single companies and simple groups of companies. This provides students with the foundations required for further study in Financial Accounting module.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module provides students with an opportunity to consider, reflect on, and develop key skills that will provide a strong basis for successful study in higher education and in their future professional life. It provides opportunities to consider personal strengths and learning styles, and develop strategies to maximise their learning potential.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module will provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts and applications of economics as they affect individuals, firms and governments, as well as the policy decisions taken in industry, commerce, and local government. An emphasis will be placed on the application of economics to the world around us.
Year: 1
Status: C
This module introduces basic legal principles and concepts, and enables students to understand the structure and organisation of the legal system in the UK (with a particular emphasis on Northern Ireland). It introduces students to the concepts of reflective and independent learning, and provides them with the necessary information, knowledge and intellectual equipment required for the study of law as a discipline. This module continues the induction process and offers the students an opportunity to obtain information about careers and personal development. Formal assessment on this module is by an online assessment exercise and coursework.
Year: 1
Status: C
Criminal law provides the ideal vehicle to study both common law and legislation and develop an understanding of the relationship between law in Northern Ireland and the law in England and Wales. Students learn the scope and content of criminal law and understand the need for reform in certain areas through academic commentary and critical discussion and evaluation. In examining the principle and substance of criminal law students also gain the opportunity to develop skills in legal reasoning and analysis.
Year: 1
Status: C
The law of tort plays a central role in the modern legal system. This module provides comprehensive coverage of the principles of the law of tort and a detailed understanding of historical and contemporary caselaw. Students will have multiple and varied opportunities to problem solve real-life scenarios and engage in class debates on core developments in the law.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides students with an introduction to the principles of management accounting. It examines the role of the management accountant within an organisation and how management accounting information contributes to making judgements and decisions. The module focuses primarily on the theory and practice of cost accounting and introduces students to various cost accounting concepts, techniques and processes. It provides a firm foundation for further study in the area of management accounting.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides the student with a solid understanding of information management principles, applications and value in modern organisations. Particular attention is awarded to technological tools and business process improvement techniques. The opportunity to construct a simple data analytics dashboard system is provided. On completion of the module students will be equipped with the skills necessary to join the workforce having an appreciation of the own personal information management skills and an understanding of the roles/skills required in a sustainable learning organisation.
Year: 2
Status: C
Financial accounting provides the student with an understanding of the concepts underpinning corporate financial reporting for single companies and groups of companies. The role of financial accounting regulation, particularly International Financial Reporting Standards is examined and students are provided with the skills to apply these to practical examples.
Year: 2
Status: C
Students by the end of this module should have a good grasp of the constitutional arrangements within the United Kingdom including: institutions of government, key principles underpinning the constitution of the United Kingdom, the arrangements for devolved governance in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the importance of European Union Law as a source of law within the constitution of the United Kingdom, the legal protection of human rights and civil liberties, mechanisms of accountability within constitutional law, especially judicial review, and proposed reforms and debates surrounding such reforms.
Year: 2
Status: C
The module will provide a basis for acquiring knowledge and understanding and developing analysis of the key concepts, problems and issues in the law of contract. The theories, principles and rules of the law of contract will be explained. The module will address the key features of contract law including formation of contract, contractual terms, exclusion and limitation clauses, vitiating factors, discharge of contract and remedies.
Year: 2
Status: C
This module provides an overview of the constitutional principles and legal institutions of the European Union. The module also introduces students to the central areas within the market integration process, namely free movement of goods and persons. After the Treaties of Amsterdam, Nice and Lisbon, the impact of EU law has expanded even further than before. This module examines the development of European Law, the institutional structure and processes as well as the relationship between European Law and national law.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module introduces students to finance decision making for individuals and small to medium sized national companies. Within the personal finance part of the course students will study the financial lifecycle, the financial plan and the main personal finance decisions (debt, savings, investments, insurance, mortgages and pensions). Within the business finance element of the module students will study the role of business finance, ethics in financial decision making, the influence of the environment on financial decision-making, the time value of money, capital investment appraisal, working capital management and sources of short and medium-term finance, and cost of capital.
Year: 3
Status: C
Having completed this module the student will be able to: understand the role of the management accountant and how this contributes to the achievement of organisational objectives; understand the role of modern management accounting practices which enable organisations to develop and assess performance; and apply appropriate management decision tools to a specified range of scenarios.
Year: 3
Status: C
A knowledge of taxation is essential to students intending to pursue a career in accounting and is an essential part of most financial and economic decision making. This module provides a fundamental undertaking of the main aspects of the UK tax system covering personal, business taxation, corporation tax, inheritance tax and capital gains tax as well as an understanding of the administration of the self-assessment system.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module provides students with the opportunity to study Land Law (which is considered to be a core subject in the study of law) in respect to both Northern Ireland and England and Wales. The professional bodies require law school graduate entrants to have studied Land Law at Degree Level. This module (together with Introduction to Property Law) satisfies the requirements of the professions in both jurisdictions.
Year: 3
Status: C
This module provides students with an introduction to the core concepts of property law in both Northern Ireland and England and Wales. This module will directly prepare you for further detailed study of property law at level 5 (Land Law) and at level 6 (Equity and Trusts) as well as complementing the study of aspects of Tort, Contract and even Criminal Law. Completion of this module and Land Law (LAW311) in semester 2 year 2 allows you to meet the requirements of the professional bodies (in respect of property law) in both Northern Ireland and England and Wales.
Year: 3
Status: C
Business activities often create conflicts of expectations and interests between those seeking to profit through enterprise and third parties who interact with business organisations. This module enables students to acquire a thorough knowledge of the legal regulation in key areas such as employment and sales law. The module attempts to give students a clear conceptual understanding of the business and commercial law and to equip students to use their knowledge in the solution of common commercial problems.
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain structured and professional work experience, in a work-based learning environment, as part of their planned programme of study. This experience allows students to develop, refine and reflect on their key personal and professional skills. The placement should significantly support the development of the student's employability skills, preparation for final year and enhance their employability journey.
Status: O
Year: 4
This module is optional
This module provides an opportunity to undertake an extended period of study outside the UK and Republic of Ireland. Students will develop an enhanced understanding of the academic discipline whilst generating educational and cultural networks.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
An important role of management accounting is to present accounting information to facilitate decision making, planning, control and performance measurement. The module will develop further the students' appreciation of management accounting. This will involve the in-depth study and critical appraisal of advanced practices and theories of the discipline.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
Corporate Financial Reporting provides the student with an understanding of both accounting theory and the practical application of international financial reporting standards.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module examines some of the fundamental concepts underpinning managerial finance, including agency theory, EMH, theories on capital structure and dividend policy. The module focuses on financial management decision-making in large companies that interact with the capital markets and have an international presence.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The module informs and equips students to effectively respond to the governance challenges organisations face today. The module aims to investigate the key components for securing the highest standards of effective corporate governance.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module allows students to combine their understanding of accounting, finance and governance structures, with the evidence gathering, investigative techniques, and report writing skills necessary to be a forensic accountant.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
In today's increasingly networked digital age, a knowledge of cybercrime and its impact on the operations of businesses is important. Delivered in association with Grant Thornton's forensic technology specialists this module provides insights into cybercrime and forensic technology from both a theoretical perspective (the legal, professional and ethical issues relating to the cybercrime) and a technical perspective (gathering, reserving and presenting digital evidence).
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module will provide students with access to a comprehensive programme of study which will examine fundamental principles of the law of evidence, amd analyse a number of important and controversial issues in the modern law. It will also provide students with an understanding of the operation of evidential rules within the civil and criminal justice systems in a manner which accords with national professional standards.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The aim of this module is to examine the law's involvement with medicine and to raise ethical and contextual awareness of selected medical topics.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The importance of the employment relationship between employers, employees, unions and other statutory bodies and agencies is such that a thorough knowledge of both the context and the substantive law is necessary for those involved in this area in any capacity. The module attempts to provide the basis for this knowledge and to put students in the position where they may not only have an understanding of the law both conceptually and substantively, but also be in a position to use that knowledge prophylactically and in the solution of problems.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
The module builds on other law modules in terms of examining fundamental principles underlying the legislative process as a whole. Through an indepth analysis of human rights protection at a range of levels, (internationally, regionally and domestically) students will have the opportunity to explore key areas of concern on both a theoretical level and through case studies on a more practical basis.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module will explore the equitable jurisdiction through its historical development as well as the impact it continues to have on contemporary legal practice. This will be through the prism of examining its greatest creation, the trust. This will explore the creation of express trusts through the three certainties, beneficiary principle and formalities and constitution. This module will also cover implied trusts as well as the duties that will be bestowed upon trustees when they take up a position of trusteeship as well as the rights that a beneficiary under such a trust will have.
Status: O
Year: 5
This module is optional
This module introduces students to the body of rules and principles of law which regulate public and private companies. It is of practical significance to all those who wish to make a career in, or have dealings with, such companies.
We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.
In this section
ABB or BBB if undertaking one of A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of D*DD in a relevant subject.
OR
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Diploma (2016 Suite)
Award profile of DDM in a relevant subject.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard (provided subject requirements are met). Examples of combinations include:
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of range DD plus A Level Grade A or DD plus A Level grade B (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Diploma (2016 Suite)
Award profile of DD plus A Level Grade B or DM plus A level grade B (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
QCF Pearson BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Introductory Diploma (2012 Suite)
Award profile of D plus A level grades AB or D plus A Level grades BB (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate/OCR Cambridge Technical Level 3 Extended Certificate (2016 Suite)
Award profile of D plus A level grades AB or D plus A Level Grades BB (if undertaking A level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting)
For further information on the entry requirements for this course please contact the administrator as listed in Contact details.
128 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher level). The overall profile must include English at minimum grade H6 at Higher Level or grade O4 at Ordinary level plus Mathematics at minimum H5 at Higher level or Grade O3 at Ordinary Level.
OR
120 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher level). The overall profile must include English at minimum grade H6 at Higher Level or grade O4 at Ordinary level and grade O3 or H5 in Ordinary or Higher Mathematics.
One Higher Level subject must include minimum grade H2 from Higher level Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Chemistry.
Grades BBBBC or grades BBBCC if undertaking one Scottish Highers from Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Chemistry.
Grades BBC or grades CCC if undertaking one Scottish Advanced Highers from Mathematics, Economics, Physics or Accounting.
Overall International Baccalaureate profile minimum 27 points (13 points at higher level).
Overall mark of 70%. To include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 60% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics at 60% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma or GCSE Maths grade C*/5.
For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language, additionally GCSE Maths pass at grade C*/5 or above.
Please note that for purposes of entry to this course the Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills - Application of Number is NOT regarded as an acceptable alternative to GCSE Maths.
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Ulster Foundation Degree
Pass in Foundation Degree in Accounting with an overall mark of 60%, plus a minimum of 60% in each final year module, excluding Work Based Learning for year 2 entry.
Pass HND with overall Distinction to include 75 distinctions at level 5. Plus GCSE Maths grade C*/5.
Pass HNC with overall Distinction to include 105 distinctions at level 4/5. Plus GCSE Maths grade C* /5.
You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard as recognised by the University (provided subject requirements as noted above are met).
The course content has been designed to meet the exemption requirements of Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAP1 Exemption criteria) and the requirements of a qualifying law degree for the purpose of entry into the legal profession.
The course is rigorous but the rewards are great - on successful completion of the degree (and on obtaining a minimum mark, typically 50%, in certain modules), the graduate will have exemptions from some professional examinations of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales (ICAEW). Graduates will also have a qualifying law degree (QLD) recognised for entry into the legal profession by the Law Society of Northern Ireland, the Bar Standards Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
In this section
Graduates from this course are now working for:
With this degree you could become:
The demand for graduates with accounting and law backgrounds is strong, both in large professional services firms that have forensic accounting departments and from legal firms, including those that specialise in corporate law. However, this degree will also be of interest if you wish to pursue different areas of accounting (for example auditing, taxation, insolvency or working in industry) and of law (as knowledge of business and taxation issues influence legal advice given about probate, divorce settlements, insurance claim and commercial acquisitions).
The combination of both topics means you can make your choice of profession when you have a better knowledge of your strengths and passions within the law and accounting disciplines.
For further study, you may either choose accounting or law. One option is to progress to our Postgraduate Diploma / Masters in Advanced Accounting/ Masters in Strategic Accounting to gain further professional exemptions in Accounting from Chartered Accountants Ireland or ACCA. Graduates have also gone on to study law at postgraduate level both at Ulster University and other institutions (e.g. Masters courses such as the LLM, or doctoral studies) or are now in practice as solicitors or barristers, having completed the Certificate in Professional Legal Studies. Others have pursued careers in related areas such as the business and finance sector, human resources, politics and the community sector.
Students have the opportunity to undertake a one year professional placement in an accounting or legal role. The professional placement year gives students opportunities such as; applying and contextualising academic studies, developing professional skills and exploring new career opportunities.
Alternatively students can spend one year either working or studying, for example students have taken part in the ‘Study Abroad’ programme.
Recognised by the Law Society of Northern Ireland (LSNI) for the purpose of a Qualifying Law Degree.
Accredited by the Bar Standards Board for the purpose of a Qualifying Law Degree.
The qualifying law degree is recognised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) for the purposes of satisfying the academic stage of training.
Accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) for the purpose of exemptions from some professional examinations.
Accredited by the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW) for the purpose of exemption from some professional examinations.
Accredited by Chartered Accountants Ireland for the purpose of exemption from some professional exams.
£4,710.00
£9,250.00
£15,840.00
It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.
Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.
There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.
See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.
We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.
Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:
For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.
For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Students
"Maths was not my strong suit in school so when I chose Accounting and Law my decision was influenced by having double the employment opportunities. However, this degree has pushed my capabilities, surprising even myself and provided me with a great experience I would otherwise have closed myself off to had I only chosen Law."
Amy Morgan (Final year student, 2023)
"Accounting and Law is a challenging yet rewarding degree to study. You study a wide variety of modules and have a range of potential careers at the end of your studies."
Scott Gray (Final year student 2023)
"This course is unique in that you learn about two entirely different disciplines, yet you can see how each can work together simultaneously in certain modules. I believe it gives students who chose this degree more of an edge over students studying just one of the disciplines."
Bronagh Hanson (Final year student 2023)
"Studying Accounting and Law at Ulster University has proved to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. The course is set up to encourage students to follow their academic interests and act independently. Lecturers and tutors are always available for advice and guidance.
I have found this course brings amazing work opportunities from studying such varied modules. I believe it makes me as a student stand out more to an employer. Studying both Accounting and Law has been a challenging yet very rewarding experience."
Aoife Crawford (Third year student 2023)
"The joint degree allows students to keep their options open for another four years for two different professions and can follow both routes right to the end. The subjects covered provide a really good grounding for any career in law, accounting, business and life generally as you learn so many different valuable skills such as reading & understanding, debating, economics, accounting - all of which are transferable into the workplace."
Janet Williamson Commercial Director O’Reilly Stewart Solicitors
"The joint accounting and law degree allows students to develop a wide range of transferable skills for the professional workplace including communication, critical judgement and ability to interpret and explain complex information clearly.
Graduates of this degree are highly sought after by employers, particularly in areas such as taxation which require strong accounting knowledge combined with an ability to interpret constantly evolving legislation."
