Accounting and Finance (with Foundation Year)

This is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study and leads directly into the degree course. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence, before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.

Our BA (Hons) Accounting and Finance degree at Cardiff Met is professionally accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).

Whether you have your sights set on a career at one of the ‘big four’ leading accounting firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG or PwC), or as an accountant or finance professional within public, not-for-profit or private organisations, our accounting degree will kick-start your journey to Chartered Accountant status with substantial exemptions available from ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA and ICAEW examinations.

We’ll provide you with a comprehensive introduction to all areas of accounting to prepare you for further study at the final stages of professional accounting qualifications. You’ll learn from our financial expert lecturers who are not only academic thinkers and active researchers, but professionals sharing their own industry experience. Plus, the option of paid summer work placements or spending a year in industry can give you a competitive edge and enhance your learning in practice.

We offer this degree with two study options. You can choose four years full-time or five years full-time which would include a one-year industry placement before your final year that will give you hands-on experience in a real-life working environment. This year in industry gives you practical skills that many employers seek, giving you a competitive edge upon graduation.

There’s still time to secure an award-winning university experience at Cardiff Met, ranked a top 3 Welsh university (Uni Compare Rankings 2026).

Whatever your goals, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential through expert teaching and a supportive environment. Gain real-world experience via placements and live briefs, and graduate with the skills to make a positive impact.

Professionally accredited courses prepare you for the world of work, alongside year-round careers support, entrepreneurship opportunities and options to study abroad.

Cardiff is also one of the UK’s most affordable cities (NatWest Student Living Index 2025), offering vibrant food, nightlife, green spaces and more on a student budget.

Into sport? Cardiff Met is a leading UK university for student sport, supporting both academic and athletic success.