Accounting and Taxation with Placement Year

We are still ranked in the top 100 globally for Accounting and Finance (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026)

Summary
Accounting and taxation influence how organisations make decisions, how governments shape policy, and how economies respond to change. At Southampton, you will explore how these areas connect, and how financial insight can drive impact across both business and the public sector.
This flexible degree allows you to tailor your studies to your interests and career ambitions. You can work towards professional accountancy recognition while developing expertise in areas such as green finance, audit, pensions and tax technologies. A distinctive focus on the public sector helps you understand how businesses and policymakers interact, giving you a broader perspective on the role of finance in society.
On this four-year programme, you will also spend your third year on a paid industry placement. This is your opportunity to apply your knowledge in a professional setting, gain practical experience and build confidence for your future career. Our award-winning placements team will support you in securing opportunities, preparing for interviews and making the most of your placement year.
As part of a department ranked in the top 100 globally for Accounting and Finance (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025), your learning is shaped by research and real-world expertise.

Key features of the course
• Shape your degree around your ambitions - Choose pathways that support professional accountancy recognition and reflect your interests, from sustainability to audit and tax.
• Develop knowledge you can apply with confidence - Explore audit, taxation and public sector accounting, building a strong foundation across key areas of the discipline.
• Take your learning into the workplace with a paid placement year - Gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and enhance your CV with the support of our placements team.
• Build skills that employers value - Learn to analyse and communicate data across accounting, audit, tax and sustainability, and understand how to apply these insights ethically and responsibly.
• See theory in action through real-world projects and case studies, developed with our industry partners.
• Prepare for strategic roles - Develop the skills needed to contribute to decision-making in businesses, public sector organisations and beyond.

Student support
Your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) will support you throughout your time at Southampton, offering guidance on your studies, career planning and wellbeing. You will also have access to a range of academic and pastoral support services whenever you need them.

Further information
This course prepares you for careers across accounting, finance, the public sector and consultancy. Your placement year, combined with strong industry links and practical experience, will help you stand out in a competitive job market and take your next step with confidence.

As a founding member of the Russell Group, the University of Southampton is renowned for their research impact. You’ll have access to top-class teaching and lecturers. You’ll be taught by the people who are solving some of the world’s most complex problems.

You'll also be put in good stead for the future, as they’ll kick start your career with incredible opportunities. They’re targeted by the top employers, with industry placements and world-class research facilities.

And they're committed to making sure you have everything you need to reach your potential, from guaranteed accommodation in Clearing to 24/7 wellbeing support, 365 days a year (*for accommodation apply by 17th August, see website).

Do you want to study in a buzzing city on the south coast? Join a dynamic global community of 26,000 students, including 9,000 international students from 140 countries.With over 370 clubs and societies to explore, you’ll find endless opportunities to connect and thrive.