Accounting, Finance and Economics Foundation Year

How will I learn during this course?

Throughout the course of the year, you will study six modules designed to introduce you to the theories and concepts of finance in a business and develop your knowledge of applying research methods to real world practice.

You will learn the key theories and concepts of finance and gain an understanding of how this feeds into wider organisational issues. Modules such as Practical Maths and Stats will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to apply practical methods used to analyse and interpret financial data.  The course provides you with the tools to apply your learning to practical scenarios, and in doing so enhance your decision-making skills.

Our modules deliver content with industry in mind, and respond to the nature of the professions you will later go into. This will provide you with the opportunity to go out into industry and speak with the likes of entrepreneurs and accountants to understand the professions from beginning to end.

How will I be assessed during my foundation year?

Teaching and assessment will take various forms, including group work, video interviews, and presentations. A well-designed support system, including a Guidance Tutor, will underpin your learning journey, providing you with a space to discuss both academic and personal issues.

Who teaches this Accounting, Finance, and Economics course?

A range of our academic staff, who have a wealth of experience across the accounting, financial and economics industries, will teach you. A number of our staff have an international background, with a range of specialisms such as decision-making,

Our staff are actively pushing at the frontiers of knowledge and generating new concepts and insights.

In addition to direct academic support, you will also have access to a range of learning support services. These include sessions facilitated by library staff on core academic skills such as referencing and academic writing. There are also ranges of online support materials, which are available through the electronic learning portal. These include; lecture recordings, webcasts, pre-recorded sessions on the use of specialist software and key academic skills.

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Where will I learn during my foundation year?

Based in City Campus East, the Newcastle Business School (CCE 1) comprises of purpose designed academic accommodation at the cutting edge of design and technology. From social spaces and classrooms to lecture theatres and exhibition space, the facilities on offer are exceptional.

Our ground floor hosts our innovative Bloomberg Trading Room, which allows students to train and learn how to use real time and historical financial news and information. As part of the Foundation Year, you will learn how to collect and analyse data, building your skills for future study. Our undergraduate students predominately use the second floor, which provides access to a large suite of computers as well as teaching and seminar space.

How is research applied to teaching throughout my course?

At Northumbria, we have a strong research ethos that is an essential aspect of how you will develop as a critical, reflective and independent thinker. The curriculum of our modules are research-informed, with academics drawing on their personal research throughout lessons.

The active research themes our staff are involved in directly influences your learning, with specialist subjects including forensic accounting, investigative accounting and corporate governance. You will become skilled in formulating questions, analysing different interpretations and developing well-founded arguments.

How does this foundation course help with employability?

At Newcastle Business School, we have excellent links with regional, mid-tier and ‘big four’ accounting firms, as well as with key national financial organisations, enabling our students to experience what it is like to work in accounting and finance.

Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, you will be positioned to automatically progress onto level 4 study. Your progression course will then build upon the skills gained throughout the yearlong foundation course, preparing you for future employment in the financial world.