Global Accountancy Education Expands with ACCA and University of London Collaboration

Students Can Earn ACCA Qualification and a University Degree in One Programme

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the University of London have announced the launch of a new integrated BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy programme, designed to provide students with both an academic degree and a globally recognised professional accountancy qualification through a single, structured course of study. This initiative bridges the gap between academic and professional pathways, offering students a streamlined route to becoming qualified accountants.

According to the official announcement, the programme is set to open for applications in December 2025 and will combine the ACCA qualification, widely regarded as one of the leading global certifications for accountants, with the academic recognition of the University of London. By integrating these two credentials, the programme seeks to resolve the long-standing challenge faced by students in choosing between an academic or professional route in accountancy. The new BSc programme has been designed to align with the progression of the ACCA qualification, allowing students to work towards their degree alongside their professional studies. This approach ensures that students can simultaneously gain academic and professional credentials, making their career progression more efficient and comprehensive.

Alan Hatfield, Executive Director of Content, Quality and Innovation at ACCA, described the programme as a “career launchpad”, particularly beneficial for students seeking a well-rounded education in accountancy. He highlighted that many students struggle to choose between professional and academic qualifications, and this new pathway supports ACCA’s broader goal of enhancing inclusion and opportunity in the profession while addressing global accountancy skills gaps.

The BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy programme is structured to support fully online learning, ensuring flexibility for students. They will have the option to receive supported online instruction or, where available, attend face-to-face sessions at the University of London’s recognised teaching centres. Dr Sky Zheng, Executive Director of the University of London Worldwide, emphasised the university’s commitment to making quality education widely accessible. He noted that the new BSc programme, developed in collaboration with ACCA, offers students the advantage of earning both academic and professional credentials simultaneously, thereby enhancing their career prospects in the global accountancy field.

This initiative builds on an existing collaboration between ACCA and the University of London, through which ACCA members and affiliates already have the opportunity to pursue an MSc in Professional Accountancy. Reports indicate that in India, the ACCA qualification has been gaining popularity among commerce and accounting students, as it provides a global alternative to traditional domestic pathways such as Chartered Accountancy (CA). With the introduction of the integrated BSc programme, Indian students now have an additional option that combines global academic recognition with a professional qualification, eliminating the need for separate university enrolment. This development marks a significant step in expanding accessible and high-quality education for aspiring accountants worldwide.

Editor's Note:

The introduction of the integrated BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy programme by ACCA and the University of London marks a significant development in accountancy education. By offering both an academic degree and a globally recognised professional qualification through a single, structured coursework, this initiative provides students with a streamlined and efficient path to becoming qualified accountants. The programme's flexibility, including online learning options, ensures accessibility for a diverse range of students, supporting those seeking international career opportunities. Furthermore, this collaboration addresses the long-standing challenge of choosing between academic and professional qualifications, making accountancy education more inclusive and adaptable. The initiative is particularly beneficial for students in India, where ACCA's global recognition is increasingly valued as an alternative to traditional domestic qualifications.

As per Skoobuzz, the ongoing evolution of education highlights the significance of collaborations that merge academic rigour with professional skills. These partnerships, such as the ACCA and University of London initiative, ensure that graduates possess the necessary competencies for success in the international finance sector.