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Digital Accounting
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course Details
CAO Code | AU607 |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 4 Years |
CAO Points | 348 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Galway City – Dublin Road |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
The speed of global technological developments has changed the business environment and the role accountants undertake within this changing world. Accountants are expected to add value and support decision-making by integrating their financial knowledge with new evolving technologies. The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Digital Accounting will develop accounting graduates with traditional accounting competencies combined with applied digital technology skills to ensure graduates have the required skills to operate in the current and future business environment.
This four-year, level 8 programme (including a placement) offers a direct pathway into a full-time career in accounting, decision-making, systems accounting, digital auditing, process design, business and data analytics, blockchain, system analysis programme development and application support.
Lecturers on this programme are highly qualified professional accountants and digital technology specialists with considerable lecturing experience, many acting as examiners and lecturers for the professional accounting bodies. They maintain very close links with all of the professional bodies, industry and employers.
This modern programme is future-proofed and the leader in this emerging area. The knowledge, skills and competencies of the future graduates of this programme are identified by industry and employers as critical and in short supply.
Applicants for this programme do not need to have studied accounting or business previously. Applicants do not need to have studied honours maths. Those who succeed best in this area tend to be logical and analytical, have good communication skills, an aptitude for and interest in IT and have strong personal motivation, integrity and work ethic.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Academic and Professional Skills (SC:BS)The aim of this module is to develop academic and professional development skills for student success in higher education and beyond. This module combines online learning activities and small group workshops to focus on areas such as academic writing and integrity, creative thinking, problem-solving, time management, communications, group work, technology, innovation and presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply appropriate tools and principles to optimise the learning experience. 2. Develop self-reflection practices for individual and group-work activities. 3. Recognise different information sources and apply the principles of academic integrity. 4. Assess a variety of professional communication practices and digital tools and apply to problem-solving. 5. Consider how the chosen discipline has a responsibility to wider society. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Management Principles and Business EnvironmentThis is a foundation course in the study of management. It explores the discipline of management by focusing initially on the definition, role, skills and functions of management. Management theory, both classical and modern, is examined; in addition there is a strong focus on the business environment, as well as the modern trends in management, including lean manufacturing. It concludes with an assessment of the ethical responsibilities of business to society. Learning Outcomes 1. Recognise the role that businesses play in a modern economy and the role of the manager in managing an organisation. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Information Technology (ACCT)The aims of this module are to: Prepare students to use spreadsheets skilfully and efficiently in their programme modules and in the workplace to solve problems, manage data, and generate management information. Introduce students through lectures and self-directed learning to how information technology impacts and supports business information processes. Research business information to produce a professional business report and present a report summary. Learning Outcomes 1. Use their acquired knowledge and skills to produce an extensive range of spreadsheets proficiently. 2. Write formulas and use functions to solve diverse business problems. 3. Demonstrate competency in the organisation, analysis, graphical representation, and communication of spreadsheet information. 4. Produce a business report, and present a summary of this report. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Business Mathematics (Acct)This module is intended to provide students with an introduction to a range of basic mathematical, quantitative, statistical, analytic and computational techniques which are of relevance in the business environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply mathematical functions and equations in the solving of business problems. 4. Calculate expectation and probability to solve practical business problems. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Introduction to Business AnalyticsBusiness analytics involves understanding the data-driven activities of a business to draw inferences to make calculated decisions with higher certainty. Business analytics encompasses a gamut of analysis around business data to draw information that could be used by the managers at various levels in an organisation. It enables fact-based decision making while extending accountability in decision making. For the purposes of this module, business analytics is defined as the process of extracting, transforming, and loading data in order to summarise it to extract information. This module introduces the learner to the basic tenants of business analytics in terms of locating data, cleaning data and importing data into basic analytics tools such as excel and excel-add-ins. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand how organizationsuse business analytics to formulate and solve business problems and to support managerial decision making. 2. Evaluate how to source and extract data 3. Investigate how to review, clean and update business data 4. Apply basic analytics tool techniquesto analyseand visualise data in order tosolve business problems |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Cloud Computing Infrastructure and ServicesCloud computing is a information technology service model which has gained widespread traction over the last decade. Upon completing this module students will be able to critically evaluate what cloud deployment models and services are suitable for organisations. They will also be able to assess various cloud security threats and identify robust risk assessment methods. Current developments with regards to cloud governance will also be examined. Students will also learn how other technologies are fusing with cloud computing technologies. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate various cloud computing definitions and examine cloud computing business drivers 2. Compare and contrast various cloud deployment models and identify which models are appropriate for organisations 3. Critically evaluate cloud computing adoption barriers and enablers 4. Analyse cloud computing security threats and risk assessment methods 5. Evaluate cloud computing governance architectures |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Financial Accounting (Acct)This module is designed to introduce the student to the basic concepts of financial accounting, progressing from the fundamental principles of double entry recording of financial transactions through to completing a set of accounts for business entities including a sole trader, partnership and company. The module will evaluate and apply the principles of double entry bookkeeping which underpins the financial accounts. The concept of controls in accounting is introduced though the completion of the bank reconciliation process, trade receivables and trade payables control accounts. The student will begin to develop their knowledge of international accounting standards through more advanced aspects of financial accounting, such as accounting for inventories and non-current assets. The student will be introduced to the principles and scope of financial reporting, with cognisance of emerging issues for accountants. Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare basic ledger accounts under the double entry system, extract a trial balance from the double entry system,calculate and record accounting adjustments. 2. Examine and interpret accounting information to prepare bank reconciliation statements and control accounts for trade receivables and trade payables. 3. Combine and organise financial accounting information to produce financial statements for different business entities, such asa sole trader,partnership and company. 4. Analyse and interpret financial information to correct accounting errors, and to prepare financial accounts from incomplete records. 5. Describe the fundamental principles, legal and regulatory framework that underpin financial accounting, and the financial accounting obligations forcommon business structures. 6. Discuss and critically analyse emerging issues facing financial accountants including environmental, social and governance (ESG). |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Management Accounting 1(Acct)The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the fundamental of management accounting. Management accounting information is used to both make and support decisions. Key topics introduced, include materials, labour and overheads. Students will also be introduced to decision-making principles, including break-even analysis. Budgetary control will be covered on both a theoretical and applied basis. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the role of management accounting within organisation’s 2. Classify costs according to their function, nature and behaviour 6. Apply the principles of relevant costing to decision making scenarios 7. Explain the administration process that supports budgetary control and prepare budgets for planning, control and decision laking 8. Outline ethical issues in management accountants |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Principles of EconomicsThe module provides students with a thorough understanding of economics at an introductory level. The module is aimed at teaching students how to think as an economist, and how to construct and critically assess economic models. The first half of the module covers the principles of microeconomics and shows how they can be applied to real-life situations and economic policy. The second half develops a framework for understanding macroeconomic events and macroeconomic policy. The emphasis throughout the year is to demonstrate the usefulness of economics as an analytical tool for thinking about real world problems. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics 2. Apply relevant knowledge and understanding of economic theory to contemporary economic issues and debates 3. Demonstrate analytical, graphical and numerical skills to address economic problems. 4. Utilise and solve simple economic models that explain economic behaviour and phenomena |
10 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Business Process ModellingOn completion of this module what a business process is, its contribution to business and to modelling business processes using the international BPMN methodology. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe business operations, processes and business process Modelling /modelling methodologies 2. Develop a knowledge of business processes/operations and business process Modelling 3. Apply BPMNmethodson business process scenarios 4. Apply BPM using appropriate software tools 5. Create Models workflows/task sequences and decisions in a business context/functions usingTasks, Flows, communications, artefacts, Gateways, escalations, triggers, groupings, compensations and BPMN notation as appropriate to process modelling |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Financial Management 1 Managerial FinanceThis module introduces students to the area of finance and financial management. It looks in detail at what financial management is and its relationship to financial accounting and management accounting. Students are introduced to interpretation of accounts, using standard ratios, with a view to making financial and investment decisions. Working capital and the management of core elements of working capital is discussed and also the area of personal finance. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the role and purpose of financial management including the relationship between financial management,financial objectives and corporate objectives. 2. Analyse and interpret financial statements for the purposes of investment decisions. 4. Discuss contemporary personal finance issuesand illustrate appropriatesolutions to a number ofpersonal finance issues facing individuals. 5. Discuss contemporary issues in financial management such as Sustainability andESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) issuesand illustrate the finance professional’srole, incorporating ethical responsibilities. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Management Accounting 2 (Acct)This syllabus is designed to introduce more complex cost determination techniques and approaches that can be used in price setting in different competitive environments. Learning Outcomes 1. Prepare and evaluate alternative costing techniques used in a modern management accounting environment |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Digital Accounting Decision MakingThis is a level 7 module, which is delivered over one semester. On completion of this module students should be provided with the knowledge of how individual and social factors impact decision making in the workplace. Learning Outcomes 1. On completion of this module the student will be able to describe how individual factors such as personality, cognitive biases, personal values and integrity, perception and interpretation of others behaviour and attitudes can impact decision making 2. Develop an understanding of how the social context of the organisation such as authority, leadership style, work roles, and organisational culture can impact people behaviour and decision making 3. Use and apply theoretical models of decision making to real world examples 4. Demonstrate an awareness of the process and application of social psychology research in the area of organisational culture and design. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Management Accounting 3 (Acct)The syllabus for Management Accounting 3, builds on the competencies acquired in Management Accounting 1. This module explores different budgeting techniques and the problems inherent in each of them. Application of budgeting techniques will be achieved through the preparation of integrated budgets The behavioural aspects of budgeting are important to understand, and the module includes consideration of the way individuals react to budgets. . The area of probability in decision-making will be introduced. Risk and uncertainty are a factor of real-life decisions and students need to understand risk and be able to apply some basic methods to help resolve the risks inherent in decision-making. The module introduces more specialised costing which exit in the modern business environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Assess and apply decision-making techniques under risk and uncertainty 2. Evaluate and apply advanced variance analysis techniques and evaluate standard costing in the modern environment 3. Develop integrated budgets and evaluate both traditional and contemporary budgeting techniques 4. Appraise and compare selected techniques within the modern manufacturing environment |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
BlockchainBlockchain is a disruptive technology platform which will transform the manner with which a multitude of industries will carry out trusted tractions. Upon completion of this module students will be able to provide an overview of the nuanced characteristics of blockchain technologies and identify blockchain solutions and services which organisations can adopt. Students will learn about various blockchain use cases from different industries such as the marine, accounting, logistics, fintech and agricultural industries. Students will also evaluate how other technologies such as cloud computing, IoT and AI are fusing with blockchain. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate what blockchain is and the fundamental characterises of blockchain technologies 2. Assess various blockchain services and deployment models 3. Identify the blockchain adoption barriers and enablers for organisations 4. Analyse blockchain governance architectures 5. Identify various blockchainsecurity threats and concerns and provide solutions to these |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Taxation 1 (Acct)The module introduces students to the concept of taxation and considers the principles of a taxation system and its role in the economy. Students will study income tax as it applies to both unincorporated bodies and employees, Capital Gains Tax for both individuals and companies, VAT and an introduction to Local Property Tax. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the operation and scope of the Irish Taxation System and the role of sustainability provisions on corporate and individual behaviour. 2. Compute the income tax liabilities of individuals and examine any alternatives availableto minimise their income tax liabilities. 3. Apply the rules of the PAYE system in dealing with employees. 5. Apply value added tax (VAT) principles and demonstrate the ability to calculate the VAT liability of chargeable persons. 6. Determine when a property is liable to Local Property Tax and calculate the LPT liability |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Financial ReportingThis module will introduce students to: – International Financial Reporting Standards. The standards will be examined both from a theoretical and practical point of view. – Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements. – Preparation of Cashflow statements. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the role and structure of the International AccountingStandards Board. 2. Discuss and apply a conceptual framework for financial reporting. 3. Prepare financial statements in a form suitable for publication with appropriate notes which conform with International AccountingStandards. 4. Evaluate and apply a selection of current International Standards 5. Apply the principles of preparing consolidated financial statements for a group of companies in accordance with accounting standards. 6. Prepare and interpret cash flow statements for single companies. 7. Discusscontemporary issues in financial reporting such as sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) reporting and illustrate the accountant’s role, includingethical responsibilities. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Corporate and Business LawThe aims of this module are to provide an insight into the main features of the Irish legal system and to provide the student with more detailed information about particular aspects of Irish and EU law which are relevant to businesses and corporate law. This module will help students to develop an appreciation of the legal implications of business and corporate structures and relationships and will assist in the understanding of the corporate legal structure in business. This module is also designed to meet the standards of professional accounting examinations and the indicative syllabus content reflects this. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify the main sources of Irish law and the Constitution, distinguishing between the concepts of criminal and civil law, andthe structure of Irish judicial system. 2. Interpret and apply the role and impact of contract law, tort law, employment law and data protection lawin abusiness context. 3. Understand and discuss different types of corporate bodies such as the sole trader, partnership, and the incorporated company, being able toexplain how they operatein Irish law, referencing the separate legal personality and when the corporate veil will be lifted. 4. Outline the significant issues arising within a company including the issue of shares and loan capital, the roles and duties of company officers and the major forms of insolvency. 5. Developanability to solve problems with reference to case law and legislation, using critical analysis and reflection, interpretation and judgement. 6. Demonstrate an ability to research, analyse and apply relevant materials to legal questions and to useparticipatory learning techniquesto engage in systematic thinking, active learning,and presentation. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Taxation 2 (Acct)This module introduces students to corporation tax. It examines the territorial scope of the tax, the preparation of a detailed corporation tax computation and the associated administration and filing requirements of the tax. In addition, the module examines group structures and reliefs, and the use of losses. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the territorial scope of corporation tax,the profits chargeable under Irish corporation tax legislation, and developments in environmental taxes. 2. Compute the corporation tax liability for a company including exposure to income withholding tax, andrecommendtax planning measures where appropriate. 3. Demonstrate the ability to compute anduse corporation tax losses both within the company and through group relief. 4. Compute Dividend Withholding tax. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Computerised Accounting PackagesThis module is designed to introduce students to computerised accounting packages. Students will complete accounting case studies to final accounts standards to enable them achieve a level of competence in the technology that is commonly used in professional practice. This module provides students with practical, hands-on experience using industry-relevant cloud-based accounting software. Through case studies and real-world scenarios, students will learn to input financial data, generate key financial reports (e.g., income statements, balance sheets), and utilise stock control features for inventory management. By the end of the module, students will have the skills to analyse and interpret financial reports, gaining the applied knowledge essential for modern accounting practices. Learning Outcomes 1. Input and manipulate financial data using a relevant, up-to-date and industry appropriate cloud based computerisedaccounting package (eg, Xero, Surf Relate, Quickbooks orequivalent) to produce financial reports including the company income statement and balance sheet. 2. Utilise the stock control sections of the applications/programme to fill orders and control re-order levels. 3. Extract and print specific reports,for example, VAT analysis summary, debtors and creditors reports. 4. Analysis and interpret the financial reports of the business entity |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Business AnalyticsBusiness analytics involves understanding the data-driven activities of a business to draw inferences to make calculated decisions with higher certainty. Business analytics encompasses a gamut of analysis around business data to draw information that could be used by the managers at various levels in an organisation. It enables fact-based decision making while extending accountability in decision making. For the purposes of this module, business analytics is defined as the process of extracting, transforming, and loading data in order to summarise it to extract information. This module introduces the learner to tools and methods for conducting business analytics. Teaching & Learning will involve a number of categories of learning activities including the acquisition of knowledge through reading websites and blogs and watching video lectures. It will also encompass discussion based learning through reflective activities, online discussion forums and synchronous learning where appropriate. Learners will also gain knowledge and skills through practice based learning where they will analyse information from a range of digital sources and develop and apply business analytics skills and techniques. Learning Outcomes 1. Manage, explore and cleanse business data for analytics |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Database for Accounting Information SystemsThe aim of this module is to build on the use of databases by applying SQL to accounting/business information for decision-making. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain database structures in Accounting Information systems and edit scripts (sql) |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Decision Theory and Data VisualisationThe objective of this module is to examine how different decision theories, decision tools and data analytical and data visualisation approaches can improve the performance of employees and organisations, and to decide the types of business problems that these theories, tools and approaches can best address. Students will learn how to critically analyse the growing variety of data visualisation options. Learning materials include online videos, forum based discussions and problem based learning. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically evaluate the role of decision theory in enhancing employee and organisational performance 2. Evaluate different decision-making methods, tools, visualisations and interactive dashboards 3. Contrast the different data analytical, data visualisation tools and methods used by organisations 4. Consider risk and uncertainty issues in decision making 5. Critically evaluate different methods for managing risk and uncertainty 6. Appraise how digital transformation can impact decision making and analysis |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Financial Management 2 Investment DecisionsThis module looks at the role of the finance manager in making investment decisions – considered to be the biggest financial decision the finance manager will make. It looks at the subsequent financing decision. Students will be expected to display a through knowledge of the various sources of finance available to an organisation to assist in any particular investment decision undertaken. Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise capital investments through the use of appropriate methods as well as justify a recommendation. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Artificial Intelligence for Digital AccountingThis module explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into digital accounting practices. Students will gain a deep understanding of AI concepts and their application in accounting, financial analysis, and business decision-making. Topics covered include AI algorithms, machine learning, data analysis, the development of AI-driven accounting solutions, and responsible AI practices. Learning Outcomes 1. Identify and apply advanced AI concepts to accounting and business problems. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Work PlacementWork placement is a key element of this programme. This module will develop the student personally and professionally and will develop knowledge, skills and competence through supervised and assessed work placement to build on the knowledge, skills and competencies acquired in their programme. The work placement will be a year-long module. Semester 5 will prepare students to go on placement. Semester 6 will be spent on placement. Semester 5 will include CV preparation, applying for and choosing a placement, attending for interview, communication skills and workplace readiness. The placement will occur in semester 6 and be of 15 weeks duration. Semester 5 will be delivered with assistance from the careers office. Placement will be co-ordinated, supported and supervised by a team across the programme board. While on placement each student will be supported by a programme board member plus a work based mentor. Learning Outcomes 1. Understandrecruitment and selection processes used by organisations, and prepare their own CVs and application documents. 2. Present and articulate their skills and experience professionally in an interview situation. 3. Apply the knowledge, skills and competencies they have learnedin their academic modulesto a working environment. 4. Participate and communicate in a professional manner as an individual andas a member of a team in the workplace. 5. Develop their professional andtechnical knowledgethrough work based learning. 6. Reflect on and analyse the work placement learning experience andunderstand their own abilities and challenges in the work environment. 7. Develop a self-improvement plan with clear outcomes and timelines in the short term and outline long term career objectives. 8. Demonstrate oral and written communication skills, individual initiative and team work skills. |
25 | Mandatory |
Year 4
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Performance ManagementThis module will evaluate and apply the principles of decision-making under risk and uncertainty. Application of the principles of transfer pricing, decentralisation and variances are core to this module. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply and critically evaluate techniques used in decision-making 2. Undertake sensitivity analysis and assess the impact of risk in decision-making using probability analysis, expected value tables and decision trees 3. Evaluate and apply different methods of establishing transfer prices and discuss the related behavioural issues 4. Apply and evaluate advanced variance analysis techniques and evaluate standard costing oin the modern environment 5. Apply, evaluate and compare the methods of assessing divisional performance 6. Evaluate strategic performance techniques in the modern environment 7. Evaluate performance management information systems |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Intelligent SystemsOn completion of this module, students should be able to apply and integrate data from various areas using analytics tools and business intelligence tools/methodologies to enable decision makers draw on this generated knowledge to create solutions in business decision-making contexts. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate anunderstanding of intelligent systemsin a decision support context. 2. Apply intelligent systemsproject management techniques 3. Analyse business problems and create solutions using intelligent systemapproaches and methodologies 4. Analyse and manipulate data using intelligent systemtechniques and tools 5. Evaluate visualisations, data transformations and predictive models in a business context |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Systems Analysis and DesignSystems Analysis is a structured process that allows for the development of international business information systems. On completion of this module, students should have used techniques such as requirements gathering, data modelling, process description and design; including Use case stories and diagrams, Data flow diagrams, Soft Systems Methods with Agile Learning Outcomes 1. Apply Structured Systems Analysis and Design Methodology (SSADM) tools and techniques and execute these within Traditional/Agile methods. 2. Analysis a business problem using tools and techniques and application of use case, context and Data Flow (Data Flow Diagrams). 3. Complete Entity Analysis and construct Entity Relationship Diagrams 4. Apply Object Oriented Analysis (Unified Modelling Language). |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Systems ProjectOn completion of this module students should be provided with the necessary skills to design and prototype a digital system to a finance/accounting/business/analytics specification, within the approaches and techniques of systems analysis life cycles. Learning Outcomes 1. On completion of this module the student will be able to identifyand analysea business scenario where digital systems can enhance the value proposition of the business 2. Design of a digital/ system using structured and/OO and/or analytical applications/tools 3. Development of a prototype digital system for the scenario 4. Presentation and communication of the digital system when completed. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Risk Management, Internal Audit and Internal ControlThis module develops the knowledge of accountancy students of Corporate Governance and Risk Management. While maintaining the overall focus of a Risk Management approach, students will gain knowledge of internal control review and internal audit. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the legal, regulatory and businessenvironment (including corporate governance) in which risk management,internal control reviewand internal audit is conducted. 2. Select and apply appropriate risk management frameworks and standards, integrating the role of internal audit and internal control review. 3. Evaluate the role of internal audit as part of the Risk Management and Internal Control Environment, including a comparison with the role of external auditor. 4. Describevarious types of internal audit assignments such as internal control review, value-for-money audits, fraud investigations. 5. Review and evaluate accounting and internal control systems in order tocommunicate control risks, potential consequences and recommendations. 6. Discuss the application of computer-assisted audit techniques and display an awareness of contemporary developments in risk management and internal audit. |
05 | Elective |
2 |
Taxation 3This module provides students with an enhanced knowledge of income tax and capital gains tax issues for both individuals and companies. In addition, students will be provided with an-depth knowledge of the fundamentals of Capital Acquistions Tax and Stamp Duty. Students will enhance their Corporation Tax knowledge relating to the tax treatment of "investment companies" and intangible assets acquired for the purposes of a trade. In addition, the module will examine international tax issues such as transfer pricing rules and country by country reporting requirements. This module will equip students with enhanced VAT knowledge relating to capital transactions to include the supply of land and buildings in Ireland and transfer of business relief. Learning Outcomes 1. Compute Capital Acquisitions Tax liabilities and demonstrate the ability to use Capital Acquistions Tax reliefs. |
05 | Elective |
Year |
Advanced Financial ReportingThe aim of this module is to discuss, apply and evaluate the concepts, principles and practices that underpin the preparation of financial statements, both individual and consolidated. Students will evaluate ethical and sustainability issues from the perspective of financial reporting. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate ethical and sustainability issues in financial reporting, including the professional duties of accountants |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Strategic FinanceThis module focuses on key corporate finance issues such as sources of finance, cost of capital, capital structure theories, impact on market values, company valuations, mergers and acquisitions, as well as risk management. The student will gain problem-solving skills and the ability to apply creative thinking skills across a range of corporate financial management scenarios. Learning Outcomes 1. Apply problem solving skills and creative thinking across a range of corporate financial management scenarios. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year |
Corporate GovernanceOn completion of this module students should gain competencies in corporate governance and improved ethical decision-making to work as a professional in accounting/finance and including risk management. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse the purposes and objectives of Corporate governance; 2. Explain and apply the key principles and concepts of corporate governance 3. Describe the nature of stakeholder relationships and behaviour of an organisation considering governance, risk and ethics. 4. Discuss waysin which governance principles and codes can be applied throughout the organisation 5. Identify and control risks in the development of problem solving approaches to ensure effective and appropriate outcomes to business issues. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year |
Business Strategy and ISBusiness and IS Strategy involves understanding the internal and external driven activities of a business. To gather its market position, identify potential business options and develop an approach as to how to implement a suitable choice. The module will also focus on the development and alignment of the IT Strategy to support its competitive position. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the impact of strategy management and planning approaches and the process to formulate the business strategy. 2. Explain the range of analytical tools to analysea company’s external and internal environment, options, choices, implementation and control 3. Determine a range of strategic options open to a company at the corporate and business unit level. 4. Identify and apply the range of tools for strategic analysis and propose appropriate strategic options and make recommendations. 5. Identify the key elements of strategy implementation and appraise a company’s efforts in strategy implementation. 6. Identify and analyse the influences and pre-planning required for an IS Strategy, recognising the various elements of IT/IS/IM and models required to formulate an aligned IS Strategy. |
10 | Mandatory |
Progression
ATU Level 8 qualifications are recognised worldwide for postgraduate entry. This programme is designed to meet the Teaching Council requirements for the teaching of Accounting to Leaving Certificate level following the completion of a Professional Master of Education (PME).
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 6 subjects at O6/H7 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | Any |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | Three Distinctions |
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Total Fees Non-EU: €12000
Subject to approval by ATU Governing Body (February 2025)
Further information on feesCareers
Graduates of this programme can continue their studies and work experience to qualify as a professional accountant working in either industry or practice.
They can specialise as a management accountant and decision maker, as a systems accountant or work in digital auditing.
They can also specialise in any IT environment within a business function, such as process design, business and data analytics, blockchain, system analysis programme development and application support.
The experience gained during the work placement in year 3 will enhance their employability upon graduation.
Professional Accreditation
Further Information
Contact Information
Department of Business and Accounting
Michelle Burke
Programme Chair
E: michelle.burke@atu.ie
Deirdre Lusby
Head of Department
T: +353 (0) 91 742222
E: deirdre.lusby@atu.ie
Business & Accounting