MSc Accounting and Finance Courses in Edinburgh: A Guide

MSc Accounting and Finance courses in Edinburgh are 1-2 year postgraduate programs. They provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in multiple fields, including finance, analysis, accounts and management. Moreover, this degree is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue a career in banking, accounting practice, finance, or asset management. Studying in the UK’s popular Edinburgh opens doors to numerous learning and career opportunities and offers a rich cultural heritage. So if this interests you, this blog can help you with everything. In this blog, you will read about MSc Accounting and Finance courses in Edinburgh, top universities, eligibility and more. 

Particulars	Details
Name of the course	MSc Accounting and Finance
Course type	Offline
Duration	1-2 years
Degree level	Postgraduate
Eligibility criteria	A bachelor’s degree in banking/finance/accounting or related field.

Why Choose MSc Accounting and Finance Courses in Edinburgh?

Now that you know what MSc Accounting and Finance is, let’s move on to the next section. Answering why you should choose to study this course in Edinburg via some points, we will try to get you an insight into the same – 

1. World-class Universities

Edinburgh is home to numerous prestigious universities including the University of Edinburgh, Queen Margaret University, and Edinburgh Napier University. These institutions are known for providing quality education and research opportunities that attract students from all around the world.

2. Welcoming for International Students

Edinburgh is a welcoming destination for students. It has secured 10th spot in the list of the best student-friendly cities in the world. Moreover, about 40% of students from the crowd of ranked universities in Edinburgh are international. It is also recognized for providing a safe environment for students to feel at ease. According to the Numbeo Safety Index 2024, Edinburgh scored 68.9 and the 75th rank in a total of 311 cities for excellent safety for international students.  

3. Easy Transportation

Edinburgh also provides convenient transportation options such as black cabs, ride-share options, and 24-hour buses. Additionally, the city’s compact size makes it easier for students to cover most local attractions on foot, making it easier for them to explore. The well-connected public transport system allows students to travel around the city with ease.

4. Affordable Living Costs

The cost of living in Edinburgh is comparatively lower than other cities. Students can find reasonable accommodation and enjoy a high-quality life on a budget. Moreover, they can also benefit from various student discounts.  

5. Festivals and Events

With about 3000 festivals taking place around the year, Edinburgh offers a vibrant culture for international students. Some of the major festivals include the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Edinburgh Art Festival, and the International Film Festival. These festivals provide a lively and fun atmosphere for international students.  

Also Read: Study in UK: University of Edinburgh Offers India Merit Scholarship for PGT Masters Students

Best Universities in Edinburgh to Pursue MSc Accounting and Finance Courses

Edinburgh is known for its world-leading institutions that provide trained faculty, high-quality education and leading universities. Below we have provided a list of the best universities in Edinburgh to pursue MSc Accounting and Finance courses along with their QS ranking 2025, fees, and more.

1. The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is considered among the best universities for pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance. It is ranked 27 in the QS World Subject Rankings for 2025. The university provides students with a theoretical understanding of the subject as well as the skills required to excel in this field. 

Category	Description
QS  World Subject Ranking 2025	27
Course name	Accounting and Finance MSc
Duration	1 year
Fee for international students	£39,500.00

Entry Requirements

• Students must have an undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, or related discipline. 
• Students need a UK first-class or 2:1 honours degree in accounting, finance, or related discipline. 
• Relevant work experience may increase your chances. 
• IELTS: total 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each component. 
• TOEFL: 100 with at least 20 in each component. 
• PTE: total 70 with at least 59 in each component. 

2. Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt University offers a 1-year master’s degree in International Accounting and Finance. There are six main courses along with a choice of specialist every semester. The course curriculum is designed to equip students with the relevant knowledge in international banking, accounting, and finance. 

Category	Description
QS Subject Ranking, 2025	256
Course name	MSc International Accounting and Finance
Duration	1 year
Fee	£20,376

Entry Requirements

• Students need a first or second-class Honours degree or its non-UK equivalent. 
• Work experience in finance is an advantage. 
• IELTS: 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components. 

3. Queen Margaret University

If you are a student with a business-related degree and wish to pursue your postgraduate in accounting and finance, Queen Margaret University can be the ideal match. It offers an MSc in Accounting and Finance with CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants). Students can pursue this 1-year full-time degree to excel professionally and academically. 

Category	Description
QS Subject Ranking, 2025	951-1000
Course name	Accounting and Finance with CIMA – MSc
Duration	1 year full time2-7 years part-time
Fee	£17,465
Application deadline	September 2024 intake: 26 July 2024January 2025 intake: end of October

Entry Requirements 

• Applicants must have a UK honours degree or an overseas equivalent in accounting/finance/business management. 
• IELTS: 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all individual components. 
• Work experience in accounting or finance is a plus. 

4. Sheffield Hallam University

Sheffield Hallam University is rated in the top 6% for excellence in teaching and research around the world. By pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance at Sheffield Hallam University, students can become well-prepared for successful careers in various industries, backed by a strong theoretical understanding of their chosen field of interest.

Category	Description
QS Subject Ranking, 2025	1001-1200
Course name	MSc Accounting and Finance
Duration	1 year
Fee	£17,205
Intakes	September 2024January 2025

Entry Requirements 

• An honours degree in accounting/banking/economics/finance
• A recognised postgraduate qualification
• IELTS: total 6.0 with at least 5.5 in all components

Also Read: Study MSc Accounting and Finance in UK

List of Documents Required

To study at any of the above-mentioned universities in Edinburgh, students are required to submit a few essential documents. The list may include:

• A filled application form from the university. 
• All academic transcripts. 
• CV/Resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)

MSc Accounting and Finance Subjects

The exact subjects or course curriculum in the MSc Accounting and Finance vary from university to university. Nonetheless, the course is designed to provide you with relevant knowledge of accounting and finance. Below we have mentioned the general core modules of this course:

• Management Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Corporate finance
• Financial Modeling
• Data Analytics
• Auditing and control
• International Financial Accounting and Reporting 
• Financial Statement Analysis

Career Scope in MSc Accounting and Finance

Graduates pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance have a wide range of career options available in various fields. They can pave the way for successful careers in fields such as banking, auditing, investment, and corporate finance. 

Job Profiles	Average Yearly Salary
Financial Analyst	£35,603
Accountant	£43,090
Auditor	£37,339
Investment Banker	£31,546
Financial Manager	£46636

Cost of Living in Edinburgh 

According to estimates, the monthly costs of studying and living in Edinburgh can be between £920 and 2,257. This estimate may include several factors such as food, accommodation, utility bills, and travel costs. 

If you are applying for a student visa to study in Edinburgh, you will be required to show that you have enough money to cover your expenses. The minimum monthly financial requirements to live in the UK can be around £1,023. 

Also Read: Cost of Living in the UK: Expense, Rent and Fees

Scholarships for International Students

International students who wish to pursue an MSc in Accounting and Finance can also apply for scholarships. Doing this can relieve some part of their financial burden, making education more accessible for meritorious students around the world. 

Scholarship name	Value
Commonwealth Scholarship	Tuition feesAirfare to and from the UKLiving allowance
Chevening Scholarships	Tuition fees
GREAT Scholarships	A minimum of £10,000
Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships	£8,000 deduction from tuition fees
Amber scholarship	Varies $3000 – $7000

Related Blogs

The University of Edinburgh Scholarships	What are the Requirements to Study in the UK?
Top Colleges & Universities in the UK	University of Edinburgh Business School
How to Make a UK Visa Application	Top Colleges & Universities in UK

FAQs

We hope that this blog has given you a complete idea about the MSc Accounting and Finance courses in Edinburgh. Discover more courses and destinations to study abroad by subscribing to Leverage Edu today. Thank you for reading!