Deciding on a degree is a big step. It’s not just about what you’ll study but also where it could take you. 

If you’re considering accounting and finance, you’re looking at a degree that’s practical, versatile and packed with career potential. But is it the right choice for you?

Maybe you’re drawn to its reputation for stability and solid job prospects, or perhaps you’re wondering if the maths and technical aspects might be overwhelming. Whatever your reasons, understanding how this degree aligns with your strengths, interests and goals is crucial.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know: how challenging the course is, what kind of skills (and how much maths) are involved, and the career opportunities it unlocks. Let’s help you decide if accounting and finance is the right fit for your future.

In this article:

Is Financial Accounting a good degree?

Yes, Financial Accounting is a great degree. It’s one of those degrees that’s practical, in-demand and always relevant. Because every business, from tech and environmental startups to multinational legal corporations, needs someone to manage their finances. You can work in any sector (whatever interests you!) and expect strong career progression too.

But is it a good degree for everyone? Or, more to the point – is it right for you?

Financial Accounting is a great course if you enjoy working with numbers and problem-solving. There’s some maths involved, but not loads. So don’t let this put you off if A Level Maths (or Further Maths) wasn’t your bag.

As part of a Financial Accounting degree (whether a BSc Hons or a BA Hons), you’ll learn to interpret and manage financial data. You’ll create and analyse financial statements, understand regulations, and develop strategies for budgeting, tax planning and financial forecasting. 

These are the building blocks of any successful business, making this degree particularly valuable if you fancy careers like banking, corporate finance or consulting. 

If you attend a Russell Group or leading non-Russell Group university, your Financial Accounting degree will carry even more clout.

How difficult is an Accounting and Finance degree?

There’s no sugar-coating it: Accounting and Finance is one of the tougher degrees. It can feel especially daunting in the first couple of years when you’re laying down the theoretical foundations – studying a mix of accounting principles, economic theory, regulations and how financial systems work. 

But don’t worry. It’s not a degree to be intimidated by. While challenging, Financial Accounting is also manageable if you’re organised and keep on top of your work. 

The key is understanding that success isn’t just about cramming for exams. Achieving a First Class or 2:1 in Financial Accounting requires consistent effort – doing your reading, attending lectures, keeping up with assignments and a solid revision plan. 

The maths involved is largely practical, dealing with financial models, cost analysis and forecasting. But it’s not overwhelming if you have a head for numbers.  

So if you’re a logical thinker who enjoys tackling complex problems, Financial Accounting is very rewarding. If you’re someone who gets stressed by deadlines or struggles with abstract theory, you might find it a bit more difficult.

Is there lots of Maths in Accounting and Finance?

Yes, there is maths in accounting and finance. But it’s not the type of maths that makes you want to run for the hills. Think of it as applied maths (i.e. building on the basics of GCSE Maths or Core Maths). You’ll work with percentages, ratios and formulas to analyse financial data and make informed decisions. 

Whether it’s calculating tax liabilities, analysing profitability, or forecasting future earnings, maths plays a key role, but it’s all practical.  

That said, if you struggled with A Level Maths, Financial Accounting might feel tricky at first. But we promise, it’s nothing you can’t handle. The maths isn’t too advanced – it’s more about learning formulas and knowing when to apply them to real-world financial problems. 

So if you’re already comfortable with basic algebra or have done well in subjects like Business or Economics, you’ll be in a good position. 

Is Accounting hard if you’re bad at Maths?

You don’t need to be a maths genius to succeed in accounting, even though it’s heavily based on numbers. While maths is involved, it’s not the advanced, complicated equations that might make you break a sweat. Instead, it’s more about using simple formulas to solve specific financial problems.  

There are also plenty of theoretical aspects of accounting, like understanding financial regulations, preparing reports, and analysing budgets, that don’t require too much in-depth maths.

So if you aren’t naturally great at maths but still enjoy working with data and solving problems, you’ll likely be fine. It’s more about getting comfortable with the maths you’ll need and learning how to apply it. 

Is Finance a hard degree?

Finance can be just as challenging as accounting, but in a different way. While accounting focuses on financial reporting, finance is about understanding broader financial systems, managing investments and making strategic financial decisions. 

Finance degrees are often more theoretical, involving topics like economic markets, asset management and portfolio theory. For instance, you might study:

• Economic markets: How they function and influence the economy.
• Asset and portfolio management: Strategically balancing investments to maximise returns.
• Corporate finance: Managing a company’s financial decisions and strategies.
• Risk management: Identifying and mitigating potential financial threats.

Finance involves analysing market trends, forecasting and decision-making on a macro scale. On the other hand, Financial Accounting focuses on preparing precise financial statements, compliance and analysing a company’s performance for stakeholders.

Finance degrees can be intense, particularly when tackling complex subjects like financial modelling, valuation techniques and global markets. However, for students fascinated by numbers, financial systems and market trends, it’s a rewarding degree with strong salary prospects in investment banking, financial analysis and asset management.

Top tip: If you aren’t sure about university, there are plenty of alternative options such as degree apprenticeships which can be fantastic routes into financial careers.

How useful is an Accounting and Finance degree?

An Accounting and Finance degree (especially a First Class degree) is incredibly useful, as it’s a qualification that’s always in demand. 

Financial Accounting equips you with practical, real-world skills in budgeting, financial forecasting and managing investments. And almost every business or organisation, regardless of size or industry, needs someone to manage its finances. Whether you’re looking at the private sector, working in government or even starting your own business, financial expertise is a skill that will never go out of style.

Thinking about university applications? Here are the hardest and easiest universities to get into in the UK, as well as a deep dive into acceptance rates  – so you can make your UCAS choices with confidence.

What jobs can I do with an Accounting and Finance degree?

An accounting and finance degree opens up a surprisingly wide range of career options. Of course, you can enjoy a fulfilling career in accounting, but you can also move into areas like management, economics and consulting.

Here are ten ideas for jobs with an Accounting and Finance degree:

1. Accounting: Includes roles in general practice, tax, audit, or forensic accounting. With certifications like ACA, ACCA or CIMA, you can pursue specialised areas like financial reporting or management accounting.
2. Financial Analysis: Evaluating data and trends to guide businesses or clients toward sound financial decisions.
3. Investment Banking: Focus on raising capital, mergers and acquisitions, and offering strategic financial advice to corporations and high-net-worth clients.
4. Auditing and Compliance: Ensure businesses meet financial regulations, comply with laws, and report accurate financial data, minimising risks.
5. Financial Planning and Advisory: Help individuals or businesses plan for the future with advice on investments, retirement,tax strategies, and wealth management. These roles often involve building long-term client relationships.
6. Economics and Market Analysis: Use financial expertise to study market trends, evaluate economic policies, and provide insights into global financial systems. Economists often work in government, research, or corporate strategy roles.
7. Financial Law: With the addition of a Law Conversion course (GDL) or the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), Financial Accounting could lay a solid foundation for a career as a lawyer specialising in banking or finance law.
8. Actuarial Science and Risk Management: Use mathematical and statistical tools to assess risks in insurance, pensions or investment planning. Actuarial roles often require additional qualifications.
9. Banking and Wealth Management: Whether in retail banking, commercial banking, or private wealth management, you’ll help individuals and businesses manage their money effectively.
10. Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership: Use your finance background to start and run your own company or lead financial operations within a business, leveraging skills in budgeting, investment and financial forecasting.

Is Finance and Accounting a good career?

Yes, finance and accounting are fantastic career choices for those who want job stability, earning potential and opportunities for progression. These sectors are critical to every business, so you’ll find plenty of demand for your skills, whether you’re in private practice or working for a corporation.  

Both fields offer career security, and with additional qualifications and experience, the earning potential is vast. Plus, finance and accounting roles often have a clear career progression – whether it’s becoming a senior accountant, financial manager or moving into a leadership role.  

Is Accounting and Finance stressful?

Like any high-stakes career, accounting and finance can be stressful, especially when dealing with tight deadlines, high expectations and large amounts of money. Accountants come under pressure at tax season or the end of the financial year, while financial analysts might be required to predict market shifts or investment outcomes.  

However, the stress is manageable with good time management, clear communication and the right knowledge. For most people, it’s an incredibly rewarding career. There’s a real sense of satisfaction that comes from solving complex financial problems, advising clients or helping a company succeed.  

Do accountants make good money?

Yes, accountants make good money. And there are multiple opportunities to increase your salary as you progress in your career. 

If you’re wondering “how much do accountants make in the UK?”, this varies. But it typically ranges from £28,000 to £40,000 in the early stages. As you gain more experience or specialise in areas like forensic accounting, tax, or audit, your salary can easily increase to £60,000 or more.  

The highest-paid type of accountant tends to be chartered accountants working in top accounting firms (like the “Big Four”), senior finance managers, or those specialising in forensic accounting or tax advisory services. Corporate roles in financial management or investment banking also offer substantial salaries for accountants with the right experience.  

For a deeper dive into salaries, including the highest-paid types of accountants, don’t miss our guide to how much accountants make.

Thinking about a career in Finance or Accounting?

A Finance and Accounting degree opens doors to stable, well-paying roles with opportunities to grow and specialise. So whether you see yourself as a trusted advisor, managing corporate budgets, or diving into investment banking, the career options are endless and exciting!

Need a hand getting started?

Our academic life coaching team has over 20 years of experience helping students and graduates land their dream jobs. From crafting standout applications to acing exams, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn your career ambitions into reality!