8 best colleges in the world for a BAF program

The accounting industry has grown steadily even post the pandemic. Some of the leading finance and accounting firms of the world reported combined revenue of over USD 157 billion in the last financial year. With the industry growing at such an exponential rate, there are several career opportunities for aspirants with a drive to succeed. However, without the right training and educational qualifications, you might not be able to get very far. This is where a BAF program comes in!

A BAF program is an undergraduate course for anyone looking to make a career in finance. The course explores areas like accounting, financial institutions, market systems, management, business, etc. It also helps students build an understanding of investment analytics, auditing, and financial management.

A good program syllabus with training by industry experts can facilitate a stable foundation for a career in this field. Listed below are 8 of the best colleges in the world for a Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance program.

1. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

The Nanyang Technological University is one of the best universities in Singapore and offers extensive training to students in several different fields, including finance. The undergraduate accounting program at the university is 3-year BAF honors program. The course is quite competent and focuses on the fundamentals of the field, teaching subjects like statistics and analysis, business law, financial management, and marketing.

It also helps students train for numerous responsibilities of senior positions, such as managing directors, chief financial officers, and partners of reputed accounting firms. 

2. Massey University, New Zealand 

Massey University in New Zealand offers a 3-year undergraduate Finance program for aspirants seeking opportunities in the country. This course is also available in part-time and distance-learning modes for international students. The program helps students develop a firm theoretical foundation and skills for analysis, logic, and decision-making.

You will also learn a great deal about financial markets, investments, financial institutions, and risk management practices. A graduate from this program will have a firm base in communication, law, marketing, management, finance, economics, and accounting. 

3. New York University, USA

New York University’s Stern Department of Accounting offers a BAF program that is recognized among the top 10 accounting programs in the country. Students specializing in accounting receive training in how to interpret reports generated in accountancy firms. You will also have several elective courses to choose from. Like the interpretation of financial statements, construction of information systems in accounting, the impact of a management’s reporting options, and the influence of tax on different business strategies. 

4. Australian National University, Australia 

Australia is a great country to have a career in finance. The Australian National University provides a 3-year undergraduate financial program which is among the best finance programs in the country. You will be trained to sharpen your analytical abilities to help solve financial problems. The employment opportunities with this degree include Corporate Treasurer, Mathematical Statistician, Financial Manager, Financial Dealer, Operations Manager, and more. You will also learn to recognize how derivatives work in financial markets, bonds, equities, and the role of financial and investment decisions!

5. Dublin City University, Ireland 

The Dublin City University in Ireland offers a 3 year full-time BAF program for national and international students. This program aims at providing in-depth knowledge of the theory and practicality of accountancy and finance. It has 3 prime components – Accounting, Finance, and Business. Here, you will learn about ethical and auditing modules, taxation, and management accounting as part of the accounting modules.

The finance part of the program covers various economic principles and topics such as corporate finance and investments. Whereas the business component teaches students about the different business principles via a study of subjects like – business strategy, IT, HR, management, psychology, and commercial law. 

6. University of Limerick, Ireland 

The University of Limerick in Ireland has a dedicated Department of Accounting and Finance which is among the most reputed in the country. The B.A. in Law and Accounting program offered by the department is impeccable. You will have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of concentrations including Finance and Economics, Insurance, Risk Management, and Accounting and Finance. 

The average duration of a course from this department is 4 years. Here, you will receive training in insurance, risk management, economics, accounting, marketing, and human resource management. This will grant you a wide range of relevant skills required in international accountancy bodies and financial markets.

7. London School of Economics and Political Science, UK 

The London School of Economics offers a 3-year undergraduate program in Accounting and Finance that is among the most reputed in the country. One of the key differentiators between this course and other BAF courses is its core connection to different social science disciplines. 

Students of this program receive training on evaluation, reporting, and calculation of organizational processes. Additionally, a graduate from this program will be able to recognize the fine lines between sustainability and performance management, risk and financial management, policy creation and change, and regulation and governance. After a BAF degree from the London School of Economics, you can opt for careers like-

• Public Defense and Administration 
• Computer Consultancy and Programming 
• Accounting
• Legalities 
• Financial Services and Consultancies 

8. York University, Canada 

York University is recognized as among the most prestigious universities in Canada. It offers one of the best undergraduate programs in Finance and Accounting. Through this course, you will receive training in a wide range of technical skills. An integral skill required in this industry is problem-solving abilities, which you will gain under the guidance and support of industry experts.

Last thoughts

All of the BAF programs offered by the above universities are recognized for their value and professional associations. So-

1. Opt for the university that offers a program most aligned with your interests and goals. The result will be a qualification that provides you with all the skills you need to make a mark in the field of Finance and Accounting!
2. There are several factors you should consider while choosing the right university. Check them out here. 

Also-

1. Undertaking technical skill courses can be a great way to support your learning as your pursue a BAF course.
2. One of the key aspects of this program is accreditation to several professional bodies such as the Association of International Accountants, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. So make sure to get an accreditation as you pursue your career in Accounting and Finance.

FAQs 

1. What is the ACCA? 

Answer – The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is an international accountancy body across 170 different countries. The ACCA accreditation is among the most reputed certifications in the field. 

2. What careers can I consider after completing a BAF program?

Answer – The different careers that you can consider include Company Secretary, Chartered Financial Analyst, Financial Risk Manager, and Chartered Accountant. 

3. What is the average salary I can expect in Accounting and Finance?

Answer – The average expected salary can be around USD 55,822 per year.