Welcome to your Accounting and Finance course

Welcome to the MSc Course in International Finance and Accounting at Staffordshire University's esteemed Business School!

I am delighted that you have chosen to embark on this transformative journey with us. As you join our MSc Course International Finance and Accounting, you are entering a dynamic and ever-evolving area of study that plays a crucial role in shaping global businesses and economies.

Throughout this comprehensive programme, you will be guided by our accomplished faculty who are experts in their respective domains. They bring a wealth of industry experience and academic excellence, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of education and practical insights.

The MSc Course International Finance and Accounting is designed to equip you with a solid foundation in Corporate Finance and Investment principles and applications, accounting practices, and their application in an international context with special application to multinational corporations (MNCs). From understanding financial markets and instruments, financing and financial risk management of MNCs to analysing complex financial statements, you will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make strategic financial decisions with confidence.

Moreover, our curriculum emphasizes a global perspective, allowing you to grasp the intricacies of international financial systems, navigate cross-border challenges, and explore the opportunities offered by a diverse and interconnected world.

At Staffordshire University, we foster a vibrant and inclusive learning environment, encouraging intellectual curiosity and collaborative learning. As you interact with your peers from various cultural backgrounds, you will gain valuable insights and build a network of diverse professionals, which will prove invaluable in your future career endeavours. Furthermore, your study of a unique International Consultancy in Practice module, involving visits to MNCs and talks by executives of these MNCs provides a distinctive experience and networking opportunities with international business leaders.

Our campus and resources are designed to support your academic growth and personal development. You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, research centres, and a range of student support services to help you excel academically and embrace a holistic university experience.

We believe that your time with us will be intellectually stimulating, culturally enriching, and personally rewarding. The knowledge and skills you gain here will undoubtedly shape you into a well-rounded, globally aware professional, ready to tackle challenges and drive positive changes in the world of finance and accounting.

Once again, welcome to Staffordshire Business School! We are excited to accompany you on this transformative journey and look forward to witnessing your growth and accomplishments.

Best wishes for a fulfilling and successful academic experience!

Sincerely,

Dr Ahmad Mlouk, Course Leader MSc International Finance & Accounting Staffordshire Business School, Staffordshire University.

Your staff team

We want to make sure you know some of our team before you arrive. Hopefully this will help you recognise us and ensure you know who you can contact if you need any additional help and guidance.

Dr Ahmad Mlouk

Senior Lecturer

At Staffordshire Business School, Dr Mlouk has taught a wide range of subjects/modules at undergraduate, Postgraduate and professional levels. These modules included: Business Finance, Corporate Governance, Corporate Finance, International Corpo…

Ahmad's profile

First activity

Individual modules will start gently to provide background to the module subject area.

Course delivery

As your Course Leader, I would like to set your expectations for in-person and online learning, class sizes, and session types:

In-Person Learning:

Environment: Our in-person classes aim to create a conducive and engaging learning environment. We encourage active participation, discussions, and hands-on activities to enhance your understanding of the subjects.
Interaction: You will have the opportunity to interact face-to-face with your peers and the lecturers, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
Networking: In-person learning provides excellent networking opportunities with your fellow students, faculty members, and potential future colleagues.
Class Size: To ensure personalised attention, our class sizes are kept moderate, allowing for meaningful interactions and individualised support.
Safety: Your safety is our top priority. In-person classes will adhere to all recommended health and safety guidelines to provide a secure learning environment.

Online Learning:

Flexibility: Online study offers the flexibility to access course materials and lectures at your own pace, allowing you to balance your studies with other commitments.
Interaction: Engaging with peers and lecturers will primarily occur through online platforms, discussion forums, and virtual meetings, ensuring active participation and learning from diverse perspectives.
Tech Requirements: You will need a reliable internet connection and a device (computer, tablet, or smartphone) to access the online learning materials and participate in virtual sessions (where available).
Support: Our University provides technical support to assist you with any online learning-related issues you may encounter.
Virtual Resources: You'll have access to a range of digital resources, including e-books, multimedia contents, and online libraries, to enrich your learning experience.

Class Sizes:

In-Person Classes: We aim to maintain moderate class sizes to facilitate meaningful interactions and personalised attention from the lecturers.
Online Classes (where conducted): The capacity of online classes may vary depending on the module, but we strive to maintain manageable group sizes to promote effective online discussions and engagement.

Session Types:

Lectures: Both in-person and online classes will include lectures to deliver key course contents and concepts in a structured manner.
Seminars: Depending on the module, we may also conduct seminars or group discussions to encourage critical thinking, analysis, and deeper understanding of the material.
Workshops: Where relevant, workshops may be held to provide hands-on practice, skill development, or group projects.
Guest Speakers: We may invite guest speakers from relevant industries or academia to enrich your learning experience with real-world insights and expertise.

Please keep in mind that these guidelines may vary depending on specific modules and lecturer preferences. We look forward to providing you with a rewarding and fulfilling learning experience!

Pre-learning

Alexander, David, Ann Jorissen, Martin Hoogendoorn, Carien van Mourik and Collette Kirwan (2020) International Financial Reporting and Analysis, 8^th Edition, Cengage Learning EMEA. IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED YOU PURCHASE THIS BOOK.

Pendelbury, M., and R. Groves (Latest Ed.) Company Accounts: Analysis, Interpretation and Understanding, Thomson.

Selected Useful Web Sites:

http://www.accaglobal.com/

http://www.accountancymag.co.uk/

http://www.asb.org.uk/

http://www.carol.co.uk/

http://www.cimaglobal.com/

http://www.frrp.org.uk/

http://www.frc.org.uk

http://www.fca.gov.uk/

http://www.ft.com/

http://www.kpmg.com/index.asp

http://www.iasc.org.uk/cmt/0001.asp

http://www.ifrs.org

http://www.icaew.co.uk/

http://www.londonstockexchange.com/

https://www.fca.org.uk/investsmart/5-questions-ask-you-invest

https://www.investopedia.com/articles/basics/06/invest1000.asp

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/excel-for-investment-professionals/using-excel-to-make-sound-investments?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/finance-foundations-2018/the-essence-of-finance?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/excel-for-banking-professionals/using-excel-in-banking-careers?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/excel-for-banking-professionals/using-excel-in-corporate-finance-actions?resume=false&u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/excel-for-banking-professionals/investment-portfolio-management-with-excel?resume=false&u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/ai-in-fintech-essential-training/how-can-ai-help-in-financial-tech?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/blockchain-basics-14414119/building-trust-through-software-code?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/top-10-skills-for-fintech-analysts/skills-for-fintech-analysts?u=35633836

https://www.linkedin.com/learning/top-10-skills-for-fintech-analysts/understanding-of-financial-technology?resume=false&u=35633836

https://fintechmagazine.com/articles

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/fintech.asp

DeMarzo, P. and BERK, J. (2023) Corporate Finance, global edition. 6th edn. S.l.: PEARSON EDUCATION LIMITED.

Trips and activities

Module: International Consultancy in Practice

There will be a residential trip for up to 5 days for this module.

This is normally an international trip but it could be in the UK.

Equipment and software

Software you can download before you start your course

Download software

Academic skills

Whether you're joining us from school or college, or you're returning to education after some time away, everyone can benefit from the Academic Study Skills resources provided by the University library.

The Academic Skills team is here to support you throughout your academic journey and to help you gain the skills you need to reach your full potential. They can assist with academic reading and writing skills, give advice on how best to plan assignments, and help improve your time management.

The library's Academic Skills Guides offer the key information to make studying easier and give a comprehensive guide to the learning resources and services we offer.

Staffs CampusConnect

Staffs CampusConnect is our student-led community app for new students. Connect with other people from your course, hometown or country, and even those with similar interests.

To register, please ensure you use your Applicant ID (Student Number) that you received in your offer letter, and the email address you used in your application to us.

Register for CampusConnect

Welcome website

Our welcome website will provide you the link to your new student life. It's all about how you find your place at university, including everything from how to meet friends, feel confident in doing your academic work, being a member of your Student Union and getting involved in Union Societies, Academic Societies, Sports, Volunteering or representing your peers in your School.

Part of this Welcome Week - we have an exciting program of University and course level activities planned for you for your first week in September. We are also building an extended program for you to join a series of events throughout the first half of the autumn term. Further details will be shared with you via the Welcome website and Students' Union pages over the coming weeks.

Welcome website

Campus map

Use our campus map to familiarise yourself with our campus before you arrive.

Campus map (PDF)

Check your email

Please make sure you check your personal email account regularly over the next few weeks. We will be sending you lots of information about Welcome Week.

We are really looking forward to you joining the School of Justice, Security and Sustainability in September. If you have any questions, please contact your Course Leader, Dr Ahmad Mlouk (a.mlouk@staffs.ac.uk).