Business Accounting and Finance with work placements BSc Honours
- UCAS code: NN14
- Full time
- 4 years
This four-year Flying Start degree offers the best of both worlds. It mixes traditional academic study with integrated paid work placements at PwC, giving you a fast track route into chartered accountancy.
You are currently viewing course information for entry year: 2026
Next start date:
- September 2026
UCAS Institution name and code:
- NEWC / N21
Course overview
Our Business Accounting and Finance with work placement BSc honours degree will give you a flying start and accelerate your progress towards being an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. Put classroom theory into commercial practice with three integrated paid work placements.
The ‘Flying Start’ degree is a collaboration between Newcastle University, PwC and ICAEW.
Set up in 2002, it is the most established course of its kind. It continues to evolve with the accounting profession.
In 2025, the ICAEW's ACA qualification is changing to the Next Generation ACA. The Newcastle Flying Start degree will reflect those changes, ensuring that our graduates are prepared for the future. It combines:
- academic study
- integrated paid professional work placements in PwC’s Audit practice
You'll progress towards the ICAEW Chartered Accountancy qualification, the ACA.
A team of dedicated staff from both Newcastle University and PwC will support you throughout your journey. They'll help you:
- develop the business skills you need to gain a degree
- progress towards a professional qualification
- succeed on paid work placements
This will help you towards hopefully receiving a full-time graduate offer with PwC. You could be a fully-qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountant just over a year after graduation - a truly flying start.
This degree was designed with, and is professionally accredited by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
Successful graduates of this degree will have completed 12 of the 14 papers of the ICAEW Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification.
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Your course and study experience - disclaimers and terms and conditions
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.
View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2025-26.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.
Quality and ranking
Professional accreditation and recognition
All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body.
Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Featured module
AFM2104: Assurance, Risk and ReportingThis core Flying Start module is essential to being an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. You will learn how to prepare and present financial statements from accounting data. You'll also learn to identify and interpret information using data analytics software. You'll practice this in your PwC placements at real audit clients.

Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions
You will spend the first full academic year at university. This will help you to settle into student life in Newcastle.
In Stage 1, you'll have a comprehensive introduction to key areas of business, accounting and finance. Modules cover:
- financial accounting
- management accounting and finance
- sustainability and ethics
- quantitative methods and assurance
- industry economics
- professional skills
- business law
Please note: All module information is subject to change.
Modules
In Stage 2, you'll deepen your knowledge. You'll cover areas including:
- assurance, risk and reporting
- business and digital strategy
- tax fundamentals
- fundamental case study
From December to Easter, you'll complete your first paid work placement at PwC. You will work in a professional accountancy practice environment and apply your learning to real-life scenarios.
Please note: All module information is subject to change.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Assurance and Tax | 20 |
Business and Digital Strategy | 20 |
Fundamentals Case Study | 10 |
Assurance, Risk and Reporting | 30 |
Stage 2 Placement | 40 |
NCL Edge: Business Accounting and Finance Stage 2 | 0 |
Stage 3 includes another paid placement at PwC. This will allow you to further develop your professional skills relating to audit, assurance, financial reporting and taxation.
You'll also study modules in:
- corporate financial strategy
- tax compliance and planning
- corporate reporting, data and assurance
From December to Easter, you'll complete your second paid work placement at PwC. You will work in a professional accountancy practice environment and apply your learning to real-life scenarios.
Please note: All module information is subject to change.
Modules
Compulsory Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Stage 3 Placement | 40 |
Business Planning: Taxation | 30 |
Financial Accounting and Reporting | 25 |
Business Finance | 25 |
NCL Edge: Business Accounting and Finance Stage 3 | 0 |
In Stage 4, you'll study advanced areas such as:
- contemporary industry issues
- strategic business advice
- strategic business issues
From mid-November to Easter, you'll gain even more auditing experience during your final paid placement at PwC.
Please note: All module information is subject to change.
Modules
We base these figures and graphs on the most up-to-date information available to us. They are based on the modules chosen by our students in 2024-25.
Teaching time is made up of:
- scheduled learning and teaching activities. These are timetabled activities with a member of staff present.
- structured guided learning. These are activities developed by staff to support engagement with module learning. Students or groups of students undertake these activities without direct staff participation or supervision
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
You'll learn through a combination of:
- lectures
- seminars
- tutorials
- workshops
- professional placements
Assessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
-
Assignments – written or fieldwork
-
Case studies
-
Coursework
-
Dissertation or research project
-
Essays
-
Examinations – practical or online
-
Group work
-
Presentations
-
Reflective report/journal
-
Reports
-
Seminar tasks/exercises
Skills and experience
Real business skills
You'll complete over 200 days of paid qualifying technical work experience.
You will work with real clients as part of PwC’s Audit Team during the second, third and fourth year of your degree. This placement will allow you to put your knowledge into practice. These days also count as approximately half of the work experience required to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
Within the professional skills element of this degree, you'll also develop skills in:
- time management
- self-motivation
- teamwork
- research
Research skills
Our teaching is informed by the latest research to ensure that your studies are always in line with the most up-to-date industry thinking.
Opportunities
Work placement
You'll work on real projects for real clients as part of PwC's audit team, you will develop new skills and gain a broad knowledge of business issues. You'll receive an attractive salary with paid holiday during your placement. Paid accommodation on work placement can also be provided, if needed.
There are various opportunities across the UK. PwC will provide practical help and financial relocation assistance, should you need it.
Your placements in Stages 2 and 3 run from January to Easter. Before each placement, you'll receive a PwC training programme in December. After each placement, you return to University for the summer term. You have a placement debrief, final tuition and assessment.
In Stage 4, your placement runs from mid-November to Easter. You gain further auditing experience and are likely to be supervising others.
Facilities and environment
Facilities
Newcastle University Business School is one of the largest Schools in the University. We have over 4,000 students from over 85 countries. This valuable community extends beyond our current students to include:
- regional, national and international leaders
- over 37,000 alumni in our network, spanning 152 countries
- leading professional and academics who are experts in their field
- businesses and partners in academe
The Business School is the gateway to Newcastle Helix - a landmark 24 acre hybrid city quarter. It brings together researchers, business and communities with the purpose of helping families, communities and cities around the world live healthier, longer, smarter, and easier lives.
We have two buildings – the Business School and the Frederick Douglass Centre (FDC). Both offer a range of purpose-build facilities, including.
- computer clusters housing over 120 PCs, plus open IT spaces for laptops
- seven large lecture theatres, plus a 750-seat auditorium – the largest in the University
- 25 seminar and teaching spaces, many with flexible furniture to accommodate learning
- a dedicated Student Hub and Quiet Space, providing a mix of space for group work, individual study, or quiet study
- study pods, some with wall mounted screens, and bookable rooms for working in groups or individually
- a contemporary café, refurbished in 2025
- two dedicated hubs for employability support and events
- a Bloomberg lab with over 20 terminals, so you can experience a real trading room floor
- Experimental and Behavioural Economics Lab, a state-of-the-art research facility for conducting studies in experimental economics and economic psychology
- a flexible conference room with panoramic views across the city and St. James’ Park, which doubles up as a large flexible teaching space
Accessibility
The Business School values individual differences and the diversity this brings. Our buildings are accessible and user friendly. We have a range of adjustments that can support you when moving around our buildings, such as lifts and accessible toilets. The FDC also offers gender-neutral toilets.

Support
Your teaching and learning is supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You'll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:
- module handbooks
- course materials
- groups
- course announcements and notifications
- written feedback
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:
- peer mentors – fellow students who can help you settle in and answer any questions you have.
- academics
- personal tutor – an academic member of staff to support with academic and personal issues
- our University Student Services Team
- student representatives
- wellbeing colleagues
- employability, graduate outcomes and placement and study abroad teams
Your future
This course will equip you with the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to become a part-qualified, professional chartered accountant.
Graduates have gone into roles such as:
- chartered accountant
- financial accountant
- senior associate in assurance
- auditor
Since 2002, 100% of our graduates secured positions with PwC.*
If offered a position with PwC, you'll join the company on a graduate programme. You'll complete:
- the ICAEW ACA Advanced Level
- the remaining technical work experience required
This means that you could become a fully-qualified ICAEW Chartered Accountant just over a year after graduation.
*Graduates are not under any obligation to join PwC when they leave university.
Industry links
We deliver this degree in partnership with PwC and ICAEW. This means you'll have regular interaction with the profession.
You'll learn from qualified chartered accountants. You will gain insights into the sector, with regular guest lectures from PwC and ICAEW professionals.
Make a difference
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Careers support
Career development and employability are woven throughout our teaching, learning and student experience.
The School has dedicated employability support and career spaces in the School to support our students on their career journey. Find out more about our employability offer.
You'll have access to a wealth of resources and support to enhance your employability, including:
- the annual Careers Success Week event, tailored to different industry areas
- interwoven employability provision
- access to a dedicated placement officer within the Business School who can help you find a work placement in your area of interest
- specialist careers and business start-up support from the University's Careers Service and the Business School's careers consultants
- career management sessions with a careers consultant
- work experience opportunities while studying with us
- Business School summer internship scheme
We're also one of 140 business schools worldwide to be accredited by the EQUIS scheme for our managerial and entrepreneurial skills development.
Our Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Visit our Careers Service website
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications.
Our entry requirements and offer information will be finalised in September 2025, when UCAS opens for 2026 entry. Please check the website for any updates at the beginning of September.
A-Level | |
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International Baccalaureate | |
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Other UK and the Republic of Ireland qualifications
Contextual Offers
Through one of our contextual routes, you could receive an offer of up to three grades lower than the typical requirements.
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
Entrance courses (INTO)
International Pathway courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
These courses are specifically designed for international students who want to study in the UK and progress onto one of our undergraduate degrees. Our International Study Centre, has a range of study options including:
- International Foundation
- International Year One
- English Language courses
Find out more about International Pathway courses
Admissions policy
This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
University Admissions Policy and related policies and procedures
Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course.
Additional application information
Due to certain visa restrictions, PwC need to check your eligibility for the programme and any subsequent graduate offer that could be made to you, before we can progress your application.
After you apply
Your UCAS form will be reviewed by a member of staff. Following this review, we may also invite you to complete some online assessments. These will include an online interview and Assessment Centre.
Online interview
The online interview is run by PwC. This can be taken at a time and place to suit you, as long as there is sufficient time before the Assessment Centre (we’ll advise you of the deadlines). You will have the opportunity to practice questions and find out more about PwC by completing this exercise. Your interview will be reviewed by PwC.
Assessment Centre
The Assessment Centres are held online in February and March.
The Assessment Centre involves a group assessment exercise and is conducted by PwC. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions. This will allow you to get a good feel for what the programme is about.
At the end of the Assessment Centre, we will consider the results of your online assessments and group assessment exercise.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Tuition fees for academic year 2026-2027
The 2026 entry home fees have not yet been confirmed.
Qualification: BSc Honours | |
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Home students full time 4 years |
Tuition fees (Year 1)
Not set |
International students full time 4 years |
Tuition fees (Year 1)
Not set |
Bursary
We also offer a Flying Start financial bursary, aimed at supporting students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds with the day-to-day costs of university life, to support our students to be the best they can be.
Find out more about our Flying Start financial bursary.
Fee reduction
You will spend part of your degree in stages 2, 3 and 4 on placement with PwC. Your tuition fee for each year will be reduced to reflect this.
Year abroad and additional costs
For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.
Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.
Scholarships
Find out more about:
Open days and events
You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year at our on-campus and virtual open days.
You'll be able to:
- explore our beautiful campus
- find out about our vibrant city
- discover what students think about studying at Newcastle
You'll also have the opportunity to speak to academic staff and find out more about the subjects you're interested in.
Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually.
We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University. Visit our events calendar to find out when we're visiting your region.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:
- the UCAS name and institution codes for Newcastle University (NEWC/N21)
- the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
- the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college
If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.
Apply through UCASApply through an agent
International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.
Get in touch
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