International accounting

This module provides an opportunity to gain real world accounting expertise within an international context. It brings into focus the context of accounting information taking into account wider social, political, economic, natural and cultural environments.

It is suited to students who wish to acquire an international perspective on contemporary issues relating to accounting and finance.

Topics covered

• Introduction to Comparative International Accounting – theory and practice
• Regulation of Accounting
• Conceptual Framework
• Presentation of Financial Statements
• International Accounting Standards Part 1
• International Accounting Standards Part 2
• Consolidated Accounts Part 1
• Consolidated Accounts Part 2
• Statement Analysis
• Comparative Accounting – Europe, Americas and Asia

Learning outcomes

If you complete the module successfully, you should be able to:

• describe the causes and nature of differences in international financial reporting.
• explain and discuss the regulation of accounting.
• explain and evaluate the conceptual framework of financial reporting.
• understand the theory and practice of consolidated group accounts.
• synthesise and use accounting information and knowledge effectively.
• describe and discuss some of the key International Accounting Standards.
• understand the nature of Interpretation of financial statements in an international context.
• identify, evaluate, and critically appraise alternative accounting techniques.
• numeracy and quantitative skills applied to international accounting scenarios.
• demonstrate high personal effectiveness, applying critical self-awareness and personal resource management in the context of a diverse business environment.
• apply effective communication skills of complex solutions to business related decisions.
• demonstrate digital and information literacy skills.
• demonstrate time management skills (including the ability to manage and prioritise work in order to achieve goals effectively and meeting critical deadlines).
• apply complex problem-solving skills within the international accounting arena.
• apply research skills into an international accounting related business problem and the ability to apply these in the assembling and analysis of data collected.

Assessment

This module is assessed by:

• Coursework (50% weighting):
• There is one item of coursework for this module which contributes to the final assessment mark for this module.
• Coursework: a written essay of a maximum of 2,000 or 2,500 words (deadline – weeks 9-12) The coursework is designed to check student progress, extend and reinforce concepts covered and also test individual performance.
• Examination (50% weighting):
• The final piece of assessment will be an unseen written examination of 2 hours’ duration.

Essential reading

The following is provided as part of the module materials after you register:

• Choi, F and Meek, G International Accounting (Pearson, 2014) 7th edition Pearson New International Edition
• Melville, A International Financial Reporting (Pearson, 2015) 5th Edition