The module provides a basic understanding of how accounting information can be used to interpret the financial position and performance of a business in an international scenario. It will also develop key skills in relation to how accounting information can inform planning and control decisions in multinational companies. The key principles and international standards upon which financial accounting is based and the form and content of the main financial statements prepared by different types of businesses, with a focus on public limited companies will be studied. The importance of corporate governance in modern businesses and the financial situation and performance of a global corporation by means of ratio analysis will be analysed as well as the importance of cost information for decision making purposes. This module covers the key internationally recognised management accounting techniques that modern businesses use for short-term and long-term decision making.
Indicative areas of the syllabus include:
• Concepts underpinning accounting systems and financial statements
• The construction of the primary financial statements and their interpretation and evaluation
• Classification and behaviour of costs and their use in short-term and long-term decision making
• Responsibility accounting systems and performance appraisal measures, including the balanced scorecard and budgeting
Total contact hours: 24
Private study hours: 126
Total study hours: 150
Main assessment methods
Individual Assignment - Financial Statement Analysis (1500 words) (70%)
Group Report - The Balanced Scorecard – (3000 words) including an individual reflective account (300 words) (30%).
Reassessment method:
100% coursework
Gowthorpe, C., (2018) Business Accounting and Finance (4th Ed) Cengage
Collier, P. M., (2015) Accounting for Managers (5th Ed) Wiley Publishing
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the link between business and accounting in an international context and the principles upon which accounting is based
- Critically evaluate the relationship of financial reporting to the management process
- Understand the role, relevance and responsibilities of the various parties in the corporate governance process
- Analyse and critically evaluate the financial statements of global corporations and the management of their cash cycle
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the differences between financial accounting and management accounting
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of relevant costs and benefits for decisions (both short and long term) in multinational companies
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of internationally recognised budgeting practices and their managerial role
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
- Select, organise, develop and synthesis complex material
- Plan, work and study independently
- Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences and/or using a variety of methods
- Undertake research tasks with the minimum of guidance
- Work effectively with others
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
