The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the University of London have announced a major new collaboration to launch an integrated BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy programme, designed to give students worldwide the opportunity to earn both an academic degree and a professional qualification in one streamlined study path.
Announced on 28 May 2025, this initiative allows students pursuing the ACCA Qualification to simultaneously complete the University of London’s BSc (Hons) in Professional Accountancy, making it easier and more efficient to achieve both credentials. Students will be able to apply for the programme from December 2025.
With over 252,500 members and 526,000 future members in 180 countries, ACCA’s reach across Asia makes this development particularly significant for aspiring accountants in the region. It is expected to support the professional ambitions of students in emerging markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, where demand for globally recognised qualifications continues to rise.
Alan Hatfield, ACCA executive director for content, quality and innovation, said, “Choosing between a professional and an academic qualification is a significant dilemma for many students. This new route offers a great career launchpad for those who want to do both at the same time.”
The programme provides flexibility for students to study online globally, with options for supported online learning or, where available, in-person tuition through the University of London’s network of Recognised Teaching Centres. This is expected to benefit working professionals and those in remote or underserved areas across Southeast Asia.
Dr Sky Zheng, executive director of the University of London Worldwide, noted, “This BSc programme, delivered in collaboration with ACCA, gives students the best of both worlds—gaining both credentials simultaneously to improve their career prospects in global accountancy. We look forward to helping develop the next generation of qualified professionals who can meet the evolving demands of the business world.”
To enrol, students must have completed seven ACCA Applied Knowledge and Applied Skills papers. They will then complete two University of London modules aligned to ACCA’s Performance Management and Financial Management papers, as well as a Project module. The BSc can be completed in as little as 12 months, with a maximum duration of three years to allow for flexibility.
This latest initiative builds on a longstanding partnership between ACCA and the University of London. Since 2015, they have offered a Master’s in Professional Accountancy, allowing ACCA members and affiliates to obtain a postgraduate degree alongside their professional certification. The new BSc programme now extends this opportunity to undergraduates.
The move underscores both institutions’ shared commitment to widening access to education and equipping students with skills for the future workforce. 