Why did you choose to study MSc Accounting and Finance?  

As someone with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a clear career goal of becoming a certified member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), I chose the MSc in Accounting and Finance at Queen’s Business School because of its well-rounded, industry-focused curriculum that directly aligns with my academic and professional aspirations. 
 
The programme at Queen’s stands out for its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. I wanted a course that would deepen my understanding of finance, accounting principles, and management strategies while also preparing me for real-world challenges. Queen’s University offers exactly that through hands on case studies, financial simulations, and project based learning that closely mimic the kinds of scenarios I expect to encounter in my career. 

Why did you decide to undertake postgraduate study at Queen's Business School? 

I chose to undertake my postgraduate study at Queen’s University Belfast over other institutions because of its strong reputation in both research and teaching excellence, especially within the field of accounting and finance. As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Queen’s is known for its rigorous academic standards, high-quality faculty, and commitment to producing graduates who are well-prepared for real-world challenges. This was a major factor in my decision, as I wanted to invest in an MSc program that would offer both academic credibility and practical value in the marketplace. 
 
Queen’s MSc in Accounting and Finance specifically appealed to me because of its ACCA aligned curriculum, which covers essential areas of financial reporting, auditing, and strategic management key topics that are directly relevant to my goal of becoming an ACCA certified accountant. I found few other programs that so closely matched the ACCA requirements, making Queen’s the ideal choice to prepare for my certification while deepening my expertise. 
 
Finally, I was drawn to Queen’s because of its inclusive, globally focused student community and the vibrant city of Belfast. Studying here means gaining a world-class education in a supportive, multicultural environment, which I believe will enrich my personal and professional life. Queen’s University Belfast emerged as the perfect choice to achieve my academic and career aspirations while offering an inspiring and well-rounded educational experience. 

How has this course helped towards, or shaped, your future career goals? 

The MSc in Accounting and Finance at Queen’s University Belfast has been instrumental in shaping my career goals and preparing me for a successful future in the field of finance and accounting. The course has not only deepened my technical knowledge but also provided me with practical skills and industry insights that are directly relevant to my career aspirations. 
 
Firstly, the programme’s curriculum covers a comprehensive range of subjects that are crucial for my goal of becoming an ACCA-certified accountant, including advanced financial reporting, strategic management, and auditing. The alignment of these topics with ACCA’s syllabus has strengthened my foundation for the certification exams and given me a head start in acquiring the skills and knowledge that employers value in ACCA members. 
 
Moreover, the course’s emphasis on hands-on learning has been invaluable. Through case studies, simulations, and projects, I’ve had the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, improving my analytical and problem-solving skills. 
 
The programme’s industry connections and networking events have also played a significant role in shaping my career direction. Engaging with professionals and attending guest lectures by experts in the field have expanded my understanding of current industry practices and trends, helping me develop a clearer vision of my career path. 

What were the highlights of your course and your time here at Queen's University?  

The MSc in Accounting and Finance at Queen’s University Belfast has been an incredibly rewarding experience, marked by a perfect blend of academic rigor and practical learning. The ACCA-aligned curriculum has provided me with a strong foundation for my professional goals, while hands-on projects and financial simulations have allowed me to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, enhancing my analytical and teamwork skills. 
 
The faculty’s industry expertise and commitment to student success created a supportive learning environment, and Queen’s strong industry connections have offered valuable networking opportunities, helping me expand my professional network. 
 
Additionally, Queen’s multicultural campus and the vibrant city of Belfast made my time here unforgettable, as I was able to form lasting friendships and immerse myself in a new culture. This experience has not only prepared me for my career in finance but has also enriched me personally in ways that will stay with me beyond graduation. 

Have you secured a job yet? If so what is your job title and the company you are working for? 

Not Yet. I am currently having talks with recruiters and in the process of getting one. I am looking for a senior associate role in PWC. 

If you could give one piece of advice to potential applicants to this programme, what would it be? 

If I could give one piece of advice to potential applicants to the MSc in Accounting and Finance at Queen’s Business School, it would be to fully embrace the practical learning opportunities this program offers. Engaging deeply in case studies, financial simulations, and group projects will not only help you apply theoretical concepts but also develop essential skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability qualities that are highly valued in the finance industry. The programme is designed to bridge academic knowledge with real-world applications, so making the most of these hands-on experiences will give you a strong advantage as you step into your career. 

 

Prarthana Ramakrishna Upendra

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prarthanaramakrishnaupendra@gmail.com