Over the past 20 years, we’ve seen 33,500 ACCA Students graduate with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Applied Accounting degree from Oxford Brookes University (OBU).
That's because the ACCA Qualification Applied Knowledge and Applied skills exams are considered equal to bachelor’s degree level – so our students have been able to work towards an internationally recognised degree at the same time as completing their ACCA exams.
The degree can be completed entirely online, and all they’ve needed to do on top of their commitments for achieving the ACCA Qualification is to successfully undertake an additional research and analysis project.
We find out more from a recent OBU graduate Ndifreke Effiong James.
When did your ACCA journey begin?
I started my ACCA journey and sat for my first ACCA exams in December 2018. I was eligible for exemptions from some of the exams at the Applied Skills level, but I waived these and continued to sit for Financial Reporting, Audit and Assurance, and Financial Management. This was necessary in order to be eligible for the B.Sc. (Hons) in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University.
Tell us about your experience of studying for your OBU degree?
The starting point was studying hard because I needed to score high marks in my ACCA Applied Skills exams, as an average of the scores forms a part of the degree grading.
In order to successfully achieve my degree, I was required to complete a research and analysis project, so I worked closely with a registered mentor, who was Obadina Adewunmi, ACCA.
What went in to completing the research and analysis project (RAP)?
I chose a topic I was confident in and could gather much data about. I used the lessons from the webinars from OBU by Dr Kate Ringham. I watched them on demand so many times whenever I got stuck.
I avoided plagiarism completely and ensured I referenced my work correctly from the onset. I’d recommend any future students to do this and to use Harvard referencing in Microsoft Word for a proper in-text citation and a good documented list of references all the way through.
I also subscribed to relevant publications on the industry I researched on. And this helped me stay abreast of recent developments in that industry and ensured I used data from verifiable sources.
Is there anything else you did that you think helped contribute towards your success?
I developed an attitude of accepting constructive criticism of my work from my mentor, but without losing my confidence.
Whenever the going got tough, I visualised the global opportunities this degree would bring to me, I therefore developed resilience and would pick myself up and continue the highly tasking and demanding process.
I used the examiners’ reports on unsuccessful RAP submitted by other students, and I noted possible weaknesses and avoided similar mistakes.
Do you have any tips for future OBU students?
The RAP is time demanding and highly tasking, it is advisable that students are prepared to make some sacrifices before embarking on their project.
However, it is never too late to refocus and achieve that dream. Amidst real-life distractions and hectic schedules, with a laser-like focus, strong-willed determination and an unwavering belief in your dreams, DREAMS DO COME TRUE.
What’s next for you in your career?
With this prestigious degree, I see myself well equipped to contribute innovatively, by applying the invaluable business and research skills I have gained from undertaking the OBU degree and my ACCA Qualification, in any of the world’s top organisations and in any setting I find myself, as the world navigates through the new normal.
I also intend on using this degree for post graduate studies. With utmost enthusiasm, I look forward to exploring all the opportunities associated with this new reality of mine.