Bachelor Of Accounting: All You Need To Know


One may not realize the importance of accounting and how it affects business in ways that go well beyond ledgers, Excel spreadsheets, and invoices.

Every business needs accounting services; thus, accountants are always in great demand to manage organisations’ finances and assist them in adapting their business strategies to unpredictable and ever-changing conditions.

With the development of various finance/accounting roles and technologies, professionals are now realising the versatility that a foundation in accounting offers, leading to either a typical numbers-focused job or a more contemporary and business-focused position.

Read on to learn about the advantages, educational alternatives, and employment prospects for accounting degree holders.

Bachelor of Accounting degree
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What is a Bachelor of Accounting degree in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting acquire knowledge about how to audit financial records, assess risks, and implement tax rules. Additionally, they acquire actual experience in financial record keeping while studying the fundamental theories and concepts of accounting.

With a bachelor’s degree in accounting, one can advise companies, organisations, and people to assist them in meeting their financial goals. Three popular bachelor’s degrees in accounting are available, among a range of other options:

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting programme equips students for entry-level accounting careers in the public, corporate, and governmental sectors. This degree is also known as a Bachelor of Accountancy at some institutions. After graduating, students may be eligible for admission to graduate or professional programmes where they can pursue CPA licensing.

Bachelor of Arts in Accounting

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting is a possibility, although it’s less typical. A BA provides more freedom in selecting electives, providing more alternatives for a minor or double major, whereas a BS emphasises accounting-related courses.

Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting integrates courses that develop analytical and quantitative abilities with studying business administration, management, and economics. Additionally, graduates of this degree can pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialisation in accounting or a graduate accounting degree.

Bachelor of Accounting prerequisites in Malaysia

The general prerequisites needed for admission into an accounting degree programme:

  1. SPM – Credit for Mathematics and pass in English
  2. STPM or equivalent – A minimum 2.0 CGPA of 2.0
  3. Foundational or a diploma -usually a CGPA of 2.0 and above
  4. International students must have an IELTS or other test of English language competence score of at least 5.5.

What will you learn in a Bachelor of Accounting?

You will learn the following fundamental principles of accounting when you enrol in an accounting degree programme:

  • Cost accounting

Analysis of the expenses associated with creating goods or services, aiding in the structure and planning of budgets, and cost-reduction.

  • Financial Accounting

The analysis, evaluation, and reporting of financial data at the company level which are given to stakeholders (shareholders, staff members, and clients) on a quarterly and annual basis.

  • Managerial Accounting

Regular financial data analysis, interpretation, and reporting (weekly, monthly, etc.); that offers details on revenue, debt, and inventory; supports management employees in corporate decisions.

  • Accounting information systems

A collection of tools, systems, software and procedures that keep track of accounting duties and processes as well as the technology used to control these tools.

  • Auditing

Examining financial records and procedures to ensure accuracy and compliance with government regulations.

  • Financial reporting standards around the world

A general established set of accounting standards used by enterprises globally to produce consistently similar financial statements.

Is a Bachelor’s in accounting difficult?

Like any other course, accounting also requires effort and dedication to succeed. Although accounting needs a complex set of talents and abilities and good attention to detail, it isn’t much more challenging than many other academic disciplines that provide excellent chances for lasting careers.

It depends on what you enjoy and are good at. For some people, accounting may be a simpler field to pursue than other possibilities.

bachelor of accounting
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How long does it take to complete a Bachelor of Accounting degree in Malaysia?

The duration of a typical Bachelor of Accounting degree in Malaysia is 3 to 4 years, depending on the university.

Why choose a Bachelor of Accounting course in Malaysia?

Here are some great reasons to study accounting in Malaysia.

Salary Potential

Accountants receive an excellent annual income with potential advancement via training and experience.

They are essential for everyday business transactions, auditing and assessment, either quarterly or after the fiscal year. During this time, accountants must deal with taxes, speculation and forecasts, and seasonally-related financial planning. Consequently, it becomes the ideal time for accountants to earn extra money freelancing.

Positive job outlook

Consider this – someone must manage the finances and accounts, deal with the banks and taxes, and other duties in a firm. 

Your services as an accountant will be required if you are a qualified professional. Therefore, the accounting industry will continue to thrive. Excellent full-time and long-term employment chances exist in the accounting field, whether you are a Malaysian or an overseas student attending a Malaysian university. 

Compelling work and job satisfaction

Accountants are essential to the financial stability of their organisations. They detect problems and offer suggestions for boosting profitability. In the rapidly evolving field of fraud detection, expert accountants can also venture into forensic accounting. This reason makes the job fascinating and incredibly satisfying.

Additionally, accounting specialists are always in demand because of complicated tax laws and expanding economies. 

Potential to start your own business or firm

To run a business efficiently, one must understand how finances should be organised and managed. Being an accountant provides a strong foundation for becoming an entrepreneur since you have a mix of technical and strategic abilities, and knowledge of how different markets and sectors operate.

A highly skilled and experienced accountant with the necessary training and credentials could one day decide to open their own accounting practice or consulting firm to provide auditing services.

Opportunity to work abroad

Upon completing an accounting degree, students are likely eligible for CPA Malaysia, CA, and ACCA professional programmes.

With credentials like the ACCA, one has access to a worldwide career and may work in more than 120 countries. In addition, one can be employed by large corporations that may transfer you to other nations. Consequently, it resembles a business passport that provides opportunities to work abroad.

What can you do with a Bachelor of Accounting degree?

Possible career options with a Bachelor of Accounting degree include:

  • Accountant
  • Financial Planner/Advisor
  • Tax Consultant
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Financial analyst
  • Auditors
  • Management accountant

Is BA or BS in accounting better?

A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting is a four-year degree with additional accounting-related courses that equip students for entry-level roles in corporate, nonprofit, or governmental accounting. This programme would be ideal for those who are sure they desire a career in accounting.

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting focuses more on electives with a broader flexible arts background. Students who are keen to pursue a double major or minor may benefit from this degree.

As such, one isn’t better than the other. The ‘better’ degree depends on your interest and future plans.

Is accounting right for me?

The answer to that question is entirely up to you and your career objectives. For example, this job can be your ideal profession if you have a flair for numbers and are interested in the financial industry. Alternatively, accounting may not be the best fit if you don’t like working with numbers. 

Where to study Bachelor of Accounting in Malaysia?

Both public and private institutions offer accounting degrees in Malaysia. Private institutions such as UOW Malaysia KDU offer Bachelor of Accounting degrees with Honours. They are job-focused programmes that equip students for an accounting profession. The curriculum has been designed to assist students in achieving their most significant professional objectives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can say that an accounting degree gives a good job outlook, opportunities for professional advancement, and high wage potential. The true appeal, however, for several people is CPA certification and the added job freedom. If you’re unsure whether you’re cut out for this industry, find out at UOW Malaysia KDU’s online career test

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29 October 2022

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Education and Career