BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education Institute/Academy (Singapore) Programme Specification Primary Purpose: Course management, monitoring and quality assurance. Secondary Purpose: Detailed information for students, staff and employers. Current students should refer to the related Course Handbook for further detail. Disclaimer: The University of Portsmouth has checked the information given in this Programme Specification and believes it to be correct. We will endeavour to deliver the course in keeping with this Programme Specification but reserve the right to change the content, timetabling and administration of the course whilst maintaining equivalent academic standards and quality. Copyright The contents of this document are the copyright of the University of Portsmouth and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the University of Portsmouth.
Contents Programme Specification 1. Named Awards... 1 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable)... 1 3. Awarding Body... 1 4. Teaching Institution... 1 5. Accrediting Body... 1 6. QAA Benchmark Groups... 1 7. Document Control Information... 1 8. Effective Session... 1 9. Author... 1 10. Faculty... 1 11. Department... 1 12. Educational Aims... 1 13. Reference Points... 2 14. Learning Outcomes... 2 A. Knowledge and Understanding of:... 2 B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to:... 3 C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills, able to:... 3 D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills, able to:... 3 15. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements... 4 16. Employability Statement... 4 17. Support for Student Learning... 4 18. Admissions Criteria... 4 A. Academic Admissions Criteria... 4 B. Disability... 5 19. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching... 5 A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation... 5 B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation... 5 C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback... 5 D. Staff Development Priorities... 6 20. Assessment Strategy... 6 21. Assessment Regulations... 6 22. Role of Externals... 6 23. Indicators of Standards and Quality... 7 A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition... 7 B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent)... 7 C. Quality Assurance Agency... 7 D. Others... 7 24. Other Sources of Information... 7
Programme Specification 1. Named Awards BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management 2. Course Code (and UCAS Code if applicable) R0349F 3. Awarding Body University of Portsmouth 4. Teaching Institution Kaplan Higher Education Institute/Academy (Singapore) 5. Accrediting Body Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Exemption from all Fundamental papers, F1 to F9 (pending) 6. QAA Benchmark Groups Accounting 7. Document Control Information Version 1.2 December 2014 8. Effective Session 2013 / 2014 9. Author Ian Toon (Updated Keith Millar) 10. Faculty Portsmouth Business School 11. Department Subject Group of Accounting and Financial Management 12. Educational Aims The BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management Programme is designed to meet the needs of students who already have familiarity with accounting and other business disciplines. It aims: To develop an understanding of the theories and practices of accounting. To provide an understanding of the theories and practices of finance and the tools of financial analysis. To provide a challenging and stimulating study environment. To provide students with the opportunity to develop key skills. Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 1
To equip graduates with the necessary transferable skills for lifelong learning and flexibility in the context of changing labour markets. To provide students with the skills and knowledge required to maximise career and postgraduate study opportunities. To encourage ongoing critical and evaluative modes of thinking in all areas of study. 13. Reference Points University of Portsmouth Curriculum Framework Document. The scholarship and research expertise of academic members of staff. QAA Code of Practice for the Assurance of Academic Quality and Standards in Higher Education. Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ). National Qualifications Framework. Subject Benchmark Statements (SBS). Requirements of Professional and/or Statutory Regulatory Bodies (ACCA papers F1 to F9). 14. Learning Outcomes The programme addresses the subject-specific knowledge and skills as stated below. The units of the programme in which they are addressed are identified in parenthesis. 1. An understanding of some of the contexts in which accountancy can be seen as operating. 2. Knowledge and understanding of the main current technical language and practices of accountancy in a specified jurisdiction. 3. Knowledge and understanding of some of the alternative technical languages and practices of accountancy. 4. Skills in recording and summarising transactions and other economic events; preparation of financial statements; analysis of the operations of business; financial analysis and projections. 5. Knowledge and understanding of theories and empirical evidence concerning the effects of accountancy in at least one of its contexts. A. Knowledge and Understanding of: A1. The role of accounting and its function in organisational information, communication and decision making systems. A2. The underlying concepts and techniques of current accounting practice. A3. Knowledge of contemporary theories and empirical evidence concerning accounting and capital markets. A4. Knowledge of theories and empirical evidence concerning financial management, risk and the operation of capital markets. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Learning and teaching is achieved by classed based sessions supplemented by directed independent & group learning. Pastoral support is provided by academic staff, who have strong operational links with the course management team. Assessment Assessment is via a mix of coursework and exam, although some units will be assessed by only one of these modes. Coursework includes individual and group work, presentations, case studies and assignments. Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 2
B. Cognitive (Intellectual or Thinking) Skills, able to: B1. Identify, define and explore accounting concepts using logical and creative approaches. B2. Analyse and evaluate evidence. B3. Analyse and interpret data from a range of sources. B4. Argue cogently in oral and written form. B5. Apply skills of mathematical and statistical analysis. B6. Reflect on own learning, and apply skills to actively manage studies. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Cognitive skills are developed class based sessions supplemented by directed independent & group learning. Assessment Assessment of cognitive skills occurs in the range of assessment methods employed i.e. examination and/or continuous assessment. C. Practical (Professional or Subject) Skills: C1. Knowledge and understanding of technical language of accounting both current and alternatives. C2. Skills in preparing financial statements and summarising transactions. C3. Interpret evidence concerning financial management, risk and capital markets. C4. Interpersonal skills. C5. Information search and data retrieval using traditional and electronic sources. C6. Use of IT skills including spreadsheets for data analysis. C7. Ability to use CIT to process and progress tasks. C8. Update professional knowledge using resources on the internet. C9. Networking skills. C10. Use a range of presentation forms professionally. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods C8 and C10 are developed through self-management and directed independent and group learning activities. These skills, together with C1 to C7 and C9 are required in units focussing on the particular skill or skills referred to. Assessment C1 to C7 and C9 are assessed through relevant unit assessment artefacts. These plus C8 and C10 form part of self-managed learning and are key to performance in a range of assessments. D. Transferable (Graduate and Employability) Skills: D1. Communication. D2. Information Technology. D3. Problem Solving. D4. Application of Number. D5. Improving own Learning and Performance. D6. Working with others. Learning and Teaching Strategies and Methods Taught sessions and assessment activities across the programme will provide the primary mechanisms for the development of transferable and key skills. Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 3
Assessment D1 and D5 will be assessed in units across the programme. D6 will be assessed through group presentations and other group work activities. 15. Course Structure, Progression and Award Requirements One credit is equivalent to 10 hours of learning. Each level comprises a minimum of 120 credits. Units are offered as 20 credits. The pathway is delivered over 18 months by Kaplan Higher Education Institute (Singapore). It is offered as an honours degree top-up for students who complete the Kaplan Global Diploma in Accounting or equivalent qualification. 16. Employability Statement Kaplan Higher Education Institute (Singapore) maintains strong links with local employers and the professional bodies (ACCA & CPA Australia). 17. Support for Student Learning Student have access to a dedicated course manager who is the first point of contact regarding student support The programme is managed on a day to day basis by the Partner Institution Contact. The programme is supported by the University Contact An induction programme introduces the student to the University and their course. The Academic Skills Unit (ASK) online resources. Access to excellent on-line library facilities and appropriate library facilities at the partner institution centre. The University of Portsmouth has consistently been awarded an excellent rating for student support and guidance in a number of Quality Assurance Agency inspections. Moreover PBS has received excellent ratings for student support and guidance. Student course and unit handbooks provide information about the course structure and University regulations etc. Feedback is provided for all assessments. 18. Admissions Criteria A. Academic Admissions Criteria The standard entry qualification is the Kaplan Global Diploma. All students will be expected to be proficient in the English language to the following levels: TEFL 550 or IELTS 6.0 or equivalent. Non-standard applications will be dealt with by the University Contact in the Subject Group of Accounting and Financial Management. Offers to applicants will be based on their previous academic record and/or work experience. Students who have passed the particular ACCA examinations will be eligible for exemption from the following units based on a successful Accreditation of Prior Learning application: BA (Hons) Accounting & Financial Management ACCA PAPER Unit F7 Financial Reporting Financial Reporting F9 Financial Management Financial Management 1 F5 Performance Management Operational Management Accounting P1 Governance, risk and ethics Corporate Governance, Financial Crime, Ethics & 1 Replaces Business Finance for December 2014 and later intakes Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 4
F 4 Corporate and Business Law Controls Business Law For Accountants F6 Taxation Taxation P5 Advanced performance management Accounting for Strategic Management and Control P2 Corporate reporting Advanced Financial Accounting P4 Advanced financial management Advanced Financial Management 2 F8 Audit and Assurance Auditing B. Disability Both the University & Kaplan Higher Education make no distinction in their admissions policy with regard to disability. The University and Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) will endeavour to make all reasonable adjustments in order to make it possible for students to study in Singapore on a course of their choice. Kaplan Singapore has made & continues to make a significant investment in the support & facilities it can offer to disabled students 19. Evaluation and Enhancement of Standards and Quality in Learning and Teaching A. Mechanisms for Review and Evaluation Partner Institution s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. University s Contact Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. Head of Subject Group s Annual Standards and Quality Evaluative Review. Unit and Course Level student feedback considered at Board of Studies. Unit Assessment Board consideration of student performance for each programme. Annual Standards and Quality Reports to Board of Studies, including consideration of Subject and Award External Examiner Reports. Periodic Programme Review. Student Representatives and Student/Staff Consultative Committees. B. Responsibilities for Monitoring and Evaluation Unit Co-ordinators for unit content and assessment. University Contact for day-today running of course. Partner Institution Academic Contact. Board of Studies with overall responsibilities for operation and content of course. Head of Subject Group. Associate Dean (Academic). Associate Dean (Students). Quality Assurance Committee. Unit, Award and Progression Board of Examiners. C. Mechanisms for Gaining Student Feedback Student Representation on Board of Studies. Student Staff Consultative Committees. Unit student feedback questionnaires. 2 Replaces Advanced Business Finance for December 2014 and later intakes Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 5
D. Staff Development Priorities Annual staff development reviews match development to needs. Managers undertake a variety of management development programmes. The Portsmouth lecturers visiting partner centres conduct staff development for partner staff on specific themes; for example project supervision, use of generic grading criteria, plagiarism prevention, dealing with alleged academic misconduct and referencing conventions. Portsmouth lecturers also review the operation of units with partner lecturers on a oneto-one subject specialist level wherever possible during visits to the partner. Such opportunities are incorporated into visit itineraries. Lecturers approved to teach on this collaborative degree are registered as Partner Associate Lecturers (PALS) of the University. This designation enables them to participate in free services and events offered by the Department of Curriculum and Quality Enhancement (DCQE) including online support and guidance. 20. Assessment Strategy All assessments for core units on this programme are considered to provide opportunities for students to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the subject matter relating to the degree programme (PSD Section 10.2 A). Some assessments lend themselves more readily to the development and demonstration of cognitive skills (PSD Section 10.2 B). Others provide evidence of practical, professional and subject specific skills (PSD Section 10.2 C). Most assessments will provide opportunities for students to demonstrate the achievement of transferable and key skills (PSD Section 10.2 D). Consideration of this has been given at each level whilst acknowledging that there is a rising expectation of the development of these skills as the programme progresses. Level five employs a range of assessment methods. Essays provide them with the opportunity to develop the intellectual skills of evaluation, knowledge and analysis. Presentations provide opportunities to develop further collaborative skills, an understanding of group dynamics and an analysis of the individual student s role in that process. Summative assessments are designed to meet both the University guidelines and the requirements of the accrediting professional bodies. At level six students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking and engage analytically with the subject matter. Units such as the Independent Study for Accountants allow students further opportunity for students to develop self management skills required of sustained substantial piece of work. This includes skills of researching, analysing, documenting and evaluating. Other units based on independent study offer similar opportunities. 21. Assessment Regulations Examination and Assessment regulations for Kaplan September 2013 22. Role of Externals Subject External Examiners who will: oversee unit assessment and usually attend Unit Assessment Boards; approve unit assessment strategy; sample assessment artefacts; present report to Unit Assessment Boards. Award External Examiners (usually also a Subject External Examiner) who will: Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 6
oversee and attend Award/Progression Boards; scrutinise and endorse the outcomes of assessment; ensure that the standard of the award is maintained at a level comparable with that of similar awards elsewhere in the United Kingdom. 23. Indicators of Standards and Quality A. Professional Accreditation/Recognition Accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Note: individual units are accredited with ACCA and we are currently applying for exemption for all Fundamental papers F1 to F9 for the top up degree in combination with the Kaplan Global Diploma or equivalent. B. Periodic Programme Review (or equivalent) PDSQR Accounting March 2010 C. Quality Assurance Agency QAA Institutional Audit, December 2008, broad confidence (for full report see QAA Institutional Audit: University of Portsmouth 2008) QAA Collaborative Programme Audit December 2010, broad confidence (for full report see Audit of collaborative provision: University of Portsmouth, December 2010) D. Others None 24. Other Sources of Information Other sources of information may be found in Course Approval Document. Student Handbook. University of Portsmouth Curricula Framework. University of Portsmouth Undergraduate Prospectus. Assessment Regulations. University of Portsmouth and Department of Accounting and Finance websites. Programme Specification for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 7
Unit Assessment Map UNITS COURSEWORK EXAMINATION Level Name Code Credit Delivery Core/ Option Total % Type of Artefact 5 Financial Reporting P 20 Term Core 30 Individual report & a group discussion & report back exercise 5 Operational Management Accounting P 20 Term Core 30 Presentation preparation & supporting notes based on a management accounting problem solving linked to case studies & 3 computational exercises 5 Financial Management P 20 Term Core 30 Individual problem solving assignment & a group discussion & report back exercise relating to an issues in business finance 5 Corporate Governance, Financial Crime, Ethics & Controls 5 Business Law For Accountants P 20 Term Core 30 A submission on a topical corporate governance issue (including a reflective statement) & report back exercise relating to an issues in business finance Duration/ Length Weighting % Total % Open/ Closed Duration (hrs) Weighting % 2000 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 1000 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 2000 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 1500 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 U 20 Term Core 50 1500 word problem solving question 1500 words 30 30 Closed 3 70 5 Taxation P 20 Term Core 30 Presentation preparation & supporting notes based on taxation issue & 3 computational exercises 6 Accounting for Strategic Management and Control 6 Advanced Financial Accounting 6 Advanced Financial Management 6 Independent Study for Accountants P 20 Term Core 30 Management accounting research assignment linked to case study & computational assessments in preparation for taught sessions P 20 Term Core 30 An individual submission relate to published accounts & a group discussion with report back exercise P 20 Term Core 30 Individual report & computation assessments in preparation for taught sessions (using a spreadsheet) U 20 Term Core 100 Individual project 4000 words 100 6 International Accounting U 20 Term Core 100 Written project on a country study or a topic in international accounting including a presentation & reflective statement 6 Auditing P 20 Term Core 30 Preparation of a presentation & supporting notes covering how auditing standards should be applied in a specified case study & a group discussion with report back exercise 1500 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 1750 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 1750 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 1750 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 3000words 100 1750 words 30 70 Closed 3 70 Unit Assessment Map for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 1
Unit Learning Outcomes Map 3 UNITS Level Name Code Credit Delivery LEARNING OUTCOMES Core/ Option A1 A2 A3 A4 B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 C7 C8 C9 C10 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 5 Financial Reporting P 20 Term Core 5 Operational Management Accounting P 20 Term Core 5 Financial Management P 20 Term Core 5 Corporate Governance, Financial Crime, Ethics & Controls P 20 Term Core 5 Business Law for Accountants U 20 Term Core 5 Taxation for Accounting Programmes P 20 Term Core 6 Accounting for Strategic Management and Control P 20 Term Core 6 Advanced Financial Accounting P 20 Term Core 6 Advanced Financial Management P 20 Term Core 6 Independent Study for Accountants U 20 Term Core 6 International Accounting U 20 Term Core 6 Auditing P 20 Term Core 3 A = Knowledge and Understanding; B = Cognitive (Intellectual) Skills; C = Practical (Subject Specific) Skills; D = Transferable Skills Unit Learning Outcomes Map for BA (Hons) Accountancy and Financial Management - Kaplan Higher Education (Singapore) Page 1