Master of Science - Forensic Audit and Accounting

Forensic accounting and the related discipline of forensic audit are fast-developing areas in the commercial world. Major professional accounting firms now have departments offering forensic accounting and audit services, and the demand for expertise in this area is growing exponentially.

USW's MSc Forensic Audit and Accounting course - the only course of its kind in the UK - has been running for ten years and provides specialist skills in fraud investigation, valuations, assist in dispute resolution, expert reports and conduct analysis.

Employment opportunities are numerous, from specialist firms of forensic accountants to specialist departments within accountancy firms. Forensic audit and forensic accounting are important areas for national governments, particularly in developing countries.

The MSc Forensic Audit and Accounting course will build students' confidence in the forensic audit of business data and providing them with advanced analytical, evaluation and problem solving skills. They'll learn how to evaluate the principles of good corporate governance and the integrity of management, and to understand the role of computer forensic techniques in an investigatory and legal context.

This course is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, computer workshops, case study analysis and discussion groups. Learners will be exposed to real-life situations and given the skills and opportunities to find practical solutions. They'll have the opportunity to use state-of-the-art computer forensic and data analysis software.

USW's experienced tutors are accounting, legal and computing professionals with extensive industry and academic experience. They maintain strong links with professional bodies and employers and a number are qualified ACFE Fraud Examiners. Students will benefit from having employers regularly on-campus through CPD talks and guest lectures.

Recent graduates are employed in the forensic accounting department of a ‘Big Four’ accountancy firm, and as a Fraud Investigator for a national public sector auditor.