Know The Differences: ACCA vs Bachelor of Accounting

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27 May 2025

4 Min Read

The Taylor's Team (Editor)
IN THIS ARTICLE

Whether you're aiming for a specialised accounting qualification or a broad university-based business education, your path to becoming an accountant starts with choosing the right programme. At Taylor’s University and Taylor’s College, you can choose between a globally recognised professional qualification in accounting through the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Programme or opt for a more holistic academic route through either the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) or the Bachelor in Accounting (FinTech) (Honours)—collectively referred to here as the Accounting Degree.

 

In this article, we break down the key distinctions between pursuing the ACCA qualification and enrolling in an Accounting Degree to help you choose the path that best suits your goals, learning style, and career aspirations.

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Programme Overview

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)

 

The ACCA programme is a globally recognised professional qualification that prepares you to become a chartered certified accountant. It’s ideal for those who are focused on gaining direct, career-ready credentials in accounting and finance. It is well-suited for individuals seeking to obtain practical, career-oriented qualifications in accounting and finance. The ACCA qualification is structured across three progressive levels—Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional—offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential areas such as taxation, auditing, financial management, and strategic business leadership. 

 

Beyond technical expertise, it also develops critical competencies in ethics, corporate governance, risk management, and professional judgment, equipping candidates with the skills necessary to navigate complex business environments and assume leadership roles

In addition, Taylor’s University offers support through the Taylor’s Centre for Accountancy Studies (TCAS), which provides academic advising and guidance for students planning to take professional papers—not just limited to ACCA. For those pursuing ACCA specifically, the ACCA Accelerate Pathway allows students to begin their professional ACCA papers during their degree, giving them a head start toward professional qualification while completing their undergraduate studies.

Accounting Degree

 

The  Accounting Degree offers two distinctive pathways: the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) and the Bachelor in Accounting (FinTech) (Honours). Both programmes combine rigorous technical accounting education with industry-relevant business knowledge and a strong emphasis on digital fluency.

 

The Bachelor of Accounting and Finance provides comprehensive training in core areas such as auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and management accounting. What sets this degree apart is its dual focus on accounting and financial management, preparing graduates for versatile roles in corporate finance, banking, and consultancy—beyond traditional accounting tracks.

 

Meanwhile, the Bachelor of Accounting (FinTech) is a future-focused programme designed to bridge accounting with financial technology. With modules in data analytics, digital finance, and innovation-driven accounting tools, this programme responds to the growing demand for tech-savvy finance professionals. It equips you to thrive in emerging fields such as fintech, regtech, and digital risk assurance.

Focus Areas

The ACCA programme is highly structured and technical, focused on preparing you to meet the rigorous standards of global accountancy:

  • Financial Reporting and Audit – Learn to prepare, interpret, and audit financial statements in accordance with international standards.
  • Taxation and Business Law – Understand regulations in corporate taxation, legal frameworks, and compliance practices.
  • Strategic Business Leadership – Develop skills in ethics, governance, risk management, and strategic decision-making.

Unsure about your accounting journey? Book an appointment with our education counsellor to explore which programme aligns best with your goals.

Alternatively, the Accounting Degree offers a university-based route to accounting that blends academic depth, real-world application, and future-focused specialisation. Depending on the degree you pursue—Accounting and Finance or Accounting (FinTech)—you’ll gain exposure to a broad and evolving set of skills on top of basic accounting knowledge:

 

Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours)

  • Dual Competency in Accounting and Finance: Gain technical knowledge in both accounting and financial management, preparing for roles that require budgeting, forecasting, investment analysis, and regulatory compliance.
  • Business Strategy and Law Integration: Develop insight into corporate governance, business decision-making, and the legal frameworks shaping financial reporting and accountability.
  • Work-Based Learning and Industry Engagement: Participate in employer projects and internship placements with industry partners, applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios in corporate finance environments.

Bachelor in Accounting (FinTech) (Honours)

  • FinTech-Focused Accounting Curriculum: Explore how financial technologies like Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are transforming financial reporting, auditing, and investment.
  • Data Analytics and Automation Tools: Learn to use data visualisation software, predictive analytics, and automation platforms to deliver insight-driven financial solutions.
  • Innovation and Regulatory Technology (RegTech): Understand how technology is used to monitor compliance, manage risk, and create more transparent financial ecosystems skills in high demand across fintech and banking sectors.
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Career Pathways and Future Opportunities

ACCA 

 

With the ACCA qualification, you’ll be professionally equipped to take on specialised roles in the accounting and finance industry, both in Malaysia and internationally. Common roles include:

  • Public Practice: Accountancy firms (e.g., Big Four) offer auditing, tax, and advisory services.
  • Corporate Sector: ACCA members work in various industries, from manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare. 
  • Financial Services: Banks, investment firms, and insurance companies employ ACCA members in roles such as financial analysis, risk management, and fund accounting. 
  • Public Sector and Not-for-Profit Organizations: ACCA members work in government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profit organisations. 

Because the ACCA is a professional qualification, it is often fast-tracked for senior finance roles and is recognised in over 180 countries.

 

Accounting Degree 

 

With the Accounting Degree, you’ll be prepared for roles that span accounting, business strategy, and financial technologies. Common roles include:

  • Account or Finance Executive: Handle financial statements, reporting, and budget planning within various industries.
  • Business Analyst: Use financial data to evaluate business performance and support decision-making.
  • FinTech Analyst or Programme Developer: Roles suited for graduates of the Accounting (FinTech) programme, combining accounting knowledge with digital and data-driven insight.

Graduates may also choose to pursue further professional qualifications such as ACCA, Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) to deepen their expertise.

Choosing The Right Path For Your Future

Both the ACCA qualification and the Accounting Degree offer strong pathways into the accounting and finance industry—but they cater to different learning styles and career ambitions.

 

Choose ACCA if you:

  • Want to fast-track your journey to becoming a chartered accountant.
  • Prefer a focused, exam-based qualification with global recognition.
  • Are ready for a structured, professional pathway with a clear end goal.

Choose the Accounting Degree if you:

  • Want a broader university experience that blends accounting, business, and digital innovation.
  • Enjoy interactive learning, industry projects, and internship opportunities.
  • Are open to diverse roles in finance, consulting, or technology beyond traditional accounting.

Whichever route you choose, Taylor’s University and Taylor’s College offer the academic rigour, industry relevance, and global recognition needed to launch a successful career in accounting and finance. Whether you're aiming to qualify as a chartered accountant or seeking a wider skillset through a degree, you'll graduate ready to make your mark in a dynamic and evolving industry.

Ready to take the next step? Book an appointment with our education counsellors to explore which degree aligns best with your goals.
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