MSc in strategic management accounting

The MSc in strategic management accounting is intended for high ability business graduates who want to achieve long-term career success, based on a strong foundation in accountancy and specialising in management accounting. Because the programme assumes a high level of accountancy knowledge, only graduates who have completed an undergraduate or a postgraduate programme with a substantial accountancy element are eligible.

Since its introduction the MSc has attracted participants from diverse employment backgrounds including: Allianz (Darta Life); Allied Irish Banks; Certus; Connemara Seafoods; Deloitte; Delph Ltd; FFA Chartered Accountants; Health Service Executive; Intel; Microsoft; Oracle; PwC; Procter & Gamble; Teleflex Medical Europe; WDA Chartered Accountants; and Xerox.

Successful graduates of the MSc in strategic management accounting will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the most advanced techniques and tools in management accounting, management control and performance management.
• Translate and implement strategic objectives through management accounting and control systems.
• Critically appraise a management accounting and control system.
• Engage in effective communication (oral and written) on accounting and management matters.
• Engage in self-directed learning and reflective learning to enhance their personal and professional development.
• Define and implement the management accounting and control systems appropriate to the strategic needs of an organisation.
• Perform key roles in the strategic management of organisations.

• Management accounting specialisation for students intending to gain the CIMA qualification.
• Develops creative and analytical approach to problem solving.
• Outstanding lecturers and materials.
• Provides an educationally rich learning environment to study advanced management accounting.
• Collaboration between the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School and CIMA ensures relevance of the programme to employers.

• At least a second class honours grade 1 (2.1) or equivalent business degree, at primary or postgraduate level.
• Applicants are required to have a strong background in management accounting, financial accounting, finance, taxation and related subjects. In general, applicants are required to have successfully completed 30 credits (eg 6 modules x 5 credits) in these subjects in their qualifying primary or postgraduate degree.