This module focuses on the needs and requirements of management for accounting and other quantitative information. You will begin your study of accounting by examining fundamental accounting concepts, conventions and principles and go on to develop an understanding of financial accounts. In particular, you will study the nature and purpose of the profit and loss account and balance sheet. This leads onto the application of ratio analysis in the evaluation of financial position and performance.

You will then develop an understanding of corporate cost structures and the necessity to incorporate cost information into day to day management and the longer term strategy of the organisation. This involves an introduction to costing techniques and their uses in decision-making and control. The module concludes with a treatment of financial planning and control, especially with regard to budgetary control, variance analysis and cash flow forecasting.

In addition you will be introduced to a selection of quantitative techniques and their application in a variety of management fields taken from the following list:

Data manipulation, calculation of summary measures (e.g. mean, standard deviation)
Normal Distribution (e.g. Stock re-order levels)
Sampling theory; variables (e.g. Statistical Process Control)
Sampling theory; attributes (e.g. Survey analysis)
The Chi-square test for independence of categories (e.g. Survey analysis)
Linear Regression and Correlation (e.g. Survey analysis; forecasting)
Forecasting; Exponential Smoothing and forecasting system monitoring (e.g. Demand forecasting)
Survey methods; quota sampling; survey design using randomisation (e.g. Survey design)

1500 word assignment 33.3% of overall assessment (case study based or work based assignment). Tests LOs 1, 2 and 4.
and a
2 hour examination 66.7% of overall assessment. Tests LOs 1, 2 and 3

Pass level work will display the student's ability to apply some of the theories and concepts covered in the module. The structure of the responses to the assignment will be limited. The report style will be limited. The most appropriate technique might not be used.

In order to pass a module, students need to attain at least a minimum of 30% in all elements of assessment.

Distinction level work will display the student's ability to apply the theories and concepts covered in the module in presenting a solution to the assignment. Where appropriate, the student will display knowledge of the integration between this module's content and that of other modules on the Award. The structure of responses to the assignment task will be clear; the form of communication will be appropriate to the report; the student will display an ability to use appropriate quantitative analysis-related technical and/or conceptual language and/or skills/techniques as required.

Criteria for examination:
Pass criteria
For a pass mark, you will be expected to produce well presented answers using appropriate methods/ techniques and containing some relevant analysis.

Distinction criteria
For a distinction mark, you must produce well written, structured and presented answers using appropriate and suitably justified methods/techniques and containing sound and perceptive analysis.

- Lucey T, 6th Edition, (2004) Quantitative Techniques, Thompson
- Antrill and McLaney, Accounting and Finance for Non Specialists, 4th Edition, (2004) Prentice Hall

University library and computing facilities

A mixture of conventional lectures, individual and group problem solving, work with statistical and other date sources, and directed reading and problem-solving outside class.

Tutor led learning will be supported by appropriate handouts and recommended text books.
Student centred learning will include case studies supported by background reading. Regular in-class and take home exercises will support the tutor led approach.

For part time students there will be 36 hours of class support with 114 hours of independent and self directed study, including assessments.