Introduction to Financial Accounting from FutureLearn

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more The course is designed for those who have already completed an introductory course in financial accounting and need to refresh their understanding. It will suit those looking to take an intermediate or advanced financial accounting course in the future, dealing with business groups, M&A, and consolidation. Junior professionals (e.g. Chartered Accountants and Certified Financial Accountants) can also familiarise with recent changes in International Financial Reporting Standards.

Topics Covered

The accounting cycle: translating companies’ operations and decisions into numbers;
Understanding accounting as the language of business: users of accounting information and its different purposes;
The role of accounting equation in ensuring recording integrity and keeping track of the transactions;
The role of accruals in making sense of financial accounting information;
The package of Financial Statements: balance sheet, income statement and cash flow statement;
Debunking myths about accounting as a fact: the role of valuation, assumptions and forecasts;
Reading and interpreting financial statements with a ‘sceptical’ eye.

Reviews summary

Financial accounting refresh & ifrs update

According to students, this course is a valuable refresher designed for those with existing financial accounting knowledge. It effectively helps prepare learners for intermediate and advanced topics like M&A and consolidation, making it highly relevant for career-focused professionals. The content provides a solid understanding of the accounting cycle, financial statements, and the role of accruals. Many appreciate its focus on recent IFRS changes, which is particularly beneficial for junior professionals. While it deepens understanding of accounting as the language of business, learners should note it builds on prior foundational learning and is not for absolute beginners. Its focus on interpreting statements with a 'sceptical eye' is a unique strength.

Assumes previous foundational learning; not suitable for absolute beginners.

"Don't take this if you're new to accounting; it's definitely a refresh course."

"You need a basic understanding of financial accounting to keep up with the pace and content."

"It builds on existing knowledge, so make sure you've completed an intro course first."

Covers essential accounting cycle, financial statements, and interpretation methods.

"The detailed breakdown of the accounting cycle and financial statements was very clear and insightful."

"I gained a deeper understanding of balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements."

"The emphasis on interpreting financial statements with a 'sceptical eye' was a valuable perspective to learn."

Provides up-to-date insights for professionals on International Financial Reporting Standards.

"As a junior professional, the focus on recent IFRS changes was highly relevant to my work."

"The course helps in familiarizing with crucial updates in reporting standards, which is very useful."

"I appreciated the practical relevance of the topics covered for current financial practices and standards."

Ideal for those with prior accounting knowledge seeking a refresh or advanced prep.

"This course was perfect for refreshing my existing financial accounting basics."

"I found it very helpful in bridging my knowledge gap before tackling M&A topics."

"It's truly designed for someone who has already completed an introductory course and needs a review."

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Learners who complete Introduction to Financial Accounting will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Introduction to Financial Accounting

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Reviews summary

Financial accounting refresh & ifrs update

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