Accountancy & Finance

About the Course

Your Choice Today, Your Capital Tomorrow

The Diploma in Accountancy & Finance is for you if you are keen to join a new generation of technologically savvy accounting professionals.

The outlook for the accounting sector remains positive amid an increasingly complex and uncertain landscape, and Singapore is projected to become Asia-Pacific’s leading accountancy hub, with over 21,000 accounting professionals. As a qualified accountant, you will be the company’s driver of change, analysing financial data and enabling management to visualise key insights into business trends.

What You'll Study

Year 1

Core Modules

Business Communication Essentials [60 hours]

Today’s workplace requires graduates who can communicate confidently in a variety of circumstances. In this module, learners will develop essential 21st century skills on how to present and write proficiently in various professional settings. This module aims to advance effective business presentation and writing skills through a mastery of core business message design principles necessary for fruitful communication in the workplace, adapted for varying communication purposes to different business audiences. Learners will develop the capability to use and practice audience-centred persuasive and professional language in presentations and writing including for new and social media environments. In addition, learners will learn digital information skills to conduct business research and effective oral communication principles to translate key messages and findings in business documents into clear presentations.

Business Communication for Innovation [60 hours]

In the 21st-century workplace, communicating innovative ideas and concepts require new critical business communication skills. In this module, learners will master concrete, practical communication strategies, methods and techniques to become influential communicators. This module aims to develop advanced business communication skills that drive innovation by framing a communication plan to target key audiences through persuasive proposals and performative pitches. Learners will also apply digital storytelling principles to achieve desired communication outcomes for online and in-person presentations. Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills are also increasingly in demand across all industries. Therefore, this module will help learners gain a differentiating edge by honing interpersonal skills and negotiation skills for intercultural communication as well as personal branding for employment communications.

Business IT and Spreadsheet Application [60 hours]

The ability to analyse and work with data is an important skill in the business world. It is also becoming increasingly important to be able to do so collaboratively, effectively, and securely in the digital world utilizing the right technology.

In this module, learners will learn how to analyse data and present business solutions effectively using spreadsheet software. They will also learn about digital transformations so as to be prepared for the collaborative, global and innovative business world of today and tomorrow.

Business Statistics [60 hours]

In today’s business environment, individuals and businesses need to understand and apply data to make optimal decisions. In this module, learners will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to transform raw data into useful information and apply the insights obtained to make informed business decisions. Specifically, the learners will be taught descriptive statistics, regression and correlation analysis, discrete and continuous probability distributions, statistical estimation and hypothesis testing.

Design Thinking for Innovation [45 hours]

In a world that is becoming more volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous, employers value graduates who can independently innovate and develop solutions that meet the needs of its users. In this module, learners will acquire the knowledge and skills to effectively create and refine human-centric solutions. There will be opportunities to practise and experience the key stages of Design Thinking, such as problem-identification, need-finding, idea-generation and prototyping, as learners apply the various tools and testing methods through collaborative learning.

Financial Accounting for Business [60 hours]

With the rapidly growing demand for accounting professionals, employers are looking for graduates who have good understanding of the fundamental accounting principles of assets namely intangible, current and non-current assets and able to perform financial accounting for business in the real world. In this module, learners will be introduced to the accounting treatments to measure, record and report the various types of assets in the Statement of Financial Position. Learners will also learn accounting for companies, including foreign currency transactions and constructing Statement of Cash Flows and Statement of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity.

Macroeconomics [45 hours]

With the world economy changing at dynamic pace, individuals and businesses need to be able to apply macroeconomic theories to analyse various changing economic issues in an economy. In this module, the learners will be equipped with concepts and analytical tools to assess the impact of related factors on a country’s national income, standard of living, employment levels, price levels and international trade. These factors include changing business cycles, economic policies and trade relations among trading countries. The learners will also be able to assess the effect on individuals and businesses from these changing factors.

Management & Organisational Behaviour [45 hours]

In today’s volatile and dynamic business environment, one thing that remains relevant and essential is the fundamental skills of management. In this module, learners will acquire people management skills to become effective and efficient managers. This module introduces the essential theories of management as well as individual, group and organisational behaviour and their applications at the workplace. Learners will learn topics like the managerial functions of planning, organising, co-ordinating, leading and controlling. Learners will also be introduced to areas such as personality, attitudes and perceptions, decision-making and motivation, team building, organisational structure and design.

Microeconomics [45 hours]

In today’s dynamic business environment, individuals and businesses need to maximise the use of scarce resources to achieve optimal results. In this module, learners will be equipped with the knowledge on how individuals and firms make decisions about consumption and production and the role of government in influencing these decisions. Specifically, the learners will be taught microeconomic principles and concepts on scarcity, choice and opportunity costs; theories of demand and supply; production and cost theories and theories on market structures.

Principles of Financial Accounting [60 hours]

In today’s business environment, employers are looking for graduates who have good understanding of accounting principles and practices to properly account for business transactions and assess business’ performances. In this module, learners will be introduced to the accounting concepts and principles that guide the recording of business transactions and preparation of financial statements. Learners will also learn how to classify and present various types of assets in the Statement of Financial Position and understand the internal controls for safeguarding the assets. This will enable learners to interpret financial statements and have insights into business’ performances.

Principles of Marketing [45 hours]

Marketing practices are continually refined in all industries to build strong brands and achieve profitable customer relationships. In this module, learners will acquire fundamental marketing concepts and techniques to develop value-driven market offerings. There will be opportunities to conduct market research, glean market insights and make the best possible tactical and strategic decisions for brands based on the company’s business objectives. Learners will also design a customer-driven marketing plan for a product launch by applying the Marketing Mix (Product, Price, Place and Promotions) strategies.

Complementary Electives

General Studies

General Studies

To provide you an all-rounded education, NYP offers General Studies Modules (GSMs). So besides taking modules related directly to your chosen diploma course, you will get exposed to areas beyond your usual field of study. Through a combination of prescribed and elective inter-disciplinary GSMs, you will gain interesting, practical knowledge that can be beneficial to you as you prepare for the world of work and life after graduation.

To learn more about the GSMs offered, click here

Year 2

Core Modules

Accounting System & Analytics [60 hours]

In today’s dynamic business environment, accountants not only need to be technically sound but also keep abreast of technology advancement and utilise it to provide insights and advices to businesses. In this module, learners will gain an understanding of the collection, processing and communication of accounting information in a cloud-based accounting environment. Learners will gain an understanding of business processing cycles, acquire the skills of documenting business processes and have hands on experience in recording business transactions using a cloud-based accounting software. Learners will acquire the important analytical skill on interpreting and anaylsing the financial statements and data of businesses and assessing the performance using digital tools.

Audit & Assurance [60 hours]

Today’s ever-changing business landscape has resulted in the growing importance of assurance engagements. Assurance engagements which primarily include audits, serve the main purpose of increasing user’s confidence in the financial information. In this module, learners will acquire the fundamental concepts and principles of assurance and auditing. Learners will learn about the audit cycle as well as the impact of the technological revolution on audit engagements.

Business Law [45 hours]

The success of a business depends on relationships between individuals and companies. Each party to the business relationship brings to it a set of expectations with respect to what he or she will give and get. Law is a useful tool for describing and defining these expectations of the parties to the relationship. It establishes a measure of certainty. In this module, learners will understand how the Singapore legal system works to resolve disputes in the business environment. Learners will also learn about the various areas of the law, such as the law of contract, the law of agency, the law of sale of goods and the law of intellectual property, which are essential in regulating business activities in Singapore.

Company Law & Practice [45 hours]

A company is a commonly used business entity in Singapore and it is therefore important for those engaged in business to be familiar with the legislation and rules that apply to companies. In this module, learners will explore the legal requirements relating to the formation, administration and management of companies. Drawing from relevant legislation and practice, learners will discover the rights and liabilities of company directors and members and will also learn how to conduct company meetings in accordance with the Companies Act and the company’s constitutional documents. Learners will have the opportunity to examine recent cases in relation to corporate insolvency, judicial management and schemes of arrangement.

Corporate Finance [60 hours]

This module provides learners with an in-depth understanding of the bond and equity markets and the role they play in corporate finance by examining topics such as bond and equity valuations, dividend policy, risk and return, cost of capital as well as capital budgeting and capital structure decisions. In addition, learners will learn to perform research using web-based capital market information and demonstrate practical application of using the various financial analyses to evaluate companies and finally present financial recommendations. Upon completion of the module, learners will have the required knowledge and skills to undertake corporate finance activities.

General Studies

Learners are to complete 60 hours of General Studies Modules in Year 2

Data Science Fundamentals and Analytics [60 hours]

As businesses move toward a digitalized future, data will be gathered in ever greater quantity and variety. The skill to understand and make sense of data therefore becomes ever more important. This module provides learners with an awareness of the concepts of Data Science with a focus on Business Analytics and Exploratory Data Analytics through Data Visualization. Learners will learn how to organize and prepare data and apply data analysis techniques and visualisation tools to gain insights, aid business functions and support business decision making.

Forensic Accounting & Analytics [45 hours]

As a modern discipline, forensic accounting is an emerging domain area within the accounting industry. It combines accounting and investigative techniques with the aim of uncovering financial crimes. This module equips learners with knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of forensic accountants. Learners will learn to identify and explain the different types of white-collar crimes and techniques of conducting investigations. Different data analytics techniques will be introduced and learners will be taught how to deploy visualisations to communicate findings of their analysis effectively.

Internal Controls & Risk Management [45 hours]

With the recent financial crises, regulatory changes, security breaches and natural disasters, the world business’ environment today is challenging and calls for greater emphasis on risk management activities. The role of accountants has moved from the traditional focus of financial and compliance risks to a more holistic view of enterprise risks. In this module, learners will have an understanding of principles of risk management, its link to overall organisational strategy and explain business process risks by applying a suitable risk management framework.

Learners will be able to apply this knowledge to an organisation by documenting the key business processes, identifying the related risks and recommending appropriate internal control measures to mitigate the risks identified. There will also be opportunities to discuss case studies and conduct field trips to understand internal control concepts in practice.

Taxation [60 hours]

Taxation is an essential part of every government, business and individual. It is important for every individual and business to have a good understanding of our Singapore taxation system for compliance and accountability purposes. This module covers the key principles and concepts of the Singapore taxation system. Learners will be able to prepare tax computations for individuals, sole proprietorships, companies and partnerships at the end of the module. Learners will learn the tax treatment of business losses, capital allowances, foreign sourced income and withholding taxes during the course. Learners will also gain a working knowledge of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on how to compute GST liability to ensure compliance with GST regulations

Published Financial Statements & Consolidation [60 hours]

In today’s constant changing business landscape, it is important that accountants are kept abreast with the latest financial accounting standards to comply with the requirements of Financial Statement reporting. This module introduces learners to the accounting and regulatory framework of financial reporting, its rationale and also an understanding of the legal and professional disclosure requirements relating to the preparation of financial statements.

Learners will have the opportunity to construct financial statements and notes to accounts to comply with the financial reporting standards in Singapore. Contemporary accounting issues such integrated reporting are also discussed in the module to keep them updated of current developments in financial reporting.

Complementary Electives

General Studies

General Studies

To learn more about the GSMs offered, click here

Year 3

Core Modules

Cost & Management Accounting [60 hours]

In today’s workplace, employers are looking for graduates who have the knowledge and analytical skills to support the management of operation in a manufacturing organisation. In this module, learners will learn ways to cost a product and measures to control the key cost elements at various activities in a manufacturing environment. Learners will also acquire techniques to help management in their decision-making, planning and control activities.

Customer Experience and Relationship Management [45 hours]

In today’s business environment, organisations are looking at providing innovative and memorable customer experiences to create competitive advantage. They need to employ graduates who not only possess customer-centric mindsets, but also graduates who are familiar and are equipped with the ability to plan and implement Customer Relationship Management (CRM) strategies, both in the online and offline environment. In this module, there will be opportunities for the learners to gain good understanding of the practices of the organisational and strategic aspects of CRM, knowledge and skills to plan, organise, develop, and implement effective CRM strategies and programmes. Learners will be exposed to the different social media engagement strategies that will strengthen customer relationships. Learners will also gain insights into how to enhance customer interactions and experience, through the designing of customer journey mapping, which will drive customer satisfaction.

Entrepreneurship: New Venture Development [75 hours]

In today’s disruptive economy, entrepreneurial qualities become important assets for all individuals - whether for aspiring entrepreneurs or for corporate employees who desire to be effective and impactful contributors in the organisation and society at large. Through this module, learners will develop entrepreneurial qualities through fostering entrepreneurial attitudes, acquiring innovative and enterprising (I&E) skills, and harnessing the benefits of collaboration practices and effective communication. Conducted in a facilitation and consultative format, the module will deepen the learners’ application of concepts such as innovative approach to problem solving, critical and inventive thinking, pivot from failures by using methodologies such as Design Thinking and the Lean Business Model Canvas. By working in project teams, learners will also benefit from collaborative learning and improve their information literacy and communications skills.

International Business [45 hours]

This module provides learners with a good understanding of the dynamic global business environment, major trade and investment trends, and the organisations’ perspectives, as well as management’s decision-making approach to doing international business. It centres on providing learners with the means to answer the fundamental questions of ‘Why venture abroad?’, ‘Where to venture to?’, ‘Which industry/sector to venture into?’ and ‘How to enter the overseas markets?’. Learners will understand the macro and micro aspects of international business, from the analysis of a country's environment, to industry analysis, timing of entry and mode of entry.

International Finance & Treasury [45 Hours]

This module provides learners with an understanding of the key concepts of international finance, as well as the use of various financial instruments in corporate treasury or bank treasury departments for hedging. Topics covered include international financial markets, functions and operations of the treasury department and various treasury products and instruments such as spot foreign exchange, forwards, futures, options and swaps. In addition, learners will also learn about international trade processes and payment methods. Learners will be able to gain competency to work in the treasury department.

Internship Programme (24 weeks)

This is an internship attachment of up to six months (either locally or overseas) for selected learners. The attachment develops a good work attitude and a practice-oriented mindset in learners, and gives them real-life work experience in an actual working environment related to their field of study. In addition, by applying what they have learnt in their studies to their internship at the host companies, the learners’ learning process will be enhanced. Participating organisations are expected to provide a detailed training programme, which may include project assignments and rotational on-the-job training. The Internship Programme is a graded module.

Complementary Electives

General Studies

General Studies

To learn more about the GSMs offered, click here

Did You Know?

Fun Facts Video

Check out some cool fun facts about our Diploma in Accountancy & Finance!

Outstanding DAF Alumni Outperform Peers in University

Graduating from NYP in 2012, Chester Chow Wai Mun, Tan Jing Long and Larry Liauw went on to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy at Nanyang Technological University (Chester and Jing Long) and Singapore Institute of Technology (Larry). Chester and Jing Long graduated this year from NTU with First Class Honours; and Larry graduated from SIT with Honours with Highest Distinction.

They shared that their three years in NYP had played a vital role in laying the foundation required for their university education. In Chester’s words, “I have never regretted choosing NYP, the knowledge gained from my polytechnic studies gave me an edge over my peers in NTU. I will always appreciate the valuable lessons taught by my passionate and knowledgeable lecturers."

Congratulations Chester, Jing Long and Larry, we are so proud of you!

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Polytechnic Foundation Programme

Accountancy & Finance (C98)

About the Course

Your Choice Today, Your Capital Tomorrow

Business Communication Essentials [60 hours]

Business Communication for Innovation [60 hours]

Business IT and Spreadsheet Application [60 hours]

Business Statistics [60 hours]

Design Thinking for Innovation [45 hours]

Financial Accounting for Business [60 hours]

Macroeconomics [45 hours]

Management & Organisational Behaviour [45 hours]

Microeconomics [45 hours]

Principles of Financial Accounting [60 hours]

Principles of Marketing [45 hours]

General Studies

Accounting System & Analytics [60 hours]

Audit & Assurance [60 hours]

Business Law [45 hours]

Company Law & Practice [45 hours]

Corporate Finance [60 hours]

Data Science Fundamentals and Analytics [60 hours]

Forensic Accounting & Analytics [45 hours]

Internal Controls & Risk Management [45 hours]

Taxation [60 hours]

Published Financial Statements & Consolidation [60 hours]

General Studies

Cost & Management Accounting [60 hours]

Customer Experience and Relationship Management [45 hours]

Entrepreneurship: New Venture Development [75 hours]

International Business [45 hours]

International Finance & Treasury [45 Hours]

Internship Programme (24 weeks)

General Studies

Downloads

Course Booklet - School of Business Management