Accounting HND

What is special about this course?

As a student of the HND Accounting qualification, developed by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), you'll benefit from a modern and forward-thinking approach to accounting education. Designed in collaboration with industry professionals, including key members of our own course team, the course reflects both current industry needs and the realities of today’s workplace.

You'll build essential skills in financial and management accounting, while also developing key meta-skills like self-management, social intelligence, and innovation. These aren't just buzzwords, they’re vital tools that will help you adapt, grow, and lead, in a fast-changing professional landscape.

One of the unique aspects of this qualification is its structure: with fewer, larger units, you'll face less assessment pressure and have more time to engage deeply with your learning. The course is designed to go beyond technical training, giving you the confidence and critical thinking abilities employers are looking for.

By completing this HND Accounting qualification, you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of roles in the accounting field—and you’ll also lay a strong foundation for further study or professional advancement, wherever your ambitions take you.

Special features

• Access to support from experienced lecturers
• Online access to all learning and teaching materials
• Engagement with local employers
• Visits to local accounting offices

Accommodation

We offer modern student accommodation at a number of our locations.

Entry requirements

• 2 Scottish Highers at grade C or above OR
• 2 A Levels at grade D or above
• For both of the above, at least one should be in a numeracy-based subject
• Alternatively, successful completion of HNC Accounting (15 credits)
• Prospective students without the standard entry requirements are encouraged to apply and will be considered on an individual basis

Year 1 - HND

You will study the following modules:

• Audit: an introduction (2 credit)
• Business performance and managing risk (3 credit)
• Financial markets: an introduction (2 credit)
• Financial reporting and corporation tax (4 credit)
• Performance management (4 credit)

Fees

For students normally domiciled in Scotland, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

This includes

• EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status in the UK,
• EEA/Swiss nationals with settled status in the UK
• EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.

Rest of UK students

For students normally domiciled in the rest of the UK (England, Wales and N. Ireland, including Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) and with a term time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

Fees are payable in advance each academic year unless otherwise agreed.

There are a number of funding options available to UK and EU students to help you pay for your studies and your cost of living while studying (see the Funding section opposite).

International students

For students who do not normally reside in the UK, including EU/EEA and Swiss nationals without settled or pre-settled status in the UK, with a term-time address in Scotland, the following fees apply:

This includes EEA/Swiss nationals with pre-settled status who are not self-employed or migrant workers in the UK.

Funding

UHI has a number of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and discretionary fund opportunities available to new and current students. Please use the A-Z of funds or use the filter to see which ones may be relevant to you. All students are welcome to apply.

Further information on funding your studies is also available, please see the attached link or contact the relevant UHI partner.