ACCOUNTANCY skills are essential to the long-term growth the Northern Ireland economy, according to a leading academic.
Professor Gillian Armstrong, head of Ulster Business School’s department of accounting, finance and economics, was speaking at the launch of an expanded suite of accountancy programmes. “The new suite will focus on the practical application of accounting ideas, knowledge and methods to help to support the significant growth and employment opportunities in the local accounting sector and beyond,” she said.
“In recent months PwC, Deloitte, and EY have all announced significant graduate opportunities in accounting and professional services. The industry is telling us that there are more jobs to come and it is essential to ensure that an expanding business services sector has access to a growing pool of graduates.
“By consulting with a wide range of employers we have created additional degree courses which comprehensively cover the required skills and knowledge base to help deliver qualified graduates to meet the growing needs in this sector.
“Sixth-formers are currently making decisions about further education and career paths for next year and it is very important that they are made aware of the vast range of opportunities made possible through an accounting-related degree.
“The Ulster Business School prides itself on providing education and development programmes that prepare students for the realities and challenges of professional life.” Ian McConnell, a PwC partner and visiting professor at the Ulster Business School, said: “There is a steady growth in demand for graduates with accountancy skills.
“Professional and business services will continue to create significant employment opportunities in Northern Ireland over the next decade with demand likely to grow from the already high levels.
“We welcome the Ulster Business School’s initiative in creating a financially-literate graduate pool that can support potential growth in accounting and business services from both indigenous and inbound organisations.”