Introduction to Finance

By Therese Francalanza

In this module, students are introduced to the accounting world. Students are given all the basic accounting knowledge so they can understand and interpret financial statements. Both the financial aspect of accounting and the managerial aspect is explained so the students will be able to follow an accounting qualification or a managerial qualification if they would like to further their studies. However, if students decide to stop studying at the diploma level, the knowledge they gain from this module will enable them to work in an accounting environment. With the skills, acquired students can apply for jobs in banks or other financial institutions, investment companies, as accounts clerks or as assistants to accountants. The course starts from very basic accounting records and principles. This means that anyone can join this module, even students who have never studied accounts before. The course is delivered in a way that knowledge is built from one lecture to the other.  International accounting standards and accounting concepts are discussed so students will have extensive knowledge of topics relating to accounting. Students are encouraged to participate in the lectures so they can understand accounting better and can increase their knowledge of the subject. At the end of the module, the students will be set an assignment that is discussed during the lectures. This enables the students to learn how to read and interpret the financial statements of actual companies. This further increases the students’ familiarity with financial statements and gives them the skills they require for a managerial position in a business. The knowledge students gain from this module will also help them to make personal financial decisions.