Accounting is a specialised field that deals with the management and reporting of financial information. A successful accountant requires a solid grasp of mathematics, finance, and business principles.
The subjects that a future Accountant studies help them to interpret financial statements and analyse data correctly. For those considering a degree in Accounting, it is important to understand the modules they must study.
In this article, we will help answer the question, “What subjects do I need for accounting?” and the career paths available to those with accounting degrees.
Table of Contents
What Is Accounting?
Accounting is the process of recording and analysing financial transactions. These can be for individuals, corporations, and government entities. Doing this helps to establish the financial health of a business.
Accounting information supports effective planning and day-to-day management. It can also help leaders make strategic investment decisions. Therefore, accounting is one of the core functional departments for long-term growth and sustainability.
At the Regenesys School of Economics, prospective students can enrol for the Bachelor of Accounting Science programme. This is an NQF Level 7 programme that prepares graduates for the demands of an Accounting career.
Know Where Can You Study Accounting in South Africa? A Complete Guide
Why Study Accounting?
Studying accounting opens many career opportunities in business and finance. It helps you understand how money moves in a company and how to make sound financial decisions.
You also gain practical skills that are useful in almost every job. Whether you work for a business, a government department, or start your own company, accounting gives you a strong base for success.
Given below are the main reasons to study accounting:
- Opens diverse career opportunities in business, finance, and management
- Builds a clear understanding of how money flows within an organisation
- Supports sound financial and business decision-making
- Develops practical skills that can be transitioned across roles
- Offers long-term career stability and growth potential
Explore Career Opportunities With A Bachelor of Accounting Science Degree
What are the Compulsory Subjects for Accounting?
When students enrol in an accredited accounting programme, they are required to study core and elective modules. These help develop a foundational understanding of various accounting concepts.
The Regenesys Bachelor of Accounting Science integrates practical learning within our accredited curriculum. This helps students understand the application of accounting concepts in the workplace.
This 3-year CHE-accredited programme includes progressive core modules. This means that students build on the knowledge gained in the previous year. During the programme, students also develop strong technical skills and proficiency in modern accounting software.
1. Mathematics
Mathematics forms the foundation of accounting work. It supports accurate calculations and numerical analysis. A good understanding of algebra, statistics, and basic maths helps you solve financial problems accurately.
2. Risk and Financial Management
This core module focuses on identifying and managing financial risk. Students learn how It also explains how investment and funding decisions are made in changing market conditions.
3. Financial Accounting
When students ask, “What subjects do I need for accounting?” this is one of the main modules. Financial accounting teaches students how to record, summarise, and report business transactions. Students develop competency in financial statements and also in evaluating forecasts and providing valuations.
4. Management Accounting
Management accounting supports internal decision-making. It teaches students how to prepare budgets, analyse costs, and measure performance. This module teaches students how to interpret financial statements for strategic growth and internal decision-making.
5. Auditing
Auditing teaches you how to check and verify financial information. You learn to review accounts, detect errors or fraud, and ensure compliance with accounting standards. The subject also covers compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
6. Taxation
Taxation focuses on understanding tax laws and applying them correctly. Students learn to calculate taxes, prepare tax returns, and advise clients on tax planning. It prepares them to support individuals and businesses in meeting their tax obligations
7. Accounting in a Computerised Environment
As companies digitise their accounting operations, it is important for students to learn to use accounting software. Students learn how technology supports financial recording and reporting.
8. Business Communication
While accountants primarily work with numbers, it is important that they present their findings. Business Communication helps students develop written and oral communication skills that benefit those in client-facing roles.
Recommended High School Subjects for Accounting in South Africa
In South Africa, the path to becoming an Accountant for most students begins in high school. This is because the subjects that students choose for the Grade 12 Matric exams can determine admission.
The exams require students to study for 4 compulsory and 3 elective modules. The Mathematics core subject and the elective subject selection in Grade 12 will help students when enrolling for higher education.
For students wondering, “What subjects do I need for accounting in high school?” should choose these modules to improve their chances of admission:
- Mathematics and not Mathematical Literacy
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Economics
Available Career Paths for Accounting Graduates
Students who complete the Regenesys Bachelor of Accounting Science are prepared for a wide range of roles across the accounting and financial services sectors. As companies face stricter compliance regulations, it has led to increased demand for professionals with strong accounting knowledge.
Some career paths that graduates can explore include:
1. Internal Auditor: They review internal systems to provide an independent assessment of the organisation’s financial state. They help to improve inefficiencies, detect fraud, and manage risk.
2. Public Accountant: These are licensed professionals who help to prepare financial statements for individuals and organisations.
3. Management Accountant: They help in strategic decision-making by analysing financial statements, developing budgets, and forecasting future performance.
4. Tax Examiner: A government employee who assesses tax returns for accuracy. They are responsible for investigating tax fraud and other irregularities.
Admission Requirements for Bachelor of Accounting Science
After reviewing the list of accounting course subjects, prospective students gain a clearer idea about the programme. It helps answer the question, “What subjects do I need for accounting?” and understand their importance.
Students can choose to enroll on the contact learning programme, which takes place at our Sandon campus. Alternatively, we also allow students the option of an online format. Both formats follow the same accredited curriculum and result in the same outcome.
For admission to the Regenesys Bachelor of Accounting Science, students must meet the following criteria:
- Matric with Bachelor pass or NQF level 4 equivalent qualification (OR)
- A relevant NQF Level 5 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
- Competent in Mathematics, English, written and oral communication skills at NQF Level 4
- Basic computer skills, internet connection and relevant IT resources
Read more on Online Bachelor of Accounting Science Degrees: Pros and Cons here
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Conclusion
Accounting remains a structured and reliable career path for students interested in finance, analysis, and business operations. Through subjects such as financial accounting, taxation, auditing, and risk management, students gain the ability to interpret financial information and support decision-making.
When students understand “What subjects do I need for accounting?” they are better prepared for their academic journey. Programmes such as the Regenesys Bachelor of Accounting Science are designed to prepare graduates for professional roles across the private and public sectors
Submit your application for the Bachelor of Accounting Science on the Regenesys Education website today!
FAQs
Some accounting course subjects that the Regenesys programme requires students to complete are Mathematics, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Taxation, and Auditing.
Yes. Mathematics is required for admission into accounting programmes. Mathematical Literacy is generally not accepted.
Financial Accounting focuses on external reporting, while Management Accounting supports internal planning, budgeting, and decision-making.
Yes, many institutions, including Regenesys Education allows students to enrol in an accredited online programme.
Some roles that graduates can explore include Tax Examiner, Public Accountant, and Public Accountant
