UC partner with Taylor’s University to launch new Fintech programme

Te Kura Umanga | University of Canterbury Business School is proud to partner with Taylor’s University, Malaysia to launch the new Bachelor in Accounting (Fintech) (Honours) degree.

Blending the fundamentals of accounting with technology-focussed subjects such as blockchain and data analytics, the three-year programme is the first degree in Malaysia to enable students to specialise in fintech at an undergraduate level.

“Fintech is transforming the profession of Accounting, and it is essential that future Accounting graduates have a strong grounding in finance and technology. This qualification will provide that, ensuring that students are work-ready for the 21st century,” says Associate Professor Richard Fisher.

A key feature of the programme allows interested students to spend their final year of study in Aotearoa New Zealand at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury, allowing them to graduate with a University of Canterbury Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, with a minor in Information Systems, in addition to their Taylor’s University degree.

Associate Professor Dr. Nor Shaipah Abdul Wahab, Acting Head of Taylor’s University School of Accounting & Finance says, “Today we are exposed to multiple new technologies like blockchain, cryptocurrency, cloud networks and artificial intelligence that are transforming the financial services industry.”

“Keeping this in mind, our latest degree offerings present an amalgamation of fundamental theories and applications in accounting along with providing graduates a strong grasp on relevant technology and sufficient industry knowledge at the undergraduate level itself.”

For Professor Paul Ballantine, Head of the University of Canterbury Business School, “the innovative accounting and fintech-based curriculum merges the latest developments in information technology and accounting with the aim of producing future-proofed graduates.”

Taylor’s University is the highest ranked private university in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, recently jumping 47 places in the QS World University Rankings 2022.

The University of Canterbury Business School is ‘triple-crown’ accredited, which demonstrates its commitment to internationalisation, and developing graduates equipped to make a difference in a diverse, global environment.

“We are delighted to partner with Taylor’s University to ensure students can gain important international experience and perspectives as part of this excellent and very timely qualification.” Professor Ballantine adds.

“With the current international climate, now is the perfect time to start one’s studies at home with a view to finishing them overseas, two years from now.”

“We are excited to work with Taylor’s University on this programme. We have a strong community of Malaysian students at the University of Canterbury, and we look forward to welcoming Taylor’s students to campus in the near future.”

The programme has three intakes per year, with the first starting in August 2021.