Top Accounting Firms (UK) and how to get into them!

The ‘Big 4’ accountancy firms

When it comes to the top accounting firms in the UK, the ‘Big 4’ dominate the market. These famous giants in finance are:

- PwC

- Deloitte

- EY

- KPMG

Their services span advisory, audit and assurance, tax, risk consulting and management consulting, and capital and transaction management. And all four firms have a stake across multiple sectors and over a vast global network.

The experience you will gain is second to none, and there are opportunities to travel or work overseas too.

How to get hired:

Gear up for autumn intern recruitment, as these firms often invest heavily in September and October. Their focus at this time is to bring onboard new interns, so it’s a great time to get your foot in the door, ready for climbing the ladder. 

Other top accounting firms

UK finance and accountancy companies that are just as sought after as the ‘Big 4’ include Grant Thornton, BDO, RSM, Smith & Williamson, Moore Stephens, Mazars, PKF UKI, Saffery Champness, Haines Watts, Crowe Clark Whitehill, and UHY Hacker Young.

Some of these firms have branches in Manchester or the Greater Manchester area, placing the University of Bolton at the heart of the industry.

How to get hired:

Building your portfolio is key when it comes to standing out from the crowd in this competitive field. Make the most of placement or work-based training opportunities, and choose a course that nurtures personal and professional development.

Universities such as ours that have relationships with local employers can also maximise graduate employment rates.

More advice for graduates:

- Find opportunities to network, including within the student community (you never know who you might end up working with in the future).

- Make the most of our services, such as our dedicated Employability Team, who are there to support you as you build your CV and search for placements and jobs.

- Do your research on desired firms (according to TargetJobs, savvy research is key).

- Apply early as places at sought-after firms fill up on a first-come-first-served basis.

Study accountancy at the University of Bolton

Knowing how to get into accounting and perfecting your CV for top employers starts with a good education. As well as ranking in the UK’s top spot for accountancy and finance courses, we’ve also been voted No.1 for Student Satisfaction in the North West** for the past three years. So there’s nowhere better to begin your journey into undergraduate or postgraduate study.

We have excellent connections with firms in the Greater Manchester area and have support from the Bolton Society of Chartered Accountants. If you’d like to kick-start your career in accountancy and dream of working for top accounting firms (UK or overseas), our degree courses could be for you.

To find out more about applying in September 2021, see our available courses online.

Or if you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on +44 (0)1204 903 394 or admissions@bolton.ac.uk.

* The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2021

**Complete University Guide in 2021, 2020 and 2019