Accounting & Control

Accounting & Control at VU University Amsterdam

Rooted in research
VU University Amsterdam is actively involved in research in the area of Accounting, Control and Auditing via ARCA, the Amsterdam Research Centre in Accounting. Almost all of the department's teaching staff are connected with ARCA and are therefore closely involved in the Center's specialized research.

Seamless postgraduate transition
VU University Amsterdam offers a range of renowned postgraduate programmes which follow on seamlessly from the Master's programme in Accounting and Control. These programmes lead to qualisications such as Certified Controller, Registered Accountant (Netherlands), EDP Auditor, Financial Analyst, Management Consultant, Change Manager or Controller in the non-profit and government sector. The programme's optional component gives you plenty of scope to acquire a broad perspective on areas relating to your chosen field.

Unique combination
The part-time Master's is a combined programme for higher vocational graduates with an economic background. If you hold one of these qualifications, you will be able to obtain both the Master of Science (MSc) title and qualify as a registered accountant in the Netherlands.

Some current research topics

Control of alliances and joint ventures
Control is not just an issue within organizations. Businesses rely increasingly on various forms of cooperation and networks. But how do the partners remain in control of shared resources? What is the role of trust compared to formal control mechanisms?

Executive compensation
Why do some executives earn so much? Is there something wrong with the job market for managers? How can we improve corporate governance to ensure that compensation is 'appropriate'?

Accounting standards
Financial reporting is unthinkable these days without extensive rules. But do the rules we have really lead to more meaningful numbers for profit or loss? And who designs these rules anyway? Does business know best how profit should be measured, or should governments have the last word?