Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Fund Accounting
Module Code	AC318
School	DCUBS
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Maria Scanlon Semester 2: Caroline McGroary Autumn: Maria Scanlon
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

The course primarily examines the role of the Accounting Agent for a mutual fund. The course also examines the primary roles and functions of a mutual fund Custodian and Transfer Agent. Students will gain an understanding of the types of transactions handled by a mutual fund accountant and how they effect the daily determination of a fund'’s Net Asset Value( NAV). Selected topics include equity transactions, bond transactions, portfolio appreciation and depreciation, daily income and expense accruals, performance indicators, capital stock and distributions. Foreign currency and non-base currency transactions will also be examined. Students will be in a position to compare and contrast various financial instruments including forwards, options and swaps. Students will gain an understanding of the tax environment in the funds industry. This course is delivered through weekly lectures.

Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss the accounting, auditing, administrative and regulatory aspects of a mutual fund
2. Calculate the daily Net Asset Value(NAV)of funds and assess factors that influence daily change in a fund's capital structure
3. Evaluate foreign exchange transactions and account for non-base currencies in a fund
4. Examine the tax environment in the funds industry.
5. Evaluate investment strategies detailed in a mutual fund prospectus
6. Compare and contrast various financial instruments and their derivatives

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	24	2 hours per week
Independent learning time	36	Lecture preparation
Independent learning time	40	Study for end of semester exam
Independent learning time	25	Completion of excercises, problems & quizzes
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Accounting and Auditing Aspects of the Mutual Fund Industry.
Determination of a Fund's Net Asset Value.

Accounting for Non-Base Currencies in a Fund.
The Role of Foreign Exchange Transactions.

The Regulatory Framework of Accounting.
Understanding Financial Instruments.

Performance Indicators.
Investment Strategies in a Mutual Fund.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	0%	Examination Weight	100%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List

Central Bank of Ireland: 0, UCITS Notices 1989, Central Bank of Ireland,
Albert, J. & Wiles, R.: 0, How Mutual Funds Work, New York Institute of Finance,
Mahony, S: 0, AZ of International Finance, Pitman,
KPMG: 0, Student Manuals Prepared by KPMG,

Other Resources

None

Array

Programme or List of Programmes

BA in Accounting & Finance

Bachelor of Business Studies

BSI

Business Studies ( with INTRA )

BSSA

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

BSSAO

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)