Curriculum innovation in undergraduate accounting degree programmes through "virtual internships"

'Purpose' - The purpose of this paper is to discuss major criticisms of traditional undergraduate accounting programmes and to introduce virtual internships as a curriculum innovation that addresses these criticisms. 'Design/methodology/approach' - The main aim of the paper is to inspire curriculum innovation in accounting programmes though the introduction and discussion of virtual internships as a contemporary teaching model. 'Findings' - The paper provides a detailed outline of the virtual internship model, its advantages and disadvantages, and its development in practice. 'Originality/value' - The paper is likely to be most relevant for academics in undergraduate accounting programmes because it provides a practical guide to the development of this curriculum innovation.