Accountancy Qualifications – A Quick Reference
some guidance on qualifications available to trainees
The information available to individuals looking at a career in accountancy or tax is vast and is subject to change. This information below is a guide to some of the options. We recommend you look at the various accountancy qualification options full details are in website links below.
ICAEW Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
The ICAEW chartered accountancy qualification, the ACA, is one of the most advanced learning and professional development programmes available. Its integrated components provide students with an in-depth understanding across accountancy, finance and business. Combined, they help build the technical knowledge, professional skills and practical experience needed to become an ICAEW Chartered Accountant.
Foundation Courses
The ICAEW also offers the Certificate in Finance, Accounting and Business (ICAEW CFAB)), which is an internationally recognised certificate which teaches essential knowledge in business, finance and accounting. It is also a route in to the professional qualification.
ACCA Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
Employers across the globe seek out ACCA-trained professionals because they know they have the strategic thinking, technical skills and professional values.
This qualification is extremely flexible. You can keep your studies broad or choose an area to specialise in. You can gain additional qualifications on your journey to membership, including
- BSc in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University
- MSc in Professional Accountancy from the University of London
Foundation Courses
ACCA offer several foundation courses from their Foundations in Accountancy programme, leading on to the Certified Accounting Technician award, this can lead into the professional ACCA qualification.
ICAS Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland
The CA qualification is exceptional. It is a prestigious and internationally respected qualification which will provide you with the knowledge, skills and values to be highly regarded and sought-after business professional.
The CA qualification is comprised of professional study and relevant practical experience. To study for the CA qualification, you must meet ICAS' entry requirements for your chosen route.
CIMA Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
On completion of the CIMA professional qualification you will be awarded the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation recognising your value and showcasing your professionalism, business and leadership skills ethics and commitment
Foundation courses
CIMA offer the Certificate in Business Accounting which will help students with little or no accounting experience gain core business and finance skills. The Cert BA is a qualification in its own-right and is an entry route in to the CIMA professional qualification
CIOT Chartered Institute of Taxation
Tax affects everything - when you travel, when you eat, when you are paid. Tax is a part of government, business and everyday life. Capable tax professionals are always highly sought after.
The professional qualification in tax is the Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA).
Foundation courses
The Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) qualification provides the tax pathway route for students who which to specialise in this area and move on to CTA.
AAT Association of Accounting Technician
AAT offer several accounting qualifications. These qualifications provide training for a huge range of accounting and finance roles and are respected by employers worldwide. With AAT on your CV, you will demonstrate a level of excellence and work-readiness sought after by employees. AAT is a qualification in its’ own right and a highly respected foundation course giving you exemptions with all UK chartered and certified accountancy bodies.