Accountants offer financial advice to clients, aiming to increase the value of the client’s business by preparing accounts and keeping track of financial transactions. As part of the initial training, accountants tend to spend most of their time in the areas of audit and tax, but secondments make it is possible to gain experience in more specialist fields before transferring after qualification.
Usual entry is through on-the-job training while undertaking a part-time or distance learning study. Although not a prerequisite, trainees are normally graduates with 1st or 2.1 degrees but degree subject is not necessarily important. Successful applicants are likely to need at least a good Mathematics GCSE, but a relevant A Level such as Maths or Economics would be more favourable.
There are also postgraduate courses in accountancy. These tend to offer advanced training for career development in accounting to build on previous qualifications.There is a large number of accounting bodies, each with its own qualification and services. The four main professional accounting bodies are listed below. Visit their website for more information about their courses.
Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
ACCA is the largest and fastest-growing international accountancy body with 296,000 students and 115,000 members in 180 countries. Its offers some of the best qualifications for careers in accountancy, finance and management.www.accaglobal.com
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
CIMA is one of the leading membership bodies that offers an internationally recognised professional qualification in management accountancy, focusing on accounting for business.www.cimaglobal.com
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW)
ICAEW is the largest professional accountancy body in Europe with more than 128,000 members. It is one of the leading UK bodies of finance professionals offering world class qualifications.www.icaew.co.uk
Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT)
AAT is an established and well-respected professional membership body with over 100,000 student, full and fellow members worldwide. The AAT's qualification and membership develop relevant and practical accounting and finance skills for life.www.aat.co.uk