Becoming an Accountant

Mike10

Hi

I am currently 28 and have been working as a designer for the last 10 years for a small business. I have recently taken a keen interest in the financial aspects of the business and would be interested in persuing a career as an accountant.

I don't have a degree but have a couple of btec qualifications as well as B in Maths and English GCSE. I also have plenty of certificates for courses related to my current job.

Would it be possible for me to train to be an accountant with my lack of degree?

Kynthia

You don't need a degree to be an accountant as the same qualification needs to be completed whether you're a graduate or not. Accountancy is a practical qualification that's much better learnt whilst also working in a relevant role if possible. Obviously loads of people start without having a relevant job and being part qualified helps them find one.

You can start with the AAT if you aren't sure that you have the desire, ability or support to start one of the chartered courses. It's a really well regarded qualification and is high enough for many people's needs.

If you're determined to be chartered then go for either CIMA, ACCA or CIPFA. You can read about them on their websites. They can be challenging and expensive but there are a lot of self studiers who complete them.

barrywhittakerbmw

Mike, there are two options you have here: a) go for a full-time degree or b) do certifications through distance-learning or online learning. Both work well. Since you have been working for the past 10 years, it will be difficult for you to study full-time again and concentrate on your job, I think. Many professionals opt for distance learning or online learning as it provides the flexibility to study and work at the same time.

Also, since you are quite new to accountancy, I will really recommend that you start off with AAT, then move on to either ACCA or CIMA. AAT has 4 levels of learning which make your basics and accounting knowledge strong enough to study for either ACCA or CIMA. Once you complete your AAT's, you will also be eligible for subject exemptions under ACCA. While studying you can continue working and if possible gain some experience in accountancy and finance as well. You can do this by helping small firms owned by family, friends or relatives OR you can help out your local NGO or self help groups. It might seem a bit tough at first but as you learn and pass your AAT levels, you might find it much more easier and simpler to take care of small and daily accounting work for these small firms or groups. The best part is, you might be able to show this as relevant experience in accounting once you complete your AAT's. So you will have both: a certification in accounting and work experience as well.

saintjammyswine

You can do AAT starting at level 2 and ending with level 4 in one year for about £2500 on a fasttrack course. Contact your local FE College to see if they do it. If not, PM for more info.