What is the course about?
This AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) professional level course is a higher-level accounting qualification. If you successfully complete this qualification and fulfil the AAT's work experience requirements, you can apply for AAT full membership and achieve professional AAT Accountant status. This flexible course is delivered in partnership with Mindful Education, and combines online learning with face-to-face lessons in the classroom. You can apply for an advanced learner loan to cover the cost of this course. Please ask a member of staff for details.
Is a pre-enrolment interview or assessment required for this course?
No.
What level is the course and do I require particular skills, experience or prior qualifications?
This is a Level 4 course. You must have a sound knowledge of accounting principles to undertake the AAT Level 4 programme. Achievement of an AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting is essential. Learners will need to have English Level 2 writing, speaking and listening skills and Mathematics Level 2 or GCSE English and Mathematics to undertake this qualification. Additionally, you should have good digital IT skills. You will need to have an interview with the team before you are enrolled.
What topics does the course cover?
The Level 4 course covers a range of key areas, including: Applied Management Accounting; Drafting and Interpreting Financial Statements; Internal Accounting Systems and Controls. These core units of study are assessed at unit level. In addition, a synoptic assessment will ask students to apply knowledge and skills gained across the qualification in an integrated way, within a workplace context. Optional units - select two of the following (subject to availability): Business Tax; Personal Tax; Audit and Assurance; Cash and Financial Management; Credit and Debt Management. You will also develop business communications and lifelong learning skills, applying what you learn on the course to the wider industry context.
How will I be taught and assessed?
We have partnered with Mindful Education to deliver this course through our flexible Online and In Class model. Our blended model consist of - one week face to face and one week - online, which this structure will continue throughout the academic year. Online, you will study award-winning video lessons, which are available on demand, and can be viewed from your phone, tablet or computer - meaning you can choose how, when and where you want to study. Lessons last for around 45 minutes and are accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Practice questions, downloadable lesson materials and interactive case studies help to enhance the learning experience further and learners should expect to spend around 6-7 hours studying independently online each week. In Class, you benefit from regular classes with a tutor - without having to commit to attending multiple evenings each week. Your tutor will review what you have learnt during your online lessons and will be on hand to provide guidance on progress and assessment. Regular discussion with classmates will help to reinforce key points while also providing the additional support and motivation that comes from being part of a group. This course is assessed through computer-based exams for each unit.
Are there any other costs or equipment I need to get?
You can apply for an advanced learner loan to cover the cost of this course. Please ask a member of staff for details. You will need access to a home computer or laptop and a reliable internet source. You will need a non-programmable calculator.
By the end of the course what should I be able to do?
In this qualification you will cover higher accounting tasks including drafting financial statements, managing budgets and evaluating financial performance, as well as a range of optional specialist units. On successful completion of this course, you will be awarded an AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting. This internationally recognised AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualification enables those working in accounting or those who looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.
What are the progression opportunities following this course?
The Diploma in Professional Accounting can lead to the achievement of professional AAT (MAAT) status. Employment opportunities include: Accounts Payable and Expenses Supervisor, Assistant Financial Accountant, Commercial Analyst, Cost Accountant, Indirect Tax Manager, Payments and Billing Manager, Payroll Manager, Senior Finance Officer, Senior Insolvency Administrator, Tax Supervisor, VAT Accountant. The accountancy skills developed by studying this qualification will enable you to seek employment with confidence, and/or to progress to study chartered accountancy.