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Accounting courses

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accounting courses

Do you have a knack for analysing numbers and thinking strategically? Want a role that’s indispensable to every business and all industries?

Our range of accounting courses and diplomas are accredited by leading industry bodies such as AAT, ACCA and CIMA. With these recognised qualifications, you’ll gain the skills and credentials needed to become a professional accountant and distinguish yourself in the field.

Know which course you're interested in?

What is accounting?

Accounting is the process of recording, analysing, and interpreting a business’s financial information to provide strategic advice and insights that help inform decision-making.

It's often referred to as the "language of business" because it communicates vital financial information to stakeholders, both internal and external.

An accountant's responsibilities typically include:

  • Financial reporting: Preparing and analysing financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  • Budgeting and forecasting: Developing financial projections and helping businesses plan for the future.
  • Tax planning and compliance: Ensuring adherence to tax laws and regulations.
  • Auditing: Examining financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations.
  • Management accounting: Providing financial insights to help managers make informed business decisions.
  • Financial analysis: Interpreting financial data to assess a company's performance and financial health.

Accounting goes beyond just number-crunching; it involves critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. You'll need to explain complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders and use your analytical skills to identify trends and opportunities.

Our accounting courses

Whether you're taking your first steps into the world of finance, looking to advance your existing accounting career, or aiming to specialise in a specific area of accounting, our range of courses has something for everyone.

We offer a diverse selection, from foundational level 2 courses that introduce you to the core concepts of accounting, to more advanced level 3 and 4 courses.

For those looking to gain high-level expertise and progress even further, we also offer a range of advanced qualifications from ACCA and CIMA, which delve into specialised areas of accounting including management accounting, financial reporting, and strategic management.

Our course collection additionally includes A Level accounting, allowing you to earn UCAS points to help secure a place at university.

Each of our courses are designed to provide a structured and progressive learning path. You'll gain thorough knowledge and practical skills in essential areas such as:

  • Quantitative skills
  • Budgetary control
  • Interpretation of financial statements
  • Preparing a trial balance
  • Use of double-entry and accounting systems

You'll not only learn the technical aspects of the profession but also develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are highly valued in today's business environment. Start your journey towards becoming a skilled accountant today by choosing the course that best fits your goals.

Industry-recognised qualifications

We offer accounting courses from five prestigious bodies that are recognised industry-wide: AAT, ACCA, CIMA, IAB and Sage.

AAT - The UK’s leading professional body offering internationally-recognised skills-based accountancy and finance qualifications.

ACCA - A global professional accounting body offering the Chartered Certified Accountant qualification, as well as a range of modules placing you on the pathway to becoming chartered.

CIMA - The world’s largest professional body of management accountants. CIMA qualifications focus on business finance and management accounting skills.

IAB - A leading awarding body providing globally recognised qualifications in bookkeeping, accounting, and finance.

Sage - A market leader in accounting software, who also offer accredited qualifications in Computerised Accounts.

Our range includes courses from these esteemed bodies so that we can guarantee that our learners gain qualifications that are not only respected by employers but also provide a solid foundation for career advancement in the accounting and finance sectors.

Key benefits of our accounting courses

Industry-relevant curriculum

Our accounting courses are designed with industry relevance at their core, giving you skills that are immediately applicable in the workplace.

The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest accounting standards, tax regulations, and best practices in financial management. You'll work on real world case studies and practical exercises - an approach that helps you develop critical thinking abilities and prepares you for the day-to-day challenges you'll face in your accounting career.

Additionally, our courses cover the latest accounting software and digital tools used in the industry, to make sure you're well-equipped to handle the technological aspects of modern accounting.

Flexible distance learning

Study the same high-quality content and gain the same valuable qualifications as traditional college courses, all from the comfort of your home.

You can access your course materials 24/7, either online or through comprehensive study packs, enabling you to learn at times that suit your schedule.

Plus, there'll be no rigid timetables or physical classes to attend, offering ultimate flexibility. This allows you to balance your studies with work, family, or other commitments, and save time and money on commuting.

Tutor support

When you study your accounting courses with us, you’ll get unlimited, personal tutor support. They’ll be on hand to guide you, answer your questions, and provide detailed feedback on your progress. You’ll receive expert assistance in preparing for examinations, ensuring you feel confident and well-prepared.

Our tutors also provide guidance on career paths in accounting and finance; you’ll have access to resources on job searching, CV writing, and interview preparation specific to the accounting field.

Take the leap towards a successful career in accounting today

If you’re passionate about finance and want to play a key role in business decision-making, accounting may just be the career path for you. Choose from our range of comprehensive accounting courses today and take the first step.

Frequently asked questions

While bookkeeping and accounting are closely related, they serve different functions in the financial process. Bookkeeping is the foundation, involving organising data, recording transactions and maintaining the books. Accounting builds upon this by interpreting, analysing and summarising financial data to provide financial advice. Both are equally as important for a business’ effective financial management.

Accountants have excellent earning potential, with salaries varying based on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the employer. Indeed found that the average accountant salary in the UK in 2024 is £37,047, with the highest paying city for accountants being London.

Entry-level AAT qualified accountants can start at around £25,000 to £30,000 per year. With experience, this then rises to £35,000 - £50,000 for mid-level positions. Senior accountants or those with chartered status can earn £60,000 - £100,000+, especially in leadership roles or specialised fields.

To excel as an accountant, you’ll need a combination of technical and soft skills. Skills highly regarded by employees include:

  • Strong numerical and analytical skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Proficiency in accounting software and spreadsheets
  • Understanding of financial regulations and tax laws
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Time management and organisational skills

Looking to speak to an adviser?

We are delighted that you are considering joining us to study and take pleasure in welcoming you to our family.

Open Study College is one of the UK’s leading distance learning colleges. We provide professionally recognised accounting qualifications that enable you to study at your own pace, in your own environment either online or via printed materials sent to your home.

We understand that choosing a course is a big decision. That’s why we have a team of friendly, knowledgeable education specialists that can help you choose the right accounting qualifications for you.

Over the past 17 years we’ve enrolled over 130,000 people on courses that have improved their education and their career prospects!

Our education specialists can answer any questions you may have, talk you through our finance options and get you enrolled over the telephone.

As a family-founded college, we think of our learners as extended members of our family. We’re all here to help you achieve your goals in life, whatever they may be.

If you’d like to speak to an education specialist about our online accounting, simply complete the form here and you’ll get a call back at the requested time.

Our education specialists are here to assist you with anything you may need. Fill in the form below and we'll be in touch within 24 hours, Monday to Saturday.

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