Accountancy

Take a course in Accountancy. It all adds up!

There are few people so highly prized in the world of business and finance as accountants. While everyone can count, it takes training and skill with numbers to become an accountant. If you've ever wondered about the world of compound interest and the nuance of the tax code (or you already know!) then a course in accounting could be right for you.

There are hundreds of courses to choose from, at all levels, from the beginner to postgraduate level.

What does an accountant do?

Accountants do more than just handle money. They keep the accounts for businesses or individuals and ensure correct reporting and financial governance.

There are different types of accountants. Some specialize in tax matters. Others are specialist auditors, who look at companies accounts to check everything is in order. Often, accountants are brought in to help businesses generate more money, or identify where they are making a loss.

Certificate and Diploma level accountancy courses

If you are looking to start out in the world of accountancy but have not yet decided if it is for you, try a certificate or diploma. Teaching the practical skills of accountancy, they are a great way to understand the core elements of the business. Successful graduates will be perfectly qualified to move on to an undergraduate degree course in the same subject. Each of these individual courses focuses on a different aspect of accounting and finance. If you are already qualified but looking to brush on your qualifications, there is the option of a single-issue course to improve your CV.

Undergraduate courses in accountancy

If you would like to begin a career as an accountant, the best place to start is with an undergraduate degree. These courses normally last 3 years and take place at a University. They often include elements of wider finance, such as banking, or business to help students get the best possible understanding of the field.

Undergraduate students will learn the key skills required to work as an accountant – including mathematics, analytics and management. Graduates can expect to be able to progress to a Masters course (or other postgraduate certification) or go straight into a career as an accountant out of university.

Postgraduate courses in accountancy

For those already qualified as accountants, or looking to increase their value as an individual, there are postgraduate options. If a qualified accountant is looking to specialise in a particular field, there are courses to suit.

I am interested in Accountancy, but I am already qualified in another field

If you have already qualified in a similar field, making the move across to accountancy can be quick and easy.

Are you qualified in any of these fields?

• Computing: Much of modern accountancy uses advanced computing, especially when dealing with topics like cryptocurrencies
• Mathematics: Dealing with accounts for major international corporations requires a high level of mathematical literacy.
• Business: Analysing account data to better understand the business is a highly sought-after skill that many employers look for.
• Banking: Closely related to accountancy already, banking specialists can easily make the move across to the profession.
• Law: Complex topics such as tax law and the legal aspects of money are not understood by all accountants. A legal background is an advantage in this field.

If so, then a conversion course to accountancy, taken in your free time, might be perfect for you. There are so many different types of accountancy, that anyone interested will be sure to find the right branch and enjoy a rewarding career in accountancy.

Search for accountancy courses near you on Courses.ie