Accounting courses

Assistant Accountant Level 3

An Assistant Accountant provides support to internal and external teams, working predominately either as an Assistant Accountant within an accounting practice, or within the finance function of an organisation.

The role involves assisting in day-to-day financial activities, ranging from data entry to more complex tasks such as month-end management accounts and year-end financial statements.

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Apprenticeship

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An Assistant Accountant provides support to internal and external teams, working predominately either as an Assistant Accountant within an accounting practice, or within the finance function of an organisation.

The role involves assisting in day-to-day financial activities, ranging from data entry to more complex tasks such as month-end management accounts and year-end financial statements.

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CIMA Professional Qualification Package

Master all the principles of Management Accounting through this three-level CIMA Professional Qualification Package (Operational, Management & Strategic Levels). Confidently make financial decisions with short, medium and long-term goals in mind. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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Online

~~£3,495~~
£3,295Inc. VAT

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Master all the principles of Management Accounting through this three-level CIMA Professional Qualification Package (Operational, Management & Strategic Levels). Confidently make financial decisions with short, medium and long-term goals in mind. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting

Enter the world of accounting with the all-new AAT level 2 syllabus. Embark on a journey to developing your career armed with the latest knowledge in accounting and maximise your earning potential.
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Online

~~£695~~
£515Inc. VAT

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Enter the world of accounting with the all-new AAT level 2 syllabus. Embark on a journey to developing your career armed with the latest knowledge in accounting and maximise your earning potential.
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CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting

If you’re looking to work in the Business or Management Accounting sectors but have little or no accounting experience, the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting qualification is the best place for you to start working towards a career in Business Accounting. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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Online

~~£1,295~~
£1,195Inc. VAT

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If you’re looking to work in the Business or Management Accounting sectors but have little or no accounting experience, the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting qualification is the best place for you to start working towards a career in Business Accounting. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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AAT Levels 2, 3 & 4 in Accounting

Throughout these three levels, you will learn the fundamental and advanced principles and techniques used throughout accounting today, such as undertaking double-entry bookkeeping, tax, evaluating financial performance, and managing budgets.
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Online

~~£1,795~~
£1,395Inc. VAT

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Throughout these three levels, you will learn the fundamental and advanced principles and techniques used throughout accounting today, such as undertaking double-entry bookkeeping, tax, evaluating financial performance, and managing budgets.
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CIMA Certificate in Sage 50

Learn how to perform advanced accounting function in the most effective manner using Sage 50 with this course that offers certification accredited by CIMA.
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Online

~~£250~~
£225Inc. VAT

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Learn how to perform advanced accounting function in the most effective manner using Sage 50 with this course that offers certification accredited by CIMA.
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CIMA Higher Certificate in Sage 50

Demonstrate your ability in the complex functions that Sage has to offer to expand your knowledge of operating and controlling the computerised accounting system.
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Online

~~£300~~
£265Inc. VAT

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Demonstrate your ability in the complex functions that Sage has to offer to expand your knowledge of operating and controlling the computerised accounting system.
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AAT Levels 2 & 3 in Accounting

The AAT Levels 2 & 3 in Accounting course is the most cost-effective way to get your accounting career path underway or to progress in your current accounting role. You will learn essential fundamental accounting skills before undertaking more complex accounting processes, such as advanced double-entry bookkeeping, implementing procedures for acquisition and disposal of non-current assets, preparing, and recording depreciation calculations, and more!
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Online

~~£1,095~~
£845Inc. VAT

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The AAT Levels 2 & 3 in Accounting course is the most cost-effective way to get your accounting career path underway or to progress in your current accounting role. You will learn essential fundamental accounting skills before undertaking more complex accounting processes, such as advanced double-entry bookkeeping, implementing procedures for acquisition and disposal of non-current assets, preparing, and recording depreciation calculations, and more!
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Sage Business Cloud Accounting Software (Level 2)

This course is the perfect place to start if you are taking your first step towards a career in accountancy & finance. You’ll learn how to use accounting software, such as Sage Business Cloud, learn how to process account transactions, & more.
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Online

~~£250~~
£225Inc. VAT

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This course is the perfect place to start if you are taking your first step towards a career in accountancy & finance. You’ll learn how to use accounting software, such as Sage Business Cloud, learn how to process account transactions, & more.
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CIMA Professional Qualification Operational Level (E1, P1, F1)

Master the fundamental principles of management accounting, to be able to start making financial decisions with short-term goals in mind. This qualification will enable you to progress onto the 2nd and 3rd Professional Qualifications - Management Level and Strategic Level, while working towards becoming fully qualified and CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.

[...]

Online

~~£1,195~~
£1,095Inc. VAT

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Master the fundamental principles of management accounting, to be able to start making financial decisions with short-term goals in mind. This qualification will enable you to progress onto the 2nd and 3rd Professional Qualifications - Management Level and Strategic Level, while working towards becoming fully qualified and CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.

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CIMA Professional Qualification Management Level (E2, P2, F2)

Master the fundamental principles of Management Accounting and be able to start making financial decisions with medium-term goals in mind. This qualification will enable you to progress onto the third and final qualification in the Professional Qualification - Strategic Level, working towards becoming fully qualified and gaining CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
[...]

Online

~~£1,225~~
£1,125Inc. VAT

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Master the fundamental principles of Management Accounting and be able to start making financial decisions with medium-term goals in mind. This qualification will enable you to progress onto the third and final qualification in the Professional Qualification - Strategic Level, working towards becoming fully qualified and gaining CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting

Our AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting is a specifically designed training course, providing you with the necessary skills and credibility to progress within the accounting industry. Whether you’re starting your own company, or you want to take on a senior accounting role within an established organisation, this course will get you there.
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Online

~~£695~~
£515Inc. VAT

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Our AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting is a specifically designed training course, providing you with the necessary skills and credibility to progress within the accounting industry. Whether you’re starting your own company, or you want to take on a senior accounting role within an established organisation, this course will get you there.
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CIMA Professional Qualification Strategic Level (E3, P3, F3)

This is the final stage of your CIMA Professional Qualification. The Strategic Level will help you master the strategic and risk management principles of management accounting, with long term decisions in mind and allows you to submit work experience to CIMA and apply to become fully qualified with CIMA and gain CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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Online

~~£1,295~~
£1,145Inc. VAT

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This is the final stage of your CIMA Professional Qualification. The Strategic Level will help you master the strategic and risk management principles of management accounting, with long term decisions in mind and allows you to submit work experience to CIMA and apply to become fully qualified with CIMA and gain CGMA status. This course is eligible for a TOTUM PRO Card.
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AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting

Our Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting qualification builds on the knowledge gained through the AAT Level 2 Certificate & Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, opening options for you to study a Chartered or Management Accounts qualification, like CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting.
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Hard Copy

~~£795~~
£595

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Our Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting qualification builds on the knowledge gained through the AAT Level 2 Certificate & Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, opening options for you to study a Chartered or Management Accounts qualification, like CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting.
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AAT Levels 3 & 4 in Accounting

This AAT training package will teach you the essential skills and knowledge to function within a senior accounting role, including using advanced double-entry bookkeeping, implementing procedures for acquisition and disposal of non-current assets, preparing and recording depreciation calculations.
[...]

Online

~~£1,295~~
£975Inc. VAT

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This AAT training package will teach you the essential skills and knowledge to function within a senior accounting role, including using advanced double-entry bookkeeping, implementing procedures for acquisition and disposal of non-current assets, preparing and recording depreciation calculations.
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What does an accountant do?

Accountants help people and businesses keep track of their money. Junior accountants might do things like record transactions, make sure calculations are correct, or help with filing taxes..

More qualified accountants might give advice on investments, report and review financial statements, file accounts, provide financial management, compute tax returns and create budgets for businesses.

Benefits of becoming an accountant

Becoming an accountant provides numerous benefits for those looking for a stable and well-paid career.

Some of the main benefits include:

Financial Security

Accountancy is one of the most secure professions out there, with many jobs paying above-average salaries. With an accounting qualification, it’s easier to find consistent work that pays well.

Job Variety

There are numerous job opportunities available in the field of accounting and finance, from working within large companies to setting up your own business.

Ability to Influence Others

Accountants often have a direct influence over how businesses are run, as their advice and expertise can help shape company strategies and decisions about investments, taxes and budgets.

Professional Recognition

Achieving professional qualifications (such as an AAT qualification or CIMA professional qualification) can significantly boost your career prospects, allowing you to access higher salary levels and more senior roles within the industry.

Demand for accountants in the future

Every business needs an accountant!

So there will always be a strong demand for accountants in the future. With the growth of technology, accounting has become an increasingly important part of business operations.

AI and automation are replacing some traditional roles, but accountants are needed to ensure businesses comply with laws and regulations surrounding financial reporting. The demand for qualified accountants is only set to grow as companies increasingly rely on their expertise in financial decision-making.

According to a recent report published by ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales), the UK is facing a growing talent shortage in accounting with a 36% drop in applicant numbers between June 2021 and June 2022; and nearly half of UK accounting firms saying their growth is suffering due to the skills shortages.

Finance remains one of the most sought-after skills in Britain, with almost two-thirds (61%) of employers looking for employees who have specialist finance qualifications or experience (Adzuna Job Vacancy Index 2019).

AI has not affected this trend; employers are still looking for people with specific qualifications and expertise who can help them navigate complex financial matters.

Skills required to become an accountant

Typical skills required to become an accountant include:

strong analytical and numerical abilities
problem-solving skills
good communication
organisational and time management capabilities
attention to detail
positive attitude towards learning and adapting to new technologies

If you feel that you possess these skills, then a career in accounting could be perfect for you!

How to become an accountant

If you are looking to become an accountant then you should consider the following steps:

The first step is to research what a finance professional does and try and map out if there is a specific pathway that suits you most

Study an accounting course. The right courses and qualifications will not only provide you with the knowledge and skills you will need to progress but will also give you the accreditation that employers are looking for. You may also consider doing an apprenticeship in accounting with a reputable training provider

Decide if you wish to study self-paced online, through virtual classrooms or in a physical classroom. Both methods have their advantages, and you should research which option is best for you

Choose the right training provider. It is important to choose a provider such as e-Careers that has a good track record to deliver training that helps people make a tangible impact on their career development

You do not necessarily need to finish your course or assessments before you start applying for jobs. An employer will see it as a positive that you have invested in yourself and may offer employment opportunities within their organisation whilst you continue studying

Accountancy career paths

There is a wide range of career paths in accounting, with opportunities to work in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.
Accountants may find employment in companies or organisations that need financial advice regarding budgeting or investments. These roles can be found across any industry including retail, banking, construction, hospitality, manufacturing and IT.
In the not-for-profit sector, there are plenty of opportunities for accountants to feel highly valued by volunteering their skills and knowledge to help charitable organisations manage their finances. Furthermore, with the introduction of ethical consumerism, there is an ever-growing demand for accountants interested in sustainability initiatives.

Self-employment offers many potential benefits and those looking to become an accountant can explore this as an opportunity to create a business of their own.
Other options also include academic roles such as lecturers or course tutors at universities teaching students about specialised areas of finance and accounting theory.
No matter which field you choose to pursue within this profession, accounting can provide a wealth of exciting challenges while simultaneously being able to make a positive impact on society.
With the right qualifications you will have access to these rewarding career paths that all require an understanding of complex financial regulations and procedures.

Accounting salaries

While a large salary isn't everything, having financial security is a bonus. Even entry-level accounting jobs have a good starting salary.

Bookkeeper £20,786 to £33,080 per annum

(Source: Guardian Jobs)

Accountant £30,000 to £45,000 per annum

(Source: PayScale UK)

Chartered Certified Accountant (in UK)£35,927 to £92,837 per annum

(Source: Indeed Jobs)

Tax Manager/Advisorup to £65k per annum

(Source: Reed Jobs )

Forensic Accountantup to 70K per annum

(Source: Indeed Jobs)

Audit Manager up to 85K per annum

(Source: ZipRecruiter)

Furthermore, Chartered Accountants and Chief Financial Officers can earn considerably more.

Qualifications required to become an accountant

Qualifications required to become an accountant vary depending on the sector and role.
Generally, however, successful accountants tend to have reputable professional qualifications from awarding bodies such as AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians), CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) and a working knowledge of software used in the industry such as Sage or Xero.
The AAT qualification is one of the most popular accounting qualifications in the UK, offering three levels of courses which are specifically designed to build up experience and knowledge. Structured as 'AAT Levels', AAT Level 2, AAT Level 3 and AAT Level 4 are qualifications which are tailored for those wanting a career in finance, with topics ranging from basic bookkeeping to advanced tax planning.
CIMA is the world’s leading and largest professional body for those seeking to become a Chartered Management Accountant. CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting is recognised worldwide, covering topics such as financial analysis, budgeting and performance measurement. It is suitable for those wishing to move into business finance roles and upon completion, candidates will receive a CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting which is accredited by Ofqual Level 7 Qualifications Framework (QCF).
Recognised globally and considered essential for anyone wanting to enter the profession of accountancy, Sage certifications provide comprehensive training and certify individuals who demonstrate proficiency in their chosen field. Upon completion, candidates receive a Sage certificate that demonstrates they have achieved an industry-standard level of competence in accounting software as well as payroll when it comes to using the Sage software package.
Xero is another highly respected certificate for those wishing to specialise in small business accounts or bookkeeping services using Xero software. The Xero Advisor Certification program consists of four phases that cover areas such as taxation basics, setting up clients on Xero software and managing financial data within cloud-based systems.
Apprenticeships are also available for hard-working and dedicated individuals who want to earn while they learn. Our team specialises in sourcing apprenticeship opportunities and can find you the right employer to build your dream career.

Why choose e-Careers

Everyone should have the opportunity to learn and develop a better future for themselves, regardless of age and experience. Our online courses are designed to give you the practical skills and professional knowledge to meet your career goals.

Here's why over 615,000 people from across the world have chosen e-Careers

Flexibility

Our courses are delivered as a combination of self-paced online and virtual classrooms with hardcopy books to catering for all learning styles, so you can study wherever and whenever it suits you, through our highly engaging, modern learning platform.

Trust

We have trained over 615,000 people and received over 13,000 positive Trustpilot reviews, achieving over 90% pass rates across our accounting courses.

Award-winning

We have won multiple awards and nominations for our accountancy training programmes.

Tutor support

Our courses come with tutor support from highly skilled and passionate tutors.

Created by industry experts

Our courses are developed by our team of experts, including professionals who teach in college, bringing classroom quality training to your online courses.

Gain the skills employers want

We work closely with employers to ensure you are workplace-ready with in-demand skills.

Flexible payment options

We will work with you to find an affordable way to get trained and qualified.

Growth Masterclasses

You will be given an exclusive invitation to join our Growth Masterclasses where you will uncover techniques to fully unlock your potential.

TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card

TOTUM membership (formerly known as NUS extra), is available to all e-Careers accounting students. A TOTUM PRO Student Discount Card opens doors to a broad range of discounts and deals on everything from dining, fashion, tech to travel, and daily essentials. The TOTUM platform offers over 400 discounts and deals, with more exciting brands being added every month.

FAQs

I want to become an accountant but cannot afford the course fees. What are my options?

No matter your budget, there are a variety of options available to help you become an accountant.

Some training providers such as e-Careers offer flexible payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of your course over several months or years, often interest-free.

Some employers may even pay for some or all of your tuition fees if they see the value in having employees who possess a certain skill set or qualification, particularly if it is related to their business needs.

You could speak with potential employers about this possibility or look into apprenticeship schemes which may allow you to gain experience while studying at the same time.

Do I need a degree to go into accounting and finance?

No, you don’t need a degree to take our accounting courses or to become an accountant. Our broad range of courses are designed for career starters, changers or anyone that wants to upskill, so we welcome learners of all ages and backgrounds.

Professional qualifications like AAT, CIMA and ACCA are recognised by employers and can help you learn the skills for an accounting career, right from entry-level to becoming a chartered accountant - without a degree!

Thanks to organisations such as e-Careers, you can get these qualifications by taking courses through distance learning. We offer a range of flexible and affordable courses to help you progress.

Do I need prior experience or qualifications to study accounting courses?

No, you don’t need prior experience or qualifications to take our courses. Our full range of courses are designed for career starters, career changers or anyone that seeks professional development. We welcome learners of all ages and backgrounds.

We provide the necessary resources and tutor support to help you succeed in your accounting journey, regardless of prior experience or qualifications.

Is ACCA better than AAT?

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) are two highly respected organisations for professional accountants. The main difference between ACCA and AAT is that ACCA focuses on developing strategic business knowledge, while AAT is a technical qualification, focusing on practical accounting skills.

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