How to Become a Professional Accountant?

Starting a career in accounting is a wise decision. It is a popular industry with high average salaries and a high demand for qualified accounting professionals. But choosing the perfect career path in accounting can be daunting. That's because you need to figure out what career fields are out there, what training you need, what company you want to work for and what work environment you are comfortable in. Let’s get you started.

Is Accounting a demanding career?

Running an organization without financial information is like driving blindfolded. A professional accountant is essential in providing effective and quality services to win and retain business. They are responsible for tracking and auditing the company's income and expenses and reporting any financial risks or irregularities to ensure smooth business operations. They are also in-charge of providing recommendations and advice to increase profits. In recent years, the demand for professional accountants and auditors has increased as more and more businesses are established. Therefore, it is vital to keep up with the changes and innovations in accounting to maintain the trust and confidence of clients. 

What does it take to become a professional Accountant?

Choosing a career that will fulfil you for a longer term can be challenging. Considering the demand for global accounting positions, a professional accounting qualification is definitely the right choice. Among other key skills, most accounting positions will require the same general skillset such as numerical ability, analytical and organisational skills, a flair for problem solving and financial acumen. But each career path in accounting requires a slightly different level of skills and training. Here are some to consider before choosing a field.

- Do you possess the required credentials?

A bachelor's degree is usually necessary for accounting positions. Consider enrolling in an accounting bachelor's degree programme if you have already earned an associate degree, or get a certificate in accounting as an extra credential when applying for new positions. 

- Where you would best like to fit in?

Be it small or big, every business sector requires accountants. For instance, do you want to work in a consulting firm that serves a range of clients, or be part of the accounting team at a private company or non-profit organisation? If you are interested in internal auditing, you should look at larger companies. If you want to work independently, a financial accountant may be the best choice.

- What kind of working environment are you anticipating?

The workplace environment for different accounting roles can vary substantially. In financial accounting there is a fairly steady pace with similar work every day, whereas in tax accounting there are periods with a lot of work that sometimes goes much more slowly. Also, decide if you can function effectively under pressure or if variation is necessary for you to remain interested. This will help you make your decision.

Are you now thinking to fast-track your accounting career with professional certification? Well, you have plenty of options online !

Online diploma courses in accounting and finance are offered by various leading educational consultants, including us. If you are looking for a professional accounting qualification or an advanced qualification to polish your accounting skills, the Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance from School of Business & Technology London, is your click bait.

What does the Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance offer?

The Level 7 Diploma in Accounting and Finance includes advanced content relevant to the 21st- century business environment, as well as the latest developments in management research. The qualification covers a number of topics in six units that are mandatory. It is designed to provide the necessary expertise for business functioning, thus addressing the needs of senior/middle managers and accountants. For instance, he/she can acquire the ability to make strategic decisions in financial management, analyse the potential outcomes and decide how to deal with them. This facilitates their progression to higher levels within their organisation. Most importantly, you will learn to ensure that financial records are accurate throughout the year. The course therefore aims to provide an understanding of the services and methods used to make critical financial decisions.

Career progression

Upon successful completion of the course, endless opportunities with fulfilling packages await you. You can work in various in-demand roles like Finance Director, Chief Financial Officer, Cost Accounting Manager, Senior Financial Analyst, Compliance Officer, International Tax Manager, Assistant Controller with an estimated average salary of £30,000- £70,000 per annum. Furthermore, learners can also think about joining a university partner to complete a dissertation to receive a full master’s degree or progress to Level 8 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership. The accounting profession is definitely demanding but also very rewarding in terms of the value and prestige the position holds. As an accountant, your decisions and recommendations are crucial to the business's success.

Mode of learning

The program is offered online and blended on flexible schedules. You can put your worries aside and join our online diploma program in Accounting and Finance, even while parallelly working.

Get qualified at School of Business & Technology London

The program is offered by QUALIFI and OTHM, both of which are accredited by the awarding organization Ofqual, and has a strong reputation for teaching essential skills across various job roles and industries. With QUALIFI, learners can progress directly into employment in an associated profession or find a college partner to complete a dissertation and earn a full Master's degree. At SBTL, we guarantee convenient learning at your own pace from the comfort of your home.