AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting

What will I learn?

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 are looking to pursue accountancy as a career to gain knowledge, practical experience and the all-important certification often sought by employers.

Study method

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.

On campus, you benefit from regular classes with a college 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.

Units of study

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 learners 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 assessed?

This course is assessed through computer-based exams for each unit.

Entry requirements

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.

Progression

The accountancy skills developed by studying this qualification will enable you to seek employment with confidence, and/or to progress to study chartered accountancy.

Career opportunities

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.

Additional information

The duration of this course is 18 months (4 terms). On Campus attendance is one day per week during term time, some sessions may be virtual (this may vary depending on your chosen study centre).

How to apply

Applications can be made via our partner colleges and training providers.