What opportunities will this course give me?

The AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting provides progression opportunities to further AAT qualifications and a choice of great careers, including progress onto the AAT Level 4 Diploma in Accounting and a route to HE. Benefits associated with this Level 3 qualification include UCAS points. The Level 3 Diploma in Accounting qualification also provides the foundation skills required to support the establishment of a healthy business. Skills developed through this qualification can lead to employment as an accounts assistant, an accounts payable and expenses supervisor, an accounts payable clerk, an assistant accountant, an audit trainee, a corporate recovery analyst, a credit controller, a finance assistant, a finance officer, an indirect tax manager, an insolvency executive, a payroll supervisor, a professional bookkeeper, a senior bookkeeper or a tax assistant. This qualification is suitable for those who have completed the AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting, or are at a more intermediate level and looking to develop their skills in accounting. The Level 3 Diploma in Accounting is also suited to those who have already started working in finance and who have a need and desire to attain formal recognition of their skills.

What will I be learning?

The AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting covers a range of complex accounting tasks, including maintaining cost accounting records and the preparation of reports and returns. Students will learn and master financial processes, including accounting principles and concepts, advanced bookkeeping, final accounts, VAT issues in business, management accounting costing techniques, ethical practices for accountants and spreadsheet software skills. This qualification comprises four mandatory units, these units are, Business Awareness, Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements, Management Accounting Techniques and Tax Processes for Business. The purpose of this qualification is to ensure that students are well prepared to progress into a business, finance or professional accountancy career or into further education.

Why is this course for me?

The course is delivered in college on a part-time basis either one full day per week or two evenings per week during term-time. Delivery is through a blend of tutor led sessions and independent study supported by tutorials and course materials through the colleges virtual learning environment. Significant commitment to independent study is required to supplement and consolidate learning. Units are assessed individually in end-of-unit computer-based assessments.

What do I need to sign up?

Applicants must have achieved a Merit or Distinction in their AAT Level 2 Certificate in accounting, or if they have another book-keeping qualification or previous experience of bookkeeping, they will need to demonstrate a competent knowledge and understanding of double-entry book-keeping and basic accounting functions by obtaining over 85% or more in a short assessment. New candidates will be required to attend an interview with the course tutor prior to commencing on the course and all candidates will need to demonstrate an appropriate standard of Literacy and Numeracy by way of a short online assessment. All elements of the course include a significant amount of writing and literacy skills are as critical as numeracy skills. Basic IT skills will also be required.

Is there anything else I need to know?

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is a professional body and membership is required in order to undertake this qualification. Registration with the AAT must be made upon commencement of the course and will incur an additional cost. Course text books will also be required and full details will be given upon commencement. All students under the age of 19 at the start of the course without a GCSE grade 4 in English and Maths will be required, as a condition of the programme to undertake either a GCSE or Functional Skills programme alongside their study programme.

A calculator, notebook, pens and an A4 folder will be required from the start of the course.

Application Information

Please note that all courses are subject to minimum numbers and course descriptions may be subject to change. A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until all of the necessary enrolment paperwork is signed and any relevant fees are paid. The team will be in touch to discuss this with you, once your application has been processed.

Course Code

AC22D3

Need some further advice?

Contact the Brand, Engagement and Learner Recruitment Team for further guidance - email bebetter@eastleigh.ac.uk or call 023 8091 1000.