What to do after ACCA

woman climbing stairs

 

An ACCA qualification can open many doors and many opportunities. But once completed, what can you do next? Besides celebrating of course. This blog lists some of the options available to qualified ACCA accountants, so you feel more confident about your next steps.

Continue your studies

MBA or MSC

If you have ambitions to reach the top, pursuing a master’s degree could be your ticket there. An MBA focuses more on business aspects and is likely to land you a role such as Chief Financial Officer or Senior Financial Analyst.

On the other hand, an MSC covers more maths, science, and technology. Both options can take you onto management or analyst roles, but which one you choose depends on your skills and interests. There are even some universities that offer combined law and accounting degrees.

Just keep in mind that you’ll ideally want a few years’ working experience before moving onto levels like these.

CFA

Yes, you can do CFA after ACCA! Chartered Financial Analyst status is globally recognised and a common qualification for many accountants who’ve completed an ACCA course. Potential roles for those who are CFA certified include: Asset Management, Risk Management, Consulting, and Corporate Banking.

Become self employed

The beauty of an accounting role is that you have the option to work on your own terms. With an ACCA qualification, enough experience, and some confidence, you’re free to go solo and work in all kinds of industries around the globe. For more information, take a look at our blog on becoming a self-employed accountant.

Work in industry

Accountants are always in demand and once qualified, you have the freedom to pick a company and a role that suits you. After all, finance experts are needed in all kinds of businesses. The average salary for an associate or accounts clerk is around £23,000 per annum*. And with three to five years’ experience, you could earn up to £90,000 per annum.**

Here are just some of the jobs you could expect to get with your ACCA qualification:

  • Management Accountant
  • Financial Accountant
  • Corporate Treasurer
  • Financial Controller
  • Finance Manager
  • Fund Accountant
  • Finance Director
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Auditor
  • Tax Specialist

As a full ACCA member, you’ll be able to include the letters after your name, giving you full recognition in 179 operating countries. You’ll also have access to a range of CPD (continuing professional development) materials to further develop your skills.

Still unsure? Weigh up your options

To better help you decide which route could be best for you, consider these three questions:

1. Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?

Do you aspire to start your own firm? Perhaps you’re particularly interested in becoming an auditor? The path you’ll need to take can differ depending on where you want to be.

2. What are you interested in?

Consider the core accountancy roles available, then decide where you might need to broaden your knowledge or upskill.

3. Do you want to explore outside of the finance industry?

Some accountants choose to undertake a business or management degree and work their way up to more senior roles. Instead of carrying out day-to-day jobs, they’re likely to be running a department or calling the shots financially at the top of the business world.

Our best advice is to research your options and find the right route for you. Keep your eye on the job market during your studies and discover what’s out there. If you’re not sure, don’t worry as you do have time to breathe after studying. Make sure you feel confident in your next steps and you’ll have a greater chance of success.

Get your ACCA qualification with Eagle

Ultimately, you’re free to develop your career even further – however you want to. From continuing studies to gaining more work experience, you’ll have support as an ACCA member to take your skills to the next level. Staying relevant and keeping a competitive edge will open even more doors for you.

If you’re already studying ACCA, or want to start, why not take a look at our affordable subscriptions? We’re here to help you achieve your goals, your way.

 

 

*Source: Total Jobs
**Source: ACCA Salary Survey
***Source: Investopedia
****Source: Kaplan