The ACCA offers a CAT designation that covers finance and accounting topics and prepares candidates for entry-level and management jobs. To become a certified accounting technician, one must pass nine exams, complete an experience requirement and ethics module, and have at least one year of experience. Technical schools or colleges offer programs that correspond to each exam and include a professional ethics class. After completing the required courses, candidates can take the corresponding exams, and gain one year of supervised experience to earn the CAT credential.
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) offers a Certified Accountant (CAT) designation, originating in the UK but recognized internationally. It covers various topics in finance and accounting and aims to prepare candidates for entry-level and management jobs in the finance and accounting fields. As of July 2011, earning the designation passes nine exams covering fundamental accounting and finance topics. Other requirements include meeting an experience requirement, passing an ethics module, and having at least one year of experience working in the accounting field before you can become a certified accountant.
You should enroll in a technical school or college that specializes in CAT credentials if you want to get serious about being a certified accounting technician. These programs usually consist of learning modules that correspond to each of the required exams. Many programs also lead to a degree in business and include introductory and intermediate accounting certificates. In addition to the required accounting and finance classes, each program requires a professional ethics class, which is part of the requirements to become a certified accounting technician. The first part of the program requires seven required courses, but the last part allows you to choose from two of the three advanced courses.
After completing the required courses, you can take the corresponding exams. As of July 2011, you can choose between computer-based and traditional paper-based exams. While the computer-based version of the exam is generally available year-round at licensed testing centers, paper-based exams are only available during certain parts of the year. The first seven exams focus on financial reporting, information management, financial records, financial and cost management, business accounting, managerial accounting, and financial accounting. Depending on the last two selected exams, you will take courses in taxation, financial management or auditing.
One year of supervised experience in an accounting-related job is required to become a certified accounting technician. You can gain this experience before, during or after taking your courses and completing the required exams. Upon completing the professional ethics course, passing the nine required exams, and gaining one year of experience, you will earn the Certified Accounting Technician credential. Once someone becomes a CAT, it is also common to obtain more advanced credentials in finance and accounting, including the certified accountant credential.
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