This course builds on the topics already covered on the AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting. Students learn how to draft financial statements for limited companies, perform complex management accounting tasks and develop management skills. As a part of selection from the optional units, students are offered units for personal taxation, business taxation, external auditing etc. In addition to the taught modules, students complete a project either based on their own workplace or on a centre-provided case study.
AAT Level 4 Accounting Technician Qualification is the perfect progression route for those who have already completed Levels 2 and 3, or for those at a more advanced stage in their career and want a qualification to gain confidence and prove they have the skills to do the job.
The course covers modules including:
Financial statements: to develop knowledge of regulatory and conceptual frameworks which underpin the preparation of limited company financial statements and apply International Financial Reporting Standards and relevant legislation in the drafting of financial statements of single limited companies and consolidated financial statements and analyse and interpret the financial statements of limited companies using ratio analysis.
Budgeting: allowing students to prepare forecasts of income and expenditure; prepare budgets; assess the impact of internal and external factors on budgets and use budgetary control to improve organisational performance. This will allow students to report budgetary information to management in a clear and appropriate format.
Financial performance: will teach students how to collate and analyse cost information from various sources and use standard costing to analyse performance. Students will learn the appropriate techniques to measure performance and manage costs and monitor and analyse information in order to prepare performance reports for management.
Internal control and accounting systems: this project-based unit is designed to help students understand the role of accounting within the organisation as well as the importance and use of internal control systems. Students are required to conduct an ethical evaluation of accounting systems and make recommendations to improve them.
Students need to complete two additional units which could cover subjects such as:
- Cash Management
- Credit Control
- Personal Tax
- Business Tax
- External Auditing
Students should have AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting or equivalent, along with GCSE( or equivalent) English and Maths
Good levels of numeracy and literacy are essential. You also need to be confident with computerised spreadsheets and methodical nd accurate with your working.
AAT Level 4 Diploma in Accounting.
There are six computer based examinations. These examinations will take place at the end of each unit and are spread throughout the year. You need to successfully complete all exams in order to gain certification
Approximately six to ten hours a week of independent study by way of homework is an essential and integral part of this course. You will also have to allow for exam preparation and revision
Although it is not compulsory, it is an advantage to be working or to have worked in an accounting environment.
Progression may be onto further related study and enhanced employment opportunities within this area, with certain exemptions for CIMA and ACCA.
Fees and Additional Costs
An annual membership fee is paid direct to AAT. These fees are set by the AAT and are subject to yearly changes without notice. Students are also expected to pay exam fees and resit fees, if required. Students are also expected to buy course books/materials. Students are also be expected to pay for any resit examinations.