Peter O’Hara explains how you can add a degree to your CV in double-quick time.
There is an interesting challenge faced by many professionally qualified accountants. Throughout their careers, they demonstrate expertise through rigorous professional examinations, practical experience and ongoing development. Yet in some situations – whether applying for a senior role, pursuing postgraduate study or meeting international qualification requirements – a bachelor’s degree remains an important formal credential.
For many qualified and affiliate accountants this can create an unexpected gap. Professional qualifications provide extensive technical knowledge and practical competence, but they do not always offer the academic award that some employers, universities and regulatory systems require as part of their standard entry criteria.
In my work in international engagement I regularly meet talented finance professionals whose qualifications and experience are highly regarded, yet who would benefit from holding a degree to support their career progression or international mobility. In many cases, returning to a traditional three- or four-year undergraduate programme is difficult to balance alongside professional and personal commitments.
Recognising this, the University of Greenwich has developed a one-year BSc (Hons) in Applied Finance and Accounting for professionally qualified accountants. The programme is designed to build upon existing professional knowledge rather than repeat it. Assessment focuses on applied coursework, written reports, quantitative analysis and independent research, allowing students to demonstrate their learning through practical and analytical work.
The focus reflects the evolving nature of the profession, with study in areas such as fintech, machine learning, quantitative analysis, governance and sustainability, culminating in an independent research project.
For qualified accountants seeking to strengthen their academic profile, programmes such as this offer a practical and accessible route forward.
For more go to www.financetopup.com
- Peter O’Hara is Director of International Engagement for the University of Greenwich
