September 2021
You’re finishing your AAT studies so what comes next? The team at Mindful Education outline some of the options open to you.
If you have just completed your AAT studies the first thing you deserve is a pat on the back! AAT courses require a huge amount of dedication and hard work, so achieving your qualification is no mean feat in itself.
If you are considering your options for what’s next in your accounting career, there are plenty of routes available, including applying for professional membership of AAT or studying towards chartered accountant status. This article outlines the key routes available and the factors to take into consideration when making your choice.
Gain professional MAAT status
Once you have achieved your AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting you will become eligible to apply for full membership of AAT.
Not only will this allow you to use the official MAAT accreditation after your name, but it will also demonstrate your expertise in accounting and act as an internationally recognised professional status which will help increase your opportunities for career progression.
Your membership will also give you exclusive access to events and services, as well as continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities, which makes it an avenue well worth exploring.
It is also important to note that all of the UK’s chartered accountancy bodies offer AAT full members (MAAT) and fellow members (FMAAT) a fast-track route to chartered status.
Working towards chartered status
Pursuing Chartered Accountant status is a popular avenue for many AAT graduates. If you are considering progressing onto an ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent qualification, make sure you research a college or training provider that incorporates a digital learning aspect into their courses.
Bear in mind that you will be required to spend more time studying if you choose to progress onto a higher level of qualification, so having part of your course online would give you the flexibility to achieve a better work, life, study balance.
Progress your finance career
The AAT qualification is an excellent stepping stone towards chartered status, but they are also an internationally recognised and highly valued qualification in themselves.
Harness the knowledge and skills your qualifications have given you, and use them to progress your finance career in the private, public or third sector.
If you are still unsure about what route is best for you, then try contacting your tutor for their advice, or ask other accounting graduates about their first-hand experiences of the different options available.
• Thanks to Mindful Education for this article. If you are interested in studying an AAT qualification using its Online and On Campus blended learning approach then visit the Mindful Education website to find your nearest provider.
