There are two routes into CA training. You can choose either the university route or the vocational route - where you start working after leaving school and at the same time study towards the AAT qualification.
University route
The majority of CA students start training through the graduate entry route. Students are recruited straight from university, and have one of a variety of degrees ranging from history, to arts and languages, to science, law or accountancy.
The three year training programme combines classroom-based study and exams, with supervised work-based training in employer offices. As a graduate you can train either within a public practice accountancy firm – ranging from small practices to large multi-national firms, or within one of our employers based in industry and commerce or the public sector.
The Ernst & Young Degree
Ernst & Young, ICAS and Lancaster University have developed a unique degree programme where students begin studying for the CA qualification alongside the BSc (Hons) Accounting, Auditing and Finance degree and obtain practical work experience through placements at Ernst & Young.
For more information contact Lancaster University Management School online at http://www.lums.lancs.ac.uk/
The alternative route into CA training is for students who decide to go from school directly into employment, rather than going to university. The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) provides a recognised professional qualification, in the form of the AAT Accounting Qualification. Following this qualification provides an opportunity to continue with your professional development and qualify as a CA within five years, depending on your previous qualifications.
When doing your AAT training you will be working and gaining work experience at the same time. Depending on the entry level and method of study, you’ll be expected to complete a minimum of 12 months work experience. Moving onto CA training from AAT, you’ll need to secure a training contract with one of ICAS’ authorised employers. From there you’re on the route to becoming a CA.
For further information on both the University and Vocational routes please download our
Schools Brochure or visit the
ICAS website.