This 2-year course combines professional accountancy qualifications (AAT Level 2 and AAT Level 3) alongside a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business. It is designed to prepare students for a career in accountancy or finance or a related university degree.

Key course features

Qualification:

• AAT Level 2 Certificate
• AAT Level 3 Diploma
• BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business

Level: Level 3

Mode: Full-time

Timetable: This is a full time programme of study of under 16 hours per week. You will receive your timetable when you enrol.

Start Date: 10 September 2012

Fees:

Home fees (2012-13) £1,260 plus AAT and Edexcel exam fees (for one year of study). Students aged 19+ will pay college/AAT registration, materials and exam fees.

The course may be free if you are:

• aged under 19
• aged 19+ and in receipt of an active benefit (eg JSA or ESA)
• aged 19+, unemployed and in receipt of a means-tested benefit (eg income support)
• aged 19-23 and don't already have a Level 2 qualification
• aged 19-23 and this course will be your first Level 3 qualification.

Please see our Fees and Concessions page or call 020 8326 2015 for further details.

Who is this course for?

For students who want a career in accountancy or finance or to progress to a related university degree.

Entry requirements

4 or more GCSEs at grades A*-C (including maths and English language), or a relevant Level 2 qualification at merit or above with functional skills in maths at Level 2 and English. If you need advice before you apply, please call 020 8326 2020 or email ciag@west-thames.ac.uk.

About the course

You will learn through a combination of lectures and practical workshops. You will develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge.

In Year 1, you will take the AAT Level 2 Certificate, which includes: 

• Cash and credit transactions
• Payroll
• Data processing
• Business knowledge.

In Year 2, you will take the AAT Level 3 Diploma, which includes: 

• Financial records
• Cost accounting
• Reports and returns
• IT environment and spreadsheets
• Health and safety.

You will also study 12 business units, including the business environment, business resources, marketing and business communications.

How will I be assessed?

Your accountancy assessment will be carried out by central assessments in December and June each year. The central assessments are set and moderated by the AAT.

The BTEC Business course is assessed by assignments which are graded, and you will receive an overall grade for the qualification.

Where next?

A career in accountancy or finance or a related university degree. The AAT Level 3 Diploma carries 160 UCAS points and many universities offer exemptions to AAT members on to their accountacy and finance-related degree programmes.

How to apply?

To apply, please click the "Apply Now" button and fill out the online application form. An advisor will be in touch regarding interview dates.