What to do after ACCA?

An ACCA qualification can open many doors and provide you with numerous options. But, once that's done, what happens next? Other than that, of course. This blog will help you feel more confident about your next steps by listing some of the opportunities available to qualified ACCA accountants.

Continue your studies

MBA or MSC

A master's degree could help you get to the top if you want to be at the top. An MBA is a business degree that can lead to positions such as Chief Financial Officer or Senior Financial Analyst.

An MSc , on the other hand, requires more maths, science, and technology. Both paths can lead to positions in management or analysis, but which one you choose is determined by your skills and interests. Some universities even combine law and accounting degrees.

Keep in mind that you'll need at least a few years of job experience before moving up to these levels.

CFA

Yes, after completing ACCA, you can pursue CFA. Many ACCA course graduates have earned the title of Chartered Financial Analyst, which is a globally recognised designation. Asset management, risk management, consulting, and corporate banking are all career options for CFA graduates.

Start your own business

Working in accounting has the advantage of allowing you to set your own hours. If you have an ACCA qualification, some experience, and some confidence, you can go it alone and work in a variety of businesses all over the world. For more information, visit our blog on how to become a self-employed accountant.

Work in industry

Accountants are always in demand, and once qualified, you can work for any organisation and in any job that you like. After all, finance specialists are required in a wide range of industries. An associate or accounts clerk's average annual income is roughly £23,000*. You might earn up to £90,000 per year with three to five years of expertise.

Here are a few examples of occupations you could get with an ACCA:

• Management Accountant
• Financial Accountant
• Corporate Treasurer
• Financial Controller
• Finance Manager
• Fund Accountant
• Finance Director
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Forensic Accountant
• Chief Financial Officer
• Auditor
• Tax Specialist

As a full ACCA member, you will be able to use the logo after your name, giving you complete recognition in 179 operating countries. You'll also have access to a number of CPD (continuing professional development) tools to help you further your education.

Still undecided? Consider your alternatives.

Consider the following three questions to help you decide which path is best for you:

1. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 to 10 years?

Do you want to start your own company? Maybe you've always wanted to work as an auditor. You'll need to take a different route depending on where you want to go.

2. What are your passions?

Consider the most common accounting jobs and areas where you may need to broaden your knowledge or upskill.

3. Do you want to broaden your horizons beyond finance?

Some accountants follow a business or management degree and work their way up the ranks. They are more likely to be in charge of a department or making financial decisions at the top of the corporate ladder rather than doing day-to-day work.

Our best advice is to do your research and choose the best path for you. Keep an eye on the job market while you're studying to see what's available. If you're unsure, don't worry; you'll have time to think about it after you finish studying. You'll have a better chance of success if you're confident in your next steps.

Eagle can help you obtain your ACCA certification.

Finally, you have complete freedom to advance your career in whatever way you see fit. As an ACCA member, you'll have access to resources to help you advance your career, from continuing your education to acquiring more work experience. Maintaining relevance and a competitive edge will allow you to open even more doors.

If you're already studying ACCA or want to start, why not take a look at our comprehension and low-cost courses?

We're here to help you achieve your goals in your own unique way.