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08 Aug 2020
3 Min Read
Josephine Serena (Editor)
Are you drawn to numbers and considering a career in accounting? If so, you might be curious about the differences between pursuing the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification and obtaining a traditional Accounting Degree.
ACCA is a globally recognised professional qualification specifically designed for individuals aspiring to become chartered certified accountants. It focuses on developing practical skills and knowledge necessary for accounting, auditing, and financial management roles across various industries.
A traditional Accounting Degree from a university provides a broader academic foundation in accounting principles, financial reporting, taxation, and business management. It prepares graduates for roles in corporate accounting, financial analysis, or auditing within different sectors. |
Awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), a global professional accounting body based in the United Kingdom, ACCA qualifications are accepted in 180 countries, offering numerous opportunities for international work.
Awarded by universities or their partner institutions, an Accounting Degree like Taylor's own Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Finance degree programme offers accreditation and exemptions from various professional bodies such as ACCA, CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants), CPA Australia (Certified Practising Accountants Australia), and more. |
Typically completed in about 3 years, but you can fast-track it with Taylor’s College ACCA Foundation in Accountancy (ACCA FIA) programme, which takes just 1 year.
Accounting Degree
Typically completed in about 3 years, but depending on your pre-university studies (e.g., Cambridge A Level, Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT), Foundation, or Diploma programmes), it can vary from 1 to 2 years.
Costs less compared to an Accounting Degree, but it does not qualify for Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) loan.
Find out the fees for Taylor's College ACCA programme.
Costs more compared to ACCA, but it qualifies for Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) loan.
Find out the fees for Taylor’s University Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (Honours) or Bachelor of Accounting (FinTech) (Honours) programmes.
There are three stages of exams, plus an Ethics and Professional Skills module and a Professional Experience Requirement.
An exceptional introduction to the world of finance and accounting, these exams provide students with a broad understanding of essential accounting techniques.
Find out more about the Applied Knowledge exams.
Building on your existing knowledge and understanding, Applied Skills develops strong, broad, and practical finance required of future strategic professional accountant in any sector or industry.
Find out more about the Applied Skills exams.
These exams provide students with the unique blend of skills, real-world focus, and specialisation options which will super-charge careers and develop strategic, forward-thinking professional accountants.
For essential papers, students will take both these exams which provide them with the skills they need to make an immediate impact with employers.
As for optional papers, these exams offer the unique opportunity to specialise in areas of greatest relevance to a chosen sector or career path.
Find out more about the Strategic Professional exams.
Core subjects include:
Elective subjects offer flexibility through Flexible Study Components.
Provides a streamlined route to professional certification with a focus on practical skills.
Offers a comprehensive academic background beneficial for a wider range of career opportunities in finance and business.
1) Do you need a professional qualification like ACCA to practise as an accountant in Malaysia?
Yes, the term ‘accountant’ is a protected title in Malaysia under the Accountants Act 1967. Only individuals registered with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) can use this title. If your university is not listed in the Act’s 1st Schedule, membership in a professional body like ACCA is necessary for eligibility to become a registered accountant with MIA.
2) Why study ACCA? Is my accounting degree insufficient?
While an Accounting Degree provides a solid foundation and is sufficient for entry-level roles, ACCA enhances your career growth with specialised knowledge, global recognition, and improved prospects in accounting and finance.
3) ACCA does not award me a degree. Where can I earn one?
ACCA students can pursue a BSc (Hons) Degree in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University, available until May 2026.
Whether you’re attracted to the international recognition and quick qualification of ACCA or prefer the comprehensive education and financial aid options of an Accounting Degree, take your time to explore what each programme offers. Your choice will shape your future career in accounting, so make sure it aligns with your goals and interests.
Remember, thorough research and advice from trusted sources are essential before making your decision. Best of luck with your journey into the world of accounting!
If you need help, feel free to seek out secondary opinions by speaking to experienced education advisors for more insights! Here are also some helpful questions to ask education counsellors during your appointment!
