Launching a new Accounting profession that is Future ready for your Business to Thrive!
of Irish Companies stated Digital Transformation is shaping the future careers in the Accounting profession.
Business environments are changing due to significant technological, social, environmental, and regulatory developments.
Accounting Technicians Ireland recognises the significance of these ongoing changes for accounting professionals and, in response, has developed a new professional role based on focused expertise in accounting, information systems, and organisational governance.
Members, how can you be part of this revolution?
This role is pivotal in optimising long-term financial, social, and environmental outcomes, thus ensuring businesses are equipped for the transition towards a more sustainable financial model.
The Certified Accounting Technologist programme is underpinned by a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting Technology in Northern Ireland by Open University.
The Future of Sustainable and Tech Enabled Accounting has arrived.
The Accounting Technologist is a new professional accounting occupation responsible for supporting long-term sustainable value creation in business. The role contributes to optimising financial, social and environmental value in the long term, making businesses prepared for the transition to a more a sustainable economic model.
What you will learn
The new Certified Accounting Technologist is a unique new Certified Accounting Technologist that sits between the traditional Accounting Technician and the fully qualified accountant. The Technologist will work at the intersection of modern finance, information systems and organisational governance including modern finance, information system, ESG (Environmental, Social, & Governance) and Sustainability thanks to knowledge and expertise developed in the areas of:
Accounting and Finance
Development in this Pillar involves increasing your knowledge of Performance Management, Corporate Reporting, Financial Management, and Taxation.
- Lead the evolution of information systems development from basic core counting to enterprise-wide resource planning.
- Prepare and advise on financial and sustainability reporting for regulatory compliance requirements.
- Collaborate effectively on multi-functional digital transformation projects that may include implementation of artificial intelligence and automation of business processes.
Information Systems
This Pillar focuses on developing your knowledge of Business Information Sstems and Business Intelligence. I incorporates Data Management and Analytics, Disruptive Technologies such as Al, as well as Cybersecurity and Risk Management.
- Manage and advise on the collection and manipulation of data for the purposes of data analytics and data visualisation within an evolving finance context.
- Complete and advise on personal and business taxation compliance requirements.
- Collaborate effectively on capital expenditure project appraisal, sources of finance, working capital management, financial risk management.
Organisational Governance
Organisational Governance develops expertise in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance. IT also delves into the fields of Sustainability and ESG, Integrated Reporting and the Governance of Information Systems.
- Provide expertise to those in leadership roles to understand and address complex and challenging business issues through provision of data analysis and advice.
- Support decision-makers in relation to evolving environmental, social and governance responsibilities.
New Business Critical Competencies Human Talent your Business Secure
- Increased level of expertise in data management and information systems as they relate to accounting, accountability, stewardship and organisational governance.
- Proficiency in specialised tools and evolving techniques with particular emphasis on decision-support, business advisory and regulatory compliance.
- New knowledge in business models, organisational structures, cultures and systems are evolving in response to the effects of digitisation, artificial intelligence, automation, and integration.
- Enhanced skillet in effective governance through development of systems and reporting structures that align with broader stakeholder expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship entail?
The Certified Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is a two-year top up honours degree programme that’s delivered through a combination of on-the-job training and academic learning. Participants must be employed while on the apprenticeship, enabling them to gain practical experience while also earning an income.
Upon completion, graduates receive a BSc (Hons) in Accounting Technology and are awarded a professional designation as an Accounting Technologist from Accounting Technicians Ireland. This qualification opens doors to various career opportunities in accounting, finance, sustainability, and other related fields.
Do I need to be employed in an accounting or finance role to apply for the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship?
Yes, to apply for the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship, you need to be employed in a role related to accounting or finance. This requirement is essential as the program combines workplace learning with academic studies, allowing apprentices to apply their on-the-job experience directly to their coursework.
Being employed in a relevant field ensures you can fully engage with the theoretical and the practical aspects of the apprenticeship.
What is the duration of the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship program?
The Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is structured to span over a period of 2 years. You will be in full-time employment within a relevant field for four days a week during the academic year, while dedicating one day a week to college-based learning.
What are the outcomes after completing the two years of work and study?
Upon successful completion of the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship, you will receive a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting Technology, and a professional membership at the level of Accounting Technologist (Intermediate Proficiency) from Accounting Technicians Ireland.
What kind of support is provided during the apprenticeship?
During the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship program, you will receive extensive and comprehensive support from the Accounting Technicians Ireland Apprenticeship Team. They are devoted to ensuring you have a positive experience throughout your apprenticeship. For any inquiries or assistance, you can always contact the team at
accountingtechnologist@accountingtechniciansireland.ie
You will be assigned a Workplace Mentor by your employer. This mentor will be your guide throughout the two-year journey, offering invaluable assistance and support.
Furthermore, a College Mentor will be allocated to you from your first day at the college of your choice. They are committed to your success and development, offering guidance and expertise as you progress through the program.
Is it possible to change employer during the apprenticeship programme?
Yes, it is possible to change employers and pick the apprenticeship back up again, providing your new employer is an Approved Employer. It is best to contact Accounting Technicians Ireland to discuss your options in advance.
Where and how are classes delivered?
Online and blended learning classes will take place in the following colleges in Northern Ireland
• Belfast Metropolitan College
• South Regional Colleges
• South Western Regional College
You may also be expected to attend classes on site and your College Programme Co-Ordinator will let you know in advance.
Why are workplace projects so important?
The work-based learning and project-oriented assignments are pivotal elements within the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship programme. Given the apprenticeship framework, the workplace serves as the primary venue for learning, as the apprentices will work 4 days a week and 1 day in college. As part of this, you will be tasked with completing Professional Practice and Industry Projects in both Year 1 and Year 2, along with specific assignments outlined in your Apprenticeship Logbook (see Section x in the Apprenticeship Handbook).
The rationale behind these workplace projects lies in their function as platforms for testing, executing, and sharing the knowledge and skills you acquire throughout the various modules of the programme. By engaging with these projects, you gain a valuable opportunity not only to showcase your competence but also to refine your skill set across a spectrum of domains.
It’s important to emphasise that the achievement of the broader goals of the apprenticeship programme relies on your dedicated focus and careful execution of the assigned workplace projects. It’s important to realise that the successful completion of the programme is contingent upon successfully fulfilling all projects; obtaining a passing grade is directly tied to meeting these requirements comprehensively.
How do I apply for the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship?
Please see www.accountingtechnologist.apprenticeship.ie for more information on how to become an apprentice.
Or contact Accounting Technicians Ireland by email. Accountingtechnologist@accountingtechniciansireland.ie
IMPORTANT: To become an apprentice in Ireland, you must be hired by an employer. Apprenticeship employers are formally approved by SOLAS in advance of employing apprentices. Apprentices get a formal contract of employment as part of their apprenticeship. To find an apprenticeship, you can search apprenticeship vacancies at apprenticeship.ie/career-seekers/jobs. Here, you can search for vacancies by location and by apprenticeship type. Your local Education and Training Board may hold details of employers seeking to employ an apprentice.
Be part of the Next Gen of leaders in Finance and Accounting with ATI Internationally recognised and accredited qualification.
Does this sound like the career pathway for you?
If you would like to develop new competencies to complement core accounting and taxation capabilities in areas such as ESG, Data and Digital Literacy, Artificial Intelligence, and Cybersecurity, the Accounting Technologist Apprenticeship is for you.
Interested in either pursuing a career as a Certified Accounting Technologist or as an Employer in finding out more about how you business can thrive with the addition of a new innovative roles such as the Certified Accounting Technologist. Then email us on technologist@
