Accountants play a huge role in the financial world. The demand for accountants worldwide has significantly boosted the opportunities and earning potential in the field. Hence, an accountancy career is one of the more desirable and popular choices, especially for individuals who want to establish a stable career.

There are no guidelines or procedures to follow to become a certified accountant, as individuals take different paths depending on their academic background and professional aspirations. However, obtaining professional degrees and certifications in accounting can help you gain expertise and stand out in front of your competitors.

Getting certified in a specific accounting discipline can assist you in becoming a specialist in your niche and command greater respect and earning power from prospective employers. The certifications can also maximise the marketability of your skills and provide you with greater credibility in your area of expertise. Read on to learn more about the two internationally-recognised professional certifications and the career prospects of accountants. 

Career Prospects of Certified Accountants

Practically all organizations in various sectors rely on reliable accountants to manage their financial matters. Subsequently, acquiring an accounting certification can permit you to explore career opportunities with high compensation in any field of your choice. Here are some of the common accountancy roles available in different fields:

  • Financial Manager
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Finance Director
  • Controller of Finance
  • Chartered Accountant
  • Taxation Consultant
  • Investment Portfolio Manager

Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA)

The ACCA qualification is a globally-recognised certification that can be pursued after the completion of your high school education along with accounting degrees of various levels, such as a diploma, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree. ACCA is perfect for those who want to establish a global career in various fields or be an entrepreneur of their own accounting firms.

There are different requirements to obtaining this certification depending on your academic background. You may be required to pass all 14 papers of the certification, as well as the minimum work experience of 3 years. If you are pursuing ACCA after your bachelor’s or master’s degree, you may get exemptions on ACCA papers and the minimum work experience. 

Learn more about the ACCA certification here. 

The Singapore Chartered Accountant (CA) 

The Singapore CA designation is a mark of professional excellence. The qualification is designed to develop accountants who are future business leaders. They will be sought for their ability to shape good strategies and provide high value-adding specialised services. ​

The Singapore CA Qualification is the national CA qualification, developed by the Singapore Accountancy Commission (SAC), and administered by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA). SAC is a statutory Board under the Singapore Ministry of Finance.

It is designed to be globally recognised and internationally portable. Through the Reciprocal Membership Agreements (RMAs) with members of Chartered Accountants Worldwide (CAW), the most prestigious group of professional bodies, the Singapore CA Qualification is mutually recognised with world-renowned chartered accountant qualifications.

The qualification comes with a curriculum of cutting-edge technical skills and a strong set of soft skills that are much needed in the corporate world. It also weaves together elements that meet the needs of Singapore and the Asian market, making this a truly unique accountancy programme. 

Learn more about the Singapore CA here.

Professional Qualification Courses 

The London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) in Singapore offers a comprehensive portfolio of professional qualification courses across accountancy and finance - ACCA and Singapore CA. The preparatory courses along with the experienced faculty will give you the advantage to gather the subject knowledge and expertise required to pass the respective exams.

Enrol in the preparatory courses for ACCA and Singapore CA at LSBF Singapore online and study at the comfort of your home today.