AICPA’s Finance Business Partner Apprenticeship

Joanne Fiore, Vice President of Pipeline & Apprenticeships in the Americas Region at AICPA, highlighted the innovative AICPA Finance Business Partner Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship addresses some of the top challenges that are faced in corporate finance and accounting teams today, such as the need for new skills and finding and retaining talent.

As the first US registered apprenticeship in the accounting and finance profession, it allows apprentices to earn while they learn and moves students into the profession earlier. For students, this creates a bridge from higher education to employment through on-the-job mentorship. Paid training also enhances the program’s inclusivity, while career development is accelerated by competency-based training.

Pathways into this apprentice are broad; the apprenticeship welcomes high school graduates, as well as those with a two-year or four-year non-business degree. AICPA has partnered with three online universities to enable students to earn a college degree and professional accounting designation while working. This enables students to earn credits towards a university degree while simultaneously gaining invaluable practical experience. A private tuition provider supports apprentices in their exam preparation, so that students are well-equipped to succeed.

ACCA’s Flexible and Inclusive Qualification Pathways

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity in their qualification pathways. By removing artificial barriers to entry and embracing diversity, ACCA provides opportunities for individuals from all different backgrounds to pursue a career in accounting. Students are offered exemptions based on prior education, allowing them to bypass foundation-level qualifications and focus on areas where further development is needed.

ACCA’s curriculum includes relatable scenarios, inclusive language, and culturally relevant examples. This allows all students the opportunity to see themselves in the profession. While ACCA encourages students to study with one of their approved learning partners, it provides additional resources for those who prefer self-study, such as the ACCA Study Hub, an online platform offering free access to study materials. Students can also access resources to support their well-being, mental health, and exam preparation.

Programs like Success at School and ACCA Advantage connect young people and university students with great career opportunities, while partnerships with institutions, such as Oxford Brooks University, offer cost-effective pathways to obtain a degree in applied accounting.

SAICA’s Access with Success Approach

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) promotes the importance of “access with success” by working to give young people the opportunity to not only enter, but complete a professional qualification that does not compromise on quality. SAICA accredits universities and learning institutions partners to provide educational programming and monitors providers to ensure students have a reasonable chance of completing the program successfully.

SAICA offers multiple entry routes into the workplace, including pathways for students with non-accredited degrees or those coming directly from school. Their Thuthuka Bursary Program provides students with comprehensive wrap-around support, complementing financial assistance with academic, social and emotional, and work readiness support.

ICPAR’s Focus on Accounting Technicians in Rwanda

Through its Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) program, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) is responding to the demand for CATs from small- and medium-sized enterprises, the public sector, and to support CPAs in larger organizations. Following detailed market research and drafting a competency framework, ICPAR developed a robust curriculum, assessment strategy and high-quality learning materials specifically for aspiring CATs. An additional crucial component of the program was onboarding important partners involved in tuition, exam setting, and marking.

The qualification was accredited on Rwanda’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Qualification Framework. This recognition is significant, as it demonstrates the value and importance of the program. The qualification was also incorporated into the job requirements for certain public sector positions.

ICATT’s Anticipation of Challenges and Opportunities

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Trinidad and Tobago (ICATT) is pursuing an accounting technician program to address the shortage of skilled professionals in accounting roles in the private and public sectors. Currently, many of these roles are fulfilled by unqualified individuals. This program aims to make accounting more accessible and attractive to all, offering a more achievable goal for those who may find traditional accounting pathways intimidating.

ICATT’s anticipated challenges include program uptake, perceptions of the program’s quality, and funding. However, their commitment to continuous discussions with the Ministry of Finance and the planned pilot program launch in 2024 demonstrates their dedication to enhancing the profession.

KICPAA’s Trust in Competency-Based Qualifications

The Kampuchea Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Auditors (KICPAA) in Cambodia offers a competency-based Accounting Technician Qualification (ATQ). Students can pursue the ATQ from anywhere in Cambodia by studying with a training organization or self-studying using KICPAA’s Learning Hub.

The program is embedded into an associate or bachelor’s degree, or offered as a stand-alone program. Students can complete their work experience component while continuing with their studies.  A pathway is also offered for progression from ATQ to CPA, with exemptions for foundational CPA requirements.