Published: 29th September 2021.
Written by Jodie Magrath
If you want to take your financial career to the next level, a Diploma of Accounting could be a great choice for you. Whether you’re already working in the field or hoping to make your start in this busy industry, this course will give you the skills you need to succeed. You might choose to work in a large accounting department, take on a bookkeeping role or work in a specialist field such as payroll services.
The Diploma of Accounting will give you the practical skills and theoretical knowledge you need to work in various roles in the financial industry. You’ll learn about modern accounting practices and be able to apply them to a range of settings. The Diploma of Accounting covers topics including preparing financial budgets and creating reports for a range of purposes. You’ll address relevant tax issues and payroll procedures and explore the importance of maintaining internal controls.
A career in accounting or financial services can be a rewarding pathway. If you enjoy working with numbers, this might be the right qualification for you. This field requires strong attention to detail and keen observational abilities. You’ll need to be a good communicator and be able to work well in a team. Working in accounting means you’ll need to be organised and may have to manage several tasks at one time.
A Diploma of Accounting is an ideal course of study for the following careers:
Accounts Officer
An Accounts Officer works as part of the accounting department in a large organisation. You might issue invoices to customers and process their payments. Accounts Officers also keep track of company expenditure and make any necessary payments. You’ll reconcile transactions made and received with bank statements and ensure financial records are up to date. Accounts Officers prepare financial reports when required.
Accounts Receivable Officer
An Accounts Receivable Officer keeps track of payments made to a business or organisation. You might issue invoices for products or services provided and generate receipts when payments are made. Accounts Receivable Officers might process payments and follow up outstanding invoices. You’ll usually work as part of an accounting team and may have to liaise with colleagues and clients during your role.
Bookkeeper
A Bookkeeper takes care of financial accounts for a business or organisation. You’ll maintain records of payments made and received and ensure bank statements are reconciled. Bookkeepers may ensure necessary payments are made and note any overdue accounts. You’ll make sure financial information is available for tax purposes and may prepare financial reports when required. You might keep records of receipts, invoices, bank statements and other relevant paperwork.
Higher education pathways
A Diploma of Accounting is a great way to further your career in the accounting industry. You might decide to specialise your skills with a Certificate III in Business (Records and Information Management), a Diploma of Payroll Services, a Diploma of Business (Operations) or a Diploma of Financial Services. You could also advance your studies with an Advanced Diploma of Accounting.
If you decide to take your studies further you could enrol in a university degree such as a Bachelor of Business (Accounting) or a Bachelor of Accounting. A university course will further your knowledge and increase your career opportunities. This may allow you to take on an accounting position with more responsibility. You may be able to use a Diploma of Accounting as a pathway to these courses.
Getting started
If you’re thinking about enrolling in a Diploma of Accounting, it’s important you find out information from a range of course providers before making a final decision. There are usually some differences in the way providers deliver course programs, so make sure you find out about the duration of the course, costs, any prerequisites and the content the course will cover. When you have details from a range of providers you can compare details and find the course that best meets your needs.