Applied Management Accounting

This unit focuses on the three basic areas of management accounting: planning, control and decision-making.

All organisations need accurate, business-focused information to make sound judgements.

This unit will allow you to understand the budgetary process. You will be able to construct budgets and identify and report both on areas of success and on areas of concern. You will also gain the skills to critically evaluate organisational performance.

• Understand and implement the organisational planning process
• Use internal processes to enhance operational control
• Use techniques to aid short-term and long-term decision-making
• Analyse and report on business performance

Drafting and Interpreting Financial Statements

You will gain the skills and knowledge to draft the financial statements of single limited companies. And you’ll learn how to draft the consolidated financial statements for groups of companies.

You will become proficient in your knowledge and understanding of international accounting standards.  You will apply this when you draft the financial statements. You will also understand the regulatory and conceptual frameworks that underpin the preparation of limited company financial statements.

• Understand the reporting frameworks that underpin financial reporting
• Draft statutory financial statements for limited companies
• Draft consolidated financial statements
• Interpret financial statements using ratio analysis

Internal Accounting Systems and Controls

All organisations must guard against fraud through good control systems. But, many businesses underestimate the probability and impact of employee fraud. The accounts department plays a vital role in preventing the misuse of resources, and this unit shows you how to evaluate internal controls and recommend improvements.

• Understand the role and responsibilities of the accounting function within an organisation
• Evaluate internal control systems
• Evaluate an organisation’s accounting system and underpinning procedures
• Understand the impact of technology on accounting systems
• Recommend improvements to an organisation’s accounting system

As this is a self-study option, there are no prerequisites. However, we would assume that you have either completed Level 2 & 3 previously, or have sufficient knowledge to embark upon this level of study.

Basic numerical skills and a good understanding of the English language is also an advantage.