What job can I get with each Level of AAT?

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What job can I get with each Level of AAT?

The question we often hear is ‘what job can I get after I complete each level of AAT?’

Studying accounting and bookkeeping can lead to some great job opportunities. Each level covers various topics, and income can vary depending on experience.

With the right education and training, anyone can start their accounting or bookkeeping business. The first step is to learn the basics of accounting and bookkeeping. Once you have a solid understanding of the basics, you can explore more specialised areas. With the right skills and experience, you can find a job that suits your interests and allows you to earn a good income.

Have a look into the various jobs that are available and see what interests you. You may be surprised at what you find!

AAT Bookkeeping Level 2

Completing an AAT Bookkeeping Level 2 course is a great introduction to the world of finance and accounting. The course itself is relatively short, taking only 6 months to complete, and is made up of two units – Introduction to Bookkeeping and Principles of Bookkeeping.

After completing the course, you can expect to find entry-level jobs in bookkeeping or accounting. Income at this level is typically starter level, but with experience, it can rise significantly. Many professionals in this field also choose to continue their education by undertaking further study in accounting or finance, which can also lead to a higher income.

Completing AAT Bookkeeping Level 2 can secure you a job with an income ranging between £16,500 – £22,000*. In addition to this, you can be paid income within this range, whilst studying under an apprenticeship program.


*Salary sourced from jobs available at the time of writing this blog post.

  • Accounts Administrator
  • Accounts Clerk
  • Clerical Assistant
  • Finance Assistant
  • Trainee Bookkeeper

AAT Bookkeeping Level 3

The AAT Bookkeeping Level 3 course takes your knowledge to the next level and opens up new job opportunities. The course is expected to take 9 months to complete, with 2 units – Tax Processes for Business and Financial Accounting & Preparing Financial Statements.

You will spend around 3 months on the Tax unit, and 6 months on Financial Accounting & Statements. This should provide you with a thorough grounding in both areas. Income remains at a starter level, however, you will continue to gain experience within your role as you study.

Once you have completed the course, you will be able to find work as an accountant or bookkeeper in a variety of roles;

Similar to completing AAT Bookkeeping Level 2, income after Level 3 ranges between £19,500 – £24,000*. Once completed, you will be stronger and more experienced as a bookkeeper. Further education can be completed whilst you continue to build your practical experience.


*Salary sourced from jobs available at the time of writing this blog post.

  • Accounts Manager
  • Ledger Manager
  • Professional Bookkeeper
  • Senior Bookkeeper

AAT Accounting Level 2

The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting is the perfect starting point if you want to pursue a career in accounting. This qualification will give you a broad overview of accounting principles and practices. AAT Accounting Level 2 provides a strong foundation for further study. If you have some experience in accounting, this qualification will build on your existing knowledge and skills.
 
Success at Level 2 leads to a junior role in accounting, which enables you to earn while you learn.
 
The program can be completed in just 12 months, making it an affordable and accessible way to begin an accounting career. Upon completion, you can look into the following roles;

For AAT Accounting Level 2, roles are currently paying between £16,500 – £22,000* per year depending on job title and position.*


AAT Salary Survey Reported Average Salary 2021 – £21,000


*Salary sourced from jobs available at the time of writing this blog post.

  • Accounts Administrator
  • Accounts Assistant
  • Accounts Payable Clerk
  • Apprentice Accounts Assistant
  • Purchase/Sales Ledger Clerk
  • Trainee Accounting Technician
  • Trainee Finance Assistant

AAT Accounting Level 3

The AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting is the second highest level of accreditation offered by AAT. Completion of the course allows students to demonstrate their senior accounting knowledge and expertise. The course takes approximately 18 months to complete and includes 400 guided learning hours across four different units.

By completing the AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, students can open doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities.

Roles that require the accounting knowledge and skills of AAT Accounting Level 3, currently pay between £19,500 – £25,000* per year in the UK depending on job title and position.


AAT Salary Survey Reported Average Salary 2021 – £21,000


*Salary sourced from jobs available at the time of writing this blog post.

  • Accounts Assistant
  • Accounts Payable and Expenses Supervisor
  • Assistant Accountant
  • Audit Trainee
  • Credit Controller
  • Finance Assistant
  • Finance Officer
  • Payroll Supervisor
  • Senior Bookkeeper
  • Tax Assistant

AAT Accounting Level 4

The AAT Accounting Level 4 Professional Diploma is the highest level of accounting offered by the AAT.  It covers financial statements, managing budgets and many more advanced specialist units. You will be qualified to operate within a more senior role as an accountant. In addition to this, you will be ready to continue your journey towards becoming a chartered accountant & begin your own accounting business. Upon completion, you will be awarded full member AAT status.

This course requires 390 guided learning hours and is built on three mandatory units and two optional units from a choice of five.

Job roles which require AAT Level 4 range in pay from £23,000 to £40,000*+ depending on job title and position.


AAT Salary Survey Reported Average Salary 2021 – £23,400


*Salary sourced from jobs available at the time of writing this blog post.

  • Assistant Auditor
  • Assistant Financial Accountant
  • Assistant Management Accountant
  • Accounts Payable and Expenses Supervisor
  • Commercial Analyst
  • Cost Accountant
  • Fixed Asset Accountant
  • Indirect Tax Manager
  • Payroll Manager
  • Payments and Billing Manager
  • Professional Accounting Technician
  • Senior Bookkeeper
  • Senior Fund Accountant
  • Senior Financial Officer
  • Senior Insolvency Administrator
  • Tax Supervisor
  • VAT Accountant

ICYDK

The road to accountancy doesn’t end with AAT. There are further studies which you can undertake to take your career further.

Find out more


Conclusion

If you’re looking for a career with plenty of opportunity and potential for growth, then AAT Accounting and Bookkeeping courses may be the perfect choice for you. There is a clear path to success in this industry. With more money being invested in accountants and bookkeepers than ever before, it’s an excellent time to consider a career in this field.

AAT’s accounting and bookkeeping courses offer great opportunities for growth, both once qualified and during your studies.  We hope we have highlighted the range of jobs and apprenticeship programmes available at each level. Remember, the path to success is more than the pursuit of money. For a long and successful career, look into the various fields of accounting to find a path you enjoy.

If you need help deciding on the best course to study, don’t hesitate to contact us – our team of experts are happy to offer guidance and advice.

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