One of the most stable and rewarding career paths in the country, accountancy is a wise choice for school leavers, recent graduates, or professionals seeking a career change. However, becoming an accountant doesn't happen overnight. The course you choose will affect how long it'll take you, but we'll go through them all here so you can pick the right one.
The Evolving Role of the Accountant
75% say value that chartered accountants provide could not be replaced by AI
Chartered Accountants Ireland
Once seen as number crunchers in grey suits, accountants are now strategic advisors who help businesses make data-driven decisions, manage risk, and remain financially healthy, regardless of what happens.
Technology has changed the game, and with tools like cloud-based accounting software, AI-powered analytics, and real-time dashboards, automating many bookkeeping tasks, accountants have evolved to spend more time analysing data, advising clients, and improving financial processes.
In Ireland, this is evident in sectors such as technology, healthcare, government, and finance. Employers are consistently seeking professionals who can bring business insight, effective communication skills, digital fluency, and technical expertise.
This shift is evident in the evolution of accountant training. Modern accounting training places a greater emphasis on ethics, data interpretation, and commercial awareness, crucial skills for the modern world.
qualified accountants in Ireland
Overview of Accounting Qualifications in Ireland
In Ireland, there are multiple ways to become an accountant. With different accounting courses for various backgrounds and career goals, you can match courses with what and how you like to learn.
There are courses for those who've just left school after their Leaving Certificate, people returning to education, or those already working who are looking to shift careers. Here are the four main accounting courses in Ireland that most accountants will do.
| Course Name | Provider | Duration | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accounting Technicians Ireland (ATI) | Accounting Technicians Ireland | 2 years (full-time or part-time) | School leavers, career changers |
| ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) | ACCA Ireland | 3–4 years (flexible; up to 7 years allowed) | Students seeking international recognition |
| ACA (Chartered Accountants Ireland) | Chartered Accountants Ireland | 3–3.5 years (structured training contract) | Graduates entering public practice |
| CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) | CIMA Ireland | 3–4 years (flexible and modular) | Professionals aiming for strategic business roles |
| AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) | AAT | 18 months to 3 years (depending on level) | Beginners seeking practical entry into accounting |
For accounting, it's common for many students to continue working while they study. With each route having its own structure and duration, it's essential to choose the one that aligns with your schedule.
Qualifications such as ACCA and CIMA can be completed online or through blended learning. In contrast, ACA, for example, requires a formal training contract with a participating employer. Before choosing a course, consider:
- Whether you already have a business or finance degree
- How quickly you want to qualify
- Whether you prefer practice-focused or strategy-focused roles
- Whether you intend to work in public accounting, corporate finance, or management
How Long Does It Take to Complete the AAT?
The AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) is one of the more accessible courses. This course is designed for students with no prior experience, offering a clear path into financial roles like accounts assistant, bookkeeper, or finance administration:
Foundation Certificate in Accounting
Advanced Diploma in Accounting
Professional Diploma in Accounting
You'll need between 2 and 3 years to complete the full AAT programme if you're studying part-time. Full-time students can complete the course in as little as 18 months.
To achieve full AAT membership, students must complete practical work experience and pass their exams. AAT provides an excellent foundation for progressing to more advanced qualifications, such as ACCA, CPA, or CIMA.
How Long Does It Take to Complete the ACCA?
The ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is one of the most recognised and flexible accounting qualifications available in Ireland. It's very popular among students seeking internationally recognised credentials that open doors across various industries.
To start your ACCA journey, you'll need:
- Leaving Cert or equivalent (5 subjects including Maths and English), or
- An AAT qualification (which may exempt you from the early ACCA exams)
The full ACCA qualification consists of 13 exams, divided into three levels.
Level 1
Applied Knowledge
Basic principles of accounting and finance
Level 2
Applied Skills
Subjects like Taxation, Audit, Financial Reporting
Level 3
Strategic Professional
Governance, Business Analysis, and optional advanced papers (e.g. Tax or Audit)
You also need to complete:
Completing an ACCA typically takes 3 to 4 years. However, you can take up to 7 years to finish the Strategic Professional level once you pass your first exam. Part-time students may choose to take longer, but the time spent will be worth it once you're taking home an accountant's salary.
Training for ACA and CIMA Qualifications
ACCA certainly offers more flexibility, but the ACA (via Chartered Accountants Ireland) and CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) are well-respected and structured pathways.
Not sure which course to take?
The AAT is great for beginners who want to build up their accounts knowledge and gain a practical certificate.
ACCA offers more flexibility and international reach, while ACA requires a structured training contract but provides advanced business and finance learning at a high level.
The right qualification depends on your goals, previous study, and how you want to shape your career over the next few years.
Chartered Accountants Ireland (ACA Qualification)
The ACA (Associate Chartered Accountant) qualification is managed by Chartered Accountants Ireland. For those in Irish public practice accounting, this is regarded as the gold standard. It's a popular choice for graduates or students looking for a structured route, and it typically involves:
- 3–3.5 year training contract with an authorised employer
- Completion of 13 exams across three levels
- Practical experience gained during the contract
- Completion of workshops and professional development modules
Many ACA students complete their qualification while working in firms like PwC, Deloitte, or mid-tier accounting practices. This is an immersive, career-focused programme designed to produce well-rounded, technically skilled accountants for audit, tax, or advisory roles.
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)
CIMA is the option for students interested in business strategy, corporate finance, and internal management roles. The pathway is designed for professionals already working in finance or business who want to upskill into leadership roles.
The CIMA qualification includes:
- Three levels: Operational, Management, and Strategic
- Nine core exams, plus a final case study at each level
- Option to study online, part-time, or via blended learning
Both ACA and CIMA qualifications usually take 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on how you study, your work commitments, and any exam exemptions. Both offer strong career prospects, with ACA being particularly suitable for public accounting and audit. At the same time, CIMA is ideal for corporate leadership, financial planning, and analysis.
If you're looking to gain qualifications quickly, several accountancy programmes across Ireland offer accelerated study.
From AAT certificates in bookkeeping to international diploma-level courses, you can complete some modules in as little as 6 to 12 weeks.
Whether online or in the classroom, these fast-track options enable learners to make the most of their time and enter the workforce more quickly.
Where Can Accounting Take Your Career?
Becoming an accountant isn't just a stepping stone, it's a launchpad. An accountancy career in Ireland offers numerous opportunities to grow, specialise, and lead. Once you qualify, you can immediately start looking at ways to specialise and move into roles like:
- Financial Accountant
- Auditor or Tax Consultant
- Finance Business Partner
- Management Accountant
- Financial Controller
- Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Each of these roles can be found in sectors ranging from:
- Technology: supporting global companies like Google, Meta, or Intel
- Public Sector: managing budgets for government departments or healthcare
- Financial Services: advising banks, insurers, and investment funds
- SMEs and Startups: helping small businesses grow sustainably
Don't forget that Irish accounting qualifications, such as ACCA, CIMA, and ACA, are globally recognised, meaning Irish accountants can work remotely for multinational firms or relocate to roles in Europe, the US, or Asia.
Whether you're a full-time student or juggling work and family, accountancy learning has become more flexible than ever.
From blended courses and part-time study to fully online options, you can now access accounting programmes that match your availability.
Many technician-level courses are designed with busy professionals in mind, helping you learn at your own pace.
What to Expect From Your Accounting Journey
Becoming an accountant isn't just a professional qualification; it's a long-term investment in your career. The variety of options means that you can enjoy structured yet flexible pathways into a secure, adaptable, and rewarding career. Through any of these programmes, you'll gain:
- In-demand technical and business skills
- Recognised qualifications respected across industries and borders
- Access to a wide variety of job opportunities in Ireland and abroad
- The potential for excellent salaries and career progression
As the Irish economy grows and international firms embed themselves further, there's never been a better time to explore accounting courses in Ireland. If you've decided to start your journey and are looking for help with your courses, why not get help from a private accounting tutor?
On Superprof, you can find accounting tutors across Ireland and worldwide. With most offering the first session for free, you can even try a few before choosing the right one for you, your budget, and your preferred learning style. Just search for accounting on the Superprof site today!
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
