ACCA has announced a redesign of the ACCA qualification, focused on a redefinition of accountancy that is expanding and reshaping the role of the profession.
It reflects the increasing role of accountants in driving the widening value needed for business success, combining profitability with ethics, sustainability, the ability to leverage new technology and the agility to deal with economic volatility. Similar changes are being seen in the public sector.
Responding to and anticipating the evolving needs of employers, the changes build on the current strengths of the ACCA qualification. ACCA says it will ‘introduce a more integrated learning and assessment experience, including AI-enhanced learning journeys, designed to equip the next generation with the professional skills and technical expertise they need to succeed in a dynamic and volatile world’.
‘The changes we’re making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future’
Extensive consultation
The announcement follows extensive consultation with members, employers and learning providers around the world, as well as representatives of Gen Z. The redesigned qualification will be introduced from mid-2027.
‘Accountancy is being redefined,’ says ACCA chief executive Helen Brand. ‘Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value and enablers of new technologies. They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all.
‘The changes we’re making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future that will bring wider and more varied opportunities,’ Brand adds.
Ready for work
The changes include the introduction of Employability Modules at each of the qualification’s three levels, providing simulated work experiences on topics such as digital tech, ethics, sustainability and business management. Enhanced awards and designations recognise achievement and allow students to demonstrate their skills to employers at every stage of their ACCA journey.
Technology, sustainability and ethics will be interwoven at every stage
Technology, sustainability and ethics will be interwoven. Another innovation is a new Data Science Professional exam, which students can choose as an option at the final ‘Strategic Professional’ level.
Smooth transition
ACCA has prepared a smooth transition for all students currently on, or about to start, their ACCA journey. Existing achievements will be recognised and there will be no disadvantage in terms of progression and the cost to complete the qualification.
Students will continue to benefit from the opportunity to attain a world-leading academic qualification alongside their ACCA studies with the new BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy collaboration with the University of London.
More information
See more details on ACCA’s website and in an article by ACCA's president
