AAT Level 4 Accounting Course in Derby. Evening classes run at EMA Training Derby, so you can fit study around your working week. The course typically takes 12 months part-time. It builds on the AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, developing the professional accountancy and finance skills needed for more senior roles. You'll cover financial statements, budgeting, tax, and management accounting at a higher level. Ideally, you'll have completed the Level 3 AAT Diploma in Accounting before starting, though Level 2 maths and English are desirable rather than mandatory.
Who this course is for
The purpose of the Professional Diploma in Accounting - Level 4 is to enhance the skills developed from the AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, enabling students to maximise opportunities in their current or new employment.
By studying for this qualification, students will acquire professional accountancy and finance skills that will be useful throughout their careers.
The Professional Accounting or Tax Technician will be responsible for creating, verifying and reviewing accurate financial information within the business they are employed by or on behalf of another organisation. This needs to meet any relevant ethical, professional and legal standards and it will use knowledge of the business systems and processes, as well as standard accounting and tax practices.
This role may exist in an accounting practice, a professional services company, the HMRC or the accounting function of a business.
Entry requirements
Level 2 Maths and English are desirable but not mandatory.
Ideally, this will follow on from the Level 3 AAT Diploma if Accounting.
What you will learn
You'll prepare financial statements for limited companies and other organisations.
You'll apply management accounting techniques to support business decision-making.
You'll work with budgets, variances, and performance reports.
You'll understand indirect and direct tax, including VAT and corporation tax.
You'll use accounting software to process and review financial data.
You'll develop skills in credit management and cash and treasury management.
You'll review and verify financial records to ensure accuracy.
How you will learn
You'll attend evening classroom sessions at EMA Training Derby. Learning is delivered through tutor-led instruction, covering the technical knowledge and applied skills required at Level 4. Assessment is through a combination of computer-based exams and synoptic assessments set by AAT. The synoptic assessment draws on knowledge from across the qualification and tests your ability to apply it in realistic accounting scenarios.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. EMA Training Derby will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Finance officer, managing budgets and reporting for an organisation
Tax technician, preparing and submitting tax returns for clients
Management accountant, supporting business planning and analysis
Payroll supervisor, overseeing payroll processing and compliance
Credit controller, managing debts and cash flow for a business
Assistant accountant, supporting qualified accountants in practice or industry
What you could study next
AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4) is the gateway to full AAT membership, which many employers recognise in its own right.
ACCA or CIMA qualifications are the natural next step if you want to become a fully chartered accountant. AAT Level 4 gives you exemptions from some early ACCA papers.
AAT also offers specialist Level 4 Certificates in areas such as tax, bookkeeping, and accounting software if you want to deepen expertise in a specific area.
