THE Open University is launching a new accounting qualification and route into the profession.

The Certificate in Accounting is being offered for the first time in September, covering financial and management accounting, and managing organisations.

The 12-month course, which is the first to also be offered on a part-time, distance learning basis, has won the approval of both the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

Accreditation by the two bodies exempts certificate holders from the three ACCA part one exam papers and the five CIMA foundation level papers.

Exciting development

Open University professor of accounting Alan Sangster said the certificate was an exciting development.

"It was designed to fill a perceived gap in the market," he said.

"We feel it has huge appeal to a range of people from those with no degree who are looking for a route into the accounting profession, to people working in other fields whose role requires a fundamental level of accounting skills."

Students do not require prior qualifications and study at home or work using high quality materials including books and CD-Roms.

Every candidate is supported by a local tutor who offers help and advice by phone,e-mail, post and regular tutorials.

For more information, start dates and registration write to PO Box 625 the Open University, Milton Keynes MK7 6ZS, call 08700 100311 or visit www.oubs.open.ac.uk