Business and Marketing
Access to Accounting and Financial Services (SCQF Level 5)
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification No Qualification
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Applications for this course are currently closed.
Applications will reopen in January 2027 for entry to Semester 1 of the 2027/28 academic year. If you are interested in studying Accounting and Financial Services at Edinburgh College, we encourage you to check back in January when applications open.
Designed to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence required for further study and careers within the accounting and financial services sectors.
This course provides an introduction to accounting principles, bookkeeping, business finance and the wider financial services industry. Learners will develop essential communication, research and study skills while gaining an understanding of the professional behaviours expected within a modern business environment.
The course has been designed as part of Edinburgh College's Accounting and Financial Services Pathway, providing a clear progression route to the NPA in Accounting with Financial Services (SCQF Level 6) course and, subsequently, HNC Accounting (NextGen) or HNC Financial Services.
Throughout the course, learners will explore career opportunities across areas such as accounting and financial sectors. You will develop effective communication skills and learn how to build positive relationships in a professional environment.
This course provides a strong foundation for learners considering a future career in the financial services or accounting sectors and supports progression to higher-level study and professional qualifications.
What you will learn
You will develop knowledge and skills in:
- Basic bookkeeping and accounting procedures.
- Accounting terminology.
- Business finance and its role within organisations.
- Financial services, including risk, professional practice and business culture.
- Research, presentation and communication skills.
- Study skills to support progression to further education.
- Meta-skills include self-management, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
- Professional behaviours required within accounting and financial services environments.
- Planning and delivering an independent research project.
Placement information
How the course is assessed
- Ongoing assessments throughout the course.
Number of days per week
- 2 Days in person plus 1 day self-study
Entry requirements
A minimum of three relevant National 4s (must include English/Communication and Maths/Numeracy) at C or above
Relevant subjects could include
- Maths
- Application of Maths
- Accounts
- English
- Business
- Economics
- Marketing
- Modern Studies
- Science
Applicants will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account qualifications, experience and potential to succeed on the programme.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to attend a group /or individual information session and will be required to complete a skills check as part of the application process.
English Proficiency Requirements
Minimum IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
Successful completion of this course can lead to further study within accounting and financial services, including progression to:
- NPA in Accounting with Financial Services (SCQF Level 6)
- Professional accounting qualifications such as AAT
Career options
Roles involve analysing, interpreting, and reporting financial information, such as
- Forensic Accountant
- Chartered Accountant
- Auditor
- Retail Banker
- Tax Advisor
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 | 11/06/27 |
