HKICPA launches “Certificate in Accounting and Business” nurturing novel accounting and finance professionals

The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) announced the launch of the new HKICPA Certificate in Accounting and Business (CAB)*, in response to the increasing market demand for interdisciplinary talents and professional accounting talents. In addition to laying a new milestone in talent development of the profession, CAB is designed to equip and award professionals and aspiring talents with the essential competitive edges to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.

The HKICPA is dedicated to nurturing excellent accounting talents to the market through the Qualification Programme (QP) and a diverse range of professional training. In response to the evolving needs of learners and employers, CAB provides a flexible learning pathway, covering critical knowledge in professional accounting, business management and core enabling skills, for individuals who aim to enhance career competitiveness, transition into accounting and business, or strengthen the entrepreneurial foundation. Additionally, CAB also serves as a key milestone recognition, recognizing learning progresses and awarding individual’s dedication and motivating QP candidates to complete the full QP journey to earn CPA designation.

Edward Au, President of HKICPA, said, "The modern economy has made digital transformation, sustainable development and interdisciplinary inclusion as the new normal in the business world. While accounting is often referred to as the language of business, the professional knowledge it provides is a critical skill for strategic decision-making. HKICPA has been keeping pace with the times by proactively motivating the accounting profession to upgrade and transform. Through the CAB, the HKICPA strives to equip individuals from diverse academic backgrounds with solid accounting and business knowledge, thereby expanding the pool of accounting professionals, filling the market needs for interdisciplinary and novel types of talents, and further strengthening Hong Kong as an international financial centre.”

Professional Curriculum Supporting Diverse Career Advancement

Developing based on QP framework, CAB focuses on building students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and ethical judgment skills. These competencies form a solid and sophisticated business foundation not only for accounting roles, but also for careers in finance, marketing, public service, entrepreneurship, and more. It also enhances cross-departmental collaboration skills for executives, opening pathways to more diverse career options.

Flexible Learning Approach Accommodating Diverse Needs

CAB allows high flexibility in learning choices, enabling candidates to uptake elements and tailor learning pathways that best fit their needs. The study schedule also fits the needs for working people and students. Candidates may obtain the Certificate by completing the required modules within the designated time frame. Tertiary students from business-related disciplines may complete the programme as quick as within a year. The Certificate welcomes students who have completed first two years of their bachelor’s programme to enroll for better career planning. Upon completion, CAB holders will receive a digital certificate and digital badge issued by the Institute, which are handy for displaying on CVs, social media, or job seeking platforms.

The launch of the CAB demonstrates the Institute’s commitment to advancing professional education and nurturing accounting professionals for Hong Kong, thereby solidifying Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre. The CAB is now open for applications, please the website below for programme details: https://www.hkicpa.org.hk/en/Become-a-Hong-Kong-CPA/Certificate-in-Accounting-and-Business

*Please refer to the appendix for details.

^{Photo 1: The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants has launched the new "HKICPA Certificate in Accounting and Business" (CAB), offering a flexible and novel pathway for those looking to enhance their professional skills or pursue a career in accounting and business.}

^{Photo 2: Upon completion of the HKICPA Certificate in Accounting and Business, candidates will be awarded a digital badge by the Institute, allowing them to showcase the achievement  on credentials.}

^{Photo 3: The HKICPA is dedicated to nurturing excellent accounting talents to the market through the Qualification Programme (QP) and a diverse range of professional training. The CAB provides a flexible learning pathway in response to the evolving needs of learners and employers.} 

^{Photo 4: HKICPA President Edward Au said the Institute strives to equip individuals from various academic backgrounds with solid knowledge in accounting and business knowledge, thereby further solidifying the strength of Hong Kong as an international financial centre through the launch of CAB.}

Appendix I – Fact Sheet of HKICPA Certificate in Accounting and Business

HKICPA Certificate in Accounting and Business (CAB)

A structured, future-ready curriculum

Features

Built within the HKICPA’s Qualification Programme (QP) framework, CAB ensures robust yet adaptable learning experience:

1.    Associate Level of QP: Complete 6 compulsory and 2 elective modules (6+2)

2.    Professional Level of QP: Complete 1 compulsory and 1 elective module (1+1), plus the Introductory Workshop

3.    Earn the CAB*

CAB is designed for ambitious individuals from all backgrounds, including:

·         Tertiary students (non-business majors) seeking business and accounting knowledge

·         Non-accounting executives looking to broaden their skill set

·         Aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to master financial and business acumen

·         QP candidates who wish to demonstrate their progress towards becoming a Hong Kong CPA

Program Overview

Admission Requirements

• Aged 16 or above;
• Have attained a qualification of at least higher diploma / associate degree at Hong Kong Qualifications Framework ("QF") Level 4 or above (or equivalent) from an institution recognized by the Institute for entry into the Associate Level

Remarks:

o   Students who have completed a minimum of two years in a recognized bachelor’s degree programme may also be considered for admission, subject to specified conditions.

o   For individuals who aspire to acquire the Certificate in Accounting and Business but do not meet the minimum entry requirements above, they may also be accepted, provided that they are at least 25 of age and have acquired a minimum 5 years' relevant work experience, as well as meet the minimum entry requirements for higher diploma / associate degree programmes on HKDSE / HKALE (or equivalent).

For details of HKICPA “Certificate in Accounting and Business”, please visit the website: https://www.hkicpa.org.hk/en/Become-a-Hong-Kong-CPA/Certificate-in-Accounting-and-Business