Accounting is a profession that has been widely accepted around the world for generations. Consequently, it has been a preferred career option among students. On the other hand organizations today, look for candidates with multiple qualifications.

With increased emphasis on accountancy and enhancing shareholder wealth, candidates with finance background stand a better chance in the job market, irrespective of their profession. With the objective of catering to this emerging need in the job market, Sri Lanka's premier accounting body, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL) introduced the Executive Diploma in Accounting and Finance programme.

The Executive Diploma in Accounting and Finance has been designed to offer a sound knowledge of the key areas of financial and business management. The course contents cover financial reporting, quantitative methods, information technology and management information systems, management principles, financial analysis and planning, company law and taxation and human resource management.

To maintain the standard of the qualification, the course contents are reviewed and revised constantly by a panel of industry experts. Lectures are conducted by an experienced and diverse panel to resource personnel and are scheduled during the weekend, considering the convenience of working students. ICASL has planned a clear career path up to the MBA level for students who follow this programme.

Students are encouraged to follow the Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Financial Administration programme at the completion of this Diploma, which entitles them for 5 exemptions at the MBA programme of the University of Southern Queensland. This offers a substantial financial benefit while they obtain three well accepted qualifications.

The programme will cater to the emerging need for financial knowledge among non-financial professionals and is recommended to passed out finalists of elementary level professional qualifications to elevate them in their professional careers.

Through the Diploma, the institute also expects to assist part qualified students of main stream professional qualifications to move forward in their careers. Students can also opt for this Diploma on the grounds of their experience. Commenced in 2002, the response for this programme has been very encouraging. In order to enhance the opportunities for students to follow this qualification, the Institute has made it very affordable.

An easy payment scheme has also been introduced to provide additional financial support to students. Registration for the new intake is now on and the programme will commence in August.