Professional Accounting Qualifications vs Accounting Degrees
Last updated: November 2026 · Written by the StudyWay Editorial Team
Quick answer
There are two main ways into accounting and finance. A professional accounting qualification is a staged series of exams, often taken while working. An accounting or finance degree is a university programme. Many successful accountants combine both, because degrees can give exemptions from some professional exams. Finance and accounting are among the most searched subjects on StudyWay, with over 430,000 searches across finance, accounting and professional qualifications.
How do the two routes compare?
| Professional accounting qualification | Accounting / finance degree | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A series of professional exams, set in levels | A university programme with modules and assessments |
| How you study | Exam by exam, often part-time and while working | Full-time or part-time over a set programme |
| Flexibility | High: move at your own pace | Lower: follows the programme structure |
| Work experience | Often required before full membership | Sometimes includes internships |
| Recognition | Valued by employers in accounting and finance roles | Widely recognised academic qualification |
| Good fit if you… | Want to start working early and study alongside | Want the full university experience and a broad education |
What is a professional accounting qualification?
A professional accounting qualification is offered by a professional accounting body. You pass a series of exams from foundation to advanced level, and you usually need relevant work experience to become a full member. Different bodies focus on different areas, such as financial reporting, management accounting, audit or business strategy.
Many students take these exams through institutes that teach the syllabus. You can compare those institutes on StudyWay.
Tell us what you want to study, and institutes will contact you with options
What is an accounting or finance degree?
An accounting or finance degree teaches accounting, finance, economics, business law and management in a structured programme. It gives you a broad business education and a recognised academic qualification. Many degrees are designed to give exemptions from some professional accounting exams, which can save you time later.
Should I do both?
Many people do. Common paths are:
- Start a professional qualification after A/Ls, work in an accounting role, and add a degree later.
- Study a degree first, use the exemptions it gives, then complete a professional qualification.
- Study both at the same time, with careful time management.
The right path depends on your A/L results, whether you want to work early, your budget and your long-term goals.
Which careers can these lead to?
Accounting and finance skills lead to roles such as accountant, auditor, financial analyst, management accountant, tax specialist and finance manager. With experience, they can lead to senior leadership roles. If the legal side of business interests you, see our guide on routes to becoming a lawyer in Sri Lanka. They also combine well with general business study. See our business management courses guide and the Business Administration vs Business Management comparison.
How do I choose where to study?
- Check the pass support: revision classes, mock exams and lecturer support.
- Ask about exemptions if you already have a diploma or degree.
- Compare class schedules: weekday, weekend, evening and online options.
- Look at progression: can you continue to the next level or a degree?
Can I use my accounting qualification abroad?
Many accounting qualifications are recognised internationally, which is one reason they're popular. How a qualification is treated in each country varies, so check before you plan. Read our study abroad guide for next steps.
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Get free adviceFrequently asked questions
Is a professional accounting qualification better than a degree?
Neither is better for everyone. Professional qualifications are flexible and career-focused. Degrees give a broad academic base. Many accountants have both.
Can I start a professional accounting qualification after O/L or A/L?
Many professional qualifications have entry routes for school leavers. Check the entry requirements of each course on StudyWay.
Will a degree give me exemptions?
Many accounting and business degrees give exemptions from some professional exams. Ask the institute which exemptions apply.
Can I study while working?
Yes. Professional accounting qualifications are designed for this, and many degrees offer weekend or evening options.
Which qualification is best for working abroad?
Look for internationally recognised qualifications, and check how they're treated in the country you plan to work in.