Distance learning, sometimes referred to as remote learning or e-learning, basically refers to learning and becoming qualified online. Distance learning is becoming an increasingly popular way to learn and become qualified for obvious reasons, the main being that it allows greater flexibility, freedom and convenience. In other words, you decide when and where you want to learn.

There are literally hundreds of opportunities available for distance learning in the UK and the range of courses available for learning and training remotely in Great Britain are phenomenal. From learning about alternative medicine to becoming a qualified nursery teacher, the opportunities to learn remotely without having to leave the house have never been so abundant.

Accounting courses

Distance learning in accounting courses is becoming increasingly popular and is available for people with or without an accounting background.

Whether you want to improve your accounting skills to help you manage the accounts in your home with greater ease and proficiency, or have aspirations to becoming a high flyer in 'The City', there are numerous accounting courses that can be carried out online and which are designed for different accounting capabilities, levels and goals.

Back to basics

Most distance learning accounting courses in the UK include the accounting basics, which introduce students to basic accounting principles, accounting concepts and accounting terminology. These include expenses liabilities, balance sheets, cash flows, assets, revenues and income statements.

Introduction to accounting jobs and opportunities

In modern society the field of accounting is extremely lucrative and a wide range of job opportunities exist. Most distance accounting courses introduce students to the various accounting jobs and opportunities all of which require different courses and qualifications.

The position of bookkeepers or accounting clerks, for example, requires a diploma and often a two-year associate degree in accounting. Whereas to become an actual accountant much more rigorous and longer training is required and for a top accountant position it is necessary for a candidate to have a thorough understanding of complex financial concepts and ideas. A minimum four-year bachelor degree in accounting is usually required.

The beauty of distance learning UK is that these qualifications can be obtained online, meaning that whatever your accounting goals you can help to fulfil them by learning either part-time or full-time whilst working around your current job and situation.

Accounting degrees

To become an accountant, as mentioned above, a degree is almost always required. Before you embark on an accounting degree, whether it is offline or online, you should consider the following points:

As accountancy is primarily a well-paid and sought-after job, it is extremely competitive. It is therefore advisable that you are sure that there is a demand for accountants in the geographical area that you live in.

Work experience

Of course education is always better when it is backed up with experience and one downside of distance learning is that, unlike offline accounting courses, hands-on work experience is not always an option. To overcome this potential pitfall it is advisable to 'back up' your distance learning by doing some voluntary work experience with a financial firm.