• What are they?
• Can you give some examples?
• Where can I study them?
• What should I think about?

What are they?

• Professional Qualifications are awards given by professional bodies
• They involve the development of practical skills rather than academic study of a subject
• The length of study varies widely depending on the subject area
• Qualifications can take up to five years and will involve writing essays, attending lectures and workshops and taking exams

Can you give some examples?

• Accountancy qualifications through ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
• Legal qualifications such as the LPC (Legal Practice Course) and the BVC (Bar Vocational Course)
• They can also be obtained in a many other fields such as marketing, purchasing and supply, management, insurance and public relations

Where can I study them?

• Universities and colleges sometimes offer courses for professional qualifications which are accredited by the relevant professional body.
• Fields such as law require a professional qualification before you can practise in the field.
• For others, such as accountancy, becoming a chartered member of the relevant institute or association indicates a specific level of competency.

What should I think about?

• Start by contacting the professional body associated with your chosen career and enquiring about relevant courses
• Employers may agree to fund your study if you can demonstrate the benefits
• If you are considering a new career direction, the relevant professional body will also be able to advise you about suitable accredited courses