An Entrepreneur's Guide to ICB Bookkeeping courses

Becoming a bookkeeper is a long and winding road that is not to be attempted lightly.
It requires dedication, time and skills to be able to complete the necessary courses and examinations. And if you want to be your own boss, you need to go even further. It may seem daunting but, for those who are committed, it is extremely worth it.
We want to help you get there; and we think that one of the best way of doing so is by studying an ICB Bookkeeping course with us here at Open Study College.

Who are ICB?

ICB (The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) is the largest awarding body that offers recognised qualifications to prospective bookkeepers, both internationally and in the UK.
Allowing you to work within the industry, an ICB bookkeeping accreditation will help you become a qualified accountant or bookkeeper.
We were delighted to be able to talk to Garry Carter, the CEO of ICB Global, who has explained more about the ICB, its membership structure, and why bookkeeping is a beneficial career choice.

Which courses do they offer?

ICB offer a range of qualifications that vary in levels and certification. Your current level of study and career intentions will determine which course is right for you:
ICB Level 2 Certificate – Affiliate Membership AfICB
This course is an introduction into bookkeeping and the ICB. It covers all the core essentials for both manual and computerised bookkeeping, including making and receiving payments, ledgers and accounts. On completion of this course, you will become an affiliate member of the ICB and be able to use the relevant letters (AfICB) after your name.
ICB Level 3 Certificate – Associate Membership AICB
A great option for those who want to develop their bookkeeping career, this level 3 course advances on the skills learnt in the previous course to progress your knowledge and capabilities. On completion of this course, you will become an associate member of the ICB and be able to use the relevant letters (AICB) after your name.
ICB Level 4 Certificate – Full Membership MICB
The mother of all courses, this level 4 course takes you to the top of the ICB pyramid. Learn about liability partnerships, financial statements and incomplete records to develop your accounting knowledge. Once you have completed this course, you will be a complete member of the ICB and able to you the letters MICB after your name.
ICB Bookkeeping Complete Membership MICB
This course cuts out the middle men and allows you to become a fully-fledged member of the ICB in one combined course. Similarly to the level 4 course, you will be able to use the letters MICB after your name on completion of this course.

Are you right for the job?

Anyone can choose to become an accountant or bookkeeper. However, there are some specifications and pre-requisites that you will need to fulfil before being able to start.
Most bookkeeping courses will require:

• Basic to advanced numeracy skills (depending on the level)
• Basic literacy skills
• Prior knowledge of bookkeeping terminology and concepts

…and of course, a passion for the profession would come in handy.
If you find a course and decide it is perfect for you, then click enrol online.
Alternatively, give our Student Adviser team a call on 03300 563100 to hear more about the courses and your options.