The current scenario of the education and employability factors all point out how Higher Education Institutions are integrating professional certifications into curricula. As technology advances, so do the challenges of comprehending, applying, and utilizing it increases. Technology is always changing, which causes problems like quickly out-of-date technology and the need to keep up with new developments. These challenges are something that people must always overcome, regardless of the source—businesses, employment, or service providers. People must learn about creating these methods to obtain the knowledge and abilities necessary to confront those issues.
Various institutions such as Plutus Education can help you with ACCA courses. Instead of focusing solely on academic theory, institutions are now weaving in certifications such as ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CMA (Certified Management Accountants) into their degree programs. Let us know how the incorporation of these certifications will be a boon for the students.
Introduction
Colleges and professional certification organizations in higher education are working together more often to give students a more practical and industry-relevant education. These interactions are transforming how students prepare for the workforce. In this article, we’ll dive into how higher education is evolving to include certifications, the benefits of these integrated programs for students and employers, and examples of universities leading the way.
The Evolution of Higher Education
Offering a wide theoretical education is the conventional academic method, although it is gradually changing. More academic institutions are realizing that companies prefer applicants who possess both academic knowledge and practical, hands-on abilities. As a result, a lot of educational institutions are now incorporating professional certifications into their curricula to close the knowledge gap between classroom instruction and real-world demands.
This shift is happening globally. More institutions are creating programs that combine degree courses with professional qualifications like ACCA and CMA. These certifications give students the technical skills and global standards knowledge they’ll need to meet modern industry demands.
Benefits of Integrated Programs
There are multiple benefits for different sections of society for students, employers, businesses, universities, etc. Read below to know more:
For Students
The big draw for students is that they can graduate with both a degree and a professional certification, giving them a competitive edge when they enter the job market. By enrolling in an integrated program, students save time, as they’re able to work toward their degree and certification simultaneously. Many of these programs are designed to allow students to earn credits toward their certification exams while completing their degree courses.
For Employers
Employers are searching more and more for graduates who possess both practical skills and academic qualifications. Due to the professional certifications they have obtained in addition to their degree, individuals from integrated programs already possess skills that are relevant to the industry. They very well know that someone who has completed a program with ACCA or CMA certification is prepared for real-world situations and understands global standards in finance and management
Examples of Universities Offering Integrated Programs
The practice of merging professional certificates with degrees is becoming more and more popular among colleges worldwide. A handful that sticks out is as follows:
University of London
The University of London offers a BSc in Accounting and Finance with a built-in ACCA pathway. Students can study for their degree while simultaneously preparing for the ACCA exams, enabling them to graduate with both qualifications.
University of Strathclyde
Strathclyde’s MBA program integrates CMA certification, allowing business students to add a globally recognized management accounting certification to their resume. Graduates with this dual degree—MBA and CMA—have a solid background in financial planning and business management.
Singapore Management University (SMU)
Singapore Management University and ACCA work closely together to jointly validate their finance degrees. They assist students in fulfilling their academic requirements for their degree and with the ACCA certification, the partnership speeds up the process of obtaining both certifications.
These programs provide a blend of academic coursework with certification-specific modules, and many offer internships or real-world projects to give students hands-on experience.
How Students Can Take Advantage of Integrated Programs?
Integrated programs can turn out to be the best decision you will ever make if you are a student. Whether you want to start a career in finance, accounting, or business, pursuing an integrated degree must top your list of educational accolades.
Research Programs
You should start by looking for colleges and programs that combine the requirements for professional certifications with a degree. Look for courses with close ties to professional and commercial certification organizations.
Understand the Timeline
Make sure you understand the timeline for completing both your degree and certification. Many professional programs are structured to help you work on both simultaneously, but it’s important to know the pace and workload.
Check Accreditation
Must research that the program you choose is affiliated with recognized global certification organizations such as the ACCA or CMA. This will guarantee that your credentials are accepted across nations and sectors.
Conclusion
The integration of professional certifications into higher education is a growing trend that benefits both students and employers. Academic degrees are unquestionably very important and essential in a person’s life but combining academic degrees with practical, industry-relevant certifications, would give graduates’ resumes a highly valuable status. The universities are helping students to fast-track their careers and meet the demands of the job market.
If you’re looking to stand out in today’s competitive workforce then joining programs that offer both a degree and certifications such as the ACCA or CMA can be a great way to build the skills and credentials employers are seeking. It will undoubtedly improve students’ performance and marketability if every technical program includes two or three professional certifications, particularly in the information technology and information systems domains.
