The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has announced a redesign of its gold standard ACCA Qualification, reflecting a redefinition of the accountancy profession.

This redesign aims to expand the role of accountants by integrating ethics, sustainability, and technology into their responsibilities, equipping them to drive business success in a volatile economic landscape.

The changes build on the current strengths of the ACCA Qualification, introducing a more integrated learning and assessment experience. AI-enhanced learning journeys will equip the next generation with essential professional skills and technical expertise, stated ACCA.

This initiative follows extensive consultations with members, employers, and Gen Z representatives, with implementation set for mid-2027.

ACCA chief executive Helen Brand said: ‘Accountancy is being redefined. Accountants are drivers of sustainable business, promoters of social value, and enablers of new technologies.

“They are sharpening their financial and ethical skills for a changed world of ever-shifting opportunities and challenges. They innovate with new business models and fresh thinking about what success looks like. They focus on people, planet and prosperity to create value for all.  

“The changes we’re making will equip the next generation for this exciting new future that will bring wider and more varied opportunities.”   

A key focus of the redesign is employability, introducing Employability Modules at each qualification level.

These modules provide simulated work experiences covering digital tech, ethics, sustainability, and business management. Enhanced awards and designations will recognise achievements, allowing students to demonstrate their skills to employers.

Technology, sustainability, and ethics will be interwoven throughout the qualification stages.

A new Data Science Professional exam will be available as an option at the final ‘Strategic Professional’ level.

ACCA director of innovation in learning and assessment Reza Ali said: “The ACCA Qualification has always been the gold standard, globally recognised and highly valued by employers. It will remain as rigorous, relevant, and future-focused as ever, with an even sharper focus on employability.   

“The redesigned qualification comes together as a unified experience at each of its three levels with learning guidance and support, assessments, employability support, and help to develop skills.  Students will benefit from tailored learning journeys supported by AI technology and a digital mentor.”    

ACCA has ensured a smooth transition for current and prospective students, recognising existing achievements without affecting progression or costs. Students can also pursue a BSc (Hons) Professional Accountancy in collaboration with the University of London alongside their ACCA studies.

ACCA stated that it maintains its focus on inclusion and opportunity with a redesigned ‘Foundations’ route, allowing individuals without prior qualifications to meet entry criteria for the ACCA Qualification.