The partnership sees ICAS accredit The Open University’s BSc Accounting and Finance degree, marking the first time a distance learning programme has been formally recognised by the professional body.

The move provides a new, flexible route into the Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification. The degree is open to learners in the UK and overseas, and provides a strong grounding in accounting and finance within a business and societal context, while also covering specialist areas including auditing, governance, law, taxation, and financial reporting.

Graduates can gain up to five exemptions from the first stage of the Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification through the ICAS Accredited Programme, helping students qualify as a CA faster.

Gail Boag, executive director of learning at ICAS, said: ‘We’re committed to providing access to the accountancy profession which is inclusive and flexible. We’re particularly pleased to be working with one of the world’s largest universities, which has championed widening access to higher education in the UK since its founding. 

‘By accrediting the OU’s accounting degree, we are opening the door for more students from various backgrounds to gain the skills, knowledge and professional recognition needed to build rewarding careers in accountancy.’

Dr Karin Shields, senior lecturer in accounting at The Open University, added: ‘We’re proud that our BSc Accounting and Finance degree is accredited by ICAS, recognising the high standards and professional relevance of our programme.

‘This accreditation offers our students valuable exemptions and a clear pathway toward becoming Chartered Accountants, enhancing their career prospects.’ 

The ICAS accreditation follows the recent expansion of the institute’s Graduate Apprenticeship programme in Scotland’s Central Belt - part of its wider drive to make the CA qualification more accessible, flexible, and inclusive.

The Open University (OU) is the largest academic institution in the UK and a world leader in flexible distance learning. Since it began in 1969, the OU has taught more than 2.3 million students worldwide and currently has around 200,000 students.

Find out more about ICAS qualifications and The Open University