The MPs are interested in views from the profession about whether accountancy should be defined as a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subject.

This is part of an inquiry into Accountancy as a STEM subject: How technology and data is driving change and growth in accountancy and related financial services.

The APPG inquiry will consider what defining accountancy as a STEM subject would mean in practice, the potential benefits to the sector, businesses and wider economy, and any potential risks that would need to be managed. The inquiry will also look at international examples and best practice in STEM and accounting.

The call for evidence is asking the responders to submit case study examples of where technology and data is driving change and growth in their finance team and its role within their organisations, as well as in the wider accountancy and related financial services industry.

The APPG is seeking the views of expert witnesses and other interested stakeholders on a broad range of questions related to this issue, as well as gathering evidence about the future prospects for the accountancy profession.

This includes:

• what technical skills do accountants need for the workplace of the future?
• how does the UK rank in terms of its STEM provision?
• how much is automation changing the accountancy profession?

John Howell MP, chair of the APPG said: ‘In recent years STEM subjects have been a passport to well renumerated highly skilled careers, and have rightly been prioritised by the government. It is right that we undertake a proper investigation to decide whether accountancy should fall under this umbrella.’

Andrew Harding, secretary general of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), said: ‘Today, accountancy is a digital profession. Earning an accountancy designation like CIMA’s CGMA requires a candidate to demonstrate a proficiency in applying mathematics and scientific modelling to business problems.

‘The full qualification is a level seven, equivalent to a master’s degree, so there is a case for accountancy to be recognised as a STEM subject. Qualifications like this are essential for equipping the workforce with the skills required to build a career in the modern business world.’

The closing date for evidence is 4pm on Friday 3 November 2023.

Submissions should be around 4 pages, but longer contributions will be accepted. Submissions should be submitted via [email protected]

APPG Inquiry, Accounting as a STEM Subject Call for Evidence