Diploma in Forensic Accounting QLS Level 4

The Diploma in Forensic Accounting contains nine units:

Unit 1: An Introduction to Forensic Accounting

This unit introduces candidates to accounting as well as fraud and embezzlement and describes the various financial crimes. It also explains the differentiation between forensic accounting and general accounting and lists the roles and importance of a forensic accountant within businesses.

Unit 2: Common Personality Traits of Fraudsters

Early fraud detection is one of the most important skills that a forensic accountant must acquire. This unit informs candidates on the behavioral traits and features to look out for in a potential suspect. It helps them in understanding and identifying a fraudster.

Unit 3: Fraud Detection Methods

In this unit, we will discuss the most effective ways that fraud can be detected. Early detection can significantly lessen fraud losses. Candidates will gain a deep understanding of the result of fraud loss and will be rigorously trained in the application of effective fraud detection techniques.

Unit 4: General Investigative Procedures

In recent times, forensic accountants have become very valuable to organizations everywhere in the world. This unit help candidates in understanding their roles in an organization and most importantly, in an investigation. It gives a basic understanding of the investigation process and helps to improve their investigative skills.

Unit 5: Evaluation and Assessment: Gather Evidence

This unit briefly discusses the basic principles of gathering evidence with which forensic accountants should be familiar. It enumerates the different types of evidence and the importance of evidence in a criminal investigation.

Unit 6: Collecting Non-Financial Evidence

Fraud investigators and forensic accountants - after gathering financial evidence - usually consider the possibility of valuable non-financial evidence. In this unit, the techniques, and tools to discover non-financial evidence are discussed extensively.

Unit 7: Investigating Monetarily Sophisticated Witnesses

An investigation is not complete without interviewing and investigating witnesses. Unit 7 discusses the basic requirements for a person to qualify as a witness, the different witness types, witness credibility and the process of conducting a witness interview.

Unit 8: Conducting Fraud Risk Assessment

A fraud risk assessment should be executed incessantly to discern potential schemes and events that need to be lessened. This unit guides the candidate in conducting a fraud risk assessment; it points out the steps taken to identify and protect an organization from fraud.

Unit 9: Fraud Prevention Techniques

Fighting fraudsters is not an easy task, staying ahead of them is even harder. Nowadays, cyber-criminals have devised new ways to work without being detected. With this unit, candidates will be updated on the most recent and more effective fraud prevention methods.

Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Forensic Accounting (QLS Level 4), candidates will receive an endorsed certificate, demonstrating their competency and readiness to pursue a range of career opportunities in the financial and investigative sectors.

This qualification can open doors to stable and rewarding roles in areas such as:

• Financial Forensics
• Tax and Compliance
• Fraud Investigation
• Loss Prevention
• Risk Assessment and Audit
• Corporate Security and Governance

The certificate serves as a strong addition to your professional profile, enhancing employability and credibility within the field.

Entry-level salaries for forensic accountants typically start around £30,000 per year, with significant potential for growth as experience and qualifications increase. Advanced roles in forensic accounting can command much higher salaries, especially within government agencies, law enforcement, large corporations, or specialist consultancy firms.

Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Forensic Accounting (QLS Level 4), candidates will have two certificate options to choose from:

Option 1: Certificate Issued by the Quality Licence Scheme (QLS)

This certificate is issued by the Quality License Scheme, confirming that the course meets high-quality education standards. It is ideal for learners who wish to showcase their formal completion of a professionally developed training program.

Option 2: Accredited CPD Certificate Issued by the CPD Standards Office

Candidates also have the option to claim a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate, accredited by the CPD Standards Office. This internationally recognized certificate is particularly suitable for professionals who want to demonstrate their commitment to ongoing development and enhance their CPD records.

Both certificates offer valuable recognition and can strengthen your professional profile across a range of industries.