Tailored learning pathways for finance professionals

Overview

In 2019, a dynamic partnership was formed between ICAEW, a leading professional body for chartered accountants, and Kaplan, an award-winning leader in professional education. Recognising a critical skills gap in the global finance sector, the collaboration marries ICAEW's deep sector knowledge with Kaplan's innovative learning solutions. The results are a series of powerful new programmes that empower finance professionals to master data analytics, providing a clear pathway to acquire the high-demand capabilities needed for strategic decision-making and business growth.

Challenge

Digital transformation is widening the skills gap in the workforce, creating a need for new skills and causing roles to evolve. This gap is particularly evident in the finance sector, where existing data analytics training often lacks direct relevance and practical, real-world application.

Solution

Kaplan partnered with the ICAEW to design, develop, and deliver three flexible, fully online data analytics pathways: Analyst, Management, and Microsoft Power BI. Designing from conception allowed Kaplan to seamlessly blend the ICAEW's subject expertise with Kaplan's learning expertise into a core learning outcome framework. Kaplan's learning designers developed this framework into high-quality, impactful content, structured into concise, bite-sized modules. Learning is delivered via Kaplan's award-winning OnDemand study method. We provide the complete end-to-end solution, managing the entire learning experience—including e-commerce sales, continuous learner support, and data-driven insights.

Key features

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  Guided learning environment

  Kaplan's OnDemand study method provides a structured learning journey with a mix of instructional videos, e-learning resources, and exercises. Learners can study at their own pace, 24/7, within the MyKaplan platform, fitting their learning around work and personal commitments.

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  Practical, sector-specific content

  In collaboration with subject matter experts from ICAEW and Azets, the programmes are built around practical, real-world application, ensuring learners focus on "doing," not just "knowing." Learners can apply concepts through exercises and a comprehensive case study assessment.

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  Interactive and engaging modules

  High-quality content is delivered through interactive study modules designed to give learners structure, keep them motivated, and solidify their understanding of the subject.

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  Recognised certification

  Upon successful completion of the case study, learners are awarded the prestigious ICAEW Data Analytics Certificate, providing a trusted and globally recognised mark of their competence.

Impact and benefits

The ICAEW Data Analytics Certificate has delivered a measurable impact for both learners and organisations. By providing a trusted and flexible learning solution, it enables professionals to enhance their skills, drive career advancement, and add immediate value to their employers.

Key results

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  Over 1,000 professionals trained

  ICAEW members and non-members worldwide have gained in-demand data analytics skills since the programme launched in 2021.

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  Closing the skills gap

  Learners develop practical data literacy and analytics expertise directly relevant to finance roles.

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  Career progression

  Graduates are applying their new skills to deliver evidence-based insights, strengthen strategic decision-making, and accelerate their career growth.

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  Global credibility

  The partnership combines ICAEW's industry authority with Kaplan's award-winning learning design to deliver a trusted, scalable solution worldwide.

Endorsed at the highest level

It's fantastic to be able to partner with Kaplan to develop this Data Analytics Programme…specifically tailored to the finance profession. Our research has shown there is a clear need for a programme that is not only tailored to the changing needs and skill set of the accountant, but importantly combines the learning with the assessment.