Accounting HND (SCQF level 8)

Course description

The HND Accounting has been designed to meet the demands and requirements of the Accounting Industry. 

Opportunities are provided to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in preparation for employment, or for progression to higher education.

The course focuses on technical skills and you'll learn to process accounting information for a variety of organisations including Sole Traders, Partnerships and Limited Companies.  You will also learn how to handle both Financial and Management Accounting scenarios and prepare written reports to communicate the outcomes.  In addition, training is included in popular accounting software such as SAGE Accounts and SAGE Payroll.  The course also enhances your skill in using Excel spreadsheets.  

Personal Development Planning is also a key element of this course to encourage you to consider future paths and set targets to ensure that the most is being made of opportunities available.   

A full list of the units covered is provided in the section 'what you study' below. 

Throughout the course, you will undertake a programme of guidance activities designed to encourage the successful completion of the course. 

You'll be required to attend college for 3 days every week from 9am to 5pm for two academic years.

The course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8. 

Why Choose City of Glasgow College?

City of Glasgow College is a next-generation college.  Our campuses at City and Riverside have been meticulously designed to offer superb opportunities to our students and to meet and adapt to the changing needs of future generations. This future-proofing complements the vast open and inspiring learning and teaching environment.  Here are just a few reasons why you should make City your first choice:

• We have designed our curriculum to develop the technical skills of students and it is closely aligned with industry requirements, meaning our graduates can successfully transition from their course into employment and further education. 


• We support our students in a classroom environment encouraging student engagement and improving attainment.


• Over 90% of our successful students progress directly to further learning, apprenticeships, or employment. 

All of our students have a named Academic Advisor who can provide advice, support and signposting in key areas, such as:

• Opportunities to discuss your academic progress.


• Encouragement and an informed view with ways to enhance your academic studies.


• Planned workshops from the student services team on a range of areas including finance and funding, careers information, help to be a class rep etc. You can suggest to your Academic Advisor workshops and talks that would benefit you.


• A reliable point of contact throughout your studies, enabling you to make the most of your time at the college.

Make City of Glasgow College your first choice for a world-class education.

"Studying HND Accounting, in particular, gave me an advantage in my current role as I had a really good understanding of Debits and Credits.  That helped me when I was undertaking ICAS qualifications as part of my apprenticeship with EY' 

Danielle Stewart, Associate, Ernst and Young LLP.

Learning outcome

This course prepares you for a career in:

• Bookkeeping.
• Financial and/or Management Accounting.
• Accounts Technician.
• Assistant Accountant.
• Accounts Supervisor.
• Financial Reporting.
• Taxation.

Continuing Study

Common progression from the HND Accounting course is to degree programmes in the surrounding universities.