Audit and Assurance
Module Description
This module aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the external audit process, complemented by an overview of the internal audit function.
Central to the course is the exploration of international auditing standards, which serve as the framework for audit practices worldwide.
Students will delve into recent developments in the auditing profession and anticipate future evolution, gaining insights into emerging trends and challenges.
By engaging with real-world case studies and industry best practices, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of external auditing and contribute to organizational governance and accountability.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course will possess:
• A related qualification at MQF Level 4
and/or
• Two ‘A’ Levels (MQF Level 4) or equivalent one of which should be related to Accounts, Business or Economics and a pass in English Language and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).
• Preference will be given to applicants having 1 year work experience related to the study programme.
In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course.
Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA Academy, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in Accounting.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of accounting, consulting, financial and managerial career paths.
- Individuals wanting to enhance their ability to interpret, assess and communicate financial related data.
Module / Unit Instructions
The proposed structure comprises a blended approach promoting the building of a community of practice via peer-to-peer learning. The structure uses primarily two dimensions of teaching-learning modes:
- Face to Face sessions
Face-to-face sessions include lectures, tutorials, discussions, presentations and workshop activities promoting peer-to-peer learning.
- Online Learning Activities
Online learning activities incorporate tutorials and asynchronous discussions. These may consist of active interaction, participation and contributions in fora discussions, sharing resources and self-reflection exercises. Learners also contribute to the building of the community of practice by providing feedback to their peers as critical friends, enhancing the learner’s critical engagement throughout the study period.
How you’ll be assessed
The course comprises:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Assessment 1
- Assessment 2
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Module Intake Dates
October 2024
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Outline the reasons for auditing.
- Explain the importance of independence within the accountancy profession.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding regarding the audit report.
- Examine the process of collating evidence.
- Analyse the audit process.
- Evaluate the role of responsibility within the accountancy profession.
Knowledge:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Outline the reasons for auditing.
- Explain the importance of independence within the accountancy profession.
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding regarding the audit report.
- Examine the process of collating evidence.
- Analyse the audit process.
- Evaluate the role of responsibility within the accountancy profession.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Distinguish among the various testing techniques typically applied.
- Conduct an audit engagement following the relevant framework.
- Review developments in the profession taking into account the impact on the audit engagement itself.
- Address any control issues through recommendation in the management letter.
- Draft the audit report for supervisor’s review.
Module-Specific Communication Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to:
- Communicate ideas, problems, and solutions effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences verbally or in writing (PowerPoint presentations, reports, etc.).
- Participate in class/online discussions and in organised workshops.
- Present ideas, work, and findings to peers, lecturers, and specialist and non-specialist audiences.
- Contribute to team work as required.
Module-Specific Learner Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to:
- Investigate why statutory audits and assurance services are undertaken.
- Discuss the fundamental concepts in the audit world including threats to independence, safeguards to be implemented, applicable ethical behaviour.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.