Out of all the questions we get asked, this is one of the most frequent. And it’s hardly surprising. With the world economy still in a state of flux and unemployment at record highs in many countries, people want to know that any investment they make in their future will be worthwhile.
As many of you who have undertaken ICA qualifications will know, the courses are practically focused and vocational, but also set within an academic framework. This ensures that you gain knowledge and skills instantly transferable to the workplace but also have the satisfaction of attaining a professional qualification (awarded by ICA in association with University of Manchester Business School).
When you send your CV to a prospective employer they will be looking to see if you have the right skills and experience for the role. If you tick these boxes AS WELL AS holding an internationally recognised professional qualification, you will undoubtedly have the edge over other candidates. Indeed we are seeing more and more compliance related job vacancies advertised that specify an ICA qualification as a pre-requisite for the role.
A qualification in isolation may ultimately not be a substitute for actual hands-on experience, but it still puts you in front of those who don’t have one. And if you can get an interview, it will certainly give you the tools to talk about the subject from a position of strength.
It’s not just employers who recognise the value of ICA qualifications. Many international regulators list them as evidence of competence in their rule books including The Central Bank of Bahrain, The Central Bank of the UAE, The Central Bank of the Bahamas, the Guernsey Financial Services Commission, the Jersey Financial Services Commission and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Finally, a qualification also demonstrates your commitment to professional and personal development.
Don’t just take my word for it. Here are some testimonials from past students whose careers have benefited from an ICA qualification:
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“I was promoted to Global Head of Money Laundering Prevention and I'm sure my ICA qualification has played a part in this.”
Pierre Gouarin, Global Head of Money Laundering Prevention, BNP Paribas Group, France
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"I have taken three ICA courses since 2008 and as a result have now secured an excellent job. I would not have advanced my career without these qualifications. ICA has enabled me to open career doors.”
Hazel Barr
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"I took the ICA Diploma in Anti Money Laundering out of interest and to assist with my duties as Money Laundering Reporting Officer at the time I started the course (I was covering for someone on maternity) and now I am Deputy Money Laundering Reporting Officer.”
Joanne Routier, Dominion Fiduciary Services Group, Jersey
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“The course gave me a comprehensive and detailed knowledge of a compliance environment from an international perspective. It has allowed me to progress my career to management level."
Jason Besnard, Ansbacher (Channel Islands) Limited, Guernsey
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If you're interested in an ICA qualification more information can be found on our course finder page. Alternatively, please call +44(0)121 362 7506 or email studentservices@int-comp.org and we would be happy to talk you through your study options.