ABFA Diploma Course

The ABFA Diploma is the third step of the ABFA Distance Learning Programme and a recognised academic qualification equivalent to a first year UK degree. It focuses on the asset finance industry and is designed to lay the foundations for a successful career in management.

Content

The Diploma requires students to complete two modules, Cashflow Finance and Measuring Performance, and to complete the Residential Course. Those who successfully complete all three parts are then eligible to use the designatory letters Dip ABFA.

Cashflow Finance

The Cashflow Finance module enables students to develop a thorough understanding of invoice and stock financing and is an introduction to other types of the asset based working capital finance. It looks at products and operational activities, as well as the relevant legal framework within which the industry operates. In this module students will cover: an introduction to cashflow finance, invoice finance and stock finance, negotiating and structuring the deal, taking on the client, the master agreement, change and managing risk.

Measuring Performance (Please click here to book with the ifs)

Measuring Performance, which has just replaced the old ifs Structure of Accounts module, begins with an overview of the 'balanced scorecard' approach to measuring performance. Thereafter, it looks at financial performance information, and then goes on to examine the use of non-financial performance indicators. The module concludes with a review of the budgetary process in organisations. The module includes the balanced scorecard, the underpinning principles of financial reporting, the primary financial statements, non-financial measures of performance, performance indicators and budgets.

The ifs runs this module with flexible assessment. This means that a student can choose to be examined when they feel ready. The assessment is made up of two components: a two hour objective test (in multiple choice format) delivered electronically in various test centres around the country and one written coursework assignment. Both assessments must be passed in order to pass the module.

Residential Course

The course operates as an assessment centre focused on personal and professional development in the areas of inter-personal and management skills.

The course lasts for a week and is made up of two elements. First, a business simulation exercise where students have the opportunity to direct and manage an invoice finance company. Throughout the week decisions taken will impact on their results, so encouraging a wider understanding of current industry issues. This simulation model has been developed specifically for the ABFA to include many of the issues that face the industry today.

Second, throughout the week there are a number of management exercises. These have been specifically developed to assess student's communication, decision-making, motivation, innovation, leadership and reasoning, and organisation skills.

Upon completion students receive an overall score and a feedback session with one of the assessors to discuss their individual results and, where appropriate, development needs.

To download more information on the ABFA Diploma course and an ABFA Booking Form Click Here

To book a student on the ABFA Diploma course now, register on-line by clicking here.

For more information on the ABFA Residential Course as a stand alone qualification Click Here

Course Structure

There are three elements to the ABFA Diploma, two distance learning modules (Cashflow Finance and Measuring Performance) and a Residential Week course.

Entry Requirements

Residential Course: Whilst the course has been specifically designed for ABFA Diploma students, the week is open to other member employees and is an excellent management development programme in its own right.

Two Distance Learning Modules: No formal entry requirements, however students who have previously studied the ABFA Certificate would find the content of the Cashflow Finance module a logical development.

Exemptions

As there are too many to list here. Anyone wishing to be considered for exemptions should contact the ABFA on 020 8332 9955.

Assessment

For the two distance learning modules, students will receive a comprehensive workbook and study guide. Three assignments will be set for each module for students to submit for assessment. At the end of the study period students sit a formal examination.

The Residential Course is assessed at time of attendance. To qualify for an ABFA Diploma students are required to pass all three elements.

Successful candidates will be awarded a Pass, Credit or Distinction and can use the designatory letters 'Dip ABFA'.

Study Time

The two modules are designed to cover a 20-week study period assuming a study time of approx. 6 hours per week. The Residential Week element requires students to attend a week's course held annually in June.

Cost

Cashflow Finance module - £645 (VAT not applicable)

Measuring Performance module (Please contact the ifs for the cost of this module - www.ifslearning.co.uk)

Residential Week - £2,150 (VAT not applicable)

Level

The course is primarily aimed at those students operating at Senior Client Manager level or above within their organisation.

Restrictions

Students must complete all three elements of the ABFA Diploma within three years.

Registration Deadlines

Cashflow Finance - Registration by 31 March for examination in November
Measuring Performance - Registration is taken by the ifs all year round
Residential Week - Registration by 31 May for the course in June/July

Onward Progression

The Diploma provides an opportunity for students to continue their studies with the ifs. For more information on how the Diploma fits into other ifs courses please contact the ifs directly.

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