Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS) Courses for 2026/2027

The Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS) in Lesotho is a leading institution for accounting, finance, and financial services education in Southern Africa. For the 2026/2027 academic session, CAS offers a range of internationally recognized professional programs and practical computer-based courses. This article provides an overview of the courses available, helping prospective students make informed decisions about their educational path. CAS aims to prepare students for successful careers in various financial sectors.

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Programmes

The ACCA qualification at CAS is structured to guide students through different levels of professional accounting knowledge and skills. This pathway prepares individuals for roles in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and strategic financial management. The program includes the Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) Certificate, followed by the Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, and Strategic Professional levels. Specific modules within the Strategic Professional level cover areas like Strategic Business Leadership, Advanced Financial Management, Advanced Audit and Assurance, and Advanced Taxation.

Entry requirements for ACCA programs typically include a minimum of 6 Grade C passes at LGCSE, including English Language and Mathematics or Principles of Accounts. Alternatively, a COSC qualification with credit passes in English Language and Mathematics or Accounts, and an aggregate score not exceeding 34 for the best six subjects, is acceptable. Graduates of the ACCA program can pursue careers in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, assurance, corporate finance, and strategic reporting.

Lesotho Professional Accountancy Programme (LePAP)

The Lesotho Professional Accountancy Programme (LePAP) is another professional accounting pathway offered at CAS. While detailed curriculum updates for 2026 were not available at the time of publication, this program is designed to provide a comprehensive accounting education tailored to the Lesotho context. The program has experience requirements that vary by the level of accountant being pursued. For instance, an Accounting Technician, General Accountant, or Chartered Accountant designation may require a specific duration of relevant work experience, such as six months for technicians and general accountants, and a minimum of two years for chartered accountants.

Skills-Based Computer Modules

CAS offers practical computer training designed to enhance employability and workplace readiness. These courses provide hands-on experience with accounting and auditing software commonly used in Southern Africa. The offerings include a Computer Appreciation Course, various Sage Pastel Accounting Courses (Introduction to Processing, Intermediate, and Advanced), Sage Pastel Payroll Training, and CaseWare Training. These modules equip students with skills in payroll processing, bookkeeping, financial reporting, accounting software management, auditing documentation, and computerized accounting systems.

Corporate Training (CT)

The Corporate Training division at CAS provides customized professional development courses and consultancy services for both public and private sector organizations. These programs are designed to meet specific organizational needs and can cover a wide range of topics. Popular areas for corporate training include Finance for Non-Finance Managers, Financial Reporting, Budgeting and Forecasting, Public Financial Management, Payroll Administration, and Business Finance and Risk Management. These courses aim to upskill employees and improve organizational efficiency in financial management.

Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA)

The CIPFA program at CAS is specifically geared towards professionals in public sector accounting and financial management. The curriculum focuses on public accountability, budgeting, governance, and financial reporting within government institutions. The program offers several levels, including a Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma in International Public Financial Management (IPFM), culminating in the Strategic Level (Chartered Stage). Entry requirements often include at least two years of employment with the Government of Lesotho, along with a recognized university degree, diploma, or certificate, or a COSC qualification with passes in Mathematics and English Language. This qualification prepares individuals for careers in public sector accounting, government auditing, budgeting, public finance management, and financial governance.

Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA)

The CIMA program at CAS is designed to prepare students for strategic management accounting and leadership roles. This qualification emphasizes business strategy, performance management, and decision-making within organizations. The program includes the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting, followed by the Diploma in Management Accounting, Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting, and the CIMA Strategic Level, leading to the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) Pathway. Similar to ACCA, entry requirements involve LGCSE passes or COSC credits in English Language and Mathematics or Principles of Accounts. Graduates are well-suited for careers in management accounting, business strategy, financial planning, performance management, and corporate leadership.

Bachelor of Arts in Financial Services (BAFS)

The Bachelor of Arts in Financial Services (BAFS) is a four-year undergraduate degree program introduced by CAS as part of its expansion into higher education. This program offers a broad education across accounting, finance, banking, insurance, investment, and business management. The curriculum covers areas such as Financial Services Management, Banking and Finance, Accounting and Financial Reporting, Economics and Business Law, Investment and Risk Management, and Research and Strategic Financial Analysis. Entry requirements include an LGCSE with a minimum of four credits, including Mathematics and English Language. The BAFS program is accredited by the Lesotho Council on Higher Education (CHE) and prepares graduates for careers in banking, insurance, financial analysis, investment advisory, corporate finance, and financial services management.

Why Study at Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS)?

CAS stands out as an institution offering internationally recognized professional accounting qualifications and CHE-accredited academic programs. The college provides practical, software-based accounting training, fostering strong engagement with both the corporate and public sectors. Its career-focused approach to accounting and financial services education, combined with professional pathways in ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, and Financial Services, makes it an attractive choice for aspiring financial professionals. CAS welcomes students to join its growing community of learners and financial experts.

Conclusion

The Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS) offers a diverse and comprehensive range of courses for the 2026/2027 academic year, catering to individuals seeking professional qualifications and practical skills in accounting and financial services. From internationally recognized programs like ACCA, CIMA, and CIPFA to specialized computer training and a new Bachelor of Arts in Financial Services, CAS is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers. With its strong industry links and accredited programs, CAS continues to be a premier institution for financial education in Southern Africa.