South African private higher education institution Regent Business School has announced that it is launching the country’s first business intelligence accounting degree. Officially designated a BCom in Accounting (Business Intelligence), it is a three-year programme and will start next year.

The new qualification is certified by the Department of Higher Education and Training, with South African Qualifications Authority identification number 90913, and full Associate General Accountant (South Africa), or AGA (SA), endorsement. To be admitted to the course, students require an E symbol in mathematics and a Bachelor’s degree endorsement. However, there is provision for Recognition of Prior Learning, for candidates who have relevant work experience. The course has been structured so as to allow working professionals to do it, without infringing on their jobs.

“The future of accounting hinges on professionals who can leverage technology for data analysis and strategic decision-making,” affirmed Regent Business School Academic Head of the School of Finance and Accounting and qualified Chartered Accountant (South Africa) Zahraa Paruk-Abdulla. “Industry entities and professional bodies have made it clear: digital acumen and business intelligence competencies are no longer optional. They are among the most sought-after skills in graduates today. This programme ensures our students enter the workforce not just qualified but prepared for the realities of modern finance.”

The new degree was created, states Regent, because the financial landscape is changing, and fast. Traditional accounting expertise is no longer enough. Businesses in all sectors are seeking qualified people capable of undertaking both operational and strategic management functions.

The BCom in Accounting (Business Intelligence) combines a rigorous training in the fundamentals of accounting with modules designed to equip students with strong digital capabilities. These latter included information systems, data analysis and the latest accounting software. Graduates will have both AGA (SA) endorsement and the technical expertise to lead strategic decision-making.

“Career prospects for graduates span traditional and emerging roles within the finance sector,” pointed out Regent. “Beyond conventional positions such as accountant, auditor or financial manager, the programme prepares students for contemporary roles including data analyst, financial crime risk manager and business intelligence specialist.”

The Regent Business School is based in Durban, but also has learning centres in Cape Town, East London, Johannesburg and Pretoria. It also has learning centres in Mbabane and Manzini, in Eswatini.