I plan on taking the IATI course this September, and begin the path of a new career. I have 7 GCSE passes, but i failed maths. I have been preparing for the course, gathering information and learning maths to prepare for the course.
In the meantime, i can take a e-learning course to show that i am serious about taking the higher tier course, and also to gain employment as an assistant accountant which is needed to become a fully qualifed IATI technician.
The diploma is a FETAC level 5, while the other is 4. I am not sure if i would benefit from the higher tier course, since i only want to take one that will help me gain employment and a basic understanding of accounting. If the higher tier course would be beneficial to me after employment (like taking an advance excel course to further my career) then i will gladly pay the extra 300 euro.
It won't make much of a difference to employers which you do as long as you are showing the commitment to actually do something. But if you want to progress further (ie professional ACCA qualified) then take the higher one.
Most of the third level colleges and also PLC colleges do business / finance courses. There are no course fees for these courses. u may also qualify for a grant.