CIOT launches first-ever tax technology diploma

The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) has launched its first-ever Diploma in Tax Technology (DITT). According to the institute, the diploma “reflects that tax advice and the demands on tax professionals have changed immeasurably over the last two decades partly because of technology”. It said the rapid growth of information and communications is “taking us into a fully digital tax system”, with HMRC’s ten-year strategy including the extension of Making Tax Digital, services that work closer to real-time and increased use of digital channels to contact the tax authority. The concept of a tax technology diploma comes from a working party set up by the Institute’s Council. It has reportedly taken a year of “intensive” consultation, development and testing to ready the diploma for public offer. CIOT president Susan Ball said: “This is one of our most exciting educational initiatives ever. We believe it is the first-time tax professionals can get training in the UK to help identify and use technology that is directly applicable to their work. “The diploma will bring much-needed training and guidance for existing tax professionals, including those looking to develop their careers, for those wanting to return to tax after a career break, as well as those working in the tax software industry.” She added: “This new diploma is timely because it educates and equips tax professionals with a solid foundation in tax technology, as increasingly technology is embedded in compliance, reporting, crime prevention and operational efficiencies. “We have worked hard in the past year to make it specific to the needs of the tax fraternity. For example, the syllabus is developed in consultation with technology specialists and with large and medium-size firms, and the course will be updated every year. We have made it accessible in order that candidates can complete the diploma in 60 – 90 hours (depending on existing experience) and online at a pace and at a time they choose.” Key features of the diploma include: The diploma will be updated every year. You do not need to be an existing member or student of CIOT or its connected charity the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT). You choose the pace and study at a time that suits you. All the tuition is online and on demand. While the diploma is UK-focused it is open to non-UK residents If you are a CIOT or ATT member or student or ADIT Affiliate or student you will be entitled to a discount on the course material. There is no expiry date on this offer. If you are not a CIOT or ATT member or student or ADIT Affiliate or student and you register for DITT in the first six months from launch you will be entitled to an early adopter discount on the course material. After success in all the required module assessments you will get a certificate confirming you have achieved the Diploma in Tax Technology