Finance & accounting

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly
• a graduate training scheme

University

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:

• business studies
• finance
• maths
• science
• management

A postgraduate qualification, like a master's in business administration (MBA), may also be helpful.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Apprenticeship

You could apply for a place on a Junior Management Consultant Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship, or Chartered Manager Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship, and work your way up as your experience grows.

These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

For more information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

Direct application

You can apply directly to become a management consultant or set up your own business, if you've got relevant work experience in:

• business management or finance
• human resources
• project management
• IT

Other routes

You may be able to join a graduate training scheme straight from university. Competition for places is strong, so it may help if you have:

• a good degree pass in a subject like business studies or business management
• evidence of analytical, planning and communication skills
• relevant work experience from placements, internships or temporary jobs

More information

Career tips

Foreign language skills could be useful, as many firms work with international clients.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Institute of Consulting for career support and professional development.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in management consultancy from the Management Consultancies Association and the [Chartered Management Institute | http://www.managers.org.uk].

View all vacancies in this region

With experience, you could become a partner in a management consultancy, work freelance or set up your own consultancy firm. You could work in all areas of the public and private sector.

You might also apply to become a chartered management consultant, which gives you industry recognition of your skills and expertise.

You can find out more about careers in management consultancy from the Management Consultancies Association and the Chartered Management Institute.