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Accreditation This programme carries accreditation from the CPD Certification Service (UK), the internationally recognised body that independently verifies the quality and relevance of professional development. Structured to align with the demands of a working professional, it leads to the award of a digital CPD certificate. |
Bookkeeping and payroll are among the most consistently in-demand skills across every sector of the Irish economy. Every business – from a sole trader to a multinational corporation – depends on professionals who can maintain accurate financial records, process payroll correctly, and ensure full compliance with Irish Revenue requirements. The demand spans retail, hospitality, construction, healthcare, and financial services, making this one of the most transferable and reliable career paths available.
The CPD Bookkeeping and Payroll Professional Certificate at Dorset College Dublin is a practical, hands-on programme designed for people with no prior finance experience. It covers double entry bookkeeping, trial balances, accounts payable and receivable, Irish PAYE, PRSI and USC payroll administration, VAT returns, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting – all using Sage accounting software and Sage Micropay, the industry-standard tools used by employers across Ireland. All sessions are delivered live by a professional currently working in the field, and assessment is through practical coursework directly applicable in the workplace. On completion, graduates hold a CPD-verified credential at Step 1 of a recognised pathway leading through AAT Level 2, AAT Level 3, and ultimately ACCA Fundamentals. According to Indeed.ie, bookkeeping and payroll roles in Ireland typically advertise starting salaries of €30,000 to €45,000, with strong progression as experience and qualifications grow.
WHERE THIS COURSE TAKES YOU
This certificate is the first step in a globally recognised accounting and finance certification pathway.
STEP 1
CPD Bookkeeping & Payroll Professional Certificate, Dorset College Dublin
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STEP 2
AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
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STEP 3
AAT Level 3 Certificate in Accounting
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STEP 4
ACCA Fundamentals, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
Key skills covered in this programme
Three modules covering the essential bookkeeping and payroll skills.
✓ Double entry bookkeeping – Ledgers, closing balances, and trial balance preparation.
✓ Sage accounting software – Industry-standard Sage software used by employers across Ireland.
✓ Irish payroll administration – PAYE, PRSI, and USC calculation under Revenue Commissioners.
✓ Sage Micropay – Full payroll processing using the leading Irish payroll software.
✓ VAT returns & bank reconciliation – VAT returns and account reconciliation in full compliance.
✓ Financial reporting – Producing clear financial reports for HR and finance teams.
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Amazing, challenging, and unique. I loved every moment of studying here and am leaving with a course, a network, and a plan for what comes next.
Josue Isai Leonides Tolentino – Dorset College Dublin
Course module information
Module 1: Bookkeeping
✓ Double entry, ledgers, closing balances & trial balance
Master the mechanics of double entry bookkeeping and the preparation of a trial balance using both manual and computerised systems.
✓ Sage professional accounting software
Work hands-on with industry-standard Sage accounting software used by employers across Ireland.
Module 2: Payroll
✓ PAYE, PRSI & USC, operation & calculation
Understand how Ireland’s key payroll taxes are calculated and administered under the Revenue Commissioners, including the PAYE modernisation system.
✓ Computerised payroll using Sage Micropay
Process a full payroll run using Sage Micropay Professional, the leading payroll software in the Irish market.
Module 3: Learning outcomes
✓ Apply core bookkeeping & payroll principles
Using Sage software with accuracy and confidence, and in compliance with Irish legislation and employee records.
✓ Develop & maintain accurate financial records
Produce clear financial reports and collaborate effectively with HR and finance teams to support smooth organisational operations.
• Independently recognised CPD certification
• Recognised for professional development quality
• Demonstrates structured, industry-relevant training
• Valued by employers in Bookkeeping & Payroll
• Practical, job-ready skills for the workplace
• Enhances your professional portfolio
• Submit the online application in 3 minutes
• Photo ID not required to begin your application
• Our team will guide you through the next steps
• Start even if your documents aren't ready yet
• Admissions support at every stage
• Contact us at [email protected]
• Continuous assessment throughout the course
• End of course examination
• Award: CPD Certification in Bookkeeping & Payroll
• Awarded by Dorset College Dublin
• Co-certified by CPD Certification Service UK
• Internationally recognised qualification
• Solid understanding of the bookkeeping process
• How financial data informs strategic decisions
• Hands-on experience using a payroll system
• Ideal for business owners managing finances
• Build confidence in financial management
• Practical, workplace-ready skills
• Accounts Assistant
• Bookkeeper
• Credit Controller
• Finance Assistant
• Junior Payroll Administrator
• Payroll and Bookkeeping Clerk
• Ideal for those interested in computerised accounting
• Suitable for those learning payroll systems
• Strong numeracy skills required
• Strong literacy skills required
• Non-refundable deposit of €150 to secure your place
• Remainder paid across 3 instalments
• Manage payments online at any time
• Flexible online payment facility from home
• Deposit: €150
• 1st Instalment: €316.00 — 21/07/2026
• 2nd Instalment: €316.00 — 21/08/2026
• 3rd Instalment: €316.00 — 21/09/2026
A
• 100% online — study from the comfort of your home
• Expert-led, industry-experienced lecturers
• Up-skill or re-skill at your own pace
• All support materials provided to help you succeed
Q1
Do I need any prior experience to enrol?
No prior experience is required. The course is designed for complete beginners and anyone looking to build a career in bookkeeping, payroll, or accounting and finance.
Q2
What certification will I receive?
An internationally recognised digital CPD certification in Bookkeeping & Payroll, independently accredited by The CPD Certification Service UK - trusted by employers across Ireland and internationally.
Q3
How is the course delivered?
100% online via live, expert-led classes every Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. Sessions are interactive, delivered in real time, and recorded for next-day revision.
Q4
How long is the course and when does it start?
14 weeks, commencing 21st July 2026 and concluding 20th October 2026. One evening per week, designed to fit comfortably around full-time work or other commitments.
Q5
What does it cost and are there payment options?
€1,100 after an ongoing 20% discount. A €150 deposit secures your place, with flexible instalments available for the balance. No hidden fees.
Q6
What topics will I cover?
Bookkeeping fundamentals, accounts payable and receivable, payroll administration, Irish tax and PAYE compliance, VAT returns and Revenue reporting, bank reconciliation, computerised accounts, and financial reporting.
Q7
How is the course assessed?
Continuous assessment throughout the course, with practical assignments designed to reflect real workplace scenarios in bookkeeping and payroll. No written exams.
Q8
What careers can this course lead to?
Bookkeeper, Payroll Administrator, Accounts Assistant, Finance Officer, and Payroll Technician. Typical starting salaries of €30,000–€45,000 with strong progression as experience and qualifications grow.
Q9
Will I have direct access to a tutor?
Yes. Every session is delivered live by an experienced industry professional. Ask questions, work through practical examples, and receive direct feedback throughout the course.
Q10
Who is this course designed for?
Career changers entering accounting and finance, office administrators looking to upskill, business owners wanting to manage their own finances, and anyone seeking a stable, in-demand professional qualification.
Q11
What makes this course stand out?
Irish-specific content covering Revenue, PAYE, and VAT compliance means you graduate with skills that are immediately applicable in the Irish workplace, backed by a CPD UK certification recognised by employers internationally.
Q12
How do I apply?
Complete the online application form in under three minutes. A €150 deposit secures your place, with flexible instalments available for the remainder of the course fee.
