5 reasons why you should study a qualification in anti money laundering

As financial crime grows more complex, legal professionals play a critical role in ensuring compliance with anti money laundering (AML) regulations. AML certification equips them with the expertise to navigate global legal frameworks, mitigate risks, and uphold financial integrity. Here are five reasons why you should enrol on the STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering.  

1. Strengthen your regulatory knowledge

Legal professionals must understand the role of international bodies and standard setters, including the IMF, World Bank, UN and FATF, alongside international AML and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) initiatives and standards. The STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering is a comprehensive programme, designed to equip legal professionals with the knowledge and skills required to identify, prevent, and manage money laundering and terrorist financing risks. After completing the programme legal professionals will gain actionable insights and skills that can be immediately applied in their professional role. 

2. Expanding your career advancement

AML expertise is increasingly sought after by law firms, financial institutions, and multinational corporations. The anti money laundering market is projected to grow five times from £2.35 billion in 2023 to £12.1 billion by 2033, reflecting a 17.8% compound annual growth rate (CAGR)1. This surge is driven by increasing regulatory scrutiny and the need for AML certified legal professionals who can effectively mitigate and detect money laundering and terrorist financing risks. The STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering is designed to enhance legal professionals’ ability to manage AML risks and comply with global standards. 

3. Enhance your professional credibility

Gaining an AML certification validates a legal expert’s ability to manage financial crime risks, strengthening their professional standing with clients, employers, and regulators. It also demonstrates strong commitment to ethical practice and regulatory compliance. The STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering is respected worldwide, validating a legal practitioner’s expertise in AML practices. 

4. Learn from experienced tutors

Delivered in collaboration with expert practitioners, this certification provides a solid foundation in the essential aspects of AML, including international regulations, risk based approaches, and customer due diligence. This course is taught by David Povey, Course Director within the Anti Money Laundering and Sanctions Compliance programmes, who is well versed in delivering training needs across the financial crime division, specialising on sanctions at both a foundation and advanced level. 

5. Learn at your own pace

Balancing professional commitments while advancing your AML knowledge can be challenging, but with a flexible, part-time learning format, studying for the course becomes more accessible than ever. The STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering allows learners to complete the course within four months at their own pace. The programme includes: 

• Online guided study with self-assessment questions  
• A three-hour online workshop  
• A one-hour multiple-choice examination  

This flexible course design ensures professionals can gain valuable AML skills without disrupting their work schedules, making it the perfect choice for career advancement. 

Final thoughts

AML certification empowers legal professionals to navigate financial crime regulations confidently, enhance their career prospects, and validate their professional credibility. With legal and financial sectors demanding greater AML oversight, gaining an AML certification ensures that legal professionals remain well equipped to manage emerging risks. Ready to embark on your AML journey? Find out more about the STEP Certificate in Anti-Money Laundering.