How technical is the DISA (ISA 3.0) course for someone without an IT background?

Designed with Finance Professionals in Mind The DISA (ISA 3.0) curriculum is carefully structured to meet the needs of Chartered Accountants, most of whom do not have a formal IT education. The course is not a pure IT or engineering program; instead, it focuses on the application of IT knowledge in the context of auditing and assurance. Key considerations include:

  • Moderate Technical Complexity:
    The course introduces important technical concepts such as IT controls, cybersecurity fundamentals, and data analytics, but always through the lens of auditing and risk management.
  • Practical Orientation:
    Rather than delving into the complexities of software development or programming, DISA emphasizes understanding system controls, evaluating IT risks, and using technology audit tools effectively.

Core Areas Covered and Their Approach
The topics in ISA 3.0 cover a wide spectrum of IT audit domains, made accessible through practical examples, case studies, and real-world applications:


 
Topic Description & Relevance for Non-IT Professionals
IT General Controls (ITGCs) Overview of controls around system access, change management, and operations — explained with audit implications.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems Understanding how systems like SAP, Oracle, and Tally function and where control risks lie.
Cybersecurity Basics Fundamentals of protecting data and IT assets, focusing on what auditors need to evaluate.
Computer-Assisted Audit Techniques (CAATs) Introduction to audit tools (e.g., ACL, IDEA) used for data analysis and transaction testing.
Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Concepts related to system resilience and recovery planning, with practical assessment methods.
System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Overview of software development phases to identify risks in IT projects and changes.

Support Mechanisms for Non-IT Participants

Understanding that many candidates come from a non-technical background, ICAI and training providers offer various supports to ease the learning curve:

  • Experienced Faculty:
    Trainers with expertise in both IT and auditing simplify complex concepts through examples tailored to finance professionals.
  • Comprehensive Study Materials:
    Textbooks, guides, and e-learning resources break down technical jargon into digestible content.
  • Hands-On Practical Sessions:
    Demonstrations of audit software and real-world case scenarios reinforce learning.
  • Peer Learning:
    Collaborative study groups and discussion forums help clarify doubts and encourage practical knowledge sharing.

No Prior IT Knowledge Required
 

 Importantly, candidates do not need prior programming skills or deep technical knowledge to succeed in DISA (ISA 3.0). The course focuses on:

  • Understanding technology’s impact on financial reporting and controls
  • Evaluating system-based risks and controls effectively
  • Using IT audit tools for enhanced audit quality

This makes it an ideal upskilling opportunity for CAs and finance professionals seeking to add an essential layer of expertise in today’s digital audit environment. A Practical and Accessible IT Audit Qualification The DISA (ISA 3.0) course is moderately technical but highly accessible for professionals without an IT background. Its pragmatic approach ensures that finance professionals can confidently acquire and apply information systems audit skills critical for modern audits.

For Chartered Accountants, this certification not only broadens their skill set but also enhances their value in a market where technology and finance increasingly intersect. The DISA (ISA 3.0) course is designed to be practical and accessible, even for Chartered Accountants without an IT background. It focuses on applying technology concepts to auditing, risk management, and assurance—without requiring programming or deep technical skills. 

 At Crack My Exams, we make learning even easier with clear notes, simplified explanations, and practice mock tests tailored for finance professionals. Our courses help you understand technical topics step by step, so you can prepare with confidence and clear the exam on your first attempt.

Visit Us

crackmyexams

OUR COURSES

COMING SOON

The ISA 3.0 Exam Game-Changer Book is set to launch soon.
Get ready to simplify, revise, and succeed with confidence!

GET IN TOUCH

disa.crackmyexams@gmail.com
PHONE: 93612 00351