The Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India on Saturday said it is launching a 'Certificate Course in Accounting Technician' to cater to junior accounting job requirements in rural areas.

The course is being introduced in both English as well as Hindi languages and the fee is Rs 8,600, the institute said in a statement.

The course has a duration of one year and would have six papers, practical training, orientation programme and computer training.

It is divided into two parts. In the first part, called the Entry Level, a student has to appear for four papers and in the second part -- Competency Level -- a student has to take two papers.

The first entry level examination will be held in December 2008, it said.

Any student who has completed 10+2 will be eligible for examination at entry level. Commerce graduated would be exempted from entry level.