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AML 101: Anti-Money Laundering Fundamentals
Learningidol

Independent Online Learning • Updated 2026 Content • Transparent Pricing • Digital Certificate Included

Summary

Price
£19 inc VAT
Study method
Online, On Demand 
Duration
1.8 hours · Self-paced
Qualification
No formal qualification
Certificates
  • Reed Courses Certificate of Completion - Free
Assessment details
  • Final Exam (included in price)
Additional info
  • Tutor is available to students

Overview

Financial crime presents significant risks to economic stability, institutional integrity, and public trust. AML frameworks are designed to prevent, detect, and report suspicious financial activities that may involve the proceeds of criminal conduct. AML is not simply a regulatory requirement; it is a structured compliance discipline grounded in legal awareness, risk assessment, due diligence, and ethical responsibility.

This course introduces the core principles underpinning Anti-Money Laundering systems within the UK regulatory context. Learners examine the nature of money laundering, the stages of criminal proceeds concealment, and the development of AML regulations. Particular attention is given to the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, the risk-based approach, customer due diligence (CDD), record-keeping standards, suspicious activity reporting, and the responsibilities of key compliance roles such as the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO).

The programme is structured to build theoretical understanding progressively, moving from legislative foundations to practical compliance frameworks. Learners gain insight into how AML controls operate within organisations and how regulatory expectations shape institutional processes.

Delivered through flexible, self-paced, on-demand learning, the course enables learners to study compliance frameworks at their own pace. Assessment includes a final online examination and a written assignment to evaluate conceptual understanding and applied awareness.

This course provides theoretical knowledge and academic understanding only. It does not confer any professional status, licence, or right-to-practise, nor does it guarantee employment outcomes.

Upon successful completion, learners receive a digital certificate of course completion.

Certificates

Assessment details

Final Exam

Included in course price

Curriculum

11
sections
11
lectures
1h 46m
total

Description

AML represents a structured compliance system aimed at preventing the misuse of financial systems for criminal purposes. This programme provides a comprehensive exploration of the legal, procedural, and analytical frameworks that underpin modern anti-money laundering practice.

The course begins with an introduction to money laundering. Learners examine the three recognised stages: placement, layering, and integration. The module explores how illicit funds are disguised and why financial institutions and regulated entities are vulnerable to exploitation. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for recognising risk indicators.

The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) is examined as a cornerstone of UK AML legislation. Learners explore the scope of criminal property definitions, confiscation powers, reporting obligations, and offences relating to failure to disclose suspicious activity. The module emphasises the legal responsibilities imposed on individuals and organisations.

The development of AML regulation is analysed to provide historical and regulatory context. Learners examine how international bodies, government policy, and financial crime trends have shaped evolving compliance expectations. The concept of global cooperation in combating financial crime is introduced.

The responsibilities of the Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO) are explored from a governance perspective. Learners examine oversight duties, internal reporting structures, and accountability mechanisms within organisations.

A dedicated module addresses the risk-based approach. Learners analyse how organisations assess and categorise risk based on customer profiles, geographic exposure, product types, and transaction patterns. The principle of proportionality in compliance controls is examined.

Customer Due Diligence (CDD) is explored in depth. Learners examine identity verification, enhanced due diligence, ongoing monitoring, and politically exposed persons (PEP) considerations. Emphasis is placed on documentation standards and compliance consistency.

Record keeping is analysed as a regulatory requirement supporting audit trails and investigative processes. Learners examine retention periods, data protection considerations, and the importance of accurate documentation.

Suspicious conduct and transaction recognition forms a critical component of AML practice. Learners explore red flag indicators, unusual transaction patterns, and the process for submitting Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs).

The programme concludes with awareness and training frameworks, emphasising the importance of organisational culture, compliance education, and internal controls.

The final assessment enables learners to demonstrate structured understanding of AML legal frameworks, risk analysis principles, and reporting obligations.

With lifetime access and flexible delivery, this course supports systematic exploration of anti-money laundering fundamentals.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for:

  • Individuals seeking foundational knowledge of AML principles

  • Compliance support staff or administrative personnel

  • Business owners wanting to understand financial crime risks

  • Students studying finance, law, or business

  • Professionals involved in customer onboarding or transaction monitoring

It is ideal for learners who wish to understand regulatory compliance frameworks within financial environments.

Requirements

There are no formal qualifications required to enrol.

Learners should have basic English proficiency and an interest in financial regulation and compliance. Access to a reliable internet connection and a suitable device is necessary for online study.

Commitment to completing the final examination and assignment is required to demonstrate understanding of AML principles and regulatory frameworks.

Career path

Completion of this course may support progression into compliance support roles, AML administration assistance, customer due diligence support functions, junior risk monitoring positions, or further academic study in AML and financial crime prevention.

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FAQs

Interest free credit agreements provided by Zopa Bank Limited trading as DivideBuy are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Financial Ombudsman Service. Zopa Bank Limited trading as DivideBuy is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, and entered on the Financial Services Register (800542). Zopa Bank Limited (10627575) is incorporated in England & Wales and has its registered office at: 1st Floor, Cottons Centre, Tooley Street, London, SE1 2QG. VAT Number 281765280. DivideBuy's trading address is First Floor, Brunswick Court, Brunswick Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 1HH. © Zopa Bank Limited 2026. All rights reserved.