Business Administration - Accounting
Specialize in a challenging and rewarding career in accounting.
- Students network with panelists from CPA, program graduates, and HR firms at the annual Accounting Career Event to learn about the current state of the industry, hiring statistics, and key trends
- Eligible graduates can take advantage of a partnership with Nipissing University to complete a Bachelor of Commerce degree with one additional year of full-time study right here at Ottawa campus
- Become proficient in current financial accounting software used in industry
Program Availability and Schedule
Schedule
Coming soon - a schedule that will show when each Level of the program will be delivered. See the Courses tab for further details on the Levels within this program.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Other Delivery Options
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are aware of all areas of business, and that you also have specialized education in accounting.
Accounting is one of the majors available to Business Administration students. This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program starts with three semesters, learning a variety of essential business skills, before ultimately deciding on a major....(read more)
Overview
Specialize in a challenging and rewarding career in accounting.
Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are aware of all areas of business, and that you also have specialized education in accounting.
Accounting is one of the majors available to Business Administration students. This three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program starts with three semesters, learning a variety of essential business skills, before ultimately deciding on a major.
The program prepares you for a challenging and rewarding career in the accounting industry. Accounting is often referred to as the backbone of business - businesses need skilled accountants to monitor financial accounts to operate effectively and efficiently.
This program enables you to provide businesses with the complete and accurate financial picture they need to thrive.
Study all major areas of accounting including:
- financial accounting
- managerial accounting
- taxation
- financial management
Practise recording financial transactions, preparing/presenting financial statements, reports and other documents, and using current accounting software.
You may find employment in both the public and private sectors in roles such as:
- accounting assistant
- accounting associate
- accounting clerk
- junior financial analyst
- junior staff accountant
There are opportunities in a variety of work environments, including:
- accounting firms
- small and medium-sized businesses
- service organizations
- government departments
- financial institutions
Students considering a professional accounting designation are advised to make inquiries with the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario (CPA Ontario).
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BUS2301
Course Name:
Business Computer Applications
Course Description:
The knowledge gained in this course provides students with a solid foundation for future learning in other studies, and in business. Student... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ECO2305
Course Name:
Microeconomics
Course Description:
Knowledge of contemporary microeconomics issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students examine fundamental microeconom... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1813B
Course Name:
Communications I
Course Description:
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAW1702
Course Name:
Business Law
Course Description:
Students are prepared for a business environment increasingly affected by laws. They learn how laws must be understood and applied by manage... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2319
Course Name:
Skills for Academic & Business Success
Course Description:
Business and higher education have evolved and so have the skills necessary to succeed in these new and dynamic environments. Students explo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
QUA0002
Course Name:
Business Mathematics
Course Description:
Students review basic arithmetic and algebra, as well as mathematic tools and concepts required for solving problems found in a business env... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2310
Course Name:
Accounting Concepts I
Course Description:
Students are provided with the basics of financial accounting whether they are interested in becoming a practitioner or are looking to broad... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BUS2303
Course Name:
Database & Advanced Excel Concepts
Course Description:
Databases and data analysis are pervasive in today's work environments. Students study advanced Excel topics, including pivot tables, filter... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ECO2306
Course Name:
Macroeconomics
Course Description:
Knowledge of contemporary macroeconomic issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students investigate fundamental macroeco... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1823B
Course Name:
Communications 2
Course Description:
Students continue to expand their practical writing and speaking skills for successful communication in business. Using real-life scenarios ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2328
Course Name:
Introduction to Management Fundamentals
Course Description:
Today's business owners and managers must not only recognize but excel in achieving organizational objectives for long term business success... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
QUA0003
Course Name:
Quantitative Methods I
Course Description:
Mathematical methods are used in fields such as finance, marketing, accounting and operations management in order to help make reasonable bu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2313
Course Name:
Accounting Concepts II
Course Description:
Students are introduced to and explore the background, goals and methods of managerial accounting and its role in business planning, control... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BAI2300
Course Name:
Global Business Environment
Course Description:
As the global economy continues to change rapidly, and as the number of international trade agreements grows, trade barriers come down and C... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2303
Course Name:
Introduction to Finance
Course Description:
Building a solid understanding of personal finance is crucial for students who intend to choose the Finance major in the Business Administra... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2320
Course Name:
Material and Operations Management
Course Description:
Operations managers make tactical decisions in support of carrying out the vision and strategies for businesses in the supply chain and/or i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2381
Course Name:
Human Resources Management
Course Description:
Human capital is a critical organizational resource contributing to the organizational strategy and operational success through progressive ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MKT2317
Course Name:
Marketing
Course Description:
Students are provided an overview of the marketing functions used in an organization, which serves to support them in their chosen business ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2341
Course Name:
Financial Accounting
Course Description:
This course builds a base of knowledge and understanding required for a career in accounting, or to succeed in further related studies. Stud... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
ACC2343
Course Name:
Spreadsheet Applications
Course Description:
Students enhance their knowledge of spreadsheets learned in BUS2301. Using Microsoft Excel, students explore some of the more advanced Excel... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENL1829
Course Name:
The Art of Oratory
Course Description:
From ghost stories around the campfire to political speeches by world leaders, ethical oratory plays a significant role in human interaction... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2304
Course Name:
Business Finance
Course Description:
Small Business owners and managers need to make informed financial decisions daily. Students explore advanced financial topics, including ca... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
QUA2343
Course Name:
Quantitative Methods II
Course Description:
Students are introduced to the normal probability distribution and its application. They use sampling distribution techniques to become fami... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2344
Course Name:
Taxation
Course Description:
Accurate completion of personal and corporate tax returns using current tax software is an essential employment-related skill. Using a varie... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ACC2353
Course Name:
Intermediate Financial Accounting 1
Course Description:
Students expand their accounting knowledge by focusing on the structure and purpose of financial statement presentation and disclosure under... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
ACC2354
Course Name:
Managerial Accounting I
Course Description:
This is the first of two managerial accounting courses. The course provides students with key workplace skills by exploring the background, ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ACC2385
Course Name:
Accounting Software Applications
Course Description:
It is a workplace expectation that students are comfortable using accounting software on a day-to-day basis. Students gain practical experie... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENL1725
Course Name:
Canadian Identity
Course Description:
Canadian identity is challenging to define, but depictions of our multicultural society are found and explored in our writing. This course e... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1726
Course Name:
Symbols, Text and Meaning
Course Description:
Symbols and text are used to express, evoke, and manipulate an entire range of human emotions and reactions. In this interactive, discussion... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1798
Course Name:
Contemporary Canadian Issues
Course Description:
A critical understanding of contemporary Canadian issues is vital to being an active member in our democratic society. Students explore a va... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1825
Course Name:
Communication Dynamics
Course Description:
The complex nature of communication benefits from a deeper understanding of self and social interactions. Participants explore their identit... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2355
Course Name:
Managerial Accounting 2
Course Description:
This is the second of two managerial accounting courses. Students learn key workplace skills by exploring the background, goals, and methods... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ACC2363
Course Name:
Intermediate Financial Accounting 2
Course Description:
Students complete their coverage of financial accounting by focusing on financial elements such as property, plant and equipment, intangible... + Read More
Hours:
84.0
Code:
ACC2367
Course Name:
Business Strategies
Course Description:
The development of critical-thinking skills is essential for students looking for a career beyond the bookkeeping level. Students learn impo... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ACC2368
Course Name:
Accounting Capstone Studies
Course Description:
Students develop hands-on career skills by completing weekly tasks that simulate the day-to-day operations of a typical accounting departmen... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED0216
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT1000
Course Name:
Approved Course - Other Program Or Major
Course Description:
With prior approval by the department responsible for the major area of study, a student may elect to take up to two courses from other prog... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT1001
Course Name:
Approved Course - Other Program Or Major
Course Description:
With prior approval from the department responsible for the major area of study, a student may elect to take up to two courses from other pr... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0001
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute I
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0002
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute II
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0003
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute III
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0004
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute IV
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment in both the public and private sectors as an accounting assistant, accounting associate, accounting clerk, junior financial analyst and junior staff accountant.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Record financial transactions in compliance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for sole proprietorships, partnerships, private enterprises, publicly accountable enterprises and non-profit organizations.
- Prepare and present financial statements, reports and other documents in compliance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for sole proprietorships, partnerships and private enterprises.
- Contribute to strategic decision-making by applying advanced management accounting concepts.
- Prepare individuals' and Canadian-controlled private corporations' income tax returns and individuals' basic tax planning in compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
- Analyze and evaluate organizational structures and the interdependence of functional areas, and contribute to the development of strategies which positively impact financial performance.
- Analyze and evaluate, within a Canadian context, the impact of economic variables, legislation, ethics, technological advances and the environment on an organization's operations.
- Analyze and evaluate an organization's internal control system, taking risk management into account.
- Contribute to strategic decision-making by applying advanced financial management concepts.
- Co-ordinate the planning, implementation, management and evaluation of team projects by applying project management principles.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2025/2026 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $900 per level. For more information go www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
Program Eligibility
Please apply to the Business Administration (Core) program - at OCAS under Program Code 0216X01FWO.
Application Information
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION - ACCOUNTING
Program Code 0216A01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Applications are available online www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at https://algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/self-registration-page or by contacting the Registrar's Office.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
Students having Ontario high school accounting course BAT4M with a grade of 75% or better may receive a transfer credit for Accounting Concepts I (ACC2310). Completion of a Transfer of Academic Credit via ACSIS is required.
For students considering advancing their accounting education, this program provides some degree articulation opportunities (see www.algonquincollege.com/degree-pathways/list).
Students interested in pursuing a professional recognized accounting designation are advised to check with the relevant accounting body website, and to continue to check this website on regular basis for updates. CPA Ontario website: www.cpaontario.ca.
As a pre-requisite of entering this major, the student must achieve a minimum grade of C in Level 02 and 03 introduction accounting courses:
Accounting Concepts I (ACC2310) and Accounting Concepts II (ACC2313).
Contact
Karen Meades
Program Coordinator
Whether running extreme ultramarathons in the Amazon Jungle or Sahara Desert, climbing Kilimanjaro, or swimming from Alcatraz prison to San Francisco; courage defines Karen.
A Master of Laws, Master of Business Administration, and a professional chartered accountant. Karen’s career includes auditor at Price Waterhouse, Chief Financial Officer at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, and Chief Financial Officer at the Medical Council of Canada.
When an opportunity arose to work with the Inuit, Karen responded and co-founded Ottawa Health Services Network, a not-for-profit organization, to provide case management, medical interpretation and co-ordinate specialty health care services to the Inuit in Canada’s far North.
Karen is currently a professor in accounting at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology.
Karen was recognized by her peers and elected a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants. Karen was honoured for her inspirational leadership with the Top 100: Most Powerful Women in Canada Hall of Fame induction and awarded Top 40 under Forty by the Ottawa Business Journal. Karen is the third Canadian woman to compete the Racing the Planet: 4 deserts series.