Professional Accounting at Fanshawe College

Professional Accounting is a three-semester program that enables students from any undergraduate discipline to complete a graduate certificate in accounting.

Important update to CPA Canada's Advanced Certificate in Accounting and Finance (ACAF): In July 2019, CPA Ontario has advised that the CPA ACAF program will be discontinued. Students will have until February 2021 to write the ACAF examination, after which time the CPA will no longer offer any exams for the ACAF. The notice from the CPA on the discontinuation of the ACAF can be found at this link: https://www.cpaontario.ca/earn-your-acaf/acaf-notice.

Courses will be enriched with hands-on integrated technology applications and case studies based on real-world scenarios. Further real-world industry exposure will be maximized with guest speakers and hands-on projects. The program is designed to integrate all of the course topics and to develop students' critical thinking skills, research skills, and decision-making skills.

Students will make extensive use of Microsoft Excel and other software used in the accounting industry.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will have opportunities in many organizations including public accounting firms, government offices, not-for-profit organizations, public and private corporations, small businesses, and financial institutions. Self-employment is also an option for graduates.
Graduates of the Professional Accounting program will be well prepared to:
• prepare financial information to support management decision-making
• prepare financial statements and related disclosures
• calculate and report on financial and non-financial performance measures
• support the development and maintenance of the organization’s management control and risk management systems
• monitor and recommend improvements to accounting procedures, accounting information systems and internal controls
• monitor cash flow and cash flow requirements
• prepare budgets and forecasts
• prepare information for external auditors
• support the auditor in planning and executing the audit
• help prepare tax filings and comply with remittance requirements