Accounting and Payroll

Program Description

This program provides the student with knowledge of accounting, payroll and human resource practices and related technology applications. It is a job-focused program ideal for those students who would like to earn a professional business certification recognized in Canada and abroad, in a short period of time.

Students complete a two-year diploma, the Payroll Compliance Practitioner Certification (PCP) with the Canadian Payroll Association and also have three advanced standing credits towards completion of their Certified Payroll Manager (CPM). Students must register in the CPA courses/exams at an additional cost.

Students are introduced to the modern technological environment of business decisions using integrated leading edge software in many of their courses, including accounting software packages such as Simply Accounting, a mid-sized Accounting package, taxation software and dedicated payroll software.

Courses are developed using hands-on integrated technology applications and case studies based on real-world situations. Courses include extensive use of Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and Access database application software.

Students will be encouraged to combine their program of study with meaningful summer work experience.

Industry exposure is emphasized with guest speakers, and simulated real-life hands-on projects.

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation (C), University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4 (C) or ENG4 (U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U) or Grade 11 Mathematics (U) or (M)

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and Mathematics.

Your Career

This program will teach students the fundamentals of payroll, accounting and human resources. While in the program, students will complete the Payroll Compliance Practitioner Certification (PCP) and obtain three of five required credits towards the Certified Payroll Manager Certification (CPM) with the Canadian Payroll Association. Additional courses in accounting and human resources go beyond the minimum course requirements of the accrediting body and provide broader versatility for employment opportunities.

In large firms, payroll professionals normally work in Accounting or Human Resources departments. In smaller firms, payroll professionals may be responsible for various areas of Accounting, as well as Human Resources. For this reason, graduates will be prepared to carry out a variety of entry level accounting functions including payroll, and understand the foundations of Human Resources. Graduates will also be prepared to use computerized accounting and payroll packages to complete the accounting and payroll cycle.

Students will be prepared to work as a Payroll Administrator, Payroll Specialist, Payroll Accountant, Human Resource and Payroll Generalist, and General Accounting Co-ordinator, Small Business Accountant and Office Manager, to name a few, which exist in virtually every segment of the Canadian economy.

Pathways to Certification and a Degree

Qualified graduates of the Accounting (APP) program may transfer to the second year of the Seneca International Accounting and Finance (IAF) degree.

Qualified Accounting (APP) graduates may also enrol in the Seneca Professional Accounting Practice (PRA) graduate certificate program to acquire Level 1 to 3 of the CGA in one year.

Please see details of these pathways in the diagram titled “Pathways to Certification and a Degree” or contact the applicable Program Co-ordinator or our School Student Advisor.

Please visit our website for more information and admission requirements for these highly affiliated programs:

• Professional Accounting Practice (PRA) Advanced Graduate Certificate:
  www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/PRA.html
   
• Accounting and Information Technology (AIT) Graduate Certificate:
  www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/AIT.html
   
• International Accounting and Finance (IAF) Degree:
  www.senecac.on.ca/fulltime/IAF.html

Transfer Options within Seneca

The School of Accounting and Financial Services offers seamless transfer to a multitude of degree, diploma and certificate programs, given a common first year in most diploma and certificate programs within the Faculty of Business.

Level I Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) Compulsory Courses

There is an additional cost for payroll certification courses included in the program.

Level II Certified Payroll Manager (CPM) Compulsory Courses

Co-operative Education Option

For qualified students, there is an optional four-month co-op opportunity after completion of the four academic semesters.

The student has a shared responsibility for securing employment opportunities.

The Importance of Learning Skills

Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills.

Diploma to Degree ...and Beyond

Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following universities and colleges:

Toronto

Ontario

Canada

U.S.

Curriculum

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