Prepare for a Career in Accounting
Gain the practical skills needed to succeed in entry-level accounting roles such as accounting assistant, bookkeeper, or data entry clerk. This program focuses on hands-on training, including double-entry bookkeeping and financial reporting, using industry-standard tools like QuickBooks. With starting salaries up to $20.00 per hour, you’ll be ready to excel in today’s competitive job market.
Why Choose Columbia?
At Columbia College, we prioritize your success and understand the challenges of balancing education, work, and family life. Our flexible learning models allow you to balance your studies with other commitments, making it easier to manage your time and stay on track for success.
Program Highlights
- Cost: Grant-funded program (for eligible students)
- Duration: 48-week or 32-week options
- Delivery: Hybrid (classroom and online instruction) or fully online
- Instruction Hours: Monday to Friday, 26 hours per week
- Start Dates: January, May, and September
- Work Experience: 5 weeks
Program Information
This program is ideal for beginners in accounting and bookkeeping, as well as individuals with some international experience who face challenges entering the local job market. As an entry-level program, it’s designed to equip participants with foundational knowledge and practical skills to build a strong starting point for success, regardless of prior Canadian experience.
In addition to learning practical accounting skills in this interactive program, you’ll gain personalized job search strategies, including resume workshops, mock interviews, and access to job placement support. The 5-week work experience offers real-world accounting experience and networking opportunities that can lead to employment.
This course has been developed as a blended delivery model (a combination of face-to-face and online). It includes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning.
Our instructors are uniquely qualified as both professional accountants and educators, bringing real-world industry experience and teaching expertise to help you succeed. With small class sizes, hands-on training, and a 5-week work experience in the accounting industry, you’ll gain the skills, confidence, and connections needed to excel in your career. From financial aid to career coaching, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Online learners are encouraged to have:
- Daily access to a reliable computer (Windows PC recommended) for the full duration of the class
- A stable, high-speed internet connection (cable connection recommended)
- A comfortable chair and workspace
- A distraction-free environment, including childcare arrangements
- A working microphone and video camera
- Earphones or earbuds (optional)
This program is offered in 2 program lengths:
The 48-week option is ideal for students who need additional time to master core skills, while the 32-week option is suited for those with stronger proficiency in English and math.
48-week program | 32-week program |
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| Before entering the program, all participants must be able to: | |
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48 week program |
32 week program |
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| Practicum | |
| In the final 5 weeks of the training program, learners will attend 5 weeks of work experience (practicum) where they will be challenged to apply all areas of acquired classroom knowledge to practical real-life circumstances. Work hours will be a minimum of 25-40 hours per week (depending on the employer’s needs) for the duration of the practicum placement. | |
| Possible Additional Credits | |
| 48-week learners may be awarded 9 one-credit courses (INF1030, INFO 1060, INF1070, INFO 2020, INF2050, INF2080, FIN1015, FIN1020 and FIN1030) and 1 five credit course (MATH10P) on an Alberta Education post-secondary education transcript. 32-week learners may be awarded 3 one credit courses (INF1070, INF2050 and INF2080). High school transcripts are not connected to Columbia College but can be requested through the Government of Alberta with a myPass account. | |
Additional Information
This program is funded by the Government of Alberta, with financial and childcare support available for eligible students. Contact us at 403-235-9300 to learn more about the application process and financial assistance opportunities.
The Accounting Assistant program follows a mastery learning model. These sessions will be delivered on an as needed basis. Students whose weekly test results fall below the Mastery Learning level must attend tutorial classes that Friday afternoon. Concentration will be focused on areas that the student does not understand. These tutorial sessions provide learners who are having trouble with additional staff support. Focus will be placed on mastering the competencies and skills required to become successful in the accounting field.
Graduates earn a Certificate of Program Completion by achieving 70% or higher in each course. They are invited to participate in Columbia College’s Convocation ceremony.
Career Benefits
Completing Columbia’s Basic Accounting I & II courses fulfills the Introduction to Accounting requirement for the NPI’s PCP (Payroll Compliance Professional) program, enhancing career prospects in payroll and compliance across Canada.
Start building a brighter future today with Columbia College’s Accounting Assistant program. Apply today to secure your spot.
Employers of Graduates
H&R Block, Northview Canadian High Yield Residential Fund, Brander Professional Corporation, Chartered Professional Accountant, TradeHUB Canada Inc., Rise Calgary
Course Features
- Lectures 0
- Quizzes 0
- Duration 50 hours
- Skill level All levels
- Language English
- Students 1
- Assessments Yes
