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)

Entry Requirements:

• Language entry requirement – CLB 7
• Academic entry requirement – English and mathematics Grade 9

Before entering the program, all participants must be able to:

• meet the required language entry requirement (where applicable)
• achieve satisfactory results on the Columbia College assessment in reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics
• successfully complete a Columbia College computer skills assessment (or equivalent) that will address basic computer skills (which includes basic internet and email knowledge), introductory Microsoft Word and Excel
• successfully complete an entry interview with the Career and Employment Coordinator for suitability

Additional Requirements:

• be an Alberta resident and currently residing full-time in the province (or address in city of Lloydminster)
• be unemployed or marginally employed
• be committed to seeking employment
• meet citizenship requirements (e.g. Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident or Convention Refugee) and be legally entitled to work and train in Canada
• Please note all students will be required to apply for a Police Information Check in their final semester of the program and provide a copy of the results to their practicum host employer.

Throughout the program, you’ll learn core accounting principles. Key courses include:

Accounting Fundamentals (Alberta Education)

• Basic Accounting I & II
• Cloud Accounting (QuickBooks)
• Business Writing
• Introduction to Payroll & Basic Canadian Personal Taxation
• Essential Skills Computers (Alberta Education)
• Career Development (includes resume writing, job search, interview preparation)
• 5-week work experience

Before entering the program, all participants must be able to:

• meet the required language entry requirement (where applicable)
• achieve satisfactory results on the Columbia College assessment in reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics
• successfully complete a Columbia College computer skills assessment (or equivalent) that will address basic computer skills (which includes basic internet and email knowledge), introductory Microsoft Word and Excel
• successfully complete an entry interview with the Career and Employment Coordinator for suitability

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.