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This program will be delivered in a blended format (OA, OS, OR and OF/CLAS) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Some courses will be delivered online while others occur on-campus.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
Develop a strong understanding of accounting fundamentals you’ll need to succeed in management positions or gain the foundational skills to start your bookkeeping or accounting career.
You will obtain practical knowledge of fundamental accounting processes, including income statements and balance sheets, accounts receivable and accounts payable, fixed assets and depreciation, and more, from instructors with professional accounting experience.
You will work independently and in teams to develop and apply your skills using spreadsheet and accounting software to reconcile accounts and record a wide variety of journal entries related to full-cycle accounting.
Additionally, you will develop your soft skills and business acumen to understand how the accounting field contributes to all areas of business. You will finish the program with a capstone course that enables you to apply your abilities in a work-integrated learning project and further develop critical thinking, communication, collaboration and organizational capabilities. You’ll have up to five years to complete this certificate.
This certificate could be your first step towards the Chartered Professional Accountant Professional Education Program (CPA PEP). When you complete the program, you have the opportunity to ladder into higher credentials at SAIT.
Up to 27 credits from this certificate can be applied to our Business Administration diploma or Bachelor of Business Administration programs (varies by major). Both programs have additional admission requirements and your timeline to complete a diploma or degree begins when you start the first certificate course.
Is this the right program for me?
To achieve success in this program, students should:
- be proactive, independent and resourceful
- have strong written and oral communication skills
- be prepared to work in teams
- be proficient in the use of a Windows-based computer and Microsoft Office software
- spend 9-12 hours per week on each course, including in-class hours
- actively participate in all classes and activities
- become familiar with and adhere to SAIT’s academic policies.
- be ready for a challenge and committed to keeping yourself on schedule.
If you are engaged in campus life and take advantage of SAIT services and resources, you may be more likely to experience success in SAIT’s programs.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Accounting certificate.
Professional designations and certifications
Graduates will have the opportunity to pursue a professional designation. Additional exams, education, or work requirements may apply for earning a designation or certification. Completion of a degree is required.
You can pursue the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) Professional Education Program, upon completion of a degree. See SAIT’s Bachelor of Business Administrator or Bachelor of Applied Business Administration (Accounting).
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- accounting technician
- accounting clerk
- bookkeeper
- accounts payable clerk, administrator or coordinator
- accounts receivable clerk, administrator or coordinator
- accounting assistant
- billing clerk, specialist, agent or coordinator
Related careers include:
- accounts payable administrator
- acconts receivable administrator
Tuition and fees per year*
1.5 credit course: $262.56
3.0 credit course: $525.12
1.5 credit course (International): $886.05
3.0 credit course (International): $1,772.10
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for fall 2021 open Oct. 7, 2020.
- Applications for winter 2022 open March 31, 2021.
- Applications for spring 2022 open June 14, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date |
|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 |
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 |
Global expertise = global distinction
First-class instructors help give SAIT’s School of Business a prominent place on global list of best business schools.
Admission requirements
Admission and selection
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Fall 2021 start: applications open Oct. 7, 2020.
- Winter 2022 start: applications open March 31, 2021.
- Spring 2022 start: applications open June 14, 2021.
Admission requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 50% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2 or Pure Math 30, or
- At least 60% in Applied Math 30 or
- At least 50% in SAIT BMAT 230 Business Mathematics
All applicants to SAIT must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
A combination of education and experience will be considered upon approval from the Academic Chair
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada.
Direct entry: four-step process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to Accounting and submit your transcripts and/or anticipated final grades.
- Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Find out how to monitor your application status after you apply.
Communication during selection
Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.
Courses
Program outline
This program consists of 30 credits (10 courses). MNGT 257 Business Certificate Capstone should be taken only after all other required courses and two elective courses have been completed.
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Required courses
It is recommended that you complete the courses in the order that they are listed below.
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT-215 | Introductory Financial Accounting I | 3.0 |
| BCMP-225 | Business Productivity Tools and Technology | 3.0 |
| MNGT-200 | Introduction to Business | 3.0 |
| ACCT-255 | Introductory Financial Accounting II | 3.0 |
| ACCT-315 | Intermediate Financial Accounting I | 3.0 |
| ACCT-338 | Introductory Management Accounting | 3.0 |
| ACCT-395 | Computer Accounting Software | 3.0 |
| MNGT-257 | Business Certificate Capstone | 3.0 |
Electives
Choose two of the following six courses.
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT-350 | Intermediate Financial Accounting II | 3.0 |
| ACCT-380 | Intermediate Management Accounting | 3.0 |
| COMN-220 | Communication and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
| MNGT-321 | Project Management | 3.0 |
| MNGT-322 | Information Systems | 3.0 |
| STAT-270 | Quantitative Methods | 3.0 |
| Program total: | 30.0 | |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer to, within or from SAIT is available. Visit transfer options to learn more.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic cost per course*
| Course Credits | Course Costs |
|---|---|
| 1.5 | $327 |
| 3.0 | $654 |
2021/22 International cost per course*
| Course Credits | Course Costs |
|---|---|
| 1.5 | $1,252.98 |
| 3.0 | $2,505.96 |
SAIT fees
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): N/A
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
SAIT Students' Association (SAITSA) fee:$287.77
Books and supplies*
- Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
- For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a device that meets the standard hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
- Find out about tuition and financial aid.
* Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place on Aug. 31. Watch your inbox for the time and location.
Learn more about our SAIT-wide orientation activities.
How to register for classes
You'll follow an open registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck, no textbook purchase required this term.
Contact
For any questions, or to set up a virtual advising appointment, please contact our School of Business Advising Centre
Phone: 403.284.8485
Email: business.advising@sait.ca
Academic chair
Grace McKenna, Academic Chair
Email: grace.mckenna@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.