Accounting (ACCT)

BComm Concentrations

Break into the accounting world!

Embarking on an accounting concentration opens a world of endless possibilities and unravels the captivating layers of the business realm. Accounting is not merely a field of numbers and spreadsheets; it is an intricate dance of financial expertise and strategic thinking. Accountants possess the rare ability to transform complex financial data into meaningful insights that drive informed decisions. By promoting transparency, accountability, ethical conduct, and sustainability, accounting contributes to the betterment of society by fostering trust, facilitating efficient resource allocation, and upholding responsible business practices.

Accounting at Haskayne is designed to convert students into skilled professionals equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to navigate the complex world of finance and accounting. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes hands-on experience, case studies, and collaborative projects, students develop a deep understanding of financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and strategic financial management. Haskayne's accounting program nurtures numeracy, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills, enabling students to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape. By embracing the accounting concentration at Haskayne, individuals align themselves with a path that opens doors to diverse career opportunities, empowering them to become respected professionals capable of making a lasting impact in the business world.

What does the future hold for accounting professionals? With an average salary of $110,000 six years after graduation and 30,000+ accountants in Alberta alone, a concentration in Accounting opens doors to a robust professional community and a lucrative and growing profession. Accounting remains a resilient and growing industry in Canada, with an anticipated 88,000 new job openings over the next decade.

Concentration Requirements

In addition to ACCT 217 and ACCT 323, which all Haskayne students complete as part of their BComm, the accounting program requires the completion of six additional ACCT courses: ACCT 341 Intermediate Financial Accounting I, ACCT 343 Intermediate Financial Accounting II, ACCT 361 Cost Accounting, ACCT 465 Managerial Control Systems, and 6 additional credits at the ACCT 400 or 500 level. Please refer to the University of Calgary Calendar for a description of these courses and their prerequisites.

If you’d like to purse your CPA designation after graduating from the accounting program, contact CPA Alberta directly for more information, or refer to page 2 of the CPA Alberta Transfer Credit Guide.

News from ACCT Profession

Check out Capitalize Magazine to learn about the value of a CPA Designation.

Nature of Work and Types of Job

Management accountants track, record, analyze, and manage costs for a company's products or services. They provide insights into the supply chain process and cost trends by supporting budgeting, optimizing resource allocation, and helping to improve on an organization’s financial performance.

An accounting degree equips entrepreneurs with financial expertise, enabling them to effectively maintain liquidity and drive business growth by managing cash flow, optimizing resources, making informed decisions, navigating regulations, and analyzing business performance for long-term success.

In Winter 2024, we will launch an exciting new accounting course designed for small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and new ventures (ACCT 359). This course will equip students with the skills necessary to ensure liquidity, drive growth, and succeed as entrepreneurs.

Financial accountants prepare financial information for individuals, companies, and organizations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and transparency. They play a key role in evaluating financial positions, driving strategic decision-making, and maintaining regulatory compliance.

Auditors examine financial and other records, transactions, and systems to ensure accuracy, compliance, and reliability. They conduct planning and risk assessments to mitigate risks and recommend improvements to accounting and management practices. Their evaluations reassure stakeholders and help maintain transparency in financial and sustainability reporting.

Forensic accountants specialize in investigating financial fraud, misconduct, and other financial crimes. They analyze financial records, monitor compliance programs, identify irregularities, and provide expert testimonies in legal proceedings. Forensic accountants may work with law enforcement agencies, law firms, or as independent consultants.

Tax accountants specialize in providing guidance on tax matters, ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Their expertise assists corporations in the development and implementation of complex corporate tax planning. They also help individuals to prepare tax returns.

With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, accountants are well-suited for roles as management consultants. They help organizations to improve on their operational efficiency, develop strategic plans, implement financial systems, and address financial challenges. They can also provide advice on cost management, performance measurement, and internal controls.

Risk Advisors assess and analyze risks related to financial reporting, internal controls, fraud, and cybersecurity. They help develop risk mitigation strategies, implement controls, and advise on risk management frameworks.

With the growing emphasis on sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, accountants are increasingly involved in providing advisory services related to sustainability reporting, ESG integration, and responsible investing. They help organizations understand and measure their ESG performance, develop sustainability strategies, and comply with reporting standards.

An accounting degree provides a strong foundation applicable across different industries and functions. With expertise in financial analysis, data analysis, risk management, budgeting, and compliance, accountants have the tools needed to excel in a wide variety of business roles.

Positions Obtained by Recent Grads

Recent graduates have secured job opportunities across North America with the following job titles:

  • Investment Banking Analyst
  • Accountant
  • Accounting Analyst
  • CPA Articling Student
  • Assurance Associate
  • Corporate Tax Accountant Associate
  • External Audit Associate
  • Auditor
  • Business Analyst
  • Business Manager
  • Consultant
  • Data & Analytics Consultant
  • Income Tax Auditor
  • Operations Accountant
  • Production Revenue Accounting Analyst
  • Premium Payable Analyst
  • Tax Analyst

Accounting Students Association (ASA)

CPA Alberta is the professional organization for more than 28,500 Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) across the province. The CPA designation is the Canadian business and accounting designation representing more than 200,000 professional accountants across the country.

Recruitment Deadlines

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