Top 10 Accounting Courses In Canada And Fees (2025)

From diplomas and bachelor’s degrees to specialized master’s programs and online accounting courses in Canada, international and domestic students alike can find affordable, flexible, and high-quality study options. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the list of accounting courses in Canada and their fees, along with insights into online programs, CPA courses, short-term courses, and specialized certifications.

Accounting Courses in Canada and Fees

1. Diploma in Accounting – British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)

The Diploma in Accounting at BCIT is a career-focused program designed for students who want to gain practical accounting skills. The program covers core areas such as financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level accounting jobs or for advancing to CPA certification.

• Duration: 2 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $17,000 – $20,000 (total for international students); CAD $8,000 – $10,000 (for domestic students)

2. Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting – University of Toronto

One of Canada’s most prestigious universities, the University of Toronto offers a highly recognized Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Accounting. The program blends accounting theory with practical applications and provides students with opportunities to complete co-op placements in major firms.

• Duration: 4 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $58,000 per year (international students); CAD $6,100 per year (domestic students)

3. Diploma in Business – Accounting – Centennial College, Toronto

Centennial College provides an affordable option for students looking for an accounting diploma. The program focuses on accounting fundamentals, financial statement preparation, taxation, and the use of accounting software. It is ideal for students aiming to enter the workforce quickly.

• Duration: 2 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $15,500 per year (international students); CAD $4,000 – $6,000 per year (domestic students)

4. Master of Accounting – University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is renowned for its strong co-op system and accounting programs. The Master of Accounting (MAcc) prepares students for the CPA designation, covering areas such as advanced financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.

• Duration: 1–2 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $35,000 – $40,000 total (international students); CAD $16,000 – $20,000 total (domestic students)

5. Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting – York University (Schulich School of Business)

This program is designed specifically for students pursuing the CPA designation. It offers advanced knowledge in financial management, taxation, and auditing while reducing the number of modules required in the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP).

• Duration: 8 months – 1 year

• Estimated Fees: CAD $26,000 (international students); CAD $14,000 (domestic students)

6. Bachelor of Accounting – Brock University

Brock University’s Goodman School of Business is well known for its accounting program. The Bachelor of Accounting offers a direct pathway to the CPA designation and includes multiple co-op opportunities with Canadian firms.

• Duration: 4 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $31,000 per year (international students); CAD $7,000 per year (domestic students)

7. Accounting Technician Diploma – Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)

SAIT offers a practical diploma program that prepares students for jobs as accounting clerks, bookkeepers, or junior accountants. The program emphasizes accounting software skills and hands-on learning.

• Duration: 2 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $18,000 – $20,000 per year (international students); CAD $5,000 – $7,000 per year (domestic students)

8. MBA in Accounting – McGill University

McGill’s MBA with a concentration in Accounting is ideal for professionals seeking to blend managerial expertise with advanced accounting knowledge. The program focuses on financial analysis, auditing, and international taxation.

• Duration: 2 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $49,000 per year (international students); CAD $8,000 – $10,000 per year (domestic students)

9. Postgraduate Certificate in Accounting – Seneca College

Seneca College offers a cost-effective postgraduate certificate program for graduates who want to develop advanced accounting skills. This program provides a stepping stone into CPA pathways.

• Duration: 1 year

• Estimated Fees: CAD $15,000 – $18,000 (international students); CAD $5,000 – $6,000 (domestic students)

10. Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting – Simon Fraser University (SFU)

SFU’s BBA in Accounting is a comprehensive undergraduate degree that provides students with the necessary foundation to pursue CPA certification. It includes courses in financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and management accounting.

• Duration: 4 years

• Estimated Fees: CAD $31,000 per year (international students); CAD $6,500 per year (domestic students)

Online Accounting Courses in Canada

With the rise of digital education, many institutions in Canada now offer online accounting programs. These online courses are flexible and suitable for working professionals or international students who cannot relocate to Canada.

Popular Online Accounting Programs:

• Athabasca University – Offers online Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting. Fees range from CAD $20,000 – $25,000 for international students.

• University of Fredericton – Provides online MBA programs with accounting specializations. Fees range from CAD $25,000 – $30,000.

• CPA Canada Online Modules – The CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) modules can be completed online, preparing students for the CPA designation.

• Coursera/edX Canadian University Courses – Several Canadian universities partner with Coursera and edX to provide short-term accounting certifications online.

These programs allow students to balance their education with work commitments and provide global access to Canadian-quality education.

CPA Courses in Canada

The Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation is the most respected accounting credential in Canada. To become a CPA, students must complete:

1. An accredited accounting degree or diploma

2. CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) – Includes 6 modules covering financial reporting, management accounting, and auditing

3. Practical Experience Requirements (PER) – Around 30 months of supervised work experience

4. Common Final Examination (CFE)

CPA Course Fees in Canada:

• CPA PEP Modules: CAD $12,000 – $15,000 total

• CPA Exam Fees: Around CAD $600 – $800 per attempt

• Total Cost (including prep): CAD $15,000 – $20,000

Short-Term Accounting Courses in Canada

Not all students want to commit to a multi-year degree. Many Canadian colleges offer short-term accounting certifications that can be completed in less than a year.

Examples include:

• Bookkeeping Certificate – George Brown College (Fees: CAD $4,000 – $6,000)

• Financial Accounting Certificate – Fanshawe College (Fees: CAD $5,000 – $7,000)

• Payroll Compliance Practitioner Certification – Humber College (Fees: CAD $3,500 – $5,000)

These courses are popular among professionals looking to enhance their skills or change careers quickly.

Masters in Accounting in Canada

For students aiming for higher-level positions, a Master’s in Accounting is a strong option. Programs like the University of Waterloo MAcc and McGill’s MBA with Accounting specialization are internationally respected.

• Average Duration: 1–2 years

• Fees Range: CAD $30,000 – $50,000 for international students; CAD $15,000 – $25,000 for domestic students

Graduates from master’s programs often go on to work in leadership positions at firms such as Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY.

Why Study Accounting in Canada?

• Globally Recognized Education: Canadian accounting degrees are respected worldwide.

• CPA Pathway: Many programs are structured to prepare students for CPA Canada certification.

• Affordable Options: Compared to the USA or UK, Canadian institutions often provide more affordable tuition fees.

• Job Opportunities: Accountants are in demand across Canada, with strong employment prospects in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.

• Immigration Opportunities: International students may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), making it easier to gain Canadian work experience.

Conclusion

Studying accounting in Canada opens doors to a variety of career opportunities, from becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) to working in auditing, taxation, or financial analysis. With diverse options ranging from diplomas and bachelor’s degrees to online courses and CPA training, Canada offers something for every aspiring accountant.

When considering your options, carefully review the fees, duration, and career pathways offered by each program. Whether you’re an international student or a local applicant, pursuing accounting courses in Canada is a rewarding investment in your future