Unlock Your Future: Columbia College's Accounting Assistant Program in Canada

Unlock Your Future: Columbia College's Accounting Assistant Program in Canada

Gain practical skills for entry-level accounting positions such as accounting assistant or bookkeeper, with an emphasis on hands-on training using tools like QuickBooks. If you want a career in accounting, Columbia College uses a flexible learning model to fit your busy life and ensure your success. Start your career with a salary of up to $20.00 per hour!

Become a Certified Accountant Through Online Learning

Columbia College offers an online Accounting Assistant program that provides the necessary technical skills and practical knowledge for beginners and those with international experience. Instructed by experienced professionals, the program combines tutorials and practical assignments to prepare students for a rewarding accounting career, regardless of their previous Canadian experience.

Course Arrangements

There are two types of course arrangements:

48-week course

  • Basic Computer Skills (Alberta Education)
  • Basic Skills English
  • Business Mathematics (Alberta Education)
  • Accounting Fundamentals (Alberta Education)

32-week course

  • Basic Computer Skills (Alberta Education)
  • Basic Accounting, I
  • Basic Accounting, II
  • Cloud Accounting
  • Business Writing
  • Desktop Accounting
  • Payroll Introduction
  • Canadian Tax Introduction
  • 5 Weeks of Work Experience (Internship)

During the last 5 weeks of the training program, trainees will participate in a 5-week work experience (internship) during which they will be challenged to apply all the knowledge they have learned in class to real-life situations. During the internship, the work hours per week will be at least 25-40 hours (depending on the needs of the employer).

Admission Requirements

  • Meet required language admission requirements (if applicable)
  • Achieve satisfactory scores on Columbia College’s reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics assessments
  • Successfully complete the Columbia College Computer Skills Assessment (or equivalent), which will cover:
  • Basic computer skills (including basic internet and email knowledge), entry-level knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Successfully complete an entry interview with the Career and Employment Coordinator to determine suitability

Skills Acquired Through the Program

  • Double-Entry Bookkeeping: Understand the basic principles of recording financial transactions.
  • Financial Reporting: The ability to prepare and analyze financial statements and reports.
  • Software Competencies: Receive training in industry-standard software, including QuickBooks and Excel.
  • Business Communication: Develop effective communication skills in a professional environment.
  • Analytical Skills: Enhance the ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions.
  • Technical Writing: Acquire the skills to write clear and concise business documents.

Employment Opportunities

The demand for financial auditors and accountants in Canada will continue to be high, with 88,000 new job openings expected by 2031, according to the Federal Job Bank. The Great Wealth Transfer (the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in history) will further fuel this demand. In 2024, the average salary for accounting graduates is expected to be $64,180. What career opportunities are available for those with an accounting background?

  • Accounting Assistant: An entry-level position that supports the accounting function in various organizations.
  • Accounting Analyst: Analyzes financial data to assist in the decision-making process.
  • Bookkeeper: Manages a business’s financial records and transactions.
  • Office Management Roles: Opportunities for a variety of administrative positions that require accounting knowledge.
  • Continuing Education: Pathway to pursue a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field.

Sarah's Story

Sarah Johnson completed Columbia College's Accounting Assistant program in 2023. Upon graduation, she was offered a position as a junior accountant at a mid-sized firm. Within two years, Sarah demonstrated excellent financial reporting and analytical skills, being promoted to a senior accountant with an annual salary of $85,000. She effectively applied the accounting principles, payroll processing, and financial software knowledge she gained from the program, which facilitated her rapid advancement.

If Sarah can do it, so can you!

About the Program Support Program

The Columbia College Accounting Assistant Program Tuition Subsidy Program is supported by the Alberta Government and provides financial and childcare support to eligible students. To qualify, students generally need to meet specific criteria related to financial need and residency.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Residency: Applicants must be Alberta residents or have an address in the City of Lloydminster.
  • Citizenship: Must meet citizenship requirements, such as being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or convention refugee, and have the right to work and train in Canada.
  • Employment Status: Applicants should be unemployed or marginally employed.
  • Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to finding employment.
  • Application Process: Interested individuals can apply through the Columbia College website or contact an admissions counselor for details about support funding and other information. Explore Columbia College's Support Policy and Standard Requirements.

Ongoing Help with Employment in the Program

  • Career Services: Columbia College may offer career services to help students find employment, including resume writing workshops and interview preparation.
  • Networking Opportunities: Students can attend networking events and connect with industry professionals to gain employment opportunities.
  • Ongoing Support: Alumni receive ongoing support from the college during their job search, helping them understand employment prospects after completing the program.

Attending Columbia College's Accounting Assistant program will provide students with ongoing support tohelp them gain employment opportunities and address any follow-up issues they may encounter in their careers!