Learn more about the academic programs we are delivering in Winter 2025. If you have any questions about part-time studies, please contact us.
Accounting and Payroll
Ontario College Diploma
More Information
Overview
Gain a strong knowledge of accounting, payroll and human resource practices, as well as related technology and payroll applications through this program. You will complete the diploma program, obtain four credits toward the completion of the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation with the National Payroll Institute, and gain three credits towards the completion of the Payroll Leadership Professional (PLP) designation.
Please note the Accounting and Payroll Ontario College Diploma Program curriculum has changed for Fall 2020. For students who started the program prior to Fall 2020, please contact acctce@senecapolytechnic.ca to confirm program requirements.
Interested in learning more?
Students are invited to attend an information session to learn more about the program and to connect with our team.
Seneca Part-Time Payroll & Bookkeeping Information Session
Thursday, November 21, 2024
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Register
Now
Tuesday, January 7, 2024
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Register
Now
Confirmation of registration and a unique link to join the information session will be provided upon registration.
Entry Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the College Preparation ( C ), University Preparation ( U ) or University/College Preparation ( M ) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
- Grade 12 English: ENG4 ( C ) or ENG4 ( U )
- Grade 12 Mathematics: ( C ) or ( U ) or
- Grade 11 Mathematics: ( U ) or ( M )
Students who have completed the Accounting Diploma and who want to pursue studies in payroll are directed to the Certified Payroll Management Program.
Part-time Studies courses are being offered in either of the following four formats: Online, Flexible, In-person, Hybrid. Click Availability below to see current offerings.
Curriculum
Placement via English Assessment, or successful completion of ESL934.
COM101 replaces EAC 150.
Students who have successfully completed EAC 150 are not required to complete COM101.
This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centred on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferrable reading and writing skills essential for success in their postsecondary studies, workplaces, and communities.
Placement via English Assessment
This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centred on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferrable reading and writing skills essential for success in their postsecondary studies, workplaces, and communities.
No required prerequisite, but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics or equivalent
This course introduces the student to how accounting information is used by, and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements and how this information is recorded in the various business records.
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the Canadian business environment, business issues and functions, and the major forces at work in the global economy. It provides students with a perspective of business firms as integrated organizations composed of a number of specialized functions.
No required prerequisite but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics.
This course provides students with the fundamentals of mathematics of business and finance. Following the introduction of concepts of per cent and per cent change, simple and compound interest rates will be discussed. Compound interest rates will be applied to the study of annuities. Students will also learn important models of business mathematics, such as currency conversion, trade discounts, markups and markdowns, break-even and cost-volume-profit analysis.
Please note: For students taking the self-directed OntarioLearn sections, the eTextbook is included in the price of the course.
A fundamental working knowledge of Windows Operating Systems and Excel Software.
Building on the skills they have previously acquired in Excel and Windows operating systems, students will further develop their proficiency in these areas and add Access to their skill set. Throughout the course, they will apply these software skills to solve business problems.
ACC120 - Accounting Basics I
In this second of the two introductory accounting courses, students will expand their understanding of accounting principles and concepts while covering specific topics including: accounts receivable, capital assets, corporations' shareholders' equity, and bonds payable. Preparation of the Statements of Retained Earnings and Changes in Financial Position will also be covered. Finally, the students will expand their understanding of the role of financial statement users by studying financial statement analysis.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
This subject is a comprehensive overview of modern day human resources management (HRM). This course will introduce the diverse components of human resource (HR) functions and its role in the current business environment. Case study analysis will be used to link the theory to the practical situations that occur in HR. Topics to be covered include the business environment, recruitment and selection, employee development and evaluation, compensation and benefits, employee rights, safety and representations and strategic issues and challenges in HRM, in both domestic and global environments.
This course introduces the student to fundamental concepts and theories concerning the behaviour of people in workplace organizations. The emphasis is on identifying questions and problems typically encountered by new employees and developing practical strategies and solutions. Contemporary issues and challenges in society are analyzed in terms of their impact on the workplace, on relations between individuals, and on the individual. The course draws on a variety of structured experiential exercises and case studies to apply the concepts of organizational behaviour to practical business issues and situations.
Students must successfully complete CPA300 prior to taking this course.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
With businesses thriving on good customer relationships, effective business communication is the cornerstone of company success. This course will help you learn the principles, practices, and tools for communicating effectively in the workplace using cases and/or projects.
From learning about audience, context, formats, tone, and media to applying your skills in writing correspondence, reports, and presentations, this course will guide you in developing professional interpersonal, collaborative, and web-based knowledge and practices.
None
The purpose of this course is to examine the principles, processes and theories involved in the design and administration of compensation programs. Emphasis is placed on linking compensation strategy to corporate strategy, applying behavioural theories in the design of compensation programs and implementing, managing and adapting compensation programs.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skill to complete personal and business tax forms. Students will learn how to respond to and apply the fundamental provisions of laws that affect taxation of a business and their personal situation. The emphasis will be on practical aspects of compliance.
This is an introductory course which will present the main concepts and practices of management accounting. The subject will outline the methods that are available to managers for managing, planning, and controlling. Particular attention will be paid to such topics as cost accounting fundamentals, job costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, budgeting, and variance analysis.
This course is designed to develop the student's skill in the analysis and recording of financial accounting transactions using computerized accounting software - for example, Simply Accounting and/or QuickBooks. Students will create and maintain electronic accounting records and prepare financial reports for sole proprietorships and corporations in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
This course provides students with the ability to calculate and report government and third party circumstances.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
This course introduces the student to a working call centre environment. Students will understand how the call centre relates to the payroll industry and its function within an organizational structure. In addition, students will become proficient in using call centre technology by performing hands-on exercises in a call centre lab environment. Students are required to apply classroom theory and demonstrate the skills and techniques of communications, keyboarding, research, and customer service in practical applications.
The purpose of the course is to provide students with an extensive hands-on, practical knowledge of accounting and payroll applications using technology as a tool. Using source documents, students will use appropriate technology to complete a comprehensive case study on both the accounting and payroll cycles. Students will experience payroll and accounting systems and the source standards for industry-standard payroll and accounting systems for both in-house and outsourced payroll.
This subject is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and transferable skills required to assist in a successful career launch in the global business sector. In addition to exploring the skills and qualities essential to obtain a position in their chosen career, students will prepare a career development campaign which will consist of resumes and cover letters, practise interviews and follow-up techniques. The importance of ethics and etiquette in the workplace will also be discussed. Both traditional and on-line methodologies will be integrated throughout the course.
Students in the Accounting and Payroll diploma program will complete all courses required for the PCP and PLP designations, except CPA403 - Introduction to Payroll Management and CPA404 - Applied Payroll Management (subject to change).
General Education Requirements
In order to meet Seneca's breadth requirements for diploma or advanced diploma programs, students must successfully complete at least 3 general education courses toward their program, satisfying the following criteria:
- Completion of 1 course from Arts & Humanities;
- Completion of 1 course from Sciences & Social Sciences; and
- Completion of 1 course chosen from either category above.
Please note:
Canadian Payroll Program Information
Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP)
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Students must successfully complete CPA300 prior to taking this course.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
This course provides students with the ability to calculate and report government and third party circumstances.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
No required prerequisite, but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics or equivalent
This course introduces the student to how accounting information is used by, and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements and how this information is recorded in the various business records.
Certified Payroll Manager (CPM)
Students must successfully complete CPA300, CPA301 and CPA302 prior to taking this course. Students must also meet National Payroll Institute's prerequisites prior to taking this course.
This course prepares students to manage a payroll department by introducing them to core management topics. Based on market research, the course provides the management content and tools, such as decision making and project management, required to be a successful manager. It builds on the foundation of a Payroll Compliance Practitioner's experience and knowledge of legislative monitoring and effective communication of payroll programs and policies.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Students must successfully complete CPA403 prior to taking this course.
This course provides students with the opportunity to apply relevant management processes in the context of a payroll department. Benchmarking, best practices development, human resources skills are utilized to enable the payroll professional to achieve organizational and career goals.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
None.
However, it is recommended that students begin their studies with HRM701, Introduction to Human Resources Management, if they plan to pursue the Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate.
This course is an examination of the contemporary Canadian business environment, organization, leadership and management decision process which influences the behavior of individuals and groups.
Increased global competition, technological change and the rising expectations of both employees and employers have underlined the need for better and more effective leadership. This course provides a better understanding of this process.
None.
However, it is recommended that students begin their studies with HRM701, Introduction to Human Resources Management, if they plan to pursue the Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate.
The focus of this course is to provide students with an understanding of accounting information for the use of business managers and a working knowledge of financial accounting for human resources managers. The fundamental principles of finance and accounting will be combined with practical applications relating to various forms of organization. Using accounting information to help effect plans, controls, and decisions will be emphasized.
None.
However, it is recommended that students begin their studies with HRM701, Introduction to Human Resources Management, if they plan to pursue the Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate.
The purpose of this course is to examine the principles, processes and theories involved in the design and administration of compensation programs. Emphasis is placed on linking compensation strategy to corporate strategy, applying behavioural theories in the design of compensation programs and implementing, managing and adapting compensation programs.
None.
However, it is recommended that students begin their studies with HRM701, Introduction to Human Resources Management, if they plan to pursue the Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate.
Various government and employer sponsored pension and benefit plans will be reviewed as well as current related public and legislative issues. Major areas for discussion include public and private health care plans, income replacement provisions, survivor benefits and pension arrangements. Also, techniques for benefit plan management will be discussed with respect to plan design, communication, costing and administration.
Program Outcomes
This Seneca program has been validated by the Credential Validation Service as an Ontario College Credential as required by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.
As a graduate, you will be prepared to reliably demonstrate the ability to:
- maintain paper and electronic accounting records and prepare financial statements for sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
- employ management accounting techniques in the planning, directing, and controlling of an enterprise.
- prepare routine tax returns for individuals ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and regulations.
- use mathematical techniques to support the financial management of a business organization including the preparation of financial information.
- apply computer skills and knowledge of accounting information systems to support the accounting function including maintaining accounting records and preparing financial statements and reports and processing payroll.
- recognize the impact of the operations of functional areas of an organization on its financial performance.
- recognize, within the context of the Canadian business environment, the impact of factors such as economic variables, legislation, and ethics on business operations.
- apply contemporary business communication practices and effective interpersonal skills to support the accounting, human resource, and payroll functions.
- prepare, maintain, and communicate accurate information related to pensions administration.
- use current payroll legislation to prepare individual pay including remuneration and deductions to net pay.
- prepare payroll remittances and year end documentation for federal, provincial and third party stakeholders.
- process payroll and accounting source documents to complete an accounting cycle using appropriate technology.
- research and respond to payroll queries in a call centre setting, applying effective customer service techniques.
OSAP Funding Available
This program is eligible for OSAP funding.
Course load is used by OSAP to determine funding options for programs.
If you are taking one to two courses at the same time, you may be considered for part-time student grants and loans.
- one course (20 per cent)
- two courses (40 per cent)
If you are taking three or more courses at the same time, you may be considered for full-time student grants and loans.
- three courses (60 per cent)
- four courses (80 per cent)
- five courses (100 per cent)
To find out if you qualify and to learn how to apply, please visit the OSAP website.
For information on other awards and financial assistance, please see Financial Aid.
Information Session
Students are invited to attend an information session to learn more about the program and to connect with our team.
Seneca Part-Time Payroll & Bookkeeping Information Session
Thursday, November 21, 2024
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Register
Now
Tuesday, January 7, 2024
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Register
Now
Confirmation of registration and a unique link to join the information session will be provided upon registration.
PCP
Your Path to Becoming a Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP)
The National Payroll Institute's PCP designation is the foundation for a successful career in payroll. The PCP courses will help you gain an in-depth understanding of the legislative requirements to keep your organization compliant throughout the annual payroll cycle. When you achieve the designation, you join a growing community of supportive professionals and gain access to the resources you need to stay current and compliant.
The PCP designation requires three core payroll courses, an Introduction to Accounting course transfer credit and one year of weighted payroll work experience:
- Payroll Compliance Legislation
- Payroll Fundamentals 1 - Prerequisite: Payroll Compliance Legislation
- Payroll Fundamentals 2 - Prerequisites: Payroll Compliance Legislation and Payroll Fundamentals 1
- Introduction to Accounting - must be completed at a postsecondary institution
- PCP Work Experience Requirement Application (a minimum of one year weighted Canadian payroll work experience)
Students must first register with Seneca and pay the school's registration fee. Students must also register with National Payroll Institute and pay the Institute's course fee and the membership fee to receive access to the online materials and the learning platform. Students should register with the Institute no later than five business days before the start date of the course.
For more information visit www.payroll.ca, or email the Professional Accreditation Department at accreditation@payroll.ca.
PLP
Your Path to Becoming a Payroll Leadership Professional (PLP)
The National Payroll Institute's PLP designation is the next step for PCP designation holders looking to enter a management position. The PLP designation builds on compliance knowledge and develops payroll management skills to prepare seasoned professionals to manage a payroll department.
Students must submit the Payroll Experience Prerequisite Application and receive approval from the Institute prior to enrolling in the Introduction to Payroll Management (CPA403) course. Students must also be PCP designation holders.
The PLP designation requires two core payroll courses and three transfer credit courses:
- Introduction to Payroll Management - Prerequisites: Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation and two years of weighted payroll experience)
- Applied Payroll Management - Prerequisite: Introduction to Payroll Management
- Organizational Behaviour Management - must be completed at a postsecondary institution
- Managerial Accounting - must be completed at a postsecondary institution
- Compensation & Benefits Management - must be completed at a postsecondary institution
Students must first register with Seneca and pay the school's registration fee. Students must also register with National Payroll Institute and pay the Institute's course fee to receive access to the online materials and the learning platform. Students should register with the Institute no later than five business days before the start date of the course.
For more information visit www.payroll.ca, or email the Professional Accreditation Department at accreditation@payroll.ca.
Credit for Prior Learning
Prior Learning Assessment
Earn college credits for what you already know.
Prior Learning Assessment is a method of assessing and recognizing learning that is equal to
college level learning, but has been gained outside a traditional classroom (through work
experience, volunteering, outside study, etc.). If you can prove that the knowledge you have gained
meets the outcomes of a Seneca course, then credit will be awarded.
How does the PLA process work?
Prior Learning is demonstrated through a "challenge" process. The process measures learning
through a variety of methods which may include tests, portfolio assessment, interviews,
demonstrations, essays, and work samples. The method used will be determined in consultation with a
Program Coordinator.
For more information and to determine if you are eligible for PLA, please call the Program
Coordinator.
The process may take from 6 to 8 weeks.
Note: Not all courses can be challenged. For more information go to PLA website or contact your Program Coordinator.
Transfer Credit
Many students who enter Seneca Polytechnic will have earned academic credits in postsecondary educational institutions which they may be able to apply toward completion of a Seneca Polytechnic program.
Requests for Transfer Credit must be for a specific course and must be accompanied by an official transcript and course outline. A minimum grade of "C" (60 percent) is generally required for a course to be considered for Transfer Credit.
Download a Transfer Credit Request form. An official copy of your transcript and applicable detailed course outlines should be attached and submitted. Please note it may take 4 to 6 weeks for a Transfer Credit decision.
More Information
Please visit the Office of the Registrar.
Pathways
Build on your Seneca Polytechnic diploma
Seneca is recognized as a leader in pathways and offers a range of options to help you reach your educational and career goals.
As a graduate of this program, you may be eligible to pathway into a bachelor's degree program at Seneca or at one of our partner institutions.
To explore your pathway options and learn more, visit our Degree Transfer Guide.
If you have additional questions regarding pathways to, within and beyond Seneca, connect with our Academic Pathways team at 416.764.0399 or email academic.pathways@senecapolytechnic.ca.
After reviewing the Degree Transfer Guide, you can also book a virtual appointment to discuss your options in more detail with a dedicated Pathways Adviser.
Graduation/Convocation
When you meet all program requirements and become eligible for a certificate, diploma, or degree, you must inform the Registrar by completing a Graduation Application form and paying the graduation and alumni fee. Certificates, diplomas, and applied degrees are issued twice a year in the Fall (October), Spring (June) and Winter (February).
For further information including deadlines and fees, please visit the Convocation website or contact the Convocation Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca.
Minimum Performance for Graduation
A student will be eligible to graduate from a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or graduate certificate program if they have achieved a minimum graduating GPA of 2.0.
A student will be eligible to graduate from a degree program if they have achieved a minimum graduating GPA of 2.5, which includes a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the courses in their main field of study and a minimum GPA of 2.0 in breadth courses.
Program Contacts
Aliya Merchant
Program Assistant
aliya-akil.merchant@senecapolytechnic.ca
Roberta Aquino
Academic Program Manager
roberta.aquino@senecapolytechnic.ca
For more information about this program, fill out the following form.