Accounting technicians are involved in the day-to-day practical work of accountancy and play a key operational role in producing reliable financial information. They may also perform a wide range of finance roles, from accounts clerk to financial controller and beyond.
The courses are very practical and the teachers are very supportive. They help you understand the profession, which makes you feel good and not alone. I felt confident that I would be able to find a job.
What to expect from the program
If you enjoy working with numbers and are interested in business and finance, this career could be ideal for you.
Graduates from this program will have the basic theory, technical knowledge, computer competencies, and skills to enter the accounting field at an entry-level position. Our program equips graduates to perform financial accounting, budgeting, costing, and tax returns. The work experience component of the program allows you to gain hands-on experience in the field.
Graduate with experience
NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity.
This program includes 150 hours of optional field experience.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Accounting Technician certificate program are workforce ready and can be employed in positions such as accounting technician, accounting clerk, bookkeeper, office manager, accounting assistant, payroll administrator, accounts payable/receivable clerk, billing supervisor, and data entry professional.
Graduates may find employment in small businesses, government, banking, insurance, manufacturing, health services, not-for-profit organizations, retail, hospitality, and the oilfield and construction industries.
For more information on related careers see:
Use the search feature in ALIS OCCinfo and WAGEinfo for other related occupations.
What to expect as an accounting technician
Accounting technicians are involved in processing invoices, recording receipts and payments, payroll, bookkeeping, auditing external and internal work, and preparing and checking ledger balances and other monthly and yearly accounts. They also handle company expenses, control budgets, prepare financial transactions, and use computerized accounting systems. Accounting technicians usually work regular weekday hours in a comfortable office environment.
Accounting technicians can work on their own, in a large accounts team, or alongside professional accountants. While they are not accountants, they can perform many of the same functions and are qualified to take accounts beyond the trial balance stage, as well as prepare full financial accounts. There is always a strong demand for these skills in industry.
Self-employed accounting technicians provide a range of accounting services to businesses, which may include advising on budgets and taxation issues, calculating end-of-year accounts, and consultancy.
Important information for international students
This program qualifies for a study permit, but does not qualify for a post-graduate work permit in Canada as of November 1, 2024. Learn more about obtaining your study permit and other important immigration information.
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Build the skills you need to thrive in a dynamic business world and choose from five specializations in the second year—Management (entrepreneurship or business operations), Accounting, Human Resources...Have a question about the Accounting Technician program?