Overview
The part-time Accounting Diploma is ideal if you already have a degree and are seeking accounting upgrades for your CPA designation. This program is taught by experienced industry professionals. Perfect for a versatile business career in accounting, it prepares you for entry-level positions after graduation.
Set the stage for a prosperous career in business with the Accounting Diploma program at BCIT. By training with knowledgeable, experienced instructors who are respected professionals in the accounting industry, you’ll learn how accounting is the backbone of businesses big and small. This program will prepare you to step into a corporate office or head back into the classroom to complete your bachelor’s degree. The road to CPA designation is an easy one with the accounting programs at BCIT.
About the program
- Full or part-time diploma program
- After graduation, complete your bachelor’s degree
- Prepare for CPA designation
- Learn more about accounting accreditation and designation with our Program Details.
Who it’s for
The Accounting Diploma program is right for you if you:
- Have completed high school or higher.
- Have a degree and need accounting upgrading.
- Are looking to earn your CPA designation.
- Want to pursue a multi-faceted business career.
Ready to enroll in the Accounting Diploma program? Visit Entrance Requirements to get started.
What grads can do
Thanks to the comprehensive courses included in the Accounting Diploma program, graduates of the program are ready for entry-level and mid-level positions in a variety of business settings. They are also prepared to further their education by completing a bachelor’s degree.
To find out more about the positions Accounting Diploma grads enter, visit Graduating and Jobs.
- Next up Entrance Requirements
Entrance Requirements
About Flexible Learning
Take a single course, or work towards a credential — all at a pace that’s right for you.
Part-time courses are offered in a variety of scheduling formats, including at night or on weekends, flexible daytime delivery, or you can opt for distance or online learning. If you meet the prerequisites and there’s space available, you can register for a course immediately. Courses are offered in each of three terms: Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring/Summer (April).
To apply to this part-time program and earn your credential, you simply need to submit a program application. Applications are processed throughout the year.
Part-time Accounting Diploma
Part-time students considering applying to the Accounting Diploma are strongly advised to begin their studies by completing one of the following programs. The content covered in the below programs help provide the knowledge skillset for students to excel in the diploma program.
Upon completion of the associate certificate or certificate program, students are then recommended to continue their studies towards the Accounting Diploma program.
Previous full-time students who have successfully completed Level 1, considering completing the Accounting Diploma through Flexible Learning, are advised to complete the following certificate program:
Upon completion of the certificate program, students are recommended to continue their studies towards the Accounting Diploma program.
Previous full-time students who have successfully completed Level 1 and Level 2, considering completing their Accounting Diploma through Flexible Learning, are advised to apply to this program.
Application processing
This program is open to applications beginning:
- February 1st* for the January intake
- May 1st* for the April intake
- October 1st* for the September intake
Entrance requirements
Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first-qualified basis.
- English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent
- Math: one of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 11 (67%) or
- Foundations of Math 11 (67%) or
- Workplace Math 11 (67%) or
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses
International applicants
This program is available to international applicants who currently have a valid status in Canada. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.
Apply to program
To submit your application:
- Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
- Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
- Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.
Apply Now
Scheduled Intakes
Ongoing Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) intakes: January, April, and September.
- Go back Overview
- Next up Advanced Placement
Advanced Placement
Direct entry
If you have a diploma or degree, you may be eligible to apply to an advanced level of the program through direct entry. Please note that only complete applications are considered and you must show proof that you have completed, or are registered in, all requirements.
Applications are accepted throughout the year.
Submit proof of meeting the following requirements with your online application:
- English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent
- Diploma or degree* in any discipline from a recognized post-secondary institution
- Course-by-Course Self-Assessment form [PDF] showing that you have completed all of the required courses below
*If you have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you will require a basic evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered.
Required courses
Part-time course | Course name | Full-time equivalent |
---|---|---|
COMM 1103* (or 1106) | Introduction to Business and Technical Communication | COMM 1100 |
FMGT 1100** (70% or B-) | Accounting 1 | FMGT 1105 (65%) |
FMGT 2100** (70% or B-) | Accounting 2 | FMGT 2105 (65%) |
The following courses are recommended for completion prior to admission but are mandatory for graduation from the program:
Part-time course | Course name | Full-time equivalent |
---|---|---|
COMM 2202* (or 2002) | Business and Technical Correspondence | COMM 2200 |
COMM 2203* (or 2003) | Business and Technical Reports | COMM 2200 |
FMGT 2701 | Management Information Systems | FMGT 2701 |
*For accredited Canadian or US credentials, if you have achieved a bachelor's degree, the COMM courses may be waived. If you have an associate degree or diploma, COMM 1103/1106 and COMM 2202/2002 may be waived. COMM 2203/2003 will still be required.
**Accounting courses completed in the UK or the US may be considered for transfer credit toward FMGT 1100/2100.
Program matrix
Once accepted, the following courses will be required to complete this program:
Part-time course | Course name | Credits |
---|---|---|
FMGT 3110 | Financial Accounting 1 | 5.0 |
FMGT 3210 | Cost/Managerial Accounting 1 | 4.0 |
FMGT 3410 | Taxation 1 | 4.0 |
FMGT 3510 | Finance 1 | 4.0 |
FMGT 3720 | Advanced Computer Applications 1 | 4.0 |
FMGT 4110 | Financial Accounting 2 | 5.5 |
FMGT 4210 | Cost/Managerial Accounting 2 | 5.5 |
FMGT 4410 | Taxation 2 | 5.5 |
FMGT 4510 | Finance 2 | 5.5 |
FMGT 4710 | Advanced Computer Applications 2 | 5.5 |
FMGT 4915 | Payroll Essentials | 2.5 |
FMGT 4920 | Career Preparation | 4.0 |
Once accepted, you may register for courses on a course-by-course basis, provided that any course prerequisites have been completed, during the next available Part-time Studies term:
- Winter: January - March
- Spring/Summer: April - June
- Fall: September - December
All program requirements must be completed within seven years per BCIT Policy 5103 - Student Evaluation [PDF]. BCIT Policy 5103 also permits a maximum of three attempts to successfully complete each course within this credential. If you fail a course twice, you will only be allowed to repeat the course with written permission from the Associate Dean.
Ready to submit your application? Apply now.
Direct entry FAQs
- When should I apply?
- When will I be accepted?
- When will I get my timetable?
- When can I buy my books?
It is recommended that you apply when you have met all of the entrance requirements.
Once your application has been assessed and has been approved for direct entry, you will be accepted into the program.
Part-time students are responsible for setting their own timetable through registering for individual courses. Initially, it is recommended that students register for a maximum of two courses during the first term of study. This will help in gauging the time commitment, workload, and impact to one's individual situation (i.e. career responsibilities, personal life, etc.). You are able to view your registered courses by visiting my.bcit.ca and selecting the myCourses tab.
It is recommended that you wait until the first week of classes before buying textbooks. Your instructors will tell you which books to buy.
To register for a Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) course, visit Register for Flexible Learning courses or contact Student Information and Enrolment Services.
Still have questions? Review the Admissions FAQ or contact Program Advising.
Additional options for degree holders
Advanced Diploma in Professional Accounting
This program is a fast track to the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. If you have a degree in any discipline and want to complete all of the CPA Preparatory classes in less than a year, this program is for you.
BCIT has small class sizes where you get to know your instructors and provides exemplary career support, where more than 94% of graduates get jobs in their field. Our cohort model can help you build your professional network with a thriving BCIT community of students and graduates in the industry. At BCIT, you are much more than a student number, and your success means everything!
Upon completing this program, you can start the CPA journey, working in the field while completing your CPA designation. CPAs are in high demand, and the CPA designation leads to rewarding careers in accounting and finance.
The Advanced Diploma in Professional Accounting program can be completed in two ways:
- In 12-month full-time studies at BCIT’s downtown campus, during the day in a class cohort format.
- At your own pace through Flexible Learning with courses scheduled on evenings, weekends, and virtually.
Full program details and further information can be found here.
- Go back Entrance Requirements
- Next up Costs & Supplies
Costs & Supplies
Bring your own device
Most courses and programs in the School of Business + Media are BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). Please ensure you bring a laptop to every class. Plug-in outlets will be provided at most stations in classrooms but not in all classrooms, so please ensure you have at least 2 hours of battery life available at the beginning of each class. Check the following recommended computer requirements prior to the start of class. If a program or course does not require you to provide your own device, that information will be provided by your instructor or indicated in the course outline.
For online classes, it is important you have a stable and consistent internet connection to access course content.
Tuition fees
Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis. Please see the Flexible Learning Tuition & Fees page for more information on domestic and international tuitions.
Financial assistance
Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.
- Go back Advanced Placement
- Next up Courses
Courses
Important updates to Flexible Learning
Read more about the English requirement.
Note: Part-time programs and courses are open enrolment and although we make every effort to accommodate demand, course registration cannot be guaranteed in every semester. Courses in high demand fill quickly and may result in students unable to register for a course that semester. Courses may also be cancelled due to low enrolment.
Program matrix
Check current availability of courses for this program.
January 2025 MatrixThe below program matrix is effective for students entering the program in January 2025 and later. 1. Required Courses (complete a minimum of 102.0 credits): |
Credits | ||
---|---|---|---|
BLAW 3100 | Business Law | 4.0 | |
BSYS 2000 | Applied Data Analytics in Excel | 4.0 | |
ECON 2100 | Microeconomics | 3.0 | |
ECON 2200 | Macroeconomics | 4.0 | |
FMGT 2701 | Management Information Systems | 3.0 | |
FMGT 3110 | Financial Accounting 1 | 5.0 | |
FMGT 3210 | Cost/Managerial Accounting 1 | 4.0 | |
FMGT 3410 | Taxation 1 | 4.0 | |
FMGT 3510 | Finance 1 | 4.0 | |
FMGT 3720 | Advanced Computer Applications 1 | 4.0 | |
FMGT 4110 | Financial Accounting 2 | 5.5 | |
FMGT 4210 | Cost and Managerial Accounting 2 | 5.5 | |
FMGT 4410 | Taxation 2 | 5.5 | |
FMGT 4510 | Finance 2 | 5.5 | |
FMGT 4710 | Advanced Computer Applications 2 | 5.5 | |
FMGT 4915 | Payroll Essentials | 2.5 | |
MKTG 1102 | Essentials of Marketing | 3.0 | |
OPMT 1110 | Business Mathematics | 4.0 | |
OPMT 1130 | Business Statistics | 5.5 | |
and | |||
BSYS 1001 | Business Information Systems 1-Microsoft 365 for Windows | 3.0 | |
or | |||
BSYS 1000 | Business Information Systems** | 3.0 | |
and | |||
BUSA 2005 | Principles of Management | 4.0 | |
ORGB 1105 | Organizational Behaviour | 4.0 | |
or | |||
BUSA 2150 | Introduction to Organizational Development** | 4.0 | |
and | |||
FMGT 1100 | Accounting 1* | 4.0 | |
or | |||
FMGT 1105 | Accounting 1 for Financial Management** | 5.0 | |
and | |||
FMGT 2100 | Accounting 2* | 5.5 | |
or | |||
FMGT 2105 | Accounting 2 for Financial Management** | 6.5 | |
and | |||
FMGT 4920 | Career Preparation | 4.0 | |
or | |||
FMGT 4921 | Career Preparation | 4.0 | |
*Students must achieve a minimum grade of 70% in FMGT 1100 and FMGT 2100. **Course is available through full-time studies only. |
|||
2. Required Courses - Communications (minimum of 7.0 credits): | Credits | ||
COMM 1103 | Introduction to Business and Technical Communication | 3.0 | |
or | |||
COMM 1106 | Introduction to Business and Technical Communication (With Language Development Component) | 3.0 | |
or | |||
COMM 1100 | Business Communication 1* | 3.0 | |
and | |||
COMM 2202 | Business and Technical Correspondence | 3.0 | |
COMM 2203 | Business and Technical Reports | 3.0 | |
or | |||
COMM 2002 | Business and Technical Correspondence With Language Development Component | 3.0 | |
COMM 2003 | Business and Technical Reports With Language Development Component | 3.0 | |
or | |||
COMM 2200 | Business Communication 2* | 4.0 | |
*Course is available through full-time studies only. | |||
Total Credits: | 109.0 |
Check current availability of courses for this program.
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
- Go back Costs & Supplies
- Next up Program Details
Program Details
Program length
The rate of progress through the part-time program varies. Although most individuals take three to five years to complete their studies, students have up to seven years to complete the program requirements.
Additional program options
Accreditation
The accounting profession, through its professional bodies, recognizes a wide variety of subjects offered in the program. The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Certified General Accountants' Association of Canada, the Certified Management Accountants Society and the Canadian Credit Institute give credit for various subjects, and our graduates are able to achieve a professional designation within two years of receiving their BCIT diploma.
Program delivery
Blended: This program is delivered partly on campus and partly online.
This flexible learning (part-time studies) program is offered on a course-by-course basis, allowing you the flexibility to complete courses in any order, provided that any required course prerequisites have been completed. Students register for each course individually and may undertake studies in any term (Winter, Spring/Summer, or Fall). While you may choose the pace of your studies, all program requirements must be completed within seven years as per BCIT Policy 5103 - Student Evaluation [PDF].
Please note that some courses in this program are offered only once or twice per year, and BCIT reserves the right to cancel courses if enrolment is insufficient.
In-person delivery is available for most courses in the program. Some courses are also offered online.
The length of most online courses is 12 weeks. Online learning students should plan to spend an average of seven to ten hours per week on their studies for each course.
Program location
Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC
Downtown Campus
555 Seymour Street
Vancouver, BC
Courses are also offered through online learning.
Continue your education
BCIT offers part-time students the opportunity to complete a series of credential programs, ultimately leading to a bachelor's degree. If you apply and qualify, you can work towards the following credentials:
Degree completion: Bachelor of Technology in Accounting
The Financial Management department offers an Accounting degree completion program to those who already have an Accounting, Finance, or Financial Planning Diploma or equivalent. Please see our Bachelor of Accounting program for more information.
Universities will give credit for subjects taken in the program to those students who wish to continue their training and qualify for a university degree. Block transfer credit arrangements are in effect with Thompson River University, Simon Fraser University, the University of Northern British Columbia, Royal Roads University, and Lakehead University.
- Go back Courses
- Next up Graduating & Jobs
Graduating & Jobs
Entry-level positions:
- Accounting Clerk
- Internal Auditor
- Staff Accountant
- Budget Analyst
Mid-level positions:
- Intermediate Accountant
- Financial Analyst
- Senior Tax Manager
- Controller
Accounting
The Accounting program leads to middle management positions in financial accounting, cost accounting, internal audit, and budget preparation. Graduates of this program will usually go on to obtain a professional designation as a CPA.
Beginning salaries
Successful graduates who complete additional training can expect, with significant varied experience, to achieve middle to senior management positions earning annual salaries in excess of $60,000. Achieving this level of success means starting in entry-level positions in financial accounting, cost accounting, internal audit, budget preparation, brokerage, banking, trust and insurance, with starting salaries as high as $3,000 per month.
Accounting designation
Many graduates from our accounting programs go on to receive an accounting designation. In the past year we had:
- 92 grads receive a CGA
- 22 grads receive a CA
- 15 grads receive a CMA
Graduate employment outcomes
The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2021-2023 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2020-2022 graduates and for Degree 2019-2021 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.
To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
Apply for graduation
Upon successful completion of all program requirements, complete an Application for BCIT Credential [PDF] and submit it to Student Information and Enrolment Services.
Allow approximately six to eight weeks for processing.
All financial obligations to the Institute must be met prior to issuance of any credential.
- Go back Program Details
- Next up Contact Us
Contact Us
Program Assistant
fmgtpts@bcit.ca
Deacon Devlin
Flexible Learning Coordinator – Accounting, Finance, and Insurance
Tel: 604-412-7453
Email: Deacon_Devlin@bcit.ca
Contact a Flexible Learning Program Advisor with the BCIT program name in the subject line if you have a question about:
- Course selection and program planning
- Declaring your program
- Making changes to your approved program plan
- Applying for transfer credit
- Laddering options
- Job placement and graduate outcomes
- Student life
Questions or comments?
- Go back Graduating & Jobs
- Next up Subscribe
Subscribe
Sign up to receive updates, invitations to events, and information about BCIT and your program.
We promise not to spam you, we won’t share your personal information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
- Go Back Contact Us
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.