Accounting Technician Certificate
About the Accounting Technician Certificate
The Accounting Technician Certificate offered by Red Deer Polytechnic prepares students to work in various organizations as an Accounting Technician, Accounting Assistant, Professional Bookkeeper, or Data Support Technician.
The program begins with Computer Applications, where students learn the basics of administrative computer software, such as Windows and Microsoft Excel. Then, students dive deeper into the manual processes behind accounting software to understand how various calculations are performed, giving them the experience to detect and troubleshoot errors when they start their careers. The program also covers the use of Sage 50 and QuickBooks®.
The certificate program is taught by industry experts passionate about teaching and offering diverse perspectives, ensuring a dynamic educational experience for students.
Program Content
Course Descriptions
Computer Applications for Business | PBKC – 8130
This comprehensive module provides learners with a valuable measure of technical proficiency and expertise in Microsoft Windows, Word, and Excel. Learners gain conceptual understanding and hands-on experience needed for personal and business use.
Software: Access to Microsoft Windows 10 and Microsoft Word 2016 is provided in class. This software will be available on Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) computers utilized in the classroom, and online learners will be provided with free online access to the software while enrolled in the program.
Accounting Technician I Manual Bookkeeping for Service & Merchandising | PBKC – 8129
This module instructs learners in fundamental accounting concepts, bookkeeping processes, and the administration of a straightforward manual bookkeeping system. Skills gained in this module apply to both service and merchandising businesses.
Software: Learners will require access to Microsoft Excel. This software will be available on RDP computers utilized in the classroom, and online learners will be provided with free online access to the software while enrolled in the program. Learners can also opt to use the Working Papers resource (available for purchase with the textbook) for hand-written entries while working on the class project.
Accounting Technician II Sage 50 | PBKC – 8131
This module guides learners through software instruction and hands-on, realistic projects in Sage 50. Learning will be enhanced using the manual books created in Accounting Technician I in the Sage 50 environment.
Software: This course utilizes Sage 50 2018 software. This software is available on RDP computers used in the classroom on campus. Learners will be provided with online access to the software. The textbook for this module also includes a free trial copy that can be downloaded from the publisher. This software is not supported for Mac computers.
Accounting Technician III QuickBooks | PBKC – 8133
This module exposes learners to the features and functions of QuickBooks® to ensure proficiency in more than one industry-standard accounting software package. These skills add value and depth to the learner's skillset as they enter the job market.
Software: This course utilizes QuickBooks® Premier Software. This software is available on RDP computers used in the classroom. Online learners will have access to the software via a free trial copy that is available for download from the textbook publisher. This software is not supported on Mac computers. Access to a computer with a hard drive is required for this course.
Related Careers
A wide range of career paths are available to graduates of this program, including:
Bookkeeper (self-employed or on a corporate team)
Accounting Technician (self-employed or on a corporate team)
Accounting Technician at an Accounting Firm
Meet the Faculty
At Red Deer Polytechnic, we are proud of our faculty members and staff who are experts in their disciplines and subject areas.
Admissions
Upcoming Intakes
- Winter: January 27, 2025
- Spring: May 4, 2025
Note: Payment is due upon registration.
Registration is open until one day before class begins.
Admission Requirements
No prerequisites are required.
Learners who have successfully completed APRO 126 through RDP's Administrative Professional Certificate can earn prior learning credit (PLAR) for the Accounting Technician I course within the Accounting Technician Certificate.
Additional Requirements
Technology Requirements
Students should have a basic understanding of computers.
In this certificate program, online learners will require a personal computer (PC) or laptop with a reliable internet connection to access the virtual classroom and coursework. Learners who attend in person will have access to an RDP desktop computer or laptop during class.
The software used in this certificate program works best in a PC environment and is not usually compatible with MAC or Apple products.
Students will access the virtual classroom, exams, and all other coursework using the following platforms (access is granted upon registration – students will receive detailed instructions on how to use these platforms):
Blackboard: The Learning Management System used at RDP. All coursework, assignments, and exams will be administered and accessed via Blackboard.
Program Cost
Textbooks
Required textbooks will be available at the RDP Campus Store (in person or online). Learners should be prepared to spend approximately $500 to purchase books throughout this certificate. As resources are updated frequently, you will be notified via email when books are available for purchase.
Financial Aid Options
Student life can be very expensive, and few individuals have enough money to pay up-front for their post-secondary education.
Program Content
In the Accounting Technician Certificate program, you will complete four courses.
Graduation Requirements
To earn the Accounting Technician Certificate, learners must achieve a minimum overall grade of 65% in each of the four modules.
Continuation Education and Corporate Training
Red Deer Polytechnic's Continuing Education and Corporate Training division offers flexible learning and a wide variety of programming, from individual courses to complete credentials.
Whether you are a prospective learner or you are looking for customized training packages for your team, we would be happy to connect you.
Browse our program and course offerings today.