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Advanced Accounting Diploma

The Advanced Accounting program offers a fast-track path to becoming a certified accountant. With flexible options and a focus on practical skills, you'll be well-prepared to succeed in this rewarding field.
Next Start date:
Diploma
2 Years
Accepting International Students
Full-Time Part-Time On Campus Blended

Advanced Accounting Diploma

The Advanced Accounting diploma and Advanced Accounting Specialized Co-op diploma offer a quick two-year path to an accounting career, using your existing degree. You'll build on current knowledge and learn the skills you need to become an accountant.

Upon graduation, students with a 4-year degree can jump right into the CPA Professional Education Program while gaining work experience.

Co-op Specialization

The Advanced Accounting Co-op Diploma offers a fast-paced and intensive pathway to becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) for students who already have a degree and are looking to accelerate their accounting career.

Classes will primarily be held in person at RDP, with some online options available. For your co-op work experience, you may be required to travel within central Alberta. You'll have opportunities for valuable networking opportunities and to apply your classroom knowledge in a real-world setting.

The AAD Co-op is fast-paced and intense, requiring dedication and focus. However, it also offers a significant advantage by providing a solid foundation for pursuing the CPA designation.

Work-Integrated Learning

Students can select 'WIL 2100' as an optional course if they meet the pre-requisites which include:

  • a minimum of 30 credits completed,

  • good academic standing,

  • and completion of the CEED Work Readiness modules.

Students taking WIL 2100 should be prepared to incur the costs of a work placement, which could include suitable attire, travel and other incidentals.

While not an admission requirement for the program, some Co-op placements may require Police Information Checks of students working in their organizations.

Further Study

The Advanced Accounting programs and work experience may ladder into the CPA Professional Education Program on the pathway to becoming a designated CPA.

Academic Advising at the Student Connect Center can help you plan your studies to reach this designation.

Domestic Intakes

Fall 2025 - Open
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:

International Intakes

Fall 2025 - Open
  • Application window:
    -
  • Registration start date:
  • Fee payment deadline:
  • First day of classes:

Notes:

  • International students must pay their tuition deposit to receive their letters of acceptance 

  • Important dates may change

Admission Requirements

If you have completed your high school education outside of Alberta, please refer to our International Course Equivalencies page for information on how your coursework may align with our admission requirements.

Qualified applicants who meet all minimum requirements will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Academic Requirements

Students applying to Advanced Accounting Co-op and Non-Co-op programs must have:

  • A four-year degree in any discipline from a recognized Canadian institution or equivalent as demonstrated through a recognized credential evaluation service. 

    • The CPA prefers the World Education Services for credential evaluation. 

    • For non-Canadian degrees, the CPA will only accept course equivalencies recognized through the credential evaluation process.

    • The CPA has a 10-year currency requirement for any education requirements.

and   

  • A minimum of 65% in Math 30-2, MATH 0300 (or equivalent), or   

  • A minimum score of 60% in Math 30-1, Math 0301  

Additional Requirements

English Language Proficiency

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide ELP official documentation as outlined in the English Language Proficiency Requirements page.

Prior Learning and Transfer

Your previous schooling, work experience, and informal learning may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning. The Recognition of Prior Learning Application Forms should be submitted at least eight weeks before the start of applicable courses.

Recommended for Online Learners

While not an admission requirement for the program, to be successful, students should have basic computer skills, such as the ability to function independently on basic computer software programs and to carry out basic internet navigation.

Program Costs

Domestic Students - Advanced Accounting Diploma
Year 1
$9,334.00
Year 2
$8,734.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply. 

Domestic Program Cost Estimates  

Domestic Students - Advanced Accounting Co-Op Specialization Diploma
Year 1
$10,137.00
Year 2
$8,734.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply. 

Domestic Program Cost Estimates  

International Students - Advanced Accounting Diploma
Year 1
$19,534.00
Year 2
$17,734.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply. 

International Program Cost Estimates 

International Students - Advanced Accounting Co-Op Specialization Diploma
Year 1
$21,237.00
Year 2
$17,734.00

These costs are an estimate of tuition based on the recommended course load per year, additional fees apply. 

International Program Cost Estimates 

Program Courses

  • ACCT 1602   

  • ECON 1100    

  • BUS 2306   

  • BUS 2311   

  • ACCT 3209   

  • BUS 3307   

  • FNCE 2310   

  • ACCT 2010   

  • ACCT 2305   

  • ACCT 2204   

  • ACCT 3210   

  • ACCT 3405   

  • BUS 3211   

  • ECON 1101    

  • ACCT 4310   

  • ACCT 4308   

  • ACCT 4306   

  • BUS 4990 

Graduation Requirements

Advanced Accounting Diploma

Students must pass all courses and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. 

Advanced Accounting Co-Op Specialization Diploma

Students must:

  • pass all courses, including the Co-Op Work Term (COOP 2100) and 

  • achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.

CPA Professional Education Program Requirements

Consult the CPA Alberta Transfer Credit Guide for grade requirements to be eligible for the CPA Professional Education Program.

Continuing and Professional Education

Further your career by advancing your existing skills through flexible courses, micro-credentials and programs.

RDP Continuing Education & Corporate Training offers programs like: