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Professional Accounting Practice
| Program Code: | PRA |
| Campus: | Newnham |
| Duration: | 42 Weeks (3 Consecutive Semesters) |
| Start Dates: | Fall, Start dates are subject to change |
| Credential Awarded: | Ontario College Graduate Certificate |
Program Description
Work in accounting and pursue the Certified General Accountant (CGA) designation (Levels 1 to 3). The short and intensive format of the PRA program is especially suited to you if you are a mature or motivated student seeking a career in accounting. Whether or not your diploma or degree is related to business, you may benefit from this program. No accounting background is required.
As a student of PRA, you’ll be introduced to the modern technological environment of business decision using spreadsheets (Excel), database software (Access), and integrated database application technologies (ERP) through exposure to accounting software package(s). Your courses will make use of hands–on computer applications and case studies based on real situations.
You’ll also gain industry exposure through research, cases, and projects.
Admission Requirements
Program Eligibility:
- A diploma or recognized degree from an accredited institution, and/or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older) with 3 to 5 years of documented work experience in a related field including references from relevant work experience.
- English proficiency at the college level.
NOTE:
This program is ideal for individuals with little or no background in Accounting. Applicants who have credits from the CGA program for Levels 1-3 courses will be eligible to apply for exemption for equivalent courses in the program.
Students are required to be highly literate and have a facility for mathematics and financial concepts. Superior communication and analytical skills are necessary. Prospective students may be required to undergo testing to assess literacy and mathematics skills. Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and Mathematics.
The Importance of Learning Skills:
Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.
Fees
Your Career
In just three semesters you will have the opportunity to earn credits equivalent to the first three levels of the CGA program. Level 3 CGA is a recognized level of competence in the accounting industry offering competitive salaries and positions. You will be prepared for employment with businesses of all sizes and scope, and will possess a sound financial foundation and the ability to use computerized accounting systems. Particular focus is on analysis and interpretation of financial information to make sound financial control and ethical decisions. Accounts receivable/ payable, general accounting reconciliation, financial statement preparation, presentation and analysis, as well as cost accounting and budgeting, are a few key areas where opportunities may exist for you as a PRA graduate. The program prepares you to articulate into the Seneca Accounting and Information Technology (AIT) Graduate Certificate program, the Seneca International Accounting and Finance degree, as well as other universities/colleges, to complete Level 4 of the CGA program and a business degree, if desired.
Professional Certification
Qualified students who complete the PRA program of study receive Level 1 to 3 of the CGA professional accounting certification. For more information on the CGA program, please visit www.cga-ontario.org/.
Diploma to Degree... and Beyond
Through transfer agreements and institution partnerships, graduates of this Seneca College program may be eligible for credit at the following post-secondary institution(s):
U.S.
| University/College | Degrees Available |
|---|---|
| Davenport University | • Any relevant Bachelors or Master of Business Administration |
CGA Ontario Learning Centre
Grow your accounting and finance skill set in a space dedicated to supporting and engaging Seneca students, whether at the introductory or advanced levels of their accounting studies. Academic support is offered in partnership with the Certified General Accountants of Ontario. Located in the Newnham Campus Learning Centre.

Curriculum
| Semester 1 | Subject Name | Hrs/Wk |
|---|---|---|
| PRA100 | Financial Accounting I | 6 |
| PRA110 | Accounting Computer Applications | 3 |
| PRA120 | Business Communications I | 3 |
| PRA130 | Economics I | 3 |
| PRA140 | Statistics | 3 |
| Semester 2 | Subject Name | Hrs/Wk |
| PRA200 | Financial Accounting II | 5 |
| PRA220 | Economics II | 3 |
| PRA240 | Quantitative Methods | 4 |
| PRA310 | Management Accounting I | 5 |
| PRA330 | Business Communications II | 3 |
| Semester 3 | Subject Name | Hrs/Wk |
| PRA210 | Business Law | 3 |
| PRA230 | Finance | 4 |
| PRA300 | Financial Accounting III | 4 |
| PRA320 | Management Information Systems I | 4 |
| PRA340 | Practice Application | 3 |
Contact Us
| Program Student Advisor: | Sheilagh Stephenson Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22795 Email: Sheilagh.Stephenson@senecacollege.ca |
| Program Coordinator: | Doug Stephenson Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22731 Email: Doug.Stephenson@senecacollege.ca |
| Associate Chair: | Jeff McCarthy Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 26722 Email: Jeff.McCarthy@senecacollege.ca |
| Program Chair: | Karen Murkar Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22337 Email: Karen.Murkar@senecacollege.ca |
| Admissions Advisors: | |
| Domestic Admissions Advisor: | Angelie Ramirez Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22058 Email: Angelie.Ramirez@senecacollege.ca |
| International Admissions Advisor: | Susan Gao Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 22365 Email: Susan.Gao@senecacollege.ca |
| Registration & Records Advisor: | Joan Chong Telephone: (416) 491-5050 Ext. 26199 Email: Joan.Chong@senecacollege.ca |

