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"How many unemployed professional accountants do you know?" asks Elizabeth Hicks, Chair of the Douglas College Accounting Department.
Accountants earn much higher wages than the provincial average in BC and have a much lower unemployment rate, according to BC Work Futures. They are usually the last profession to be hit by layoffs during a recession, as accounting is a core function for many businesses.
A Human Resource Development Canada report identified accounting as one of 11 high opportunity occupations in BC.
Both the Certificate and Diploma programs provide excellent foundations for your accounting career. You'll be qualified for junior accounting management positions in either the public or private sector in management accounting, general accounting, financial management or accounting information systems
Self-employment is also an excellent option for accountants.
Earning a professional designation such as Certified General Accountant, Certified Management Accountant or Chartered Accountant is highly recommended. Transferring to university to earn a bachelor's degree is extremely helpful for career progression. All professional accounting bodies now require a bachelor's degree.
The most important step in launching an accounting career is to get hands-on work experience. At Douglas College, you can earn while you learn. Accounting students are encouraged to complete at least one Co-operative Education work term to gain work experience.
Working part-time while taking the Diploma Program is another way of gaining work experience before you graduate.
