University of New Brunswick

What you'll study

The programme combines core business foundations with progressive, specialist accounting modules. Early years focus on accounting principles, introductory finance, micro‑ and macroeconomics, business law and quantitative methods. Later years advance to intermediate and advanced financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, auditing, accounting information systems and corporate reporting.

• Year 1–2 core topics: introductory financial accounting, managerial accounting, business statistics, finance fundamentals, business law, economics and communication skills.
• Year 3–4 specialist topics: intermediate and advanced financial accounting, tax theory and practice, assurance and auditing, cost and management accounting, accounting information systems, corporate governance and ethics.
• Capstone and applied learning: integrative capstone courses, casework and project-based modules that replicate professional reporting and advisory tasks. Students can usually select electives in finance, information systems, supply chain or entrepreneurship to broaden their skillset.
• Work experience options: the Faculty supports co‑op placements, internships and practicum experiences with regional accounting firms, corporations and public sector organisations to gain practical exposure to accounting work.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement in secondary school. Typical applicants present a high school diploma with strong performance in mathematics and English; courses in business, economics or computer studies are advantageous. Mature or transfer applicants with post‑secondary study are considered on the basis of college/university transcripts.

• Academic preparation: successful applicants generally have strong grades across a broad high‑school curriculum, with particular strength in mathematics.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English proficiency requirements via an approved test or prior study in English.
• Additional information: some applicants are assessed for eligibility to co‑op or internship pathways, and selection may consider personal statements or references where required by the Faculty.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers in accounting and finance. Many pursue the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation and enter public practice in audit and tax; others move into corporate accounting, management accounting, financial analysis, internal audit, forensic accounting, government finance or not‑for‑profit financial management.

• Public accounting firms (audit, tax, advisory)
• Corporate finance and reporting roles (financial accountant, controller)
• Management accounting and business planning (cost accountant, management analyst)
• Public sector and not‑for‑profit finance positions
• Specialist roles such as forensic accounting, systems implementation and financial consultancy

Why study at University of New Brunswick

Studying accounting at UNB Fredericton offers access to a business faculty with close links to Atlantic Canadian employers and a track record of preparing students for professional accounting pathways. The university emphasises small‑group teaching, experiential learning and opportunities for co‑op placements or internships that connect classroom learning with workplace practice.

• Professional alignment: curriculum designed to align with professional entry requirements and to support progression toward accounting designations.
• Experiential opportunities: co‑op, internship and practicum options enable students to build practical experience and local employer networks.
• Campus and community: Fredericton provides a compact, student‑focused environment with access to provincial government and regional businesses for placement and employment opportunities.
• Support services: academic advising, career services and accounting faculty mentorship help students navigate certification pathways and job search preparation.