Durham College

What you'll study

Durham College delivers the technical foundation with hands-on accounting, tax and business modules; Ontario Tech supplies advanced commerce and accounting coursework. Sample semester courses from Durham College include:

• Accounting 1 (ACCT 1100)
• Business Computer Applications 1 (COMP 1112)
• Financial Planning (FINC 1100)
• Human Resource Management 1 (HURM 1100)
• Marketing 1 (MKTG 1100)
• Supply Chain Management (SCMT 1100)

Students also have opportunities to earn Microsoft Office Specialist certifications and to complete embedded university bridging courses required for admission to the Bachelor of Commerce. The program includes case-based learning, practical assignments and exposure to industry-standard accounting and tax software. Academic planning support is provided and registration is handled at both institutions; note that academic calendars and learning-management systems differ between the college and the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status plus Grade 12 English (C or U) and Grade 11 mathematics (C, M or U). Students are required to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 and complete an application to Ontario Tech in the first semester to pursue the embedded pathway; specific acceptance to Ontario Tech’s third year and to major in Accounting is subject to Ontario Tech approval and higher marks.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of accounting and finance support roles and for further professional study toward designations such as the Chartered Professional Accountant. Job titles noted for program graduates include:

• Accounting administrator
• Accounts payable/receivable specialist
• Auditor / Audit associate
• Bookkeeper / Payroll clerk
• Junior / Staff accountant
• Tax associate
• Financial analyst, treasury analyst, budget coordinator, collections officer, internal auditor, forensic accountant

Scholarships & funding angle

The program is promoted as a cost-effective route to a four-year Bachelor of Commerce because it combines a college diploma and an honours degree and may be less expensive than a direct four-year degree program. Students should consult Durham College and Ontario Tech pages for specific tuition, fees and financial-aid options and for eligibility details on awards and certifications.