Registration for Fall 2026 programs and courses is now open. Learn more about the academic programs we are delivering in Fall 2026. If you have any questions about part-time studies, please contact us.
Overview
Gain a strong knowledge of accounting, payroll and human resource practices, as well as related technology and payroll applications through this program. You will complete the diploma program, obtain four credits toward the completion of the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation with the National Payroll Institute, and gain three credits towards the completion of the Payroll Leadership Professional (PLP) designation.
Please note the Accounting and Payroll Ontario College Diploma Program curriculum has changed for Fall 2020. For students who started the program prior to Fall 2020, please contact acctce@senecapolytechnic.ca to confirm program requirements.
Important Information for New and Returning Students
You can enrol in courses that are part of this program as a declared or undeclared student. Program declaration is the process of identifying the program you plan to complete and graduate with.
Declared Students
Declaring your program helps ensure your academic record accurately reflects your educational goals and supports your academic progression toward a credential.
By declaring your program, you'll be able to:
- Get priority access when enrolling in classes and have the best chance to build your ideal schedule by selecting from a variety of options, which could include day, evening and weekend classes.
- Plan your course schedule with confidence by understanding your program requirements and next steps.
- Access enhanced advising and academic supports tailored to your goals.
- Track your progress and benefit from a smooth path to graduation. Undeclared students without tracked academic progression may experience delays when it comes time to graduate and attend Convocation.
Undeclared Students
If you have not declared a program, Seneca may not know which credential you are working toward. As a result, you may miss out on the important benefits that declared students receive. You can remain undeclared and continue registering for courses if you do not intend to complete a credential and do not require progress tracking, enhanced advising support or Convocation eligibility.
New Students
Declared Students: For details about the program and how to apply as a declared student, please visit Seneca's updated Accounting and Payroll page.
Undeclared Students: Register for courses by visiting the curriculum tab to select your course(s), check out and pay using this website.
Returning Students
Declared Students: Course registration for the Winter 2027 term for the part-time Accounting and Payroll program will move from this website to Seneca's Visual Schedule Builder (VSB) platform. You will be able to build your class schedule when open enrolment begins on Dec. 10, 2026. Watch your email for instructions.
Undeclared Students: Register for courses by visiting the curriculum tab to select your course of interest, check out and pay using this website.
If you haven't yet declared your program but wish to do so, more information will be available soon.
Curriculum
Please review "Important Information for New and Returning Students" on the overview tab before registering for courses.
Important: The curriculum for this program has changed as of the Fall 2026 Term. Please review the new curriculum to confirm your courses, progression and graduation requirements before registering. For questions, contact theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca.
Students with a completed high school diploma or prior English Proficiency scores can find more details on next steps here.
Students without any of the above can be placed via successful completion of ESL934, EAP230 or English Assessment.
COM101 replaces EAC 150. Students who have successfully completed EAC 150 are not required to complete COM101.
This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centered on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferable reading and writing skills essential for success in their post-secondary studies, workplaces, and communities.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Students with a completed high school diploma or prior English Proficiency scores can find more details on next steps here.
Students without any of the above can be placed via English Assessment.
This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centered on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferable reading and writing skills essential for success in their post-secondary studies, workplaces, and communities.
No required prerequisite, but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics or equivalent
This course introduces the student to how accounting information is used by, and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements and how this information is recorded in the various business records.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the Canadian business environment, business issues and functions, and the major forces at work in the global economy. It provides students with a perspective of business firms as integrated organizations composed of a number of specialized functions.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
No required prerequisite but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics.
This course provides students with the fundamentals of mathematics of business and finance. Following the introduction of concepts of per cent and per cent change, simple and compound interest rates will be discussed. Compound interest rates will be applied to the study of annuities. Students will also learn important models of business mathematics, such as currency conversion, trade discounts, markups and markdowns, break-even and cost-volume-profit analysis.
Please note: Course price for asynchronous sections includes the eTextbook and access to learning resources provided by the publisher.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
A fundamental working knowledge of Windows Operating Systems and Excel Software.
Microcomputer Applications for Business (SMS 210) is no longer available. If you are interested in this course or require it to fulfill program requirements, please register for the alternative course: Business Computer Applications (SMS202).
If you have questions, please email the Manager, Academic Programs, belinda.becker@senecapolytechnic.ca.
Building on the skills they have previously acquired in Excel and Windows operating systems, students will further develop their proficiency in these areas and add Access to their skill set. Throughout the course, they will apply these software skills to solve business problems.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
ACC120 - Accounting Basics I
In this second of the two introductory accounting courses, students will expand their understanding of accounting principles and concepts while covering specific topics including: accounts receivable, capital assets, corporations' shareholders' equity, and bonds payable. Preparation of the Statements of Retained Earnings and Changes in Financial Position will also be covered. Finally, the students will expand their understanding of the role of financial statement users by studying financial statement analysis.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This subject is a comprehensive overview of modern day human resources management (HRM). This course will introduce the diverse components of human resource (HR) functions and its role in the current business environment. Case study analysis will be used to link the theory to the practical situations that occur in HR. Topics to be covered include the business environment, recruitment and selection, employee development and evaluation, compensation and benefits, employee rights, safety and representations and strategic issues and challenges in HRM, in both domestic and global environments.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course introduces the student to fundamental concepts and theories concerning the behaviour of people in workplace organizations. The emphasis is on identifying questions and problems typically encountered by new employees and developing practical strategies and solutions. Contemporary issues and challenges in society are analyzed in terms of their impact on the workplace, on relations between individuals, and on the individual. The course draws on a variety of structured experiential exercises and case studies to apply the concepts of organizational behaviour to practical business issues and situations.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Students must successfully complete CPA300 prior to taking this course.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
With businesses thriving on good customer relationships, effective business communication is the cornerstone of company success. This course will help you learn the principles, practices, and tools for communicating effectively in the workplace using cases and/or projects.
From learning about audience, context, formats, tone, and media to applying your skills in writing correspondence, reports, and presentations, this course will guide you in developing professional interpersonal, collaborative, and web-based knowledge and practices.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
None
The purpose of this course is to examine the principles, processes and theories involved in the design and administration of compensation programs. Emphasis is placed on linking compensation strategy to corporate strategy, applying behavioural theories in the design of compensation programs and implementing, managing and adapting compensation programs.
Course substitutions accepted: HRM831.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skill to complete personal and business tax forms. Students will learn how to respond to and apply the fundamental provisions of laws that affect taxation of a business and their personal situation. The emphasis will be on practical aspects of compliance.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This is an introductory course which will present the main concepts and practices of management accounting. The subject will outline the methods that are available to managers for managing, planning, and controlling. Particular attention will be paid to such topics as cost accounting fundamentals, job costing, cost-volume-profit analysis, budgeting, and variance analysis.
Course substitutions accepted: ACC431
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course is designed to develop the student's skill in the analysis and recording of financial accounting transactions using computerized accounting software - for example, Simply Accounting and/or QuickBooks. Students will create and maintain electronic accounting records and prepare financial reports for sole proprietorships and corporations in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course provides students with the ability to calculate and report government and third party circumstances.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course introduces the student to a working call centre environment. Students will understand how the call centre relates to the payroll industry and its function within an organizational structure. In addition, students will become proficient in using call centre technology by performing hands-on exercises in a call centre lab environment. Students are required to apply classroom theory and demonstrate the skills and techniques of communications, keyboarding, research, and customer service in practical applications.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
The purpose of the course is to provide students with an extensive hands-on, practical knowledge of accounting and payroll applications using technology as a tool. Using source documents, students will use appropriate technology to complete a comprehensive case study on both the accounting and payroll cycles. Students will experience payroll and accounting systems and the source standards for industry-standard payroll and accounting systems for both in-house and outsourced payroll.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Career Planning (CAP500) is no longer available. If you are interested in this course or require it to fulfill program requirements, please register for the alternative course: Career Foundation Lab (CFL500).
If you have questions, please email the Manager, Academic Programs, belinda.becker@senecapolytechnic.ca.
This subject is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and transferable skills required to assist in a successful career launch in the global business sector. In addition to exploring the skills and qualities essential to obtain a position in their chosen career, students will prepare a career development campaign which will consist of resumes and cover letters, practise interviews and follow-up techniques. The importance of ethics and etiquette in the workplace will also be discussed. Both traditional and on-line methodologies will be integrated throughout the course.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Students in the Accounting and Payroll diploma program will complete all courses required for the PCP and PLP designations, except CPA403 - Introduction to Payroll Management and CPA404 - Applied Payroll Management (subject to change).
General Education Requirements
In order to meet Seneca's breadth requirements for diploma or advanced diploma programs, students must successfully complete at least 3 general education courses toward their program, satisfying the following criteria:
- Completion of 1 course from Arts & Humanities;
- Completion of 1 course from Sciences & Social Sciences; and
- Completion of 1 course chosen from either category above.
Please note:
Canadian Payroll Program Information
Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP)
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Students must successfully complete CPA300 prior to taking this course.
This course will provide students with the payroll related legislation affecting organizations, as well as the tools to find information and apply that information to different scenarios in relation to individual pay.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course provides students with the ability to calculate and report government and third party circumstances.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
No required prerequisite, but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics or equivalent
This course introduces the student to how accounting information is used by, and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements and how this information is recorded in the various business records.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Certified Payroll Manager (CPM)
Students must successfully complete CPA300, CPA301 and CPA302 prior to taking this course. Students must also meet National Payroll Institute's prerequisites prior to taking this course.
This course prepares students to manage a payroll department by introducing them to core management topics. Based on market research, the course provides the management content and tools, such as decision making and project management, required to be a successful manager. It builds on the foundation of a Payroll Compliance Practitioner's experience and knowledge of legislative monitoring and effective communication of payroll programs and policies.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
Students must successfully complete CPA403 prior to taking this course.
This course provides students with the opportunity to apply relevant management processes in the context of a payroll department. Benchmarking, best practices development, human resources skills are utilized to enable the payroll professional to achieve organizational and career goals.
Note: Plus, applicable fee(s) payable directly to the Institute.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
This course is an examination of the contemporary Canadian business environment, organization, leadership and management decision process which influences the behavior of individuals and groups.
Increased global competition, technological change and the rising expectations of both employees and employers have underlined the need for better and more effective leadership. This course provides a better understanding of this process.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
The focus of this course is to provide students with an understanding of accounting information for the use of business managers and a working knowledge of financial accounting for human resources managers. The fundamental principles of finance and accounting will be combined with practical applications relating to various forms of organization. Using accounting information to help effect plans, controls, and decisions will be emphasized.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
The purpose of this course is to examine the principles, processes and theories involved in the design and administration of compensation programs. Emphasis is placed on linking compensation strategy to corporate strategy, applying behavioural theories in the design of compensation programs and implementing, managing and adapting compensation programs.
Ancillary Fees
Ancillary fees will be added at checkout for program-based courses. Fees will vary based on the number of course registrations. Learn more about ancillary fees for part-time studies.
None.
However, it is recommended that students begin their studies with HRM701, Introduction to Human Resources Management, if they plan to pursue the Human Resources Management Graduate Certificate.
Various government and employer sponsored pension and benefit plans will be reviewed as well as current related public and legislative issues. Major areas for discussion include public and private health care plans, income replacement provisions, survivor benefits and pension arrangements. Also, techniques for benefit plan management will be discussed with respect to plan design, communication, costing and administration.