Campus
Delivery
Hybrid
Study Option
Full-time & Part-time
Credential
Ontario College Diploma

About the Accounting & Payroll (APP) Program

In this diploma program, you will gain in-depth knowledge of accounting, payroll, and human resource practices and related technology applications. You will benefit from hands-on learning through case studies based on actual work situations, and leading-edge accounting and payroll software. Guest speakers and simulated real-life projects will also add to your learning experience.

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

  • Preparing reports
  • Compliance with legislation and regulations
  • The necessary skills required by the industry

Program Duration

Study at your own pace: In this program you’ll have the flexibility to choose how many courses you want to take each term. Students who study full-time can complete this program in as little as two years (four semesters). Duration will depend on the number of courses taken each term. See courses for more information.

Maximum completion time: In accordance with ministry requirements, all students must complete the program within four academic years of being admitted.

Work Experience

Optional Work Term

This program offers the option to complete a work term, providing valuable hands-on experience in your field of study. If you are interested in completing a work term, apply to the PROGRAMNAME program.​

If you select the work term stream you will have the opportunity to participate in a work term(s) if eligibility requirements are maintained. You will have the flexibility to transfer to the non-work term stream at any time. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and is typically a full-time position that may be paid or unpaid. The work term job search is student-driven and participation in the work term stream does not guarantee that a work position will be secured. However, you will receive guidance and support through in-class career workshops and one-on-one coaching to help prepare for the work term. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream, regardless of success in securing a work position. For more information, see fee details.

The work term can be completed in person, online or in a hybrid format, depending on the hiring organization.

Program Availability

Start in Study Option Location Availability
Jan. 2027 Full-time Newnham Open
Jan. 2027 Part-time Newnham Open
May 2027 Part-time Newnham Open
Sept. 2027 Full-time Newnham Open
Sept. 2027 Part-time Newnham Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

Start in Study Option Location Availability
Sept. 2026 Full-time Newnham Closed
Jan. 2027 Full-time Newnham Open

Availability is subject to change and a seat is not guaranteed.

International students: Studying part-time is not an available option as this will impact your study permit and PGWP eligibility. Review the requirements before choosing your program and study option.

Program and Course Delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements.

In courses delivered in the flexible format, using interactive learning spaces, professors teach in person to students in a physical classroom or lab and stream to students online at the same time. Students have a choice of coming to campus for an in-person experience or learning online.

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

  • Payroll administrator
  • Payroll specialist
  • Payroll accountant
  • Human resource and payroll generalist
  • General accounting co-ordinator
  • Small business accountant
  • Office manager

Professional Certification

As a graduate of this program, provided you achieve the required grade in certain courses, you will have the educational requirements for the National Payroll Institute’s Payroll Compliance Professional certificate.

Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) Compulsory Courses
NPI CourseSeneca CourseIncluded in Accounting and
Payroll Program
Payroll CompliancePayroll Compliance Legislation*Yes
Payroll Fundamentals IPayroll Fundamentals I*Yes
Payroll Fundamentals IIPayroll Fundamentals II*Yes
Introduction to AccountingAccounting Basics IYes

*There is an additional cost for payroll certification courses included in the program.

The Seneca Polytechnic Difference

This is where university meets college. Where theory meets practice. Where ambition meets flexibility.

Global Recognition

Seneca is proud to be one of the first institutions in Ontario to have programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Degree Pathways

Every Seneca diploma has a degree pathway. You have the opportunity to continue your studies and complete a degree at Seneca or a partner institution.

Prior Experience

Earn credit for previous studies, work experience or training through Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition and transfer credits.

Career Support

Seneca Works offers students and graduates lifelong access to an exclusive job board, career coaching, networking and more.

360° Virtual Tours