By combining the conceptual and quantitative elements of accounting while promoting the integration of theory and practice, the Graduate Diploma in Accounting and Master of Professional Accounting programs provide graduates with a systemic understanding of knowledge of financial accounting and managerial accounting, fulfilling the requirements of professional accounting standards defined by CPA Canada Competency Map for the first four modules of the CPA Professional Education Program (PEP). Students will develop the technical, analytical, evaluative and leadership and communication skills needed for a successful career in accounting and related management areas.

Administrative Staff

Chair
Jing Lu (209 MAC, Ext. 54975)
jlu11@uoguelph.ca
Graduate Program Coordinator
Sandra Scott (202 MAC, Ext. 52709)
sjscott@uoguelph.ca
Graduate Program Assistant Team
gdipacct@uoguelph.ca

Graduate Faculty

This list may include Regular Graduate Faculty, Associated Graduate Faculty and/or Graduate Faculty from other universities.

MPAcc Program

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) program, applicants must:

1. Have completed a four-year honours undergraduate degree (or equivalent) with a 73% (B) or higher overall average in the last two years of study.
2. This program is accredited by the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario (CPA Ontario).  Applicants must therefore meet additional CPA Professional Education Program (PEP) admission requirements in order to be admitted to the program, as outlined in the accreditation agreement:
   1. completion of the required core CPA Preparatory Courses with a grade greater or equal to 60% in each
   2. minimum 70% average in the CPA Core Prerequisite Courses (as outlined at https://www.cpaontario.ca/become-a-cpa/why-cpa/prerequisites).

Additionally, all applicants must meet the University of Guelph’s English Language Proficiency requirements for admission. If an applicant’s first language is not English, or their undergraduate degree was not taught at an English-language institution, an English Language Proficiency test will be required.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Master of Professional Accounting program, graduates will have the capacity to:

1. Analytical and Theoretical Tools:
   1. Interpret and discuss information in financial accounting, managerial accounting, assurance, finance and tax to a standard outlined in the CPA Canada Competency Map.
   2. Analyze and critique organizational financial performance to identify areas of efficiency.
2. Identify and analyze accounting problems to propose evidence-based recommendations.
3. Apply an ethical and professional mindset when working in an accounting context.
4. Communicate accounting analyses effectively to various stakeholders with reference to CPA standards, through well-written documents and presentations.

Program Requirements

Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) students are required to complete the following courses (3.50 credits total):

Graduate Diploma in Accounting

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this admission to this program must have an overall average of at least 70% from an undergraduate degree program, plus subject area coverage equivalent to that required for entry into the CPA Professional Education Program.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma in Accounting program, graduates will have the capacity to:

1. Integrate and apply accounting knowledge and professional standards to problems in the field.
2. Develop specialized knowledge in two of four fields identified in the CPA elective modules: performance management, finance, assurance or taxation. 
3. Identify, select and analyze accounting problems to propose evidence-based recommendations. 
4. Develop an ethical and professional approach when working in an accounting context.
5. Communicate accounting analyses effectively to various stakeholders with reference to CPA standards, through well-written documents and presentations. 

Program Requirements

Students must complete four courses, two core and two electives for a total of 2.0 credits. Students pursuing a professional accounting designation should visit the Department of Management website for links to the requirements for each designation. The program is offered during the summer term.

Courses