CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant)

Accounting is an essential skill in Canada’s economy, and those with an affinity for numbers, a keen attention to detail and an interest in the financial governance and well-being of companies and organizations will find it a rewarding career in terms of compensation and the satisfaction they get from helping clients manage their finances and find solutions to fiscal challenges. There’s also the undeniable prestige: Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) are recognized as licensed and certified experts with expanded capabilities, strong business acumen and well above average earning potential.

A CPA designation is only awarded through the recognized CPA bodies in each province or territory, and earned after passing a grueling three-day exam. Fortunately, aspiring CPAs in Canada have many educational options available, with public and private colleges, universities and independent bodies such as the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada all delivering the training and preparation required to earn this coveted designation.

The CPA course is designed to not only teach sophisticated accountancy skills but also develop the professional, decision-making and communication abilities to become business and thought leaders. Core courses cover financial reporting, management accounting, audit and assurance, finance and taxation, while also delving into the technological tools of the trade and gaining industry exposure through case studies and capstone projects.

Accountants are always in demand and the skillset lends itself to a wide range of career options, but the enhanced CPA designation can open doors to many dynamic and challenging opportunities, such as auditing and forensic accounting. The business and leadership aspects of a CPA education also lead many graduates into top roles as Treasurers, CFOs and CEOs.

A recent CPA Canada member survey found the median compensation for a Chartered Professional Accountant is $112,000 per year. The same survey found that CPAs with 25 years of experience pull in a median income of $180,000, putting them in the top 2-5 per cent of earners across Canada.