Payroll and Bookkeeping (Optional Co-op)
Conestoga College, Canada
Payroll and Bookkeeping (Optional Co-op)
Conestoga College
Business, Accounting & Payroll
Program Overview: Payroll and Bookkeeping (Optional Co-op)
Conestoga College's two-year Payroll and Bookkeeping diploma program equips you with the technical skills and industry knowledge needed to manage payroll systems, ensure compliance with government regulations, and support bookkeeping operations in any organization. Whether you are starting out or making a career change, this program is designed for individuals who are organized, detail-oriented, and interested in how businesses manage money and pay their employees.
You will learn how to use both manual and computerized accounting systems, explore compensation and benefits strategies, and prepare for certification as a Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) through the National Payroll Institute. The program also covers industry trends and best practices related to compensation, benefits, and payroll functions within organizations.
An optional co-op stream with one co-op work term is available, giving you the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real workplace environment. The program is offered in a hybrid delivery format, allowing you to benefit from both in-person and online learning experiences at Conestoga's Doon campus in Kitchener, Ontario.
Key Program Highlights
- Pathway to Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) certification through the National Payroll Institute, with reduced work experience requirements for co-op graduates
- Hands-on training in both manual and computerized accounting systems including industry-standard payroll software
- Optional co-op work term providing real-world professional experience in payroll and bookkeeping roles
- Graduates earn three transfer credits toward the Certified Payroll Manager (CPM) designation for career advancement
Curriculum & Modules
The Payroll and Bookkeeping program requires the successful completion of 22 compulsory courses over four academic semesters, plus one general education elective. The curriculum covers foundational accounting principles, payroll legislation and compliance, computerized accounting systems, Canadian income tax, and professional communication skills.
Financial Accounting Fundamentals
4 creditsIntroduces ASPE, IFRS, accounting terminology, the accounting equation, the double-entry system of bookkeeping, the accrual basis of accounting, financial statements, and the ledgers and journals making up a basic accounting system for sole proprietorship and corporation forms of businesses.
Introduction to Payroll Administration
4 creditsProvides the skills and knowledge of legislation required to process payroll for employees. Students learn to use various government forms associated with payroll deductions and reporting, make payroll calculations for gross pay and statutory deductions, and understand payroll department legislation.
Payroll Compliance and Remittances
4 creditsStudents learn to calculate and report government and third-party remittances, year-end requirements, and accounting for payroll at the compliance level. Topics include communicating organizational processes and the role of technology in facilitating compliance to internal and external stakeholders.
Business Mathematics
4 creditsProvides a mathematical basis for personal and business financial decisions through modules covering arithmetic, algebra, ratio-proportion, and graphing. Applications include payroll calculations, cost-volume-profit analysis, and merchandising mathematics.
Applied Payroll Software
4 creditsOffers hands-on training in computerized payroll systems used in Canadian businesses. Students gain proficiency in industry-standard payroll software and learn to determine suitable computerized accounting systems for a company's needs.
Payroll Management and Supervision
4 creditsIntroduces management and supervision skills specific to payroll administrators. Topics include payroll best practices, benchmarking, working with government agencies and organizations, complex issues related to payroll administration, and payroll planning to support organizational goals.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Payroll and Bookkeeping diploma program at Conestoga College is based on meeting specific academic and language proficiency criteria. All applicants initially apply to the non co-op stream and may later apply to the optional co-op stream based on announced deadlines and available seats. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on preparing your application.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status
- English RequirementGrade 12 compulsory English, C (minimum 60%) or U (minimum 50%), or equivalent
- International CredentialsTranscripts from outside Canada require a course-by-course credential evaluation through an approved provider such as ICAS or WES
- Co-op EligibilityAcademic eligibility for the co-op work term is based on performance two terms prior to the work term; students must be legally eligible to work in Canada
- Minimum AverageContact Uni4Edu for current data on minimum grade averages for international applicants
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS AcademicOverall band of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 80 with no individual skill less than 20
- PTE AcademicMinimum score of 53
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Conestoga College offers a range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries to support students in their studies. Student Financial Services awarded more than 400 awards, scholarships, and bursaries in a recent year. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding opportunities available to international students.
Conestoga College Entrance Scholarships
Merit-based entrance scholarships are available to students who demonstrate strong academic performance in their previous studies. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by program and intake.
Conestoga Students Inc. Sporting Scholarship
CAD 1,000Awarded to college athletes or students who volunteer in the athletic community. Recipients are selected by varsity coaches based on demonstrated dedication and academic excellence.
Conestoga Awards and Bursaries
VariesA variety of needs-based bursaries and achievement awards are available throughout the academic year. These are designed to help students manage educational and living expenses while pursuing their diploma.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Payroll and Bookkeeping program are prepared for entry-level bookkeeping and payroll positions within various businesses and industries. Those who meet specified education and work experience requirements will be eligible to become certified as a Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) and may pursue Certified Payroll Manager (CPM) certification for management roles.
Potential Job Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
Conestoga College is a leading Canadian polytechnic institution recognized for its career-focused education, high graduate employment rates, and strong industry partnerships. While Conestoga does not typically appear in global university rankings such as QS or THE due to its polytechnic designation, it holds significant national and regional recognition for applied education excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Co-operative Education Programs | CourseCompare | #3 in Canada |
| Applied Research Colleges | Research Infosource Inc. | Top 20 in Canada |
| Cybersecurity Certification Programs | CourseCompare | #1 in Canada |
| Early Childhood Education Programs | CourseCompare | #1 in Canada |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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