Agreement between Athabasca University, CPA Western School of Business, and CPA Atlantic School of Business helps remove barriers to the CPA certification program
A newly established transfer credit pathway will make it easier for AU business students to pursue a CPA designation.
“This collaboration speaks to the strength of our curriculum and reputation for a rigorous business education,” said Dr. Richard Dixon, interim dean of the Faculty of Business. “With our online and self-paced courses, AU offers learners accessibility and flexibility like no other to enter the professional programs of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada.”
Earlier this year, CPA Canada announced its new Professional Program set to launch in 2027. The CPA is a globally recognized professional designation and provides critical knowledge and skills that prepare accountants for senior executive roles.
Those enrolled in the current CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) may finish the program or follow a transition path to the new CPA Professional Program. Before students can enrol in the CPA PEP or CPA Professional Program, they need 120-credit hours of post-secondary education and specific preparatory courses.
The CPA Western School of Business and the CPA Atlantic School of Business both recommend AU as the academic pathway for their preparatory students.
The strong alignment of AU’s flexible delivery model to the CPA schools provides a natural and accessible pathway for students to continue their accounting education through AU. This pathway would enable students to complete any outstanding entry prerequisites and qualify for exemption from the knowledge assessment in the new CPA program.
This collaboration speaks to the strength of our curriculum and reputation for a rigorous business education.
Dr. Richard Dixon, Interim Dean, Faculty of Business
Prepare for a CPA designation at one of the world’s best business schools
AU’s open admission policy means that students, regardless of location, age, or previous educational experience, can get started on a single course, certificate, diploma, or degree at any time throughout the year.
With the new agreement in place, students can prepare for a CPA designation with confidence, knowing they are taking the required courses at AU—an institution recognized as among the top 6% of business schools from around the world by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Learn more about Faculty of Business courses and programs that can help you meet the requirements for the CPA designation.