Accounting Information Systems – (B.A.)

This program blends topics from accounting, international auditing and information systems to develop the knowledge, skills and abilities needed in the accounting profession. The program also seeks to develop advanced communication skills in English and French, which are appropriate for accounting and business. The first year is a foundation course in accounting, application of information technology and languages. Starting in the second year, courses begin to focus more explicitly on the application and integration of information technology into the accounting process while financial and managerial accounting principles are introduced and developed. Communication skills in English and French are further developed with a greater emphasis on business and finance related work in language study.

Accounting Information System Component The Accounting Information System component of the program provides an understanding of computer and information technology concepts and places strong emphasis on acquiring subject-specific knowledge in international auditing, accounting, finance, and the business environment. Furthermore, the program incorporates a one-month training period in the third and fourth year of study during which students work for firms or within an accounting department of a business.

Language Component The language courses develop general oral and written language skills as well as more specialized skills such as report writing, negotiating, interpersonal communication, analyzing and synthesizing within the wider context of business. In language work most of the practical sessions may be function-based and devoted to a given skill (oral work, writing proposals) whereas others are topic based and focus more on Business Communications involving case studies that culminate in oral presentations and business reports. Communication skills in both English and French are developed through the use of real-life cases and involve students in team-based projects.