Universities for Accounting

[FearSonic]

I'm interested in majoring in accounting for university, and I was looking at the following:

University of Waterloo
Wilfrid Laurier University
Schulich School of Business

My only problems are that university of waterloo requires 6 grade 12 U or M courses and I only plan on taking four along with coop next year. Schulich also doesn't seem to be doing accounting. Wilfrid seems to be the best.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to go or any way to solve my problem?

[UrbanPoet]

you need six 12U/M courses to get into university...
most ask for a maximum of two 12M courses. and some ask for only all 12U courses...

[FearSonic]

you need six 12U/M courses to get into university...
most ask for a maximum of two 12M courses. and some ask for only all 12U courses...

So I can't take Co-op next year?! =/

[gh05t]

A former neighbour of mine did Accounting at Laurier and got a job as soon as he graduated.

Schulich seems to be concentrated more on investment banking type things and securities and finance.

Not sure about Waterloo but it is known for Math and Computer Science.

[FearSonic]

A former neighbour of mine did Accounting at Laurier and got a job as soon as he graduated.

Schulich seems to be concentrated more on investment banking type things and securities and finance.

Not sure about Waterloo but it is known for Math and Computer Science.

Laurier seems to be the best choice for me right now, but if what UrbanPoet said is true, I'm screwed!

[ctam]

If you are going for CA, then go to Waterloo. Their Accounting program is designed fro CA. I am quite surprise ppl don't know waterloo is famous for their accounting as well.

[KevC]

UofT Commerce :)

[vonteego]

UofT Commerce :)

Yeah I agree, as much as I don't want to recommend UT (unless you thrive in an environment of anonymity), the UT downtown Commerce will cover all your bases for accounting into the CA stream. Plus you'll be really close to the accounting central of Canada.

Waterloo should obviously be your top choice, followed by Laurier, then probably UT.

[B40]

In the end, it doesn't really matter what school you go to, as long as it's one of the reputable ones which have all been mentioned in this thread. So stop stressing over which school to pick, and look at some of the other factors affecting your decision. Location, class size, girl/guy ratio ;)

[goffeebeans]

Co-op is where its at if you want to get a job in accounting. Have friends doing co-op at waterloo and in their first co-op term at their job placements, they make the same amount as people who already finished their degree. 40-50k. Thats enough to pay for your whole university tuition. Plus each year they get a healthy raise.

It not only pays well if you're struggling with tuition, but as well it can get your foot in the door if you wish to take up a career in accounting.

[Rehii]

Co-op is where its at if you want to get a job in accounting. Have friends doing co-op at waterloo and in their first co-op term at their job placements, they make the same amount as people who already finished their degree. 40-50k. Thats enough to pay for your whole university tuition. Plus each year they get a healthy raise.

It not only pays well if you're struggling with tuition, but as well it can get your foot in the door if you wish to take up a career in accounting.

Agreed, co-op is very useful. I've got friends finishing up their master's in accounting at Waterloo and they all pretty much have jobs lined up for them after graduation at the top accounting firms as a result of their co-op placements throughout undergrad.

If you want to be a CA, I'd definitely apply to Waterloo. As to which program you should choose, that's sth you have to decide for yourself. It all depends on whether the program is suited for what you want to do and which university environment is more compatible with you.

[RastaManMax]

I'm in Waterloo accounting. I can post some of the advantages/disadvantages later. Right now i have to go off to work.

[FearSonic]

I'd really like to go to Waterloo, but I need six 12U or M courses? I REALLY wanted to take co-op next year, does anyone know if co-op will count as a 12U course?

If not, I need help selecting two courses. I'm already taking Calculus this year (Grade 11) and next year, I planned on taking English, Data Management, Financial accounting, Personal fitness (For the sake of it) and co-op second semester.

[B40]

I'd really like to go to Waterloo, but I need six 12U or M courses? I REALLY wanted to take co-op next year, does anyone know if co-op will count as a 12U course?

If not, I need help selecting two courses. I'm already taking Calculus this year (Grade 11) and next year, I planned on taking English, Data Management, Financial accounting, Personal fitness (For the sake of it) and co-op second semester.

If I was in your position, with the option of either
1) taking high school co-op and not getting into U of W
2) not taking high school co-op and getting into U of W

I'd choose #2 without hesitation. The big difference between high school co-op and university co-op is HS is unpaid and Uni is paid.

Honestly, I don't know how much fun you'll have at U of W. Down the street you have Laurier, where in the summer you have a core class as your softball team. There will be about 15-20 teams in the league and you'll play 2 games a week and go out 1-2 times to a keg party then bar with your team and all the other teams...I don't know about U of W, but Laurier is more of a community and party school...

[FearSonic]

If I was in your position, with the option of either
1) taking high school co-op and not getting into U of W
2) not taking high school co-op and getting into U of W

I'd choose #2 without hesitation. The big difference between high school co-op and university co-op is HS is unpaid and Uni is paid.

Honestly, I don't know how much fun you'll have at U of W. Down the street you have Laurier, where in the summer you have a core class as your softball team. There will be about 15-20 teams in the league and you'll play 2 games a week and go out 1-2 times to a keg party then bar with your team and all the other teams...I don't know about U of W, but Laurier is more of a community and party school...

So you're saying not take co-op and just take extra 12U courses to get into UoW? I sure hope my average is high enough. =/

[B40]

So you're saying not take co-op and just take extra 12U courses to get into UoW? I sure hope my average is high enough. =/

I don't know your situation and when I graduated, there was OAC, so all this 12U talk makes no sense to me.

Basically, if you really want to go to UofW that badly, which it seems you do, then I guess you're forced to take the extra courses and not coop. If you think the extra experience will help your resume and chances of getting into UofW, then go for coop. Kind of a catch-22 situation for getting into UofW though....unless...you take a course this summer and take 1-2 night school courses next year, then you could do both.

Co-op is a joke, easiest course and you get 3 credits (when I took it). I was taking co-op along with calculus in night school, work load was no problem at all.

[Coolers]

I'd really like to go to Waterloo, but I need six 12U or M courses? I REALLY wanted to take co-op next year, does anyone know if co-op will count as a 12U course?

If not, I need help selecting two courses. I'm already taking Calculus this year (Grade 11) and next year, I planned on taking English, Data Management, Financial accounting, Personal fitness (For the sake of it) and co-op second semester.

I can't offer any help on course selection as I took OAC, but Waterloo is without a doubt the best accounting program in Ontario if you hope to become a Chartered Accountant (did I mention I go there? :cheesygri).

Advantages:
- Assuming you get into and pass the Master's program (which is only 8 months), you will have all your CA courses covered, and you will not have to write the SOA or CKE. All that's keeping you from your CA will be the UFE and getting the required hours and months of experience (you graduate with 16 months of experience, only another 14 required).
- Co-op program... no other program can compare in terms of reputation and visibility if you want to join a Big 4 firm. Over half the program is currently employed by the Big 4.
- 3:1 girl:guy ratio ;)

Disdvantages:
- The people in this program are highly competitive, don't let their appearances fool you.
- The Waterloo campus kinda sucks, and housing isn't all that great either.
- Accounting @ Waterloo is 70%+ Chinese (maybe plus for you??)
- You likely won't get any scholarships, unlike WLU or Schulich
- Expensive program $$

I know what I wanted when I picked which university to attend. I wanted a Big 4 job, a comfy paycheque (we're the highest paid co-ops in all of Waterloo, and we make the equivalent of a full-time employee), a great opportunity to network, and the reputation of one of the best accounting programs in Canada.

What it comes down to is, if you want to become a CA, this is your easiest ticket in. Whatever problems you have with not having enough credits or enough money, those are secondary to the kind of head-start you have over your peers in the real world.

[simms]

UT Commerce is one in a million. There's really no difference.. I would recommend UW for accounting.

For business, I would only consider York's Schulich, Western's Ivey or Toronto's Rotman schools.

[divx]

waterloo housing is completely bs, no room for anything, if I'd get to choose again, I'd NEVER went to waterloo. I'd get paid over 8X the schollership I got from uwaterloo if I just went to the university near me. It's the best uni in sk, but that's not saying much though.

[FearSonic]

I think I'm going to Waterloo then. I still have room to make changes, but I need to know what courses to pick NOW. As for the 12U thing, since OAC was taken out of our schools, we now have to cram everything into four years rather than a relaxed five, and 12U means grade 12 courses which Universities recognize since they're harder I guess?

I just need help choosing my next three programs. I'n thinking Into to International Business (M course, allowed), Exercise Science (For kicks?), and Robotics. All those are Ms except for Exercise Science which is a U. Are these acceptable?

[goffeebeans]

Look at the program requirements to see what courses you must take to get into the program. Then if you still have room for electives choose some bird courses or a substitute for a required course.

[Kurtz7834]

I graduated from Schulich. The director of accounting used to be Al Rosen, one of the best forensic accountants in Canada. He has since left but their UFE pass rate is still one of the highest of all the schools, to the best of my knowledge.

Schulich is known for its marketing and accounting programs, not so much for investment banking.

If you want to go into accounting give Schulich consideration. Their program is really rigorous.

[FearSonic]

I chose my courses for next year today, and since I'm aiming at Waterloo, I decided to grab the seven courses rather than four plus a coop.

English
Principals of Financial Accounting
Mathematics of Data Management
Introduction to International Business
Organizational Studies (Human Resources)
Personal Fitness
Exercise Science

A bunch of them are easy as hell.

Now for my second question, to those who are in Waterloo, what was your average, along with your mark with Calculus? I want to know so if I need to, I'll drop Calculus and take it next year since I'm not doing all that well.

[Coolers]

I chose my courses for next year today, and since I'm aiming at Waterloo, I decided to grab the seven courses rather than four plus a coop.

English
Principals of Financial Accounting
Mathematics of Data Management
Introduction to International Business
Organizational Studies (Human Resources)
Personal Fitness
Exercise Science

A bunch of them are easy as hell.

Now for my second question, to those who are in Waterloo, what was your average, along with your mark with Calculus? I want to know so if I need to, I'll drop Calculus and take it next year since I'm not doing all that well.

I entered two and a half years ago... my application average was roughly 92-93%. My OAC Calculus was just a bit above that if I remember correctly.

[divx]

I chose my courses for next year today, and since I'm aiming at Waterloo, I decided to grab the seven courses rather than four plus a coop.

English
Principals of Financial Accounting
Mathematics of Data Management
Introduction to International Business
Organizational Studies (Human Resources)
Personal Fitness
Exercise Science

A bunch of them are easy as hell.

Now for my second question, to those who are in Waterloo, what was your average, along with your mark with Calculus? I want to know so if I need to, I'll drop Calculus and take it next year since I'm not doing all that well.


72% avg, 59% in calc, calc is really really really easy, I had a bad luck on the final, I knew almost everything. Too bad the final was tested on everything I didn't study for. Sigh.... I wasted so many hours studying laplace transform and the final didn't even metion it.

[UrbanPoet]

Co-op is where its at if you want to get a job in accounting. Have friends doing co-op at waterloo and in their first co-op term at their job placements, they make the same amount as people who already finished their degree. 40-50k. Thats enough to pay for your whole university tuition. Plus each year they get a healthy raise.

It not only pays well if you're struggling with tuition, but as well it can get your foot in the door if you wish to take up a career in accounting.

are you mentioning the merits of co-op based university programs beacuse the poster of this topic mentioned "i cant take co-op next year" if yes.. then damn, RFD ppl really dont read :|

I think he was refering to a High school co-op placement....

And No co-op courses do not count towards University Credits... ITs good expirience and looks AWESOME on your resume tho.

NExt year.. you can take co-op.. But your schedule will be packed.
your allowed to have 8 credits or 8 classes.
take six 12U classes (maximum two 12M courses... but check the universities that you wanna get into to make sure how many M courses they allow...)
and then take the co-op on the side.

unlesss you already have some 12U/M courses previously completed..
just make sure you have a minimum of six 12U/M courses.

[FearSonic]

I have maybe two or three M courses next year, but I'm sure the U courses will cover for it. I think, and hope. Anyway, UoWaterloo just asks for ENG4U (I took it for next year, plus five Grade 12 U or M courses, final grade of at least 75% in any Grade 12 U English required. Recommended: MCB4U (Calculus), MDM4U (Data Management), BAT4M (Principals of Financial Accounting).

I needed to know what most marks were for Calculus because as it stands, I have a 65-70% in Calculus, which I don't think will be GREAT for my average. The only plus side for this semester is that I'm doing grade 11 accounting and computer technology right now, so it's going to be boosted by those two.

divx, you said you got 59% in Calculus, so I have to wonder if you have amazing community involvement or something, because I don't know if Waterloo would allow me to have 52% in Calculus.

[chopstickhero]

go to waterloo ...

[FearSonic]

https://www.ca2b.biz/H/becomeCA/creditGradeReq/index.cfm

I'm looking at that website right now and I'm trying to figure out the difference between Waterloo and U<a href=../autolink/redirectpage.php?linkid=140 target=_blank>TSC</a>, as UTSC offers more credits but they both seem to get to CA approval.

What's the difference between MAcc and MBA?
Masters in Accounting and Masters in Business Administration?

[killuminati]

im in first year now at ottawa U.
they have coop starting in 3rd year and lots of opportunity to switch out of the accounting stream if that ends up not being your thing; which is a huge plus for me since im not sure yet. There is a new building being built for the School of Management and it seems the school is a lot more recognized by businesses than i initially though.

i got into the program at waterloo, its very specialized for accounting. Waterloo is definetly a competitive school and seems like a lot more pressure. One major reason i didnt stay in that program was the costs, the tuition is double that of other programs. it probably is better because of the reputation but I couldnt justify the costs.

im guessing ottawa U its probably a lot easier on the workload and grades and that would be a plus for gettin the CA desigination. Once youre a CA its not going to matter what school you started at.

[Headhunter]

Schulich is the best, and by far the hardest, from what I know. Get through that, and your education should be 2nd to none in Canada (in your respective field).

[akwok]

If you go to Waterloo, make sure you don't stay in the dorm the first year if you're not all for the partying and drinking. It's insane there; don't even think of studying.

[Rehan]

If you go to Waterloo, make sure you don't stay in the dorm the first year if you're not all for the partying and drinking. It's insane there; don't even think of studying.Village 1 isn't that bad (and it's a little closer to classes, too). You can choose a "quiet house", if you want.

[akwok]

Village 1 is the worst! Ahh, I had to move out halfway through the year because people on my floor were partying non stop. You can't sleep till 3:00 a.m. on weekdays, which especially blows when you have to wake up at 8:30 the next day. The doors to the rooms in V1 actually AMPLIFY sound in the halls it seems!

I would have preferred MKV, as at least you can have some compromise with your other 3 roommates.

[B40]

Village 1 is the worst! Ahh, I had to move out halfway through the year because people on my floor were partying non stop. You can't sleep till 3:00 a.m. on weekdays, which especially blows when you have to wake up at 8:30 the next day. The doors to the rooms in V1 actually AMPLIFY sound in the halls it seems!

I would have preferred MKV, as at least you can have some compromise with your other 3 roommates.

Damn....I would have been dying to move into a dorm like that...hehe the memories of dorm life...

It's loud and fun, that's why you have libraries to go to when you have to study. I'd take loud/fun rez over a quiet/studious rez any day.

[FearSonic]

Could you guys post your marks in Calculus, Data Management, and your overall averages? Thanks.

[RastaManMax]

Ok now that i'm done my French HW and home from work, i'll share my take on the advantages/disadvantages of UW:

1) Tuition: $5800 (arts, CA or CMA) $2800 (Science/CA) $2600 (Math/CA)

- If i could do it again, i'd go into math, i'm already doing all honors math courses for all my electives in arts and now instead of needing only 41 credits if i was in math, i need 43 credits to fulfill the math minor and BAFM requirements

2) Lifestyle: - in my year, there is no real life. Your classmates are all anti-social people that try to sound like they had lives and talk about the 1 time they went out past 8pm for the entire semester to sound 'cool'. I've heard that my year is horrible beyond, but the year above and below are way better, real girls exist in those classes too.

3) Co-op: - an excellent asset, especially in accounting. CA you need 30 months practical experience in an ICAO accredited firm to qualify, by the time you're done at UW (diploma or masters), you'll have 16months already

4) Masters: - if you make it you're excempt from CKE/SOA and can write the UFE immediately. Some may say there's no advantage to doing the Masters, it costs a TON now and you could be working and studying for the CKE/SOA/UFE in the meantime, but after masters, you're more marketable and you should be starting off in a senior position no matter what.

5) Marks: - Cutoff for my year (double cohort):

Arts - 89%, Math - 90%, Science - ~90%+ (not too sure)

I think last year it was lower.

6) Student housing: - available everywhere off campus. Tons of people are co-op there. Expect to pay $400-$500 month in winter/fall and $250 in spring terms.

7) Co-op: - Fixed for CA. You'll be IN SCHOOL for 2nd, 3rd year and on co-op for 4th year so you're summers are shot for 2nd and 3rd for sure and maybe 4th as well. This is going to be a BIG challenge for me because i was never able to do any sort of work when the weather became nice outside.

8) After you graduate: - You have a real job. On the downside you will be a nerd or somewhat anti-social and need psychiatric help and/or 'de-nerdifying' as i like to call it.

My experience at UW hasn't been a good one by a long shot, i left an excellent life back home in Ottawa to come out here and it is very hard, (didn't make it any easier on myself by choosing to do a full math minor), but on the other hand it should pay off in the long run. I would not apply to arts again if i had the choice though, the high tuition and caulky people are a huge piss-off in my year, but then again i heard that the other years are far better than mine. UT is definately a good school and a fair bit of the peeps i work with now have graduated from Laurier. Laurier is definately more fun than UW. If i had to do it all again though, my decision would be between actuarial science (UW), math accounting (UW), or Ivey (Western). Ivey would probably be the best balance between life/education because it is highly regarded and Western = hotties, UW on the other hand = nerdy, no fun.

LEMAR

[FearSonic]

Thanks LEMAR. I'd just like to know, since you were a double cohort, what were your marks in Calculus, Data Management, and your overall average? I don't want to fail miserably.

As for the universities, U<a href=../autolink/redirectpage.php?linkid=140 target=_blank>TSC</a> seems like a viable choice, but the difference is you get an MBA there instead of an MAcc, what's the difference and should it matter?

[stooples_employee]

So I can't take Co-op next year?! =/

you can take co-op BUT you'll need to take 2 additional courses
I dunno if your school runs co-op differently but where i went, you would have co-op half the day and 2 classes in the other half

[FearSonic]

So far, I'm looking at these universities:

Waterloo
Toronto (Scarborough probably.)
York (Schulich, so hard.)
Wilfred Laurier

Any others I should look at? I'm leaning more towards Wilfrid Laurier now cause of the Waterloo costs.

[Rehii]

If you go to Waterloo, make sure you don't stay in the dorm the first year if you're not all for the partying and drinking. It's insane there; don't even think of studying.

What the heck? I don't remember V1 or V2 being that bad at all. For the most part, my floor was really quiet. I heard more noise outside from drunk people coming home from FED on Thursday nights.

But yeah, if you are serious about studying, make sure you request a quiet floor.

[DISH]

Laurier:

-girls,girls, girls lol
-Smaller campus, easier to get around
-Friendly atmosphere
-Recognized business program

U of W
-Girls??? I think I seen a few "ok" looking ones there
-More choices for elective courses ( note you can cross register at both)
-Great for engineering/math/science

If you ever decided that accounting wasn't your thing you can always transfer into another business related field. From what I hear laurier's business program is tough. Progression requirements are usually B+ in business courses and I think a C+ in everything else. Trust me getting a B+ in a first year business course requires quite a bit of work.

[B40]

Laurier:

-girls,girls, girls lol
-Smaller campus, easier to get around
-Friendly atmosphere
-Recognized business program


make that

-white girls, white girls, white girls lol

like i said before, don't just choose the best school, look at other factors like how much fun you''ll have. school isn't all about work...don't go thorugh 4 years of school, busting your ass and not having any fun

if you go to a school besides waterloo, will you have more fun? most likely...will you not be able to get a job from a big CA firm? highly unlikely..

[DISH]

True lol

I feel like a minority whenever I go to the U of W campus

[FearSonic]

So choosing anything but Waterloo would guarantee that I won't get into a big CA firm?

[B40]

So choosing anything but Waterloo would guarantee that I won't get into a big CA firm?

Um, no the opposite. You don't have to go to Waterloo to get into a big CA firm.

[kiu92]

I am currently an accounting student in Waterloo and I would like to further comment on RastaManMax's.

I got to agree Tuition is insane, BAFM is now a cost recovery program, which means tuition is sort of deregulated: $5,800 is just the tuition itself, you got to take into consideration residence, additional student fees, textbooks, living expenses, etc. It is a major concern because you are looking at $12,000 each year.

You might get some help when you go on co-op. But still, if you are on your own, you will be indebted quite heavily when you graduate.

But, other than that, I strongly recommend UW's accounting program, esp at the undergrad level, because this is by far the most specialized program in Ontario if not Canada for accounting.

I myself will not head to the Masters portion of the program, because I am not confident in it (I have to tell you, you really have to work pretty hard in the program, unless you are super smart), and the high tuition. And all you will gain is the exemption to CKE/Summer School. I will however, complete the Diploma and then go to CKE.

It is true that once you are a CA, it does not matter where you studied, but UW co-op and grads are generally highly-regarded in the industry.

Co-op is great, in the sense that you will be given the chance to work in CA firms way before everyone else. The experience you will get is worthwhile, plus you will get some financial relief for the debt you piled up as you goes. The salary is actually not bad for a person that is not even an University grad. But because UW accounting co-op is so specialized, you shouldn't have any problem finding a job.

I will not comment on Lifestyle and the fun rating, you know, if you want to earn a valuable degree, you got to give up some, I am not saying you will have no life whatsoever, but it won't be easy to get thru the program if you are planning to party 3 nights a week. Thats all I can say~

Hope this helps and hope you choose the best for yourself.

Cheers.


Ok now that i'm done my French HW and home from work, i'll share my take on the advantages/disadvantages of UW:

1) Tuition: $5800 (arts, CA or CMA) $2800 (Science/CA) $2600 (Math/CA)

- If i could do it again, i'd go into math, i'm already doing all honors math courses for all my electives in arts and now instead of needing only 41 credits if i was in math, i need 43 credits to fulfill the math minor and BAFM requirements

2) Lifestyle: - in my year, there is no real life. Your classmates are all anti-social people that try to sound like they had lives and talk about the 1 time they went out past 8pm for the entire semester to sound 'cool'. I've heard that my year is horrible beyond, but the year above and below are way better, real girls exist in those classes too.

3) Co-op: - an excellent asset, especially in accounting. CA you need 30 months practical experience in an ICAO accredited firm to qualify, by the time you're done at UW (diploma or masters), you'll have 16months already

4) Masters: - if you make it you're excempt from CKE/SOA and can write the UFE immediately. Some may say there's no advantage to doing the Masters, it costs a TON now and you could be working and studying for the CKE/SOA/UFE in the meantime, but after masters, you're more marketable and you should be starting off in a senior position no matter what.

5) Marks: - Cutoff for my year (double cohort):

Arts - 89%, Math - 90%, Science - ~90%+ (not too sure)

I think last year it was lower.

6) Student housing: - available everywhere off campus. Tons of people are co-op there. Expect to pay $400-$500 month in winter/fall and $250 in spring terms.

7) Co-op: - Fixed for CA. You'll be IN SCHOOL for 2nd, 3rd year and on co-op for 4th year so you're summers are shot for 2nd and 3rd for sure and maybe 4th as well. This is going to be a BIG challenge for me because i was never able to do any sort of work when the weather became nice outside.

8) After you graduate: - You have a real job. On the downside you will be a nerd or somewhat anti-social and need psychiatric help and/or 'de-nerdifying' as i like to call it.

LEMAR

[krazo]

Have you considered the fact that Accounting may not be for you?
I'm in second year Schulich and am now realizing that the CA is not for me. I dont want to sound like a wussy or crybaby but I'm not engaged in my accounting my classes. I picture myself doing something for the rest of my life that I dont particularly enjoy learning about. So I made the switch to Finance, way more interesting for me. I could read the textbook, articles, unassigned readings just for pleasure.

Anyway, keep that in mind cause if you dont like it... :|

[FearSonic]

Have you considered the fact that Accounting may not be for you?
I'm in second year Schulich and am now realizing that the CA is not for me. I dont want to sound like a wussy or crybaby but I'm not engaged in my accounting my classes. I picture myself doing something for the rest of my life that I dont particularly enjoy learning about. So I made the switch to Finance, way more interesting for me. I could read the textbook, articles, unassigned readings just for pleasure.

Anyway, keep that in mind cause if you dont like it... :|

What made you switch? What's finance about?

I am just particularly interested in Accounting and it's something I can picture myself doing because I've been doing accounting-like things for years and I had no idea. It's somewhat quite fun.

[Coolers]

I am currently an accounting student in Waterloo and I would like to further comment on RastaManMax's.

I got to agree Tuition is insane, BAFM is now a cost recovery program, which means tuition is sort of deregulated: $5,800 is just the tuition itself, you got to take into consideration residence, additional student fees, textbooks, living expenses, etc. It is a major concern because you are looking at $12,000 each year.

You might get some help when you go on co-op. But still, if you are on your own, you will be indebted quite heavily when you graduate.

But, other than that, I strongly recommend UW's accounting program, esp at the undergrad level, because this is by far the most specialized program in Ontario if not Canada for accounting.

I myself will not head to the Masters portion of the program, because I am not confident in it (I have to tell you, you really have to work pretty hard in the program, unless you are super smart), and the high tuition. And all you will gain is the exemption to CKE/Summer School. I will however, complete the Diploma and then go to CKE.

It is true that once you are a CA, it does not matter where you studied, but UW co-op and grads are generally highly-regarded in the industry.

Co-op is great, in the sense that you will be given the chance to work in CA firms way before everyone else. The experience you will get is worthwhile, plus you will get some financial relief for the debt you piled up as you goes. The salary is actually not bad for a person that is not even an University grad. But because UW accounting co-op is so specialized, you shouldn't have any problem finding a job.

I will not comment on Lifestyle and the fun rating, you know, if you want to earn a valuable degree, you got to give up some, I am not saying you will have no life whatsoever, but it won't be easy to get thru the program if you are planning to party 3 nights a week. Thats all I can say~

Hope this helps and hope you choose the best for yourself.

Cheers.

I don't want to keep re-hashing what everyone has to say, but I'm not afraid to tell you the downsides of my program. I'm currently in my third year in Accounting @ Waterloo, and I will graduate with a BA. They have since changed it to a BAFM degree, along with a corresponding (more than??) doubling in tuition. Accounting is mostly Asian, and if you are too, be prepared for the expense of travelling to and from Toronto every weekend because rarely does anyone stay in Waterloo unless they have to study for exams. The quality of housing available is unappetizing, to say the least, but you do have lots of choice as *everything* in the surrounding area has been turned into student housing/rentals.

The workload is not a piece of cake by any means; you will have to work super hard. That being said, what I love about our program is that there's a real sense of community here. It's like a big family, and no one's afraid to share answers even if you are only casual friends. From what I've heard, UT Commerce students are much more competitive at a face-to-face level. There's plenty of politics involved when you're seeing the same people all year-round for five years straight.

In any case, you are compensated handsomely for your efforts if you land a co-op placement. The opportunities for you to travel and try new things are amazing if you get into a Big 4 firm, which you should have a great shot at. Upon completion of your Masters degree, you will return to your co-op placement as a Senior Associate (at least that's how it works for Big 4), and will only be 2-3 years away from making manager, at which point you'll be extremely marketable to other non-accounting companies. A lot of people choose to leave the firms at this stage, opting instead for often 6-figure salaries in a management position in industry.

[krazo]

What made you switch? What's finance about?

I am just particularly interested in Accounting and it's something I can picture myself doing because I've been doing accounting-like things for years and I had no idea. It's somewhat quite fun.

I found accounting fairly easy in high school as well and thought I'd go ahead and pursue it, but it is very different from what you expect. It requires a lot of memorization I find, relating to GAAP rules and guidelines, something I was not too fond of. Cases are neat and I find them interesting, but I'm not a fan of memorizing the GAAP definition of a liability or allocating overhead using activity based costing.

Finance is a real great course, especially if you are strong in Math. It is basically pricing assets using present value and other valuation models. If you invest in the stock market, this knowledge is invaluable as it has helped me price stocks to determine whether they are overvalued or undervalued.

In light of that, I will be continuing my accounting courses for intermediate and advanced financial as well as financial statement analysis, but I will not go ahead with audit, tax, or managerial (ugh).

Anyway, good luck with your studies.

PM me if you want more details.

[B40]

Some good advice krazo. If you're going to go into something as specialized as accounting, more specifically financial accounting, you damn well better be sure that's what you want to do. To be 100% sure at that age to me doesn't seem very likely.

I went into college thinking I wanted to do accounting. I did well in high school accounting, came 3rd place in CA challenge (don't know if you still have that), got a really good mark in my accounting class etc. etc...then I went to college, I've always been passionate about stocks and I won a stock market competition there, making me go hmm..maybe I should be doing something on Bay street.

Fast forward to 2nd year, I got introduced to managerial accounting, which to me was a lot more interesting and useful in my perspective. Got me thinking again about what I want to do.

3rd year, got introduced to operations and supply chain management. Again, this was interesting to me and got me thinking some more.

Anyways, I ended up doing something totally different than what I originally thought I would end up doing. I ended up graduating with a supply chain management specialization and am currently pursuing a CMA designation. Both of these I had no idea existed when I graduated from high school.

The point I'm trying to make here, is to consider going for a business degree, where you go through a general 1st and 2nd year and then start specializing in one area (marketing, finance, HR, accounting, etc.) in 4th year. You leave yourself more options this way and aren't closing any doors. With a general business degree you can apply for a wider range of jobs and not just accounting jobs, while at the same time, still leave accounting open as an option.

[FearSonic]

What does one require to pursue a general business degree in terms of marks and/or community involvement?

[krazo]

What does one require to pursue a general business degree in terms of marks and/or community involvement?

That depends on the school's requirements.
At Schulich, the cutoff was a 91% I believe when I got in. I had some minor community involvement and such.. like volunteering at sports camp, helping out in the computer lab to update software... If you are worried that you aren't the President of the council, editor of the newspaper, and captain of the soccer team.. don't be.


I also got reference letters from teachers, definitely do that if you can.

[FearSonic]

I don't think I'll be getting into Schulich if cutoff is 91%, especially since I'm not the strongest at maths. I enjoy the subject but I'm just not too intuitive or smart when it comes to math.

[krazo]

I don't think I'll be getting into Schulich if cutoff is 91%, especially since I'm not the strongest at maths. I enjoy the subject but I'm just not too intuitive or smart when it comes to math.

The minimum mark for calc was 70%, so if you can maintain that but do well in other courses, you shouldn't have a problem. I would consider applying anyway, a few people have gotten in with 88%.

Are you going for the March Break tour? You should check out the school and its atmosphere.

[FearSonic]

I can probably keep up a 70% in calc, it's pretty damn hard for me but data management shouldn't be too much of a fight.

As for the march break tour, doubt it, probably have some sort of plans with my friends.

[CSR]

IF you think accounting is easy, think again.> Gr. 11 is nothing compared to Gr. 12.. so be prepared

[krazo]

I can post a case study if you want so you can see the kinds of things you will encounter at University.

[FearSonic]

Please do.

[B40]

I can post a case study if you want so you can see the kinds of things you will encounter at University.

Post one from a general class, business 101 type stuff and then post an accounting case :cheesygri

[RastaManMax]

I don't want to keep re-hashing what everyone has to say, but I'm not afraid to tell you the downsides of my program. I'm currently in my third year in Accounting @ Waterloo, and I will graduate with a BA. They have since changed it to a BAFM degree, along with a corresponding (more than??) doubling in tuition. Accounting is mostly Asian, and if you are too, be prepared for the expense of travelling to and from Toronto every weekend because rarely does anyone stay in Waterloo unless they have to study for exams. The quality of housing available is unappetizing, to say the least, but you do have lots of choice as *everything* in the surrounding area has been turned into student housing/rentals.

The workload is not a piece of cake by any means; you will have to work super hard. That being said, what I love about our program is that there's a real sense of community here. It's like a big family, and no one's afraid to share answers even if you are only casual friends. From what I've heard, UT Commerce students are much more competitive at a face-to-face level. There's plenty of politics involved when you're seeing the same people all year-round for five years straight.

In any case, you are compensated handsomely for your efforts if you land a co-op placement. The opportunities for you to travel and try new things are amazing if you get into a Big 4 firm, which you should have a great shot at. Upon completion of your Masters degree, you will return to your co-op placement as a Senior Associate (at least that's how it works for Big 4), and will only be 2-3 years away from making manager, at which point you'll be extremely marketable to other non-accounting companies. A lot of people choose to leave the firms at this stage, opting instead for often 6-figure salaries in a management position in industry.

Yeah, our year sucks for competitiveness. In fact you'll often hear some of the biggest nerds saying how they 'never studied' and such, or haven't started massive assignments, yet they'll have them in no problem on the days they're due. I hate most of my year, it's plagued with the ugliest girls i've ever seen in my life and the most fake people known to man. In fact, i know of somebody who failed because their friends kept saying how they never studied and such and he/she kept believing them and following them places. In reality they did all their work right after class and such, then told lies. I find crap like that horrible. I hate UW, the education is good, but by no means, if your year is like mine, you'll hate it too. Definately a FAR cry from high school if you ask me.

EDIT: Just as a random sidenote to give you an idea of how far off UW (obviously i can't comment on other Univ's) is from high school accounting:

No work at all outside of class, 6pm night before exam:

High school: 99% gr.11 accounting, 96% OAC
University: - bust your ass off for 80's

I have a couple of friends in other schools for accounting and they haven't really started any real in depth crap yet. I really don't know how you can get by if you didn't take OAC or gr. 12 in UW because your azz goes face first into the gory junk.

LEMAR

[FearSonic]

Maybe UW isn't the place for me?

My friend and I are planning to go to the same universities and I think our schools are basically Laurier, U<a href=../autolink/redirectpage.php?linkid=140 target=_blank>TSC</a>, and York. We are looking down upon York because of the no co-op thing.

[divx]

I hate UW, the education is good, but by no means, if your year is like mine, you'll hate it too. Definately a FAR cry from high school if you ask me.


I concer, for everyday I was there I wished that I wasn't. UW is totally horrible on EVERYTHING EXCEPT education. which is saying a lot, I pretty much wasted my health studying there. OMFG I wished I picked the local university instead. If I had a 2nd chance, I'd choose NOT go there.

It does have benefit there, used to make minimum wage with high school education, now make more than double....

[divx]

Maybe UW isn't the place for me?

My friend and I are planning to go to the same universities and I think our schools are basically Laurier, U<a href=../autolink/redirectpage.php?linkid=140 target=_blank>TSC</a>, and York. We are looking down upon York because of the no co-op thing.

if you are smart in high school, but did next to no work, don't go there
if you are smart in high school, and did lots of work, go there
if you are not smart and did lots of work, go there
if you are not smart and did no work, then you are lucky, no need to worry about going there because they will give you the boot when they check your transcript.

[krazo]

Maybe UW isn't the place for me?

My friend and I are planning to go to the same universities and I think our schools are basically Laurier, U<a href=../autolink/redirectpage.php?linkid=140 target=_blank>TSC</a>, and York. We are looking down upon York because of the no co-op thing.

I know having no coop is a downside, but that doesn't mean no jobs. A lot of major recruiters come to Schulich and many people get internships in third year with fulltime offers in fourth. The Big 4 have a good relationship with the school if thats what you are wondering.

About the case studies, anyway who wants a copy please PM me your email.

[divx]

what's the big 4?

[confused]

what's the big 4?

deloitte & touche, ernst & young, kpmg, pricewaterhousecoopers

[Coolers]

No offense to divx, but you should take what he says with a grain of salt. I agree with the majority of what he says in that school morale blows, the campus sucks, housing is pretty crappy, etc., but his experiences obviously don't reflect that of the Accounting program. He obviously doesn't believe the tradeoff for the education was worth it, but then again, if he wasn't in our Accounting/AcSci/Systems Design/Pre-Op programs, I would likely agree with him.

However, the accounting program at Waterloo is unmatched. Check out our co-op salary figures. Over half the class will be making the equivalent of $40k+/a during your first co-op term (1.5 years after you graduate from high scool). Our program boasts near-perfect employment 6 months upon graduation of the Masters program. No other program at Waterloo, or any other school to the best of my knowledge, can match that.

There's certainly a ton of crap you have to put up with during the 5 years you're here, but if I were given my choice of universities again, I'd still pick Waterloo because the education and opportunities available to you at this stage of your life are amazing.

[B40]

However, the accounting program at Waterloo is unmatched. Check out our co-op salary figures. Over half the class will be making the equivalent of $40k+/a during your first co-op term (1.5 years after you graduate from high scool). Our program boasts near-perfect employment 6 months upon graduation of the Masters program. No other program at Waterloo, or any other school to the best of my knowledge, can match that.

That seems in line with other University co-op programs for accounting jobs. Employers are subsidized for hiring co-op students, which is why it seems like they're paying you a lot, but in reality, part of it is paid by the government.

[JoKeRr]

Queen's school of business, you won't regret it. Best profs and hotest chicks

[Coolers]

Queen's school of business, you won't regret it. Best profs and hotest white chicks

Fixed ;)

[ctam]

No offense to divx, but you should take what he says with a grain of salt. I agree with the majority of what he says in that school morale blows, the campus sucks, housing is pretty crappy, etc., but his experiences obviously don't reflect that of the Accounting program. He obviously doesn't believe the tradeoff for the education was worth it, but then again, if he wasn't in our Accounting/AcSci/Systems Design/Pre-Op programs, I would likely agree with him..

If the person is asking for the best school for morale, campus and lifetsyle, then pick western or somewhere else. The person is asking for the best Accounting program. If he/she is going for CA, Waterloo is number one.

[divx]

No offense to divx, but you should take what he says with a grain of salt. I agree with the majority of what he says in that school morale blows, the campus sucks, housing is pretty crappy, etc., but his experiences obviously don't reflect that of the Accounting program. He obviously doesn't believe the tradeoff for the education was worth it, but then again, if he wasn't in our Accounting/AcSci/Systems Design/Pre-Op programs, I would likely agree with him.

However, the accounting program at Waterloo is unmatched. Check out our co-op salary figures. Over half the class will be making the equivalent of $40k+/a during your first co-op term (1.5 years after you graduate from high scool). Our program boasts near-perfect employment 6 months upon graduation of the Masters program. No other program at Waterloo, or any other school to the best of my knowledge, can match that.

There's certainly a ton of crap you have to put up with during the 5 years you're here, but if I were given my choice of universities again, I'd still pick Waterloo because the education and opportunities available to you at this stage of your life are amazing.

i'm in engineering, no idea what's like in accounting, just saying the campus life sux. edu is top notch.

[FearSonic]

I know the education is unmatched, but damn it's far and expensive. I'm taking it into serious consideration here, I'm doing pretty well in high school (85+ average) and I work pretty hard when I want to. I didn't do too well in Functions and Relations because the teacher made it seem so useless. I always asked what it was used for in real life and she just said "Stuff!". God I hate her.

[Sam268]

UW Co-op is no doubt the best bang for your time/money/energy.

4th yr UW Math Accounting Student here, work @ EY along with a few of my friends. People in this program don't just care about a job when they graduate.

When you graduate, you're pretty much GARANTEED a $50K+ job if you know how to speak english.

[ah_long]

i'm in the waterloo accounting program, FM stream which is NOT for the CA ppl..it's a friggin rip off....

it's a very competitive program

[purple_rabbit]

Forget Waterloo, UT's commerce program is a better choice. :razz:

[FearSonic]

Whoa, my thread is alive.

I'd prefer Schulich, Waterloo or Queens at the moment. I'm waiting to see which I get accepted into to even decide first.

[purple_rabbit]

Whoa, my thread is alive.

I'd prefer Schulich, Waterloo or Queens at the moment. I'm waiting to see which I get accepted into to even decide first.

Fine don't blame me if I make more money than you one day!!! :) :)

[FearSonic]

Fine don't blame me if I make more money than you one day!!! :) :)

You sound just like my classmate. But I never applied to UT Commerce, just UTSC Co-op Management. I figure if I'm going to UT, might as well get co-op. That, and it was my fifth choice anyway, didn't wanna use another $33.

[commie]

Forget Waterloo, UT's commerce program is a better choice. :razz:

What makes UT's commerce program a better choice???


Fine don't blame me if I make more money than you one day!!!

Thats some big claims you are making there....I bet someone from Schulich, Waterloo or Queens might challenge you on that.

[ah_long]

Fine don't blame me if I make more money than you one day!!! :) :)

unless something really bad happens...

Western's Ivey school of business and Schulich is ranked very high among the world's business school...

and not to mention, Waterloo's co-op program of accounting almost guarantees you a job in a major accounting firm...

if you are pursuing a CA, I don't see you going any faster, and I don't see how you will make more money...

[commie]

unless something really bad happens...

Western's Ivey school of business and Schulich is ranked very high among the world's business school...

and not to mention, Waterloo's co-op program of accounting almost guarantees you a job in a major accounting firm...

if you are pursuing a CA, I don't see you going any faster, and I don't see how you will make more money...

Thats just someone's 'homerism'....The matter of fact is all those 4-5 schools are pretty decent for accounting....and its not like someone will have an advantage over another CA.....they follows a very similar career path...

BTW - i see from your signature, that you work at Optical 88....
I have been buying my glasses(prescription and sunglasses) there for the last 5-6 years now.....question for you.....Are they REAL? I am always amazed at the lower prices they sell for the Gucci, Chanel, Armani, etc...
Oh, and any techniques in negotiating for a lower price? So far I have been only successful in knocking down the price by 30-40 dollars..on like a $300-400 pair of glasses.

[ah_long]

Thats just someone's 'homerism'....The matter of fact is all those 4-5 schools are pretty decent for accounting....and its not like someone will have an advantage over another CA.....they follows a very similar career path...

BTW - i see from your signature, that you work at Optical 88....
I have been buying my glasses(prescription and sunglasses) there for the last 5-6 years now.....question for you.....Are they REAL? I am always amazed at the lower prices they sell for the Gucci, Chanel, Armani, etc...
Oh, and any techniques in negotiating for a lower price? So far I have been only successful in knocking down the price by 30-40 dollars..on like a $300-400 pair of glasses.

they r real, we could show u the reciepts of ordering from the dealers...

there was instance where there was a manufacturer defect on a Versace frame, somehow the model # and stuff wasn't printed on, and the customer came and yelled @ us for selling fakes, we had to get the sale rep from Luxotica to talk to her face to face to prove it....

so don't worry, 100% authenticity or money back... we keep our prices low by keeping my salary low :(

if you want to save the bargain, just come find me, i'll give u a rock bottom price...

-----------------

as per university stuff....
Waterloo will grant you an advantage as they have co-op, student's in the Public Accounting stream would be guaranteed a job in major accounting firms which would allow the job experience to count towards the CA requirement..

in addition, ONLY Waterloo students would be admitted into the Waterloo MACC (Masters of Accounting) program which would exempt you from certain levels of examination requirements of your CA designation.

[purple_rabbit]

What makes UT's commerce program a better choice???



Thats some big claims you are making there....I bet someone from Schulich, Waterloo or Queens might challenge you on that.

Someone's a bit touchy here :) I would give out rankings, websites and all that google crap to prove my point, but quite frankly I don't believe in them. And yeah, there is no uniform way of measuring which university is better. So in the end, it's more what you want or expecting from the university, what you make of your experience and what you feel comfortable with.

[CSR]

You sound just like my classmate. But I never applied to UT Commerce, just UTSC Co-op Management. I figure if I'm going to UT, might as well get co-op. That, and it was my fifth choice anyway, didn't wanna use another $33.

Good choice, the accounting program is suppose to be really good; and you will get your CA credits..

[FearSonic]

I'm just not so sure if I want to become a CA or just do something in business anymore. I-banking sounds delicious too. :lol:

[winner2000]

Those interested in getting their CA designation should check out the UFE results by school (release for 2005)...paints an interesting picture. Page 10 is one of the important pages to read.

>> http://www.icao.on.ca/CAstudents/UniformEvaluation(UFE)/UFEAnalysesofStudentPerformance/page1151.aspx

[pothia]

I graduated from Schulich. The director of accounting used to be Al Rosen, one of the best forensic accountants in Canada. He has since left but their UFE pass rate is still one of the highest of all the schools, to the best of my knowledge.

Schulich is known for its marketing and accounting programs, not so much for investment banking.

If you want to go into accounting give Schulich consideration. Their program is really rigorous.


hohoho, let me get this straighten out..
I am in Western's ACS program and all we learn is managerial accountings and plain accountings. My friends who are in UT Commerce learn very little accounting and mostly finance/investment banking. I am not sure about Schulich (can someone confirm that Schulich is more accounting oriented) or Waterloo and I just wanna know if my perception above is true.

[Kwamz]

I am currently enrolled at Wilfrid Laurier University and typing this post at work(2nd co-op workterm). Laurier is quite well known for their accounting students so you can't go wrong if you come here. This was not my first choice initially, but due to double cohorts and surplus of students, this was the only decent school that accepted me (88% avg) and has a good biz program. What I like about this school is that it really allowed to see what I wanted to do when I come out of school. Throughout the first 3 years of your univeristy career, you will experience HR, MARKETING, FINANCE, ACCOUNTING...ETC and then you decide in 4th year what you want to focus on. Also, after first year, most of your core biz classes are much smaller than your electives(Max is about 50 students), which in my opinion enhances the learning experience.

Please note that Co-op at laurier can only be obtained in second year if 1. you have the grades in first year and 2. You do well in the co-op interview. I know a guy with straight A's and didn't end up getting coop, so I can't stress enough on how important the interview is.

I believe you should take your 6 courses (not do HS co-op) and apply to your 3 schools and decide from there. I have a couple friends at Schulick and they hate it there because they didn't really provide them with a better all around view of other aspects of the biz world. Schulick puts a lot of focus in accounting.

If I had a second chance back in 2003, I may have potentially gone to Waterloo university for accounting since they are very well-known in the accounting industry. But if you give me the choice now, I think I will be sticking with Laurier because I love the community and learning atmosphere it provides.

[charliebrown]

as per university stuff....
Waterloo will grant you an advantage as they have co-op, student's in the Public Accounting stream would be guaranteed a job in major accounting firms which would allow the job experience to count towards the CA requirement..

in addition, ONLY Waterloo students would be admitted into the Waterloo MACC (Masters of Accounting) program which would exempt you from certain levels of examination requirements of your CA designation.

I'm not sure that ONLY waterloo students get into the MAcc program...there used to be a bridging program for grads from other univ

i think basically, if you want the FASTEST route possible to a CA, you cant go wrong with waterloo AND MAcc; from start to finish (sorry old EY tagline), one only needs 6 full years to get CA after your name, and for 30 (34 if you work the first summer) of those months, you're earning pretty decent wages whether its co-op or full-time after graduation

Whether you stay in public accounting or move out, that's purely based on what you want. I think degrees and designations only get you so far -- its what you do with your experiences that count

[pothia]

Have you considered the fact that Accounting may not be for you?
I'm in second year Schulich and am now realizing that the CA is not for me. I dont want to sound like a wussy or crybaby but I'm not engaged in my accounting my classes. I picture myself doing something for the rest of my life that I dont particularly enjoy learning about. So I made the switch to Finance, way more interesting for me. I could read the textbook, articles, unassigned readings just for pleasure.

Anyway, keep that in mind cause if you dont like it... :|


Exactly the same situation I am feeling right now yet I don't have many choices in course selection, I even doubt there's more than 3 finance related courses on the course calendar.

Experience tells me that if I am invovled in finance/investment/stock/bonds related topics I work 200% more.

[commie]

Those interested in getting their CA designation should check out the UFE results by school (release for 2005)...paints an interesting picture. Page 10 is one of the important pages to read.

>> http://www.icao.on.ca/CAstudents/UniformEvaluation(UFE)/UFEAnalysesofStudentPerformance/page1151.aspx

Wow....Don't we have some high-quality UofT Commerce students there.
Hahahaaha

[Sl300]

WOW how did i miss this thread?

Im at UW 2nd year *NOT FOR ACCOUNTING and was part of that double cohort garbage, but i live with 4 accountants (3 in math/accounting, and 1 in bio/accounting)

for math/accounting my three roomates had averages ranging from about 83 to 87, the other in bio/accounting had a 92'ish avg give or take 1%

the coop process is very competitive, keep in mind you will have attending per-interview socials where the recruiters will have a chance to get to know your personality. alot of people get 'put to the side, depending on the kind of impression they give off during these events

out of the 4 room-mates, during our first coop hunting season, only 2 of them got a job at a Big 4 firm (pwc and ey, both working approx 55 hours a week), one other failed 3 courses (dont know if hes coming back), and one other switched (i believe she switched to arts/business) It is competitive but if you make it.. you got it made.

and about the campus life.. it is what you make it. if you want to study and be a hermit thats easy, on the other hand if you want to actually have fun then learn to allocate your time (you wouldnt believe how many 'party people are on academic probation) and remember work first then party :)

[winner2000]

Wow....Don't we have some high-quality UofT Commerce students there.
Hahahaaha

I know, eh? Kinda surprising...

[commie]

I know, eh? Kinda surprising...


Especially the 2003 writers....So that would probably be Class of 2001 B.Comm's? a 57% pass rate..
wow.

What happened to that year?

[FearSonic]

Yeah, still kinda unsure if I'd want to be an accountant my whole life. But then I keep hearing investment banking is a lot more work. Now I think I may be boned.

[jc-fury]

DO NOT GO TO UTSC IF YOU GET IN!!!!!

i'm in my third year at utsc and i hate it there. the school is **** cause there's no social life, no one hangs out at school cause there is nothing to do there or anywhere around there. tuition is WAY overpriced. its $4000 for 4 months (i pay around $9200 and some for 8 months of tuition and co-op fees) and thats without residence. so if you plan on living in res too youre looking at around $16000 excluding personal expenses. parking also sucks too, paying like $560 for the year and still have to walk like 10 min to get to school.

the only upside to going to going to utsc is that school is really really easy there LOL

i went to western in my first year and switched to utsc cause it was closer to home and i missed all the chinese people :D biggest mistake i made cause i regret it all the time. if you get in DONT GO TO UTSC!!!

[Kakashi]

i went to western in my first year and switched to utsc cause it was closer to home and i missed all the chinese people :D biggest mistake i made cause i regret it all the time. if you get in DONT GO TO UTSC!!!
Western = party school
UTSC = ... what's a party? :D

[krazo]

Exactly the same situation I am feeling right now yet I don't have many choices in course selection, I even doubt there's more than 3 finance related courses on the course calendar.

Experience tells me that if I am invovled in finance/investment/stock/bonds related topics I work 200% more.

Well its been a year since my post.. I've secured an Investment Banking job for the summer.

I'd say there is definitely a higher level of commitment in IB, but you get paid more as well.

[purple_rabbit]

Wow....Don't we have some high-quality UofT Commerce students there.
Hahahaaha

Haha we'll see who barks last :)

Slowly buy surely we took over MBA rankings...we'll get the CA rankings soon :)
We're a big university, our sample size is bigger...less variance :)

[trusoulja2g]

Unless you're 100% sure you want to be an accountant, and have already ruled out finance-related careers, don't pigeon-hole yourself by choosing an accounting-only major like UW. Going to a first-rate business school like Western (Ivey) or Queens (or Schulich as a third choice) gives you the same opportunity at Big 4 jobs, but also gives you a shot at better-paying i-banking and consulting careers and a more well-rounded education.

[crabby1997]

Those interested in getting their CA designation should check out the UFE results by school (release for 2005)...paints an interesting picture. Page 10 is one of the important pages to read.

>> http://www.icao.on.ca/CAstudents/UniformEvaluation(UFE)/UFEAnalysesofStudentPerformance/page1151.aspx

I think UT BComm students would now be scoring better on UFE 'cause we now have this new special topic course which prepares you for the UFE (with the planning and the mock exams) pretty tough from what I heard from my friends as they are practicing actual past UFE cases each lecture.

[thelaw604]

First things first, I don't know if I should be commenting in this thread since I'm from out west, but... too bad :P. Come to UBC! haha. Lots of learning here, I'm in second year BCom at UBC and taking the accounting route and going for a CA later on. What I didn't realize was that UW had a program just for accounting. So is it an arts degree?

Unless you're 100% sure you want to be an accountant, and have already ruled out finance-related careers, don't pigeon-hole yourself by choosing an accounting-only major like UW. Going to a first-rate business school like Western (Ivey) or Queens (or Schulich as a third choice) gives you the same opportunity at Big 4 jobs, but also gives you a shot at better-paying i-banking and consulting careers and a more well-rounded education.

Anyways, I'd have to agree with trusoulja2g here, I didn't know I wanted to be an accountant until I had some accounting classes in university. I wouldn't suggest limiting yourself to accounting and try to explore other areas. If the accounting program is easily transferable, then by all means go ahead and do it. If Investment Banking interests you too, then perhaps a more general degree like BCom may be suitable to see what you like. I'm not too sure how it works at other schools, but at UBC, it's general program until third year when you choose your specialization and co-op if you choose. During the first two years, you get a little taste of everything from MIS to Marketing to Accounting and Finance to see what you like.

As for tuition out here at UBC BCom, it's very similar to UoT. Second year tuition for me was 7200 or so, and living costs are around the same, so about 14-16k depending on where you live.

[charliebrown]

[QUOTE=thelaw604]First things first, I don't know if I should be commenting in this thread since I'm from out west, but... too bad :P. Come to UBC! haha. Lots of learning here, I'm in second year BCom at UBC and taking the accounting route and going for a CA later on. What I didn't realize was that UW had a program just for accounting. So is it an arts degree?

hmm...not sure if it's still the case, but UW offers it's accounting degree via 3 streams: arts, science and math (current AFM students: pls correct me if i'm wrong)

so, even though there's a core focus on accounting (tax, financial accounting, mgmt acctg, etc), one still has to take electives depending on your degree stream (i.e. you're part of arts faculty if you're in arts accounting, math faculty, etc) -- so basically, there's nothing restricting you from having a broad univ experience, except for the time constraints

I think it'll be interesting to see the results from 2003 and on by school...ever since CICA changed marking system. Any recent writers or people preparing for the UFE want to comment?

QUOTE]

[winner2000]

I posted the link a few pages back to the individual school results for the UFE results

And you're right about the 3 streams of accounting...they still exist today.