phd in accounting in canada

Last Updated on December 15, 2022

Are you looking for phd in accounting in canada? Interested in phd in accounting programs? wrote this on for students for various countries.

Do you ever wonder Why getting a phd in accounting is considered to be so difficult? Is it because of the admission requirements? Is it because of what the program will do to your career options? Well, you should take a good look at the program as a whole to see if it

Phd In Accounting In Canada

Overview

The PhD specialization in accounting prepares students for careers as future faculty at research universities. Broadly speaking, research questions in accounting address the economic and psychological effects of accounting information on financial markets, managerial settings, and contracting.

Students complete their coursework in the first two years of the program. The coursework requirements* include accounting specialization courses, research methods courses, and courses from a cognate discipline. The accounting specialization courses cover analytical, behavioral, empirical, and experimental research in accounting and related fields. The research methods courses consist of additional PhD-level courses in areas that are important to the student’s research interests, such as economics, finance, mathematics, and psychology. The cognate discipline assures that students develop scholarly breadth. It typically consists of three PhD-level courses from a single field outside of accounting. After completing their coursework, students take comprehensive examinations based on the accounting specialization courses.

Students begin developing original research in the summers after the first and second years. After passing the comprehensive examinations, students focus predominantly on their research. By the end of the third year, students take their candidacy examination, in which they present their dissertation research proposal. The remainder of the program is dedicated to completing the dissertation.

Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty. Upon entry, each student is matched to a faculty advisor. The advisor or another tenured faculty member becomes the student’s PhD supervisor by the end of the first year. At that time, the student’s supervisory committee is also appointed.

A core strength of the program is the scope of the faculty’s methodological and substantive interests. We have research-active faculty whose work uses analytical modeling, behavioral economics, empirical / archival research methods, and experimental economics. Substantive areas of faculty research include auditing, capital markets, contracting, corporate governance, disclosure, earnings management, information design, managerial accounting, and performance evaluation. We presently have 10 tenured research-active faculty members. Since 2011, all have published in a top journal in accounting, finance, or economics.

Our student placements include leading universities in Canada and globally. Since 2011, our placements include assistant professorships at Tulane University, HEC Paris, City University of Hong Kong, University of Waterloo, Brock University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, and Lancaster University. A complete list of our graduates and their placements is available

General Information


The Faculty of Business offers programs leading to the degrees of Master of Business Administration, Master of Financial Management, Master of Accounting, and Doctor of Philosophy. In addition to the standard MBA program, specializations are available in International Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Natural Resources, Energy and the Environment, Finance, Public Policy and Management, and Sustainability. PhD specializations are Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Operations & Information Systems, and Strategic Management & Organization.

Entrance Requirements


Master’s programs:


The minimum admission requirements of the Faculty of Business are those of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research; namely, an undergraduate degree with an average of at least 3.0 in the last two years of undergraduate work (or graduate work) at the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.

All applicants are required to write the Graduate Management Admission Test, and have their scores forwarded to the Associate Dean – Master’s Programs.  Although no arbitrary standard is employed, a score above 550 is desirable.

In addition to the above requirements, all students must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission as described in English Language Requirement.

Where degree programs offered by the Faculty of Business are approved to be delivered in a language other than English, the English language proficiency requirement may be waived.

Additional entrance requirements are listed below, under the heading of the specific degree program.

Doctoral Programs:


For the PhD in Business the minimum admission requirements are an undergraduate degree with an admission GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4-point scale from the University of Alberta, or an equivalent qualification and standing from a recognized institution. The admission GPA will be calculated on the last ★60 of graded coursework completed, or on the equivalent of the last two years of full-time graded coursework. Completion of a Master’s degree is not a requirement.

An academic background in business is not required; demonstrated aptitude for conducting research and familiarity with a scholarly discipline are valued credentials.

Applicants to the Accounting specialization must provide evidence of accounting expertise, such as a professional accounting designation.

Where applicable, applicants must meet the minimum English Language Requirement.

All applicants are required to submit their scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Scores must be from a test taken within the past five years; scores above the 90th percentile are desirable.

Applicants are also required to provide:

  1. A current resume or curriculum vitae;
  2. Three letters of reference;
  3. A statement of purpose identifying what specific topics within the area of specialization they are interested in and why; relevant skills and past experiences; and tentative plans upon completion of the program. The applicant should also identify appropriate faculty members as potential supervisors.

Academic Standing Requirements


Doctoral Program:


All students in the Business PhD program must maintain a minimum cumulative grand point average of 3.0 throughout the course of the program.

Financial Assistance


For Master’s programs, a limited number of bursaries and scholarships are available.

For Doctoral programs, the Faculty of Business normally offers funding for four years (in exceptional cases for five years) made up of several kinds of support. Tuition is normally paid for the first four years.

Graduate Program Requirements


  • The Degree of Master of Business Administration (Business) [Graduate]  
  • The MBA/Doctor of Pharmacy Combined Degrees Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/JD Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/MAg Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/MEng Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/MF Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MD/MBA Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/BSc in Pharmacy Combined Degrees Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/MLIS Combined Program (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA/MScPT Combined Program (Business) [Graduate]  
  • The MBA with Specialization in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA with Specialization in International Business (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA with Specialization in Natural Resources, Energy and the Environment (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA with Specialization in Finance (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA with Specialization in Public Policy and Management (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The MBA with Specialization in Sustainability (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The Degree of Master of Financial Management (Business) [Graduate]  
  • The FastTrack MBA for Business Graduates (Business) [Graduate] 
  • Executive MBA (Business) [Graduate] 
  • The Degree of PhD in Business [Graduate] 
    • The Degree of PhD in Business with a Specialization in Accounting [Graduate] 
    • The Degree of PhD in Business with a Specialization in Finance [Graduate] 
    • The Degree of PhD in Business with a Specialization in Marketing [Graduate] 
    • The Degree of PhD in Business with a Specialization in Operations & Information Systems [Graduate] 
    • The Degree of PhD in Business with a Specialization in Strategic Management & Organization [Graduate] 
  • The MBA-PhD Joint Program (not offered in 2015-2016) (Business) [Graduate] 
  • Post-Master’s Certificate in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Business) [Graduate]   
  • Post-Master’s Certificate in Business Fundamentals (Business) [Graduate]   
  • Master of Accounting (Business) [Graduate]   

Graduate Courses


Graduate courses in Business can be found in Course Listings, under the following subject headings:

Accounting (ACCTG)
Business (BUS)
Business Economics (BUEC)
Finance (FIN)
Human Resources Management (HRM)
Management Information Systems (MIS)
Management Science (MGTSC)
Marketing (MARK)
Organizational Analysis (ORG A)
Operations Management (OM)
Strategic Management and Organization (SMO)

phd in accounting in canada without gmat

PhD in Canada without GMAT

GMAT is an important prerequisite for admission to Ph.D. in Canada for management. Most major universities require GMAT. However, many graduate schools do not need it, as well.

Whether GMAT is required or not also depends on the subject. Some may have strict GMAT requirements, whereas others may do not.

  1. University of Saskatchewan
  2. Brock University
  3. University of Regina
  4. Carleton University
  5. University of Winnipeg
  6. University of Calgary
  7. Memorial University
  8. Concordia University

PhD Programs In Canada

Here is the list of PhD programs in Canada:

PhD In Computer Science

Computer Science is the most trending field nowadays. Canada has some of the most foremost universities offering a Ph.D. in this subject. It has a great scope, and any research work in this field also guarantees a revolution in technology. 

  • University of Waterloo
  • University of Calgary 
  • University of Brtish Columbia
  • York University
  • University of Saskatchewan
  • University of Victoria
  • University of Alberta

PhD in Neuroscience Canada

Neuroscience is a complex course that studies the human brain and its various functions. It is a highly coveted course which has great scope throughout the world. Canada and its major universities also understand this and have various Ph.D. programs available for the scholars of this subject.

  • University of Calgary 
  • University of Montreal
  • Carleton University
  • Concordia University
  • Dalhousie University
  • University of Saskatchewan
  • McGill University
  • University of Toronto

PhD In Finance

Investment is a highly coveted course which has great scope throughout the world. It is an essential course which is crucial for all enterprised and corporates across the globe.

Canada and its major universities also understand this and have various Ph.D. programs available for the scholars of this subject.

  • Alberta School of Management 
  • University of Toronto 
  • University of Manitoba

PhD in Analytics

Analytics is the most trending field nowadays. Canada has some of the most foremost universities offering a Ph.D. in this subject. It has a great scope, and any research work in this field also guarantees a revolution in technology. 

  1. University of Brtish Columbia
  2. York University
  3. University of Victoria
  4. University of Waterloo
  5. University of Calgary 
  6. University of Alberta
  7. University of Saskatchewan

phd in accounting requirements

How To Get a Ph.D. in Accounting

Prospective accounting Ph.D. students should expect to submit GMAT or GRE scores as a condition of the application process. Some programs prefer the GMAT, whereas others will accept either.

Some programs prefer applicants to enter with a background in accounting courses, including subjects like quantitative methods and microeconomics. However, most programs will allow students to complete these prerequisites once admitted to the program.

While not always required, a master’s degree in accounting can improve a prospective student’s chances of acceptance to the program of their choice. Some programs require applicants to demonstrate an academic background in accounting or a related field, which a master’s degree can evidence.

Because a Ph.D. requires significant research, prospective students should demonstrate superior writing skills. While programs generally consider GPA as a part of an overall picture, many recommend a strong academic background. Schools may also consider work experience and extracurriculars when reviewing applications.

The Accounting Ph.D. Program Experience

Ph.D. programs include a wide range of learning experiences distributed through a combination of classes and research practice. Coursework provides the high-level knowledge needed to conduct a dissertation research project. Each student’s educational background and previous experience in the field factor into development of an individual degree plan that meets both the program’s requirements and the student’s interests.

Completing a Ph.D. demands between 70 to 120 credits. Some of these credits are part of a program’s research requirement, while others may come from for-credit internships, teaching assistantships, and other practical learning experiences.

After completing coursework, students take one or more oral and/or written comprehensive exams. Upon passing these assessments, students move into “candidacy,” during which their dissertation becomes the primary focus. Online doctoral programs often have a residency component, requiring students and faculty members to meet in person for advising, seminars, and other organized events.

The time required to complete an accounting Ph.D. depends on how many courses students take each term and how long it takes to complete their dissertation. Overall, prospective applicants should plan for 4-7 years of study if enrolled full time.

Concentrations

Those considering a Ph.D. in accounting can choose from a variety of concentrations related to their interests and career goals. Whether planning to work with individual clients or head up a large organization, prospective students can find appropriate specializations to secure advanced expertise in the field. The list below offers details on a few concentrations available to accounting Ph.D. students.

  • Public Accounting: A public accounting concentration focuses on the preparation of tax materials for individuals, corporations, and nonprofits. This concentration may also prepare students to work in the public sector for local, state, and federal government.
  • Audit Accounting: An audit accounting concentration prepares students to perform in-depth evaluations of financial documents, whether for individuals or corporations or as a part of a government agency.
  • Forensic Accounting: With a concentration in forensic accounting, students learn to sift through data to find evidence of financial fraud. The concentration emphasizes law, methods, and computer skills.
  • Managerial Accounting: Focused on preparing students for leadership positions, a concentration in managerial accounting emphasizes strategy, decision-making, and financial reporting.
  • Accounting Information Systems: Emphasizing behind-the-scenes development, a concentration in accounting information systems focuses on theories of accounting systems and in-depth study of accounting tools.

Coursework

Ph.D. students complete classes in accounting, business, economics, statistics, and research methods to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct original research.

Applicants for the PhD in Management programme should hold a postgraduate master’s degree from an accredited institution in the UK or overseas showing evidence of above-average academic achievement. This includes:

  • A degree classification with a mark of 65% or more overall (University of Edinburgh level, or overseas equivalent).
  • Normally a master’s dissertation at the distinction level (University of Edinburgh level, or overseas equivalent) in accounting, finance, or related disciplines
  • Degrees in quantitative disciplines (such as economics or mathematics) or business studies will be considered if you can demonstrate a strong background in accounting and finance throughout your degree

Applications may be accepted from those still currently studying for a master’s degree; however, any offer will be conditional on the successful completion of the degree at the required standard.

Please note: If you are currently studying for or have completed an undergraduate degree and do not yet have a Master’s qualification, please consider applying for our MSc by Research programme. You can use this as a stepping stone on to any of our PhD programmes.

Applicants with significant industry experience in the accounting sector, or with relevant professional qualifications, will be given due consideration on a case-by-case basis. However, these applicants must also have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related discipline.

English Language Certificates

We accept the following English language qualifications as evidence when they meet the minimum grades:

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): 7.0 (at least 6.0 in each section)
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT (including Special Home Edition): total 100 (at least 20 in each section)
  • CAE and CPE: total 185 (at least 169 in each module)
  • Trinity ISE (Integrated Skills in English): ISE III with a Pass in all four components
  • PTE (Pearson Test of English): total 70 (at least 59 in each section)

PhD Admission Requirements

The goal of the Accounting PhD program is to train students to do rigorous research in accounting, a specialized area of financial economics. An institutional understanding of how accounting information is used by capital market participants and/or within firms is useful and best obtained through relevant work experience, but is not required. The program is highly analytical and quantitative. Thus, a strong undergraduate preparation in microeconomics and mathematics is an advantage, as is some prior training at the undergraduate or graduate level in accounting, finance, or economics.

Except for the GMAT or GRE general test which is required of all applicants, there are no formal admission requirements. The TOEFL test must be taken by applicants whose native language is not English.

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