Saskatchewan offers promising career opportunities for accounting professionals, with the province’s diverse economy creating steady demand for qualified accountants and CPAs. Whether you’re interested in public accounting, corporate finance, or government positions, this comprehensive guide outlines the educational requirements, certification process, and career prospects for becoming an accountant in Saskatchewan.
Quick Navigation:
Education Requirements for Saskatchewan Accountants
To begin your accounting career in Saskatchewan, you’ll need to meet specific educational prerequisites that align with both provincial standards and national CPA requirements.
Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
All aspiring CPAs in Saskatchewan must complete a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. While you don’t need an accounting-specific degree, your program must include essential prerequisite courses in:
- Financial accounting and reporting
- Management accounting
- Auditing and assurance
- Taxation
- Finance
- Business law
- Economics
- Statistics
Saskatchewan’s major universities offering strong accounting programs include the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina. Both institutions provide comprehensive business programs that satisfy CPA prerequisite requirements.
150 Credit Hour Requirement
To become a CPA in Saskatchewan, you must complete 150 credit hours of post-secondary education. This typically requires additional coursework beyond a standard 120-credit bachelor’s degree. Options include:
- Graduate certificate programs
- Master’s degree in accounting or business
- Additional undergraduate courses
- Professional development courses approved by CPA Canada
Saskatchewan accounting students should verify their course selections with CPA Saskatchewan to ensure all prerequisite requirements are met before beginning the CPA Professional Education Program.
CPA Certification Process in Saskatchewan
The path to CPA designation in Saskatchewan follows the national CPA certification model, administered through CPA Saskatchewan.
CPA Professional Education Program (PEP)
After completing your prerequisite education, you’ll enter the CPA Professional Education Program, which consists of:
Practical Experience Requirements
Alongside your PEP studies, you must complete 30 months of relevant practical experience under the supervision of a qualified mentor. This experience can be gained in:
- Public accounting firms
- Corporate accounting departments
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Consulting firms
Common Final Examination (CFE)
The CFE is a three-day examination that tests your ability to integrate and apply technical knowledge, professional skills, and ethical behavior in complex, real-world scenarios.
Accountant Salary Information in Saskatchewan
Accounting professionals in Saskatchewan enjoy competitive compensation that varies based on experience, specialization, and employer type.
Entry-Level to Senior Positions
Industry Salary Variations
Compensation levels differ across industries, with the following sectors typically offering premium salaries:
- Oil and Gas: 15-25% above average
- Mining: 10-20% above average
- Banking and Finance: 10-15% above average
- Government: Competitive benefits packages
- Public Accounting: Performance-based bonuses
Saskatchewan’s strong natural resource sector, including potash mining and oil production, creates additional opportunities for accounting professionals in specialized industries.
Job Market and Top Employers
Saskatchewan’s accounting job market remains robust, driven by the province’s diverse economy spanning agriculture, mining, energy, and government services.
Major Public Accounting Firms
Saskatchewan hosts offices of national and international accounting firms:
- Deloitte: Full-service offices in Regina and Saskatoon
- KPMG: Audit, tax, and advisory services
- PwC: Comprehensive accounting services
- BDO Canada: Regional presence with local expertise
- MNP: Significant Saskatchewan operations
Corporate Employers
Major corporations offering accounting career opportunities include:
- Nutrien Ltd: Global agriculture and fertilizer company
- Cameco Corporation: Uranium mining leader
- SaskEnergy: Provincial natural gas utility
- SaskPower: Electric utility corporation
- Federated Co-operatives Limited: Retail and wholesale cooperative
Government Opportunities
The Government of Saskatchewan employs numerous accounting professionals across departments including:
- Ministry of Finance
- Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
- Crown corporations
- Health authorities
- Municipal governments
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Accountant in Saskatchewan
Follow this comprehensive pathway to establish your accounting career in Saskatchewan:
Step 1: Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
- Choose a program with CPA prerequisite courses
- Maintain strong academic performance (GPA 3.0+)
- Consider internships during summer breaks
- Join student accounting organizations
Step 2: Ensure 150 Credit Hours (Additional 1-2 years)
- Evaluate your current credit total
- Complete additional coursework as needed
- Consider pursuing a master’s degree for competitive advantage
- Verify all prerequisites with CPA Saskatchewan
Step 3: Gain Practical Experience (30 months)
- Secure employment with an approved employer
- Work under qualified CPA supervision
- Document your experience through CPA’s practical experience program
- Develop competencies across various accounting areas
Step 4: Complete CPA Professional Education Program (2-3 years)
- Enroll in Core 1 module
- Progress through Core 2 and Capstone 1
- Choose relevant elective modules
- Prepare for the Common Final Examination
Step 5: Pass the Common Final Examination
- Register for the CFE after completing Capstone 1
- Dedicate adequate study time (typically 6+ months)
- Utilize CPA study resources and practice materials
- Take the three-day examination
Step 6: Apply for CPA Designation
- Submit your application to CPA Saskatchewan
- Provide verification of education and experience
- Pay required fees and complete documentation
- Maintain continuing professional development requirements
For comprehensive information about accounting career paths, visit our complete guide to becoming an accountant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA in Saskatchewan?
The complete process typically takes 6-8 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional education to reach 150 credit hours, and 2-3 years for practical experience and CPA program completion.
Can I work as an accountant without CPA designation?
Yes, you can work in many accounting roles with just a bachelor’s degree. However, CPA designation is required for certain positions, particularly in public accounting, and significantly enhances career prospects and earning potential.
What’s the difference between CPA Saskatchewan and CPA Canada?
CPA Saskatchewan is the provincial body that regulates CPAs within Saskatchewan, while CPA Canada is the national organization that sets standards and oversees the profession across Canada. You must be licensed through CPA Saskatchewan to practice in the province.
Are there online CPA programs available for Saskatchewan residents?
The CPA Professional Education Program offers online delivery options for all modules, making it accessible to students throughout Saskatchewan. However, practical experience must be gained through approved employment.
What continuing education requirements apply to Saskatchewan CPAs?
Saskatchewan CPAs must complete 40 hours of continuing professional development annually, including at least 4 hours of ethics education. These requirements ensure professionals stay current with evolving standards and practices.
How do I transfer my CPA designation to Saskatchewan from another province?
CPAs licensed in good standing in other Canadian provinces can typically transfer their registration to Saskatchewan through CPA Saskatchewan’s mobility provisions. Contact CPA Saskatchewan directly for specific transfer requirements.
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
