What's the learning format for a non-core CPA preparatory course?

The CPA preparatory courses offer an affordable and efficient way to take any or all of the fourteen prerequisite courses required for entry to the CPA Professional Education Program (CPA PEP) if you have not already attained them as part of your post-secondary studies. CPA preparatory courses are delivered part-time in a focused and flexible format. The fourteen CPA preparatory courses are divided into five non-core and nine core courses. This blog post discusses the learning format, materials, and grading scheme specifically for non-core courses. We will discuss the core courses in a future post.

Non-core courses registration and learning format

• Register at any time through open enrollment.
• Access study materials within five business days.
• Self-study – using an e-textbook and practice problems.
• Access to a facilitator.

Study materials

Brightspace (D2L) contains all course materials and resources. You must first complete the Academic Integrity Quiz and Training Contract to unlock course materials. 

Access e-textbooks through Brightspace (D2L)

• The e-textbook overview covers the course topics. Please note, you cannot print the e-textbook due to copyright laws.

  • A physical copy of the textbook is not included in the course fee and is not required. We recommend using the e-textbook. If you wish to purchase a physical copy, you may do so. View the CPA preparatory courses non-core textbook list. 

Access e-textbooks through the Bookshelf app

• Downloaded the app on your mobile device or computer through your app store. Register on Bookshelf to access your e-textbook on their app. 

Please contact the Brightspace Helpdesk Portal if you have any questions. 
 

Grading scheme

The final examination is worth 100% of your final grade. An overall grade of 50% or higher is considered a passing grade. 

Each non-core course concludes with a final exam that you must write on a scheduled exam date within one year of the initial course registration at a CPAWSB exam centre. Students who do not complete the final exam within the one-year time limit will fail the course.  This failed course is considered an attempt. Students must retake the course to be eligible for another examination attempt. If you attempted the exam and were unsuccessful, you can apply for a course repeat at a reduced fee. Students only have one opportunity to access the reduced-fee course repeat per non-core preparatory course.
 

Quizzes

Non-core courses have four quizzes that will provide practice for your exam. These are optional but highly recommended. Quizzes do not contribute to your overall course mark.

Final examination

Please refer to the CPA Preparatory Courses Exam Blueprint for details on the exam format and length. 

If you have any questions about your non-core course registration, please contact the CPA preparatory courses Student Experience team at prepadvising@cpawsb.ca.

CPA Preparatory Courses Student Experience Team
Toll-Free: 1 866.420.2350  Ext. 6008
prepadvising@cpawsb.ca
 
Please feel free to schedule an appointment with an Advisor using our Bookings Calendar:
Student Experience and Examinations Calendar.