Payroll is one of the most important functions of organizations. In order to pursue careers in this field, graduates will need to undergo payroll management education and build required knowledge and skills to seek an entry to the world of work.

1. Becoming a Payroll Practitioner
Previously, the payroll system was viewed as like many other not-so important functions of
organizations. It was often taken for granted and considered as an administrative burden
that was necessary but provided no monetary value to the company.
However, as time changed the organizations realized the importance of having a proper
payroll system in running their operations smoothly. Nowadays, it is considered one of the
most important functions that have direct impact on the morale of employees.
Once the organizations realized the importance of a proper payroll system, the need for
flawless delivery of funds, salaries, wages and benefits began to arise. This called for the
automation of the key tasks and deployment of payroll professionals who could work on
automated payroll system.
Payroll practitioners are high in demand, not only in Canada but throughout the world. And
the best part is that they can be employed with companies of any size, regardless the nature
of business operations. Therefore, the career prospects are really strong for professionals
who have undergone specialized education and possess strong accounting, strategic
compensation and managerial skills.
Becoming a Payroll Officer
If you wish to build a career in this field, a payroll management course in Toronto can help
you gain extensive knowledge base and develop and enhance crucial skills in key areas to
begin working as a payroll generalist. If you’re already in this field, the specialized education
will help you set foundation for subsequent career advancement.
Centennial College’s graduate certification program in payroll runs for one year and helps
you build your skills portfolio as you learn for professors who have strong business world
experience and up-to-date knowledge of current and emerging trends in technology and
changing legislative requirements.
You strengthen your understanding in financial accounting fundamentals, payroll
compliance, strategic compensation, contemporary organizational behaviour, management
accounting for human resources, payroll systems, pensions and benefits, project
management fundamentals and business communications.
In addition to gaining extensive knowledge in payroll system, you will also develop strong
management, teamwork, communication, presentation and report writing skills. The
program uses case studies, simulations, and project-based learning, focusing on your overall
development.
Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) Designation

2. The program is delivered in partnership with the Canadian Payroll Association (CPA), which
ensures the quality of education and high standard of diploma earned. Along with this, you
will be eligible to earn the Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) designation granted by the
association. However, this will incur costs in addition to tuition fees.
If you have two years of experience for an organization’s payroll function and were
accountable to management for accuracy of employees’ pay and all government statutory
remittances, or equivalent experience, you are eligible to apply for the Canadian Payroll
Association CPM (Certified Payroll Manager) level courses at the college.
Program Eligibility
In order to apply to this program, you will need:
 A three-year diploma or university degree in any discipline
 A proof of English proficiency
 To complete an assessment of numeracy skills
You can also apply to this program even if you have completed partial post-secondary
(minimum two years) education. However, for this you will require relevant experience of at
least two years.