Economics and Accounting (BA)

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics and Accounting at Wilfrid Laurier University pairs a policy-focused education in economics with CPA-accredited expert training in accounting, giving you the skills to read balance sheets and the broader economic landscape and make impactful decisions in the boardroom.

Through Laurier's AACSB-accredited Lazaridis School of Business and Economics (LSBE), build a strong foundation in accounting principles, economic theory and critical thinking, and get a competitive advantage toward your Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

Graduate prepared for careers in accounting, finance, banking, business analytics or other related fields.

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you'll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose This Program?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • CPA-Accredited Curriculum 
    Complete the Graduate Diploma in Accounting to fulfill the course requirements of Core 1 through to Elective 2 of the CPA education components.
  • Gain In-Demand Skills 
    Learn fundamental skills in decision-making across industries and organizations. Understand the factors that affect personal and policy decisions around housing and home buying, student loans, interest rates, job relocations, business pricing, environmental policy, taxes, budget deficits and more.
  • Teaching Excellence 
    Learn from internationally recognized, award-winning experts in economics and finance, dedicated to delivering an exceptional educational experience. Blending academic rigor with real-world insights, you will gain a deep understanding of economic theories and financial principles, as well as their practical applications.

How Willl I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (Check out the Experience Guide for more):

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample Economics weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take?

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

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AACSB Accreditation

The Economics and Accounting (BA) program is offered by the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics and is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business – delivering on excellence and the highest standards for business schools in the world. 

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

  • accountant/auditor
  • actuary
  • auditor
  • anti-money laundering analyst
  • bank examiner/trust officer
  • business forecaster
  • economist
  • financial analyst
  • investment banking analyst
  • pension plan administrator
  • pricing analyst
  • transfer pricing specialist

Note: Some roles may require additional training or education.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you will have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

How Does Business Co-op at Laurier Work?

Co-op lets you integrate what you learn in the classroom with practical experience in your chosen field. Build your resume, earn money, develop your network and graduate with work experience.

At the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University, you can apply for admission to co-op in your first year and may be eligible for an admission interview early in your second year. You will complete three four-month work terms between second and fourth year, giving you 12 months of full-time work experience.

Interested? Learn more about co-op.

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99%employment rate for co‑op students – 2025 / 2026

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Economics at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Economics students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Economics Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $39,112
Student Fees $2,334
$4,219 with co-op
$3,282
$5,167 with co-op
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Lazaridis School of Business and Economics graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot. With more than 60 programs in arts, science, business and music, you can customize your degree, gain hands-on learning opportunities and join in the community beyond the classroom.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?