Course Levels & Competency Map

Course Levels

A “level” is based on the information the course will disseminate and an assumed pre-requisite knowledge of the potential participant. For example:

“Introductory” – the information in the course is basic yet thorough. The potential participant does not deal with the topic area on a day-to-day basis, or they may want to ‘refresh’ their knowledge base on the topic. It is assumed the potential participant has limited knowledge on the topic, such as a new handbook section.

“Intermediate” – the information in the course builds on the basic topic and tends to be more issue based. The potential participant deals with the topic area on a day-to-day basis and needs to be updated on any changes in the topic area. It is assumed the potential participant has the basic knowledge and is familiar with the issues in the topic area.

“Advanced” – the information in the course is in-depth on a specific area of a topic and tends to be more technically specialized. The potential participant deals with the topic area on a day-to-day basis and needs more in-depth information in a specific issue of the topic area. It is assumed the potential participant has solid background knowledge and is very familiar with the issues in the topic area. They may also specialize or want to specialize in the area.

“General” – the information in the course is appropriate for all participants and requires no specific knowledge level or job function. These are often overview or topical sessions of general interest or focus on the development of professional skills.

CA Competency Map

The CA profession has analyzed the core knowledge and skills expected of CAs by businesses, government and the public. Many clear expectations or competencies of the profession have been identified. These competencies have been laid out in the CA Competency Map. PD courses may vary under more than one competency, as many courses address more than one area.

Governance, Strategy and Risk Management - Competencies related to the development and evaluation of an entity’s ability to make decisions and maximize its organizational performance, including its governance, strategies, policies and resources.

Management Decision-Making – Competencies related to the identification of information needs, and to the development and use of decision-making tools in achieving the entity’s strategies.

Finance - Competencies related to financial management, financial strategy, financial decision-making, and personal financial planning.

Taxation - Competencies related to taxation planning, compliance and reporting for various entities.

Assurance - Competencies related to statutory and regulatory audit/assurance requirements as well as broader validation and assurance services.

Performance Measurement - Competencies related to the evaluation, development and interpretation of an entity’s financial and non-financial information that measures and enhances an entity’s organizational performance.

Information Technology - Competencies related to the evaluation of an entity’s information needs and the development and use of information technology in achieving its strategic and operational goals and objectives.

Professional Skills - Includes courses in complementary professional competencies that will help you continue to enhance your professional effectiveness. This includes some topics that are in the general management topic listing like communication, time management, career planning, and leadership courses.