Accounting and finance are becoming increasingly driven by analytics and emerging technology. Block chain, big data, algorithmic trading, AI augmented systems are all examples of this. The School of Accounting and Finance has added more degree required courses in data analytics, emerging technology and information systems to reflect this influence in the profession. Students can also pursue a stream of courses that will develop stronger programming, modelling and data analysis competencies using Python as the primary programming language.
The analytics stream is intended for students in the Accounting and Financial Management (AFM) program only.
Will anything appear on the transcript or degree?
No. This stream recommends a set of courses; it is not a Specialization. It is intended to provide you with stronger analytics competencies. These courses may support you in applying to jobs with a desirable skillset that employers may be seeking for some roles.
What courses do students take?
Students should review the Undergraduate Calendar and the Sequence of Courses (the sequence for incoming students will be posted in June). Below you can see how this stream deviates from the typical sequence.
- CS 115 or CS 135 in 1A as an elective instead of ECON 101.
- ECON 101 will be taken in 2A.
- CS 135 is an extremely challenging course and few, if any, AFM students should choose this course.
- AFM 127 in place of AFM 121 in 1B.
- AFM 272 in place of AFM 273 in 2A.
- ECON 102 in 2B instead of an open elective.
- ECON 101 and ECON 102 are degree required courses, but they can be taken in second year when pursuing this stream.
When do students join the stream?
Students must opt into the stream for 1A. Joining beyond this point is not an option. To continue, students must pass the pre-requisite courses. Students must request enrollment for CS 115 or CS 135 by mid-June.
Do students have to continue in the stream?
Students can discontinue the stream at any point.
Who should pursue this stream?
Students who want more focus on analytics can consider joining this stream. Students will develop stronger programming, modelling and data analysis competencies using Python. The courses will naturally feed into the Business Analytics, Financial Markets, and Financial Leadership Specializations.
What grades should I have in high school to join this stream?
Students should only consider this stream if they’ve shown strength in the courses below. Based on data from 2023, students who did not meet the criteria below struggled in CS 115/135, with just over half of them dropping the course, or even failing.
- At least 90% in Grade 12 English AND
- At least a 92% average in the three pre-requisite courses
(Calculus and Vectors, Advanced Functions, and English - or equivalents)
How do students request enrollment?
Complete this form by June 19, 2024. By submitting the form, students agree to take CS 115 (or CS 135) in the first term and to take ECON 101 in second year. Students who submit the form will be communicated to at the end of June.
There are limited spots available. Enrollment is not guaranteed. Spots will be determined based on the order that the form is received.