Grow your tax career with In-Depth

Like many other organizations, the global pandemic has affected CPA Canada. Our work, and our professional development programs, have had to pivot to ensure that members can still benefit from valuable learning opportunities. This includes the necessary decision to organize more virtual CPD options and adapt the content we’re producing to address the most relevant topics for the profession right now.

The In-Depth Tax Program is a prime example of this.

In-Depth is well-known for its robust content and case study approach that complements the day-to-day work of tax practitioners. It’s the most comprehensive training program of its kind in Canada, with a history that spans over four decades – and as a flagship in tax education, it attracts hundreds of students annually.

Given the impact of COVID-19, we’re taking this time as an opportunity to reimagine what’s possible for students and facilitators in the program, starting by merging cutting edge learning design with the latest technology.

NEW MODALITIES, NEW OPPORTUNITIES

The underlying philosophy of In-Depth is one of integration, where academic theory meets technical skills and practical application. This will continue for the incoming 2020 cohort, but all learning components of Year 1 will be offered online or virtually across a variety of different channels, including content specifically designed for digital delivery, like video lectures and live tutorial discussions.

These changes maintain the integrity of content, curriculum and group learning exercises, while also giving students and facilitators greater flexibility to adapt to the new normal with remote methods that are accessible to everyone. Other updates include:

Orientation and Research Course

Plenty of practical information to help students get acquainted with In-Depth and find their footing, plus independent learning modules on tax research and analysis to successfully prepare them for the In-Depth learning journey ahead.

Group Study 1

The building blocks for a strong foundation in tax fundamentals through a mixture of independent study, online learning and virtual classrooms. Knowledge checks, assigned homework and individualized feedback will also provide participants with concrete strategies for improvement.

Students and facilitators can now collaborate in teams with people from across the country versus their city or closest geographical hub – encouraging more diversity of thought.

Tutorial Series 1 (Formerly In-Residence 1)

An opportunity for students to go deeper and for facilitators to support that work by encouraging active discussion and fresh perspectives on emerging tax issues. It’s the part of Year 1 where participants can synthesize their learning with additional technical content and the chance to practice effective problem solving and case study analysis.

The new remote Tutorial Series is a structured course that incorporates pre-reading, self-study, videos, exercises and other activities, followed by an immersive experience with small group-based virtual tutorial sessions.

LOOKING AHEAD

Years 2 and 3 of In-Depth are progression-based with evolving coverage of key tax topics to help tax practitioners continue to sharpen skills, expand expertise and navigate the complex Canadian tax landscape. Year 3 also features a significant group project focused on providing comprehensive client solutions.

Modalities for Years 2 and 3 will be available online, virtually and/or in person, but are subject to change and development over time.

As a premier training program, In-Depth is committed to being innovative and maintaining relevance for the tax practitioners of today – and the future. We continue to review, improve and update the curriculum on an ongoing basis. Adult learning principles are our guide, with an emphasis on modalities that prioritize flexibility, best practices in tax education as well as industry needs.

For a closer look at program details, like topics, CPD hours or fees, you can download a copy of the In-Depth Tax brochure.

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Registration is now open for the In-Depth Tax Program and the deadline is September 7, 2020. To learn more, visit our program page.