UBC's PhD program in Accounting has a reputation for producing strong researchers. Recent graduates from the program have been placed in schools including Boston College, Purdue University, University of Hong Kong, University of Toronto, University of Alberta, Brock University and Queen's University.
The research faculty in Accounting publish in the top journals in the field, and engage in empirical research in financial accounting, auditing and taxation. Our program draws effectively on strong research faculty in other fields, including finance, economics, policy analysis, and management science. Of particular importance are the variety of research workshops held each week which expose students to current research by leading researchers from UBC and other universities in accounting and the related fields.
Most students have had prior studies in accounting, but some have entered into the program with backgrounds primarily in finance, economics, or mathematics and then developed their understanding of accounting by taking appropriate undergraduate or Masters' courses in accounting.
Each student is expected to develop their research skills by taking courses in finance, statistics and economics, as well as the research seminars in accounting. The faculty work closely with students to develop their research skills. Except for those funded from outside sources, at least four years of funding is guaranteed to all admitted students. Part of this funding is in the form of a research assistantship, which gives students the opportunity to learn by participating in the research of the faculty.