September 23, 2025 | Manitoba

If you live in Manitoba and are thinking about stepping into the world of payroll administration, you might be wondering what exactly Accounting and Payroll Administrator courses involve, how they differ from pure accounting programs, and whether a program like the one offered by CDI College in Winnipeg could be the right fit for you.  

This guide will walk you through the essentials, so you can make an informed decision about your career path. 

Understanding the Role of a Payroll Administrator 

A Payroll Administrator is a professional responsible for ensuring employees are paid accurately, on time, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This role goes beyond simply issuing paycheques; it includes managing payroll systems, calculating wages and statutory deductions, preparing government remittances (such as income tax, CPP, and EI), and maintaining precise payroll records. 

In Manitoba, payroll administrators must navigate both federal rules (tax deductions, CPP, EI, T4/ROE reporting) and provincial standards under the Employment Standards Code (minimum wage, overtime, vacation pay, statutory holidays, and leaves). They often work closely with accounting teams to ensure payroll data is correctly integrated into financial records. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in payroll software are essential for success in this role. 
 

For many employers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, payroll administrators who also bring accounting knowledge are highly valued. This combination allows them to contribute to broader financial processes while safeguarding payroll accuracy. 

What These Courses Typically Cover 

An Accounting and Payroll Administrator Program is designed to give you a comprehensive skill set that spans both accounting and payroll functions. At CDI College, for example, the diploma program runs for 48 weeks and combines classroom learning with hands‑on experience. 
 

Here’s a breakdown of the core areas you can expect to study: 
 

Accounting Fundamentals

You’ll learn the principles of double‑entry bookkeeping, how to prepare and analyze financial statements, and how to record transactions for both service and retail businesses. 

Payroll Compliance and Fundamentals

This includes understanding payroll legislation, calculating individual pay, handling deductions, preparing Records of Employment, and managing year‑end reporting. 

Computerized Accounting Systems

Training in industry‑standard software like Sage 50 and QuickBooks, plus Microsoft Excel and Word, ensures you can work efficiently in a modern office environment. 

Income Tax Basics

You’ll gain an introduction to Canadian personal income tax, focusing on compliance and accurate reporting. 

Human Resources and Professional Skills

Since payroll administrators often interact with employees and management, courses in HR fundamentals, customer relations, and business writing help you communicate effectively. 

CDI College includes a 140-hour of real‑world practicum, giving you the chance to apply your skills in an actual workplace before you graduate. 

Why Accounting Matters as a Payroll Administrator 

If you are aiming to become a payroll administrator, it might be tempting to think your role will be all about wages, deductions, and pay schedules. While those are core responsibilities, understanding accounting principles is equally important. Payroll does not exist in isolation, it is part of the company’s overall financial system. 

Here’s why accounting knowledge is a valuable asset in payroll administration: 

In CDI College’s Accounting and Payroll Administrator Diploma Program, you will learn not only how to process payroll but also how to record and reconcile those transactions within the company’s accounting framework. This dual skill set makes you more versatile and valuable to employers. 

How CDI College Helps You to Start Your Career 

CDI College Winnipeg campus offers a program that is tailored to meet the needs of today’s employers. Here are some of the features that make it worth considering: 

National Payroll Institute (NPI) Alignment

The program prepares you for the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation, a nationally recognized credential that can boost your career prospects.

Experienced Instructors

You’ll learn from professionals who have worked in the field and can share real‑world insights. 

Hands‑On Training

From using Sage 50 and QuickBooks to mastering Excel formulas, you’ll get a 140–hour practicum that mirrors what you’ll do on the job. 

Career Services Support

CDI College helps with resume writing, interview preparation, so you’re ready to hit the ground running after graduation. 

The Importance of Earning the PCP Designation  

The Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation, offered by the National Payroll Institute, is a well-regarded credential across Canada. In Manitoba, it can really help strengthen your payroll or accounting career. 
 

Here’s what makes it valuable: 
 

• Expertise & Compliance: Earning the PCP shows you’ve completed core payroll courses (legislation, fundamentals, etc.), plus an introductory accounting credit, and understand both federal and provincial payroll laws. 
• Competitive Edge: Some Manitoba employers prefer candidates with PCP, especially in roles involving complex payroll obligations, compliance, oversight, or risk management. 
• Career Flexibility: With PCP and relevant experience, you can move into payroll roles in many industries — manufacturing, government, health care, not-for-profits etc. 
• Ongoing Professional Support: As a PCP, you join the National Payroll Institute’s network, get access to professional development, resources, webinars/events, and are expected to keep up with continuing education. 

CDI College’s program is designed to prepare you for the PCP designation by covering the required courses: 

• Courses in payroll fundamentals, payroll legislation, income tax, bookkeeping, and using payroll/accounting software.  

Keep in mind: even if you complete the educational side, to earn the PCP designation you’ll still need the required work experience in payroll. 

Skills You’ll Develop 

By the end of the program, you’ll have a well‑rounded skill set that includes: 

• Accurate data entry and record keeping 
• Working with accounting and payroll software (e.g. Sage, QuickBooks) 
• Solid understanding of Canadian payroll laws, tax compliance 
• Bookkeeping fundamentals, ability to prepare payroll reports, reconcile remittances etc. 
   

These skills are transferable across industries. 

Is This Career Right for You? 

Payroll administration can be a great fit if you like working with numbers, keeping things organized, and take pride in doing things precisely. There’s strong stability to the work too, almost all organizations need payroll handled correctly. In Manitoba’s mixed economy, there’s consistent demand for professionals who are capable of doing both payroll and accounting-adjacent tasks. 

Final Thoughts 

Choosing the right educational program is a big decision, especially if you’re planning to enter a new field. Accounting and Payroll Administrator courses give you the dual advantage of understanding the financial operations of a business and mastering the intricacies of payroll.  

The CDI College Accounting and Payroll Administrator Diploma Program in Winnipeg offers a comprehensive curriculum, practical experience, and preparation for a respected national designation, making it a strong option for Manitobans who want to build a career in this field. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, consider reaching out to CDI College to learn more about start dates, tuition, and funding options. With the right training, you could be on your way to a rewarding career as an Accounting and Payroll Administrator, equipped with the skills to succeed in any industry.