Financial Fraud Investigation A Quickly Developing Field
With Bernie Madoff almost getting away
with the biggest ponzi scheme in American history, casinos being hustled
by experienced gamblers and tax evasion becoming common place, the
field of forensic accounting and financial fraud investigation continues
to expand. Successful analysis and findings reported by practicing
professionals may be the difference between whether perpetrators avoid
detection or are brought to justice. In most cases, success is directly
and primarily dependent upon the knowledge, skills and abilities of the
professionals performing the work. Those interested in entering this
field and becoming: forensic accounting/litigation consultants, tax
auditors, gaming investigators, insurance investigator, bank
investigators and internal auditors may want to consider attending
Centennial College’s Financial Fraud Investigation program.
Taking just one year/ two semesters to
complete, this fast-paced offering is geared towards mature students who
have already completed college diploma or university degree in any
discipline. Aside from having to submit an official transcript
demonstrating proof of successful completion of a post-secondary
diploma, applicants may also be required to provide proof of English
proficiency. Please note that applicants who present a combination of
partial post-secondary education and relevant work experience will be
considered but they must be able to submit a transcript and have their
resume reviewed.
Through small classes that offer
hands-on training, the Financial Fraud Investigation program provides
students with the essential skills and knowledge in forensic accounting
and investigation techniques, equipping them to work in entry-level
positions in the field of forensic accounting and audit investigations
within the public or private sector. As such, in the first semester
students take courses such as: Introduction to Fraud Examinations,
Financial Crimes Investigation, Introduction to Intelligence Gathering,
Financial Institutions & Identity Theft, International Legal
Elements and Professional Court Presentation. Meanwhile, second semester
Financial Fraud Investigation courses include: Advanced Fraud
Examinations, Forensic Accounting, Investigative Methodologies, Ethics
and Fraud Criminology, Practical Fraud Investigation and Case
Management, and Interview and Interrogations. All courses solely focus
on preparing students for speedy entry into the field.
Teaching these Financial Fraud
Investigation topics are faculty members who have experience in the
industry and are able to share their own personal stories, help students
to network and offer advice with confidence. In addition, students from
this offering study at Centennial College’s largest location, Progress
Campus. This campus houses other financial and business programs,
allowing for peer interaction as well as networking.
In addition to receiving an Ontario College Graduate Certificate, content taught in the financial accounting fraud
program also prepares students for the Certified Fraud Examiner
examination. Graduates are also comfortable carrying out tasks such as:
investigating and analyzing financial evidence, testifying as a witness,
becoming involved in criminal investigations and uncovering financial
evidence in employee or insurance fraud cases, and investigating in the
rapidly evolving area of computer fraud.