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First Group of CASB Students Take the Lead in National Uniform Evaluation Results: Backgrounder

For Immediate Release
December 13, 2002

CASB Overview

Launched in 2001, the CA School of Business (CASB) provides the pre-professional program of study for all CA students in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, B.C., and the Territories. Through CASB, students pursue graduate-level education and paid work experience concurrently, within a flexible environment. This innovative, competency-based program combines the successful completion of a series of online facilitated modules with a 30-month term of professional experience and exposes students to the challenges and issues facing companies of all sizes, as they learn how to effectively manage the various stages of growth and transition.

CASB Enrolment

As of November 30, 2002

CA Competency Map

The CA profession's body of knowledge and skills is detailed in the CA Competency Map. CA candidates are expected to demonstrate a specified proficiency level at those skills in a manner that upholds the professional ethics, skills, knowledge, and attitudes of a CA.

Outlined in the CA Competency Map are two groups of competencies

• pervasive qualities and skills-the "hows" of being a CA (ethical behaviour and professionalism, personal attributes, and professional skills)
• specific competencies-grouped into six categories the competencies include organizational effectiveness, control and risk management; finance; taxation; assurance; performance measurement; and information and information technology.

"It is interesting to note," says CASB CEO Dr. W. John Brennan, FCA, "the breadth of the range of competencies in the CA Competency Map and the link between those competencies identified in the map and the Vision CA."

Ten CAs from across Canada comprise the CA profession's Board of Evaluators. The Board evaluates candidates' responses on the UFE and determines whether candidates demonstrate they have acquired the necessary degree of professional competency. The Board of Evaluators will then recommend a pass or fail status to their respective Provincial Institutes/Ordre/Regions.

CASB Modules

Each CASB Module consists of ten weeks of on-line facilitated learning followed by a three-day Face-to-Face interactive session. As students progress through the Modules they follow a simulated company through the business life cycle--from start-up to IPO. After achieving competency in the five CASB modules, and a UFE Prep module, students will be prepared to write the national Uniform Evaluation (UFE). As part of their professional development, students then complete a Focus Module that allows them to concentrate on one area of the accounting profession.

CASB Writing Centres

CASB students wrote this year's UFE in 28 different centres across western Canada including: Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, Vernon, Prince George, Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, Red Deer, Medicine Hat, Grande Prairie, Regina, Saskatoon, Brandon and Winnipeg.

2002 UFE Writers

The CA School of Business (CASB), a non-profit organization created by the four provincial institutes of Chartered Accountants in Western Canada, provides a consistent education program ensuring CAs possess the skills, knowledge and highest professional standards to succeed in an ever-evolving business environment. For more, visit www.casb.com.

The 8,500 CAs in BC provide expert advice to a variety of small and large business; are key members of management teams; or consult to private industry and the public sector. As members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of British Columbia, they adhere to a strictly enforced code of conduct and ongoing professional development.

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Media Contacts:

Sarah Stephen
CAs of BC, Communications Co-ordinator
Tel: (604) 488-2623

Wendy McGrath
CASB Communications Coordinator
Tel: (780) 420-2350