Financial Services - Investigation & Compliance
Overview
A career in financial services investigation and compliance offers the opportunity to protect the integrity of financial systems, work in a dynamic and ever-evolving field, and build expertise that is highly valued across industries.
The scope of criminal financial proceeds is significant - estimated at some $590 million USD to $1.5 trillion USD worldwide each year. With a rise in financial fraud, there is a growing need for highly trained risk assessment and management specialists. The Lambton College Financial Services - Investigation & Compliance, Ontario College Graduate Certificate program is designed for students interested in acquiring the in-demand abilities required for fraud prevention and detection and the fight against money laundering in Canada.
In this multi-disciplined program, students utilize existing related education or experience to learn and apply a variety of skills such as policies and procedures management, privacy management, and Anti-money Laundering (AML) investigation.
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This Lambton College program is licensed to and delivered by Cestar College (PDF), a licensed private career college in Toronto, Ontario. Students who are registered at are students of a public college and as such, will receive full credit from Lambton College for all Lambton College courses completed at the Cestar College campus in Toronto. Students who meet program graduation requirements will graduate with a credential from Lambton College. Students may be scheduled to have classes on Saturdays.
Admission Requirements
- Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma or Degree or equivalent in mathematics, statistics, information technology, business, accounting, or economics
The admissions process is competitive and meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.
Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel a program or course at any time; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways to third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College's sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.English Language Requirements
- IELTS of 6.5
-or-
IELTS of 6.0 + Completion of EAP-3106 (English for Academic Purposes) during the first term of study
- or -
- TOEFL iBT 79
-or-
ITOEFL 70 + Completion of EAP-3106 (English for Academic Purposes) during the first term of study
- or -
- Passed Lambton Institute of English placement test
Please Note: IELTS is the only proficiency score accepted by the Study Direct Stream (SDS) program. Additional country-specific requirements may also be applicable.
Meeting the minimum English requirements does not guarantee admission. Students with higher English proficiency scores will receive priority in the admission assessment process. Not all students will qualify for EAP-3106 in place of the required IELTS or TOEFL test scores.
Costs
- Term 1 $9,040.00
- Term 2 $8,000.00
- Term 3 $8,700.00
- Co-op Term $0.00
Total Cost of Program
Tuition fees are estimates and are subject to change each academic year. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.
Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel at any time a program or course; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.
Scholarships Available
There are 9 scholarships available for this program, with a total value of $1,000!
Additional Fees
WIL Project Fees
Students who are not successful in securing a co-op or fail to meet the co-op requirements will need to register in CPL-5559 WIL Project.
There is an additional fee of $2,480 for each student enrolled in the WIL Project course.
Textbooks
The anticipated cost for textbooks in this program is approximately $500 - $700 per term. This amount accounts for both mandatory textbook costs (included in tuition fees) as well as textbook fees not included in your tuition fee amount.
Important Dates, Deadline & Late Fees
For additional information on registration dates, deadlines and late fees please refer to Registration Dates and Deadlines.
Student Fees
A student services fee is included in your tuition.
Health Insurance Coverage
Emergency medical insurance is mandatory for all international students at Lambton College. This includes students who are full-time and part-time and who are on a co-op. This insurance is provided by GuardMe - a third party insurance provider.
See Insurance Costs & Details
Technology Requirements
In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.
Courses
Professional Communications
This course is designed for international students with diplomas or degrees. It focuses on polishing communications skills acquired through one's academic career and workplace experience. Through various business writing and speaking scenarios, students learn Canadian business practices and communication styles, incorporating inclusivity and diversity. Close attention is paid to proper incorporation of the intellectual property of others to ensure academic integrity. Students will practice organized and dynamic speaking and will strive for polished business documents.
Business Analytics
Strong computer skills are essential to finding Canadian employment in management and administration. This Business Analytics course introduces the use of data-driven techniques to identify and solve business problems. Students will learn key concepts of data analysis, from data collection and preparation to the application of predictive analytics models. Students develop skills in time management, self-discipline, and having an eye for detail by strengthening their ability to read and follow written instructions. Business Analytics is a course delivered using practical applications in the computer lab; through case studies and hands-on activities, students will learn to use Excel functionality more effectively in analyzing, interpreting, and visualizing data. Students will gain an understanding of the importance of data in today's business environment and will develop the skills necessary to identify, analyze, and utilize data for making better industry-specific decisions through case analysis.
Introduction to Managerial Accounting
The managerial accounting course provides students with skills to become highly effective in environments where quick decisions are required. Students learn to use financial information to make quick strategic decisions including how to use data to evaluate the effectiveness of current operations. Learning to maximize the profitability of operations, students interpret financial statements and supporting financial data that drive decision making. Topics covered in this course include cost management, analysis of financial performance, application of pricing strategies, and budgetary planning and control for a business enterprise.
Canadian Politics & Government
Through the lens of intersectionality POL 1003 examines the structure and function of government within Canada. The Constitution, federalism, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the electoral system and political participation are all used to frame a critical review of Canada's role in global sustainability, socio-economic interdependence, and decolonization. Regionalism, cleavages, and disadvantage are core themes further explored by learners through small group dialogue, gamification, and a critical analysis of current event topics which have included Indigenous rights; gender identity; Residential Schools; and structural racism. If you're looking to make a difference... look to POL 1003
Introduction to Financial Services in Investigation & Compliance in Canada
This course is an introduction to the Canadian Financial Services and the various products that are offered by banks, credit unions, credit card companies, Fintech companies, stockbrokers, investment funds, Money Service Businesses, and insurance companies. Student will be exposed to the role of Canadian financial services industry in fight against Human Trafficking (Project Protect), Child exploitation (Project Shadow), Drug trafficking etc. This course will provide students the foundational knowledge required to then apply to all Anti-money Laundering courses (AML).
Canadian Banking
This introductory course provides students with an understanding and perspective towards an appreciation of the integrative, intricate nature of the financial and economic landscape. This will further increase awareness and expectations for the roles and responsibilities of the financial advisor.
Canadian Careers in Financial Services - Investigation and Compliance
In this course, students explore the hierarchical structure within the financial services industry. It will provide students with employment preparatory skills specifically related to Financial Services Industry and will prepare students for their Co-operative Education work term job search.
Introduction to Investment Strategies in Canada
This course examines the structure of the Canadian investment industry with a detailed study of the various institutions, securities instruments and market participants which comprise the industry. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how public securities markets function and the role they play in raising capital for businesses. The course will place added emphasis on the functioning of public stock markets including the theory and practice of equity valuation, stock selection, portfolio construction and the role of investment advisors and institutional money mangers in the investment management process. This course will provide critical foundations for students interested in pursing careers in financial services or business management.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Administration
Students explore key concepts associated with money laundering, sanctions, Bribery and corruption as well as terrorist financing. The course will also cover the importance and role of international and national bodies, regulators and standard setters such as FATF, Egmont group, Wolfsberg group, FINTRAC, OSFI, IIROC, MFDA, OFAC and others. This course also covers the associated risks and red flags related to the products discussed in previous program courses.
AML Policies & Procedures
Policies and procedures are an essential part of any organization as it provides a roadmap for day-to-day operations. This course explains the importance of policies and procedures, as well as the necessity of keeping the policies and procedures updated while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations and providing guidance for effective risk-based decision-making. In addition, students learn the importance of effective project management which involves planning, documenting, applying processes and procedures, as well as key concepts such Agile and change management.
Regulatory Compliance Administration & Communication
Students of this course will learn how regulation of the financial services industry is conducted in North America. The course will review in depth the regulatory bodies or agencies and the key pieces of legislation which govern the various participants in the financial services industry. Students will learn the regulatory obligations of financial institutions and the compliance functions and processes which institutions employ to meet these obligations. Students will also discuss the role of emerging technologies on the regulatory risk and compliance functions. This course will provide students with the foundational knowledge to support a career in financial services, compliance management or regulatory oversight.
Privacy & Identity Theft Management
In this course, students study the fundamentals of privacy laws in Canada and its applicability to the financial services industry. Curriculum topics include learning about the role of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, PIPEDA fair information principles, the Privacy Act legislation and regulations and the various methods in place used to safeguard the financial industry from identity theft and associated fraudulent activities.
Certified Financial Crime Specialist Preparation
Students study key concepts related to cyber-crimes, fraud, bribery, corruption, tax evasion, sanctions, terrorist financing, compliance programs, asset recovery, crypto crimes, and investigation in this preparatory certification course. The course will cover the Certified Financial Crime Specialist (CFCS) examination content. The CFCS is a comprehensive external certification in the financial crime field provided by the Association for Certified Financial Crime Specialists (ACFCS).
Job Search & Success
This course provides student with skills and knowledge to help support their career search and succeed in the workplace. Students align their personal skill set and goals to guide them on their career paths. They will learn how to effectively conduct a job search, build a professional and well-tailored resume and cover letter, and develop and practice interview techniques. Students will also develop their personal brand to help support effective career networking and aid in their job search. Teamwork and collaboration in the workplace are also discussed. Self-reflection is used to inspire insight and support their professional career journey.
Cryptocurrencies & Artificial Intelligence in AML
In this course students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory responsibilities faced by financial institutions with respect to AML (anti-money laundering) regulations in North America and globally. The course will emphasize the emerging challenges presented by developing technologies including crypto currencies and other crypto based assets and their potential to support criminal activity or evade traditional detection measures. Students will consider in detail how AI (artificial intelligence) and other emerging Big Data technologies can be employed to enhance regulatory procedures and detection of potential financial criminal activity. This course is an important complement to a student's broader understanding of financial services regulation and compliance activities for a career in financial services, compliance management or regulatory oversight.
Financial Services through an AML Lens
In this course, students discuss the applicability of the risk-based approach and the framework in place to mitigate inherent and residual risks. Topics include geographical risk, product risk, client risk, reputational risk, regulatory risk, and compliance risk. In addition, current industry trends are studied.
Fraud Investigation
This course will provide students with a detailed summary of common types of financial frauds and relevant frameworks for fraud prevention, detection and investigation. Students will understand how to spot signs of and investigate fraud related offences including Identity Theft, Affinity Fraud, Credit/Debit Card Fraud, and Investment Fraud.
Business Law
In this course, students are prepared for a business environment increasingly affected by laws. They learn how laws must be understood and applied by management in the conduct of business. They also learn how to analyze a business situation from a general legal perspective. Emphasis is placed on methods of dispute resolution, contracts, torts, employment law, methods of carrying on business, sale of goods, and marketing law.
Ethical Leadership & Critical Decision Making
This interdisciplinary course combines insights from the field of business with social psychology and applied ethics to challenge students with an introspective look at some of today's most important ethical dilemmas. Students in PHL-1253 learn that the ethical standards employed by businesses and corporations ultimately concern the quality of human behaviours in those organizations. Human behaviour evolves from many influences: our past relationships, the ways we think and feel, how we respond to pressures in various social contexts, and how we deliberate in our daily thoughts and actions. Each of these influences is intimately involved with the quality of our ethical decision making.
Investment Conduct & Compliance
This course provides students with an understanding of the Canadian securities industry regulations. Procedures surrounding participant registration, account opening, sales and trading and placing orders will be discussed. The appropriate ethical guidelines and corporate responsibility when dealing with client accounts, transactions and products will be highlighted.
Work Term (Full-Time)
Co-operative education provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace, undertake career sampling and gain valuable work experience that may assist students in leveraging employment after graduation.
WIL Project
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) Project is aimed at enriching students by connecting different program areas of study, cutting across subject-matter lines, and emphasizing unifying concepts. The focus of the WIL Project is to make connections between study and industry by engaging students in relevant and meaningful activities that are connected to and practiced within the professional workplace. WIL Project allows students to enhance and strengthen their employability prospects post-graduation by fine tuning skills and knowledge and meeting the expectations of today's employers. Students are required to attend the scheduled shifts in the WIL office, reporting to the WIL Supervisor. Weekly real-world challenges are presented in the WIL office, designed by industry professionals. In addition to the weekly assigned deliverables, students are also offered professional development sessions, and exposed to industry guest speakers, enhancing their opportunity to develop their professional network.
Co-op Eligibility & WIL Project Fee
In order to be eligible to secure an approved full-time co-op work term (CPL-1049), students must have a GPA of 2.8 or greater and complete all the co-op eligibility requirements. Failing to do so will require students to enroll in CPL-5559 WIL Project at an additional cost.
Contact
Centre for Global Engagement
LAMBTON COLLEGE SARNIA
1457 London Road
Sarnia ON, N7S 6K4
After Graduation
Employment Opportunities
Career positions may include, but are not limited to:
- AML analyst/investigator
- Fraud analyst/investigator
- KYC/onboarding analyst
- Compliance officer/administrator
- Risk manager
- Privacy officer
- Financial Planner
- Credit Union examiner
- Estate and trust administrator
- Inspector, financial institutions
- Financial Investigator
- Mortgage broker
- Trust officer
- Account manager
- Credit adjudicator
Looking for Support After Graduation?
The International Graduate Services & Support Centre (GSSC) is a place dedicated to assisting International alumni as they seek employment and settle into Canadian life following graduation.
Post-Graduate Employment
International students who successfully complete their programs of study at Lambton College may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Program. This program allows students to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
A work permit under the PGWP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student's study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length. The length and approval of the PGWP is determined solely by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Students must meet the eligibility requirements to apply for a post-graduation work permit.
Immigration Regulations & Changes
Immigration regulations are legislated by the Federal Government of Canada and are subject to change at any time without notice. Students are responsible for ensuring that they are in compliance with all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada regulations at all times during their studies and while in Canada. Lambton College staff are not authorized to provide advice or guidance on immigration-related matters. Prospective applicants and current students should consult the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website or call the IRCC Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 to answer or clarify any immigration-related questions or information.
Co-op
About Co-op
Students in this program have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience by applying classroom learning during co-op experiences.
Learn more about co-op terms and the roles and responsibilities of students and co-op advisors.
More Information
Student Responsibilities
- Course and program delivery schedules are proposed and subject to change for each intake.
- Students are required to bring their own laptop with wireless capability.
- Students are advised to bring an official copy of their most recent police clearance, driver's license, and vaccination record from their home country.
Technology Requirements
It is required that students purchase a laptop with a Windows operating system.
Internet Speed Requirements
For best performance for students learning remotely, an internet connection with a minimum of 40 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload speed is recommended in order to effectively use video conferencing and remote lecture delivery software as well as, other online resources remotely. Due to the large area over which students may be dispersed, we are unable to recommend a specific provider, so you will need to inquire around your area to find one that best suits your needs.
Minimum Laptop Requirements
In order to access the internet and virtually-delivered software and courseware, student laptops should include the following at a minimum. By meeting the following specifications, students will be equipped to access software and courseware on their laptop through the internet:
- Intel i5 8th Gen Processor or equivalent
- 16 GB of RAM (with a minimum of 8 GB)
- 100 GB HDD or more
- HD Graphics
- Webcam with a microphone
- Wireless 802.11n/ac 5ghz capable
- Windows Operating System (Windows 11)
Software
To ensure students are getting the most our of their classroom experience, some software will be required.
Lambton College has made this software easily accessible online. Students can leverage our Microsoft Office 365 software packages and services. In addition, much of the software you require for your courses will be available on demand for use on any device - on or off campus.