Payroll Specialist

Payroll Skills that Pay - Literally!

Payroll is more than just numbers. It’s about staying up to date with ever-changing regulations, making sure employees get paid accurately, and keeping businesses running smoothly.

NBCC’s Payroll Specialist microcredential program is a great place to start. Take the first microcredential to build specific skills for your current job or complete all three—with a minimum grade of 60% in each—to earn the Payroll Specialist milestone badge.

NBCC’s Payroll Specialist microcredentials stand on their own – or they can be your first step toward the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation*. The choice is yours.

Payroll Specialist Microcredential Program

The following three microcredentials are part of NBCC’s Payroll Specialist microcredential program and are to be taken in order, if you choose to complete all three: 

  • Payroll Compliance Legislation
  • Payroll Fundamentals 1
  • Payroll Fundamentals 2

Program Structure

  • Live, Virtual Classes - Learn from expert instructors in real time.
  • Step-by-Step Learning - Build your expertise one course at a time.
  • Simple Set-up - All you need is a computer and internet access!

NBCC Certification

Upon successful completion of each microcredential in the program, you’ll receive a digital badge — a visual recognition of your achievement. Stack all three microcredentials to earn the Payroll Specialist milestone badge. Share your badges on your résumé, LinkedIn profile, or e-portfolio to show employers what you can do and the skills you bring to the job.

Courses/Registration

Course NameStart DateDetails/Registration
Payroll Compliance LegislationSeptember 9, 2026View/Register & Pay
Payroll Fundamentals INovember 16, 2026Registration Opens April 1, 2026
Payroll Fundamentals IIFebruary 5, 2027Registration Opens September 1, 2026

* Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) Designation

Looking to earn the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation from the National Payroll Institute (NPI)? NBCC’s Payroll Specialist microcredential program covers the core payroll courses required—just make sure you complete them in order and achieve at least 65% in each to meet the NPI’s standards.

Additional requirements also apply, including an Introduction to Accounting course and one-year weighted payroll experience.

Requirements for PCP Designation

Requirement 1: Earn your Payroll Specialist milestone badge by completing all three NBCC Payroll Specialist microcredentials.

Requirement 2: Introduction to Accounting course from any post secondary institution.

Requirement 3: One-year weighted payroll experience

Why Earn Your PCP Designation?

Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your expertise, the PCP designation helps you build a solid foundation in payroll. With this certification, you’ll be able to:

  • Stay Compliant - Master payroll rules and regulations to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Boost Your Skills - Confidently handle payroll operations, ensure accuracy, and contribute to key business decisions.
  • Join a Supportive Community - Connect with other payroll professionals, access exclusive resources, and continue learning as you grow in your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Payroll Specialist microcredential program?

NBCC’s Payroll Specialist microcredential program is an excellent step for those working towards the official Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) certification from the National Payroll Institute (NPI).

What are the benefits for me to enroll in one or all of the microcredentials in the Payroll Specialist microcredential program?

You can start with the Payroll Specialist: Payroll Compliance Legislation microcredential to build specific skills for your current job. Each microcredential then builds on the last, so they’re designed to be taken in order as you continue—when you’re ready.

Complete all three microcredentials (with a minimum grade of 60% each) – Payroll Compliance Legislation, Payroll Fundamentals I, and Payroll Fundamentals II - to earn NBCC’s Payroll Specialist milestone badge.

If you’re working toward the PCP designation, all three must be completed in order with at least 65% in each course, along with additional NPI requirements such as an Introduction to Accounting course and one year of payroll experience.

What is dual registration and why is it required?

Dual registration means that students must register with both NBCC and the National Payroll Institute (NPI) to participate in the Payroll Specialist microcredential program.

This is required because the program is delivered in partnership between NBCC and NPI, with each organization providing different components of the course.

What is the benefit of completing the Payroll Compliance Professional (PCP) designation from the National Payroll Institute (NPI)?

The PCP designation is a nationally recognized credential that provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in payroll. It helps you understand legislative requirements, manage payroll compliance, and contribute to organizational decision-making.

Business leaders across Canada recognize the PCP designation as the gold standard for payroll expertise. You’ll also join a network of professionals and gain access to NPI resources that help you stay current and compliant.

The designation is awarded by the National Payroll Institute upon completion of the required courses and one year of payroll work experience.

What equipment/supplies will I need to successfully participate in taking any of the microcredentials in the Payroll Specialist program?

You’ll need a computer with internet access to complete any of the microcredentials.

You must also register with NPI and pay a course fee of $350 + tax per microcredential to access the official course materials and online learning platform.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the Payroll Specialist microcredential program?

For more information, contact tracy.magee@nbcc.ca