An MBA is one of the most powerful tools for career advancement—and a higher salary. In Canada, MBA graduates earn an average base salary of $100,854, plus a signing bonus of $16,419, according to CourseCompare research. But while the return on investment is clear, the upfront cost can be steep: Tuition for top-tier programs in Canada can approach $100,000.
That’s why many aspiring business leaders are looking for more affordable MBA options—programs that combine academic rigour, strong career outcomes, and valuable networks, without the six-figure price tag.
Still, affordability shouldn’t mean compromise. Accreditation, hands-on learning, real-world client projects, and access to influential alumni networks all impact the long-term value and ROI of an MBA. And for working professionals, flexible formats—including part-time programs and online MBAs—can make balancing work and study far more manageable, while also helping to spread out payments.
To help you make a smart investment in your future, CourseCompare has ranked the best affordable MBA programs in Canada, based on total cost, but also available funding and financial aid, flexible learning options, payment plans, and our core metrics including employment rates and average graduation compensation. Each program featured in our ranking costs less than $35,000 and delivers exceptional value, combining academic excellence with career-ready experiences that set graduates up for long-term success.
CourseCompare’s annual school rankings are determined using a process that considers several core metrics and principles. Read more about our methodology here.
Concordia University John Molson School of Business
Located in Montreal, Concordia University’s John Molson School of Business (JMSB) has a strong reputation both in Canada and globally. JMSB holds the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation.
The business school reports that 93 percent of its MBA graduates are employed within three months of graduation, with an average post-graduation salary of $98,051.
JMSB offers 17+ graduate scholarships and awards available to MBA students, seven of which are specific to those in the MBA program. Most funding is only available to full-time students, though there may also be opportunities for part-time students.
What Students Are Saying
Arman Motaghi, John Molson MBA“I enjoyed the MBA and the phd program. I recommend it. Concordia is student oriented and flexible. ”
The Curriculum
JMSB’s MBA program takes a practical, hands-on approach to business education. Students look at business administration and management practices from a comprehensive, interdisciplinary perspective.
Core courses focus on developing essential practical skills in diverse areas of business administration and management while using a hands-on case method. MBA students go beyond theory and learn to apply concepts of ethics, sustainability, and responsible business practices throughout the program’s curriculum, but in particular during the Responsible Manager course.
A non-credit co-op program offers students the opportunity to participate in paid internships in Canada, the U.S., or abroad, for one semester. Co-ops are available in accountancy, finance, human resource management, international business, business technology management, marketing, and supply chain operations management.
Co-op students also benefit from the unique opportunity to shadow CEOs of small- and medium-sized enterprises, gaining direct insight into leadership and business operations.
What Sets Concordia’s MBA Program Apart
The John Molson School of Business (JMSB) stands out for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, giving students abundant opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings—most notably through its co-op program.
Closer to home, initiatives like the Community Service Initiative (CSI) connect students with non-profits, social enterprises, small businesses, and government organizations to deliver practical, impactful solutions. Similarly, the Concordia Small Business Consulting Bureau (CSBCB) offers hands-on consulting experience with local small businesses.
Internationally, the Concordia International Community Outreach Program (ICOP) helps students become global citizens and socially conscious leaders. Through volunteer placements in developing countries, students work in areas such as microfinance, market analysis, and entrepreneurship mentoring. ICOP also hosts a Social Business Case Competition, where students tackle real-world challenges faced by NGOs abroad.
JMSB also shines in the case competition arena, participating in the MBA International Case Competition—the world’s largest and oldest—as well as the Van Berkom–John Molson Case Competition, which focuses on small-cap investment.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
University of Fredericton (UFred)
With flexible program delivery and competitive tuition, UFred is helping future leaders earn an affordable MBA or executive MBA (EMBA). These high-ROI programs have a strong, demonstrated return on investment: 94 percent of UFred MBA and EMBA graduates are employed within a year of graduation, earning an average salary of $135,000.
UFred is purpose-built to be online, combining the flexibility and reach of digital delivery with high academic standards for accessible, affordable education. The online programs are fully accredited by the Province of New Brunswick and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This ensures they meet rigorous academic standards. That way, students don’t have to choose between quality and affordability.
Designed for working professionals, UFred’s MBA can be completed in two years full-time or 3.5 years part-time. The EMBA, created for seasoned leaders, can be finished in 1.5 to 2.5 years. Tuition can be paid per course, making budgeting more manageable.
What Students Are Saying
Dustin Burke, Executive MBA“Just completed the EMBA at UFred. I have done other Online Educational programs in the past (Certified Management Consultant and CPA) UFred's platform was by far the best. The professors especially Dr. Babb (Consulting) were excellent and very open to answer questions related to what I have experienced. Overall a great experience and the value definitely exceeds the price of admission. Perfect for someone with a solid work experience to further develop their understanding of Business. ”
The Curriculum
The online MBA program at the University of Fredericton is designed for busy professionals, combining independent learning and one virtual class a week. This takes place in the evening (Monday to Thursday) and typically lasts one to two hours.
The program begins with foundational courses covering key topics such as economics, organizational strategy, and leadership theory. The courses combine individual assignments and group work projects, giving students opportunities to network across the country.
Once students complete their foundational courses, they choose a leadership stream that matches their professional ambitions. There are 11 options, including artificial intelligence, business analytics, human resource management, and consulting.
The final stage of the online MBA program is the group capstone project, where students apply the knowledge, skills, and critical insights learned throughout their studies. There are four options:
Enterprise Integration Capstone: Students consult directly with senior executives to solve real business problems, translating classroom theory into boardroom impact.
Entrepreneurial Capstone: The Art of Innovation: Graduates leave with a launch-ready venture, built from the ground up using real data, tested ideas, and hands-on innovation.
Global Capstone Project: Students develop international go-to-market strategies, mastering the complexities of global business and cross-border expansion.
Global Capstone with International Field Study: Graduates take their business ideas global by traveling abroad to meet industry leaders and explore markets firsthand.
What Sets UFred’s MBA Program Apart
The University of Fredericton’s MBA and EMBA programs are designed to offer flexibility for working professionals, allowing them to continue their careers while pursuing their education.
At UFred, students earn their credential while gaining real-world experience and a powerful professional network. With small class sizes, supportive faculty, and collaborative projects that mirror real business challenges, every course is designed to help students grow their skills and connections, including the practical, thesis-free capstone. From day one, they’re learning alongside experienced professionals, expanding their perspective, and building a career-ready resume, with personalized support throughout.
Locations
Online
HEC Montreal
HEC Montréal offers a one-year, full-time MBA program in English and in French, as well as a part-time option in French, at its new downtown building, a state-of-the-art facility that gives students access to top-notch resources, business networking, knowledge sharing, and job-search assistance.
The school holds a triple crown of three prestigious accreditations: AACSB, Association of MBAs, and EQUIS. The program boasts a 97 percent employment rate, with an average salary increase of 60 percent among its graduates.
MBA students are eligible for 93 of HEC’s 250 available scholarships.
The Curriculum
HEC Montréal’s MBA begins with a five-and-a-half-month core curriculum covering key business disciplines—accounting, economics, finance, ethics, marketing, operations, and social responsibility—along with a week-long intensive business management simulation.
Students then choose between two three-month specializations: Strategy & General Management or Strategy & Sustainable Development. Both culminate in the HEC Challenge, a real-world business case competition.
Next, students personalize their learning with one of several two-month streams:
- An immersive MBA Campus focused on sustainability in Quebec or global development issues
- The CDL Montréal accelerator for tech and AI ventures
- PMP Certification preparation
- A range of electives in areas such as data and AI, design thinking, and small business value creation
In the final stage, students complete a one-and-a-half-month consulting field project with a Montreal-based organization. Leadership development is woven throughout the program via mandatory workshops like Becoming a Manager – Coaching Manager, The Art of Communicating as a Manager, and Changing: Reflecting on Leadership and Personal Change.
The French language part-time MBA mirrors the full-time program in structure and content but is delivered in a hybrid format—weeknight classes are available in person or online, with in-person sessions on weekends.
What Sets HEC’s MBA Program Apart
HEC Montréal’s MBA program is one of the most customizable in Canada, inviting students to tailor their learning to their specific career goals and areas of interest through dedicated streams and specializations.
What’s more, the immersive, hands-on nature of HEC’s program gives learners extensive experience throughout the program. The result is a highly practical degree that leaves graduates well-positioned in the job market, whether they pursue work in the local tech scene or on the global business stage.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
Wilfrid Laurier University Lazaridis School of Business and Economics
Since 1976, Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis School of Business and Economics has been at the forefront of delivering innovative professional management programs. It was the first to offer the one-year MBA in Canada and alternate-weekend part-time format, and it pioneered the integrated MBA curriculum design.
Located in Waterloo, Ont., Lazaridis is AACSB accredited, representing the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide. The school offers an MBA program in three formats: full-time, full-time with co-op, and part-time.
There are a limited number of entrance scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, for outstanding MBA applicants.
What Students Are Saying
Jamie M, Master of Business Administration“I found there to be a good selection of co-op opportunities in the MBA program. My experience was the department there is full of hard-working people who truly care about making sure their students are getting lined up with opportunities that are helping them grow and develop their professional skills. There were jobs from all over available to be applied to, with a fairly high concentration of them being in Toronto, Waterloo region, or surrounding areas, although there were some that were a little further afield. They are certainly plugged in with all the major Canadian companies in the area. ”
The Curriculum
The MBA program at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis School of Business focuses on real-time education through practical experience and academic research. Field projects, professional development, and hands-on practicums support in-class learning.
The full-time MBA can be completed in 12 months, with the option to extend it to 16 months with a lighter course load. It includes core, foundation, and elective courses, as well as a capstone applied business research project and not-for-profit practicum.
The MBA with co-op combines foundational and elective courses with an eight-month paid co-op work placement, as well as the capstone applied business research project and not-for-profit practicum, for a total of 20 months of study and work.
The part-time MBA is designed for working professionals, with evening classes and flexible start dates, designed to be completed in two to four years.
In addition to foundational core and electives, the Lazaridis MBA program offers five concentrations for students to customize their studies and align the program with their career goals. Students can declare up to two concentrations, including Data Driven Business Intelligence, Demand-Supply Dynamics and Customer Insights, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Financial Management for Professionals, and Strategic Leadership and Foresight.
What Sets Laurier’s MBA Program Apart
Wilfred Laurier’s MBA program stands out for its flexibility, variety of options, and unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Its three distinct formats—full-time, full-time with co-op, and part-time—are designed to accommodate various career and personal needs. Students can extend the full-time program or accelerate the part-time option for greater flexibility.
Experiential learning is a key focus of these MBA programs. Consulting projects, live integrated case exercises, hands-on learning practicums, and co-op placements all help students gain the practical experience they need to succeed in the business world. The applied business research project enables students to research and consulting services to real client organizations from a range of industries, including large corporations, non-profits, and government agencies.
The Live ICE (integrated case exercise) offers students the opportunity to apply their in-class learning to a real and current issue for the case company. Teams present strategic recommendations to company executives, offering the organization a wide range of solutions to evaluate and choose from.
In the not-for-profit practicum, students contribute 40 hours of field-based community service at a not-for-profit organization of their choice. Opportunities may involve management consulting services, event planning, marketing and media support, fundraising and grant writing, recruitment and training, or volunteering of time.
Locations
Waterloo, Ontario
Laurentian University
Located in Sudbury, Ont., Laurentian University offers a flexible MBA program, allowing students to complete their studies either full-time or part-time, through on-campus, online, or blended formats. The program also includes a fast-track option, enabling business graduates to complete their MBAs in less than one year.
What Students Are Saying
Marshall McCauley, Business Administration (MBA)“ Small class sizes of about 30 make this business program intimate. Cost of living here in Sudbury is low so our dollars are getting all of us quite far! Great professors and the business school seems unaffected by some of the issues the university has been facing with funding. Having said that, mining engineering and nursing are making bigger names from themselves here than business but I’m proud to be here and excited to graduate next year. The online MBA also offers great flexibility for anyone interested in taking time away from the North to study. ”
The Curriculum
Laurentian’s MBA program features a modern curriculum that blends academic and experiential learning. Interactive learning experiences online and on campus focus on the application of theory through action, building sought-after competencies in today’s business world.
Beyond core business foundations, such as accounting, finance, and marketing, students gain knowledge in ethical leadership, managing information systems, advanced financial and marketing concepts, and the complexities of managing within a global context. A capstone consulting project provides a direct link to industry, allowing students to provide their knowledge to real-world business scenarios.
In addition to the existing general MBA option, students have the opportunity to choose from one of three specific pathways: Global Management, Analytics and Operations, and Finance. Recent graduates are required to complete a work-integrated learning program that will give them the experience they need to move their careers forward.
What Sets Laurentian’s MBA Program Apart
The standout feature of Laurentian University’s MBA program is its flexibility, designed to accommodate the diverse needs of students and working professionals alike.
The online MBA program is geared to business professionals who are working full time. With no on-campus requirement, the format is ideal for students who need the flexibility of balancing work with family and community commitments. Students can make their way through the program material at their own pace, taking as little as one course per year, or accelerating their program completion if they meet the eligibility requirements for advanced standing.
Locations
Sudbury, Ontario, and Online
Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto Metropolitan University’s Ted Rogers School of Management offers an MBA program in the heart of Canada’s leading financial district. The Ted Rogers School of Management is AACSB accredited, reflecting the high standards of the MBA program, which boasts a 91 percent employment rate within six months of graduating.
The school offers a variety of flexible delivery options for its MBA, designed to accommodate working professionals: accelerated full-time, flex full-time, and part-time, as well as dual MA/MBA, and an MBA with a sport business focus.
Each year the Ted Rogers School of Management issues a total of 24 Graduate Entrance Scholarships and Awards worth up to $20,000 each. Scholarships are worth up to $20,000 each for full-time and up to $5,000 each for part-time candidates. There are also dedicated leadership awards for Black and Indigenous students.
What Students Are Saying
Swapna Bhargavi, Ted Rogers MBA“You’re right in the middle of the city of Toronto and will get access to all of the major companies and events. As a former polytechnic, Toronto Metropolitan University has roots and is still focused on real world skills and job preparation. The university’s reputation has also grow A LOT in the past 10 years and many students in my class went on to work at reputable companies. They also did interesting work, not everyone went into management consulting or finance. At least 8 graduates I know have gone on to start their own businesses. Profs strike a great balance between theory and practice and all have decades’ of corporate experience to speak from. The elective options are also wide and varied. tldr: An MBA program integrated into the heart of Toronto with a lot of networking opportunities. Hands-on curriculum and experience that will set you up for interesting work a whatever field you choose. ”
The Curriculum
TMU’s MBA curriculum focuses on leading for performance and wellbeing across four central themes: diversity, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This program prepares graduates to lead, guided by ethical corporate governance, socially responsible decision-making, and environmental stewardship.
The program also places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. A blend of learning methods is used to teach course material, including individual and group projects, real-world business consulting projects, live actor simulations, case studies, and computer-based stock trading simulation. Students gain practical knowledge with case-based lessons and collaborative learning models that train students to analyze, decide, and lead.
In the final semester, all MBA students apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program through a capstone program, with three options:
The Management Consulting capstone gives students the opportunity to manage a real consulting project with an actual client, from proposal to completion.
The Entrepreneurial Experience gives students the chance to create a business plan to launch a new start-up or further develop an existing start-up, with guidance from entrepreneurs and venture capitalists.
The International or Canadian Experience allows students to gain first-hand experience and an understanding of unique business cultures in host countries and communities. Under the guidance of a faculty member, students work with a community group or business to transfer knowledge or solve a problem. On a past trip to Santiago, Chile, for example, students worked on consulting projects with Chilean wineries.
What Sets TMU’s MBA Program Apart
A key differentiator of the Ted Rogers MBA is its flexible pathways, allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals and lifestyles. The accelerated MBA offers a 12-month option for students with a business degree and a 16-month option for non-business graduates. The flex full-time program offers a faster track for working professionals, while the part-time MBA provides flexibility for those balancing work and personal commitments.
In the dual MA/MBA program, students who complete the first two years of the MA in Media Production have the option of continuing their studies in the Ted Rogers MBA program. Tapping into Toronto’s position at the centre of the Canadian sports industry, the sports business-focused MBA gives students deeper insight into areas such as sports marketing, strategy, media, and analytics.
TMU’s MBA program also enjoys a strong reputation among employers. Students are known as top competitors at national and international MBA case competitions, and graduates are recognized for their ability to make an immediate impact in the workplace.
Locations
Toronto, Ontario
University of New Brunswick (UNB)
Founded in 1785, the University of New Brunswick is Canada’s oldest English-speaking university. It offers a range of AACSB-accredited MBA programs at its campuses in Fredericton and Saint John, as well as a fully online option.
UNB’s MBA program on the Fredericton campus is a 20-month (four-semester) degree with the option to specialize in areas such as management analytics, venture commercialization, and sport and recreation management. It also offers a fully online MBA designed for flexible, part-time studies. At the Saint John campus, the MBA is delivered in a 12-month accelerated format, with seven specializations to choose from.
UNB has select funding awards dedicated to MBA students, adding up to a total value around $14,000 across all 10 awards.
What Students Are Saying
Callie Swartz, Master of Business Administration (MBA)“The MBA at the University of New Brunswick is a great mix of theory and real-world skills. As a businesswoman, I love how it focuses on leadership and strategy, with flexible options that fit into a busy schedule. The professors are experienced, and the networking opportunities are fantastic. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to level up their career. ”
The Curriculum
UNB’s MBA programs provide a strong foundation in core business functions such as marketing, finance and operations, while allowing students to tailor their experience to specific career paths. At the Fredericton campus, students can pursue a general MBA —delivered in person or online—with a mix of required courses and electives that match their interests and goals. They also develop a capstone project and work with real companies to develop and pitch a competitive strategic plan.
Students may also choose to specialize. The MBA concentration in management analytics equips students with the skills to analyze, make sense of, and use data as a competitive advantage. The concentration in venture commercialization, scaling, and investment is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, giving them the knowledge and skills to run their own businesses or hold a leadership position with an existing company. The sport and recreation concentration—delivered in partnership with UNB’s Faculty of Kinesiology—combines business and kinesiology courses, giving students a unique education that fills a gap in the sports and recreation sector.
In the accelerated program at the Saint John campus, students choose one of seven specializations, including supply chain management, project management, business development and professional sales, entrepreneurship, international business, general management, and research. The program offers students a variety of hands-on learning opportunities, from business consulting projects and start-up ventures to mentorship from industry leaders.
What Sets UNB’s MBA Program Apart
A standout feature of University of New Brunswick’s MBA programs is their flexibility and breadth. With full-time, part-time, online, and accelerated formats offered across two campuses, plus a range of specializations, students choose the path that best fits their goals and schedules.
UNB also places a strong emphasis on applied learning. At the Fredericton campus, students can manage an $8-million student investment fund from the school’s TSX Group boardroom, providing them professional, relevant investment experience within an academic setting. They can also invest in real start-up ventures through the Venture Capital Program, and work directly with companies on strategic plans.
The program at the Saint John campus distinguishes itself through career-focused specializations and intensive, hands-on learning. Specializations like entrepreneurship give students the opportunity to work with new tech firms and develop their own business ideas through the Axis Accelerator. UNB Saint John is also home to Canada’s first and only specialization in business development and sales, supported by UNB’s Sales Center of Excellence and Axis’ Sales Accelerator.
Another unique advantage at Saint John is the opportunity for international study. MBA students in the International Business MBA program can spend their final fall term studying at either the Burgundy School of Business in France or the Canadian University of Dubai. Fees for the study abroad program are included in their UNB tuition; students just have to cover living expenses.
Locations
Fredericton and Saint John, New Brunswick, and Online
Carleton University
Located in Ottawa, the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University is known for its high academic standards, holding AACSB accreditation—a hallmark of excellence in business education. Its location in the nation’s capital gives students opportunities to engage with government organizations, global companies, international agencies, non-profits, and a thriving technology sector. Sprott boasts a 91 percent employment rate for MBA graduates within one year of graduation.
What Students Are Saying
Andrew McDonald, Select Course“Came here for my masters and it was a good place. Classes were small so gave you that chance to get to know the professors. Tunnel system is also great as you can stay inside during the cold cold winters. The academic writing centre was very very useful when writing my thesis. I would suggest this to improve your writing. The Paul Menton centre was also very accommodating for classes accommodations. ”
The Curriculum
The full-time MBA program’s integrated management curriculum has been designed to prepare future business leaders to lead change and drive impact, using live case studies, online simulations, and real-time, client-based projects.
Core courses introduce strategic business concepts while addressing key areas such as sustainability, responsible leadership, global awareness, and entrepreneurship. Beyond the core courses, students can specialize in areas such as business analytics, financial management, management and change, or climate change.
The summer term focuses on gaining practical experience, such as an internship, immersive consulting project, or entrepreneurship endeavour. In the final term, students collaborate in teams on a capstone project for a client organization.
What Sets Carleton’s MBA Program Apart
Sprott School of Business offers a variety of MBA tracks designed to meet the needs of students at different stages in their careers. Options include a professional MBA for working professionals, a fully online MBA, and an accelerated MBA. Even the full-time, weekday program offers flexibility, allowing students to complete their degree in just 16 months.
A standout feature is Sprott’s unique MBA specialization in climate change. This program draws on Carleton’s internationally recognized expertise in climate science and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have the opportunity to work closely with faculty and peers across disciplines to explore the complex, interconnected challenges of climate change—and help shape real-world solutions.
Sprott also distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to values-driven leadership. With a focus on sustainability, social impact, global awareness, and entrepreneurship, the school is dedicated to developing leaders who drive meaningful change. In 2024, Sprott was recognized as a “Transforming School” for its achievements in social responsibility and sustainability.
Locations
Ottawa, Ontario, and Online
Lakehead University
Located in Thunder Bay, Ont., Lakehead University’s Faculty of Business Administration offers two full-time MBA program options: the 12-month general MBA degree and the 16-month MBA with Advanced Students in Management. There’s also a part-time online MBA intended for working professionals.
Lakehead’s business school is accredited by AACSB, having met the highest-quality standards for business schools globally. The MBA program boasts an employment rate of over 80 percent within six months after graduation and 100 percent after two years.
What Students Are Saying
Jake Thibadeau, Masters of Business Administration“Small campus with smaller class sizes, and lots of great professors. As someone who went to a bigger campus in the city, I preferred Lakehead. In a nice part of town. Difficult to make friends if you don't already know people who go here. Limited parking close to campus. ”
The Curriculum
Lakehead’s MBA degree takes a generalist approach, intended to prepare students for success in a wide range of management careers. Emphasis here is not on specializations, instead offering learners broad exposure to key management concepts and practices in all areas of business, including information systems, business law, operations management, human resources, finance, and marketing management.
Students who wish to pursue specialized education can opt for the MBA with Advanced Studies in Management, where they supplement core MBA content with specialized courses during an additional full-time term (four courses). Areas of study may include communication, social entrepreneurship, supply chain and logistics management, and negotiation and conflict resolution.
What Sets Lakehead’s MBA Program Apart
A key differentiator of Lakehead’s MBA program is its focus on training students to be management generalists, preparing them to confidently pursue a wide variety of career paths.
Students also benefit from small class sizes, intensive and stimulating lectures, energetic class discussions, contemporary and relevant case studies, and experiential learning projects.
Locations
Thunder Bay, Ontario
University of Victoria Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
The University of Victoria’s Sardul S. Gill Graduate School at the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business offers Canada’s only MBA in Sustainable Innovation. This unique program equips students with the skills to navigate the complex challenges businesses are facing from economic, social, and environmental perspectives. The school also offers a Master of Global Business program that gives students the opportunity to study at partner universities around the world.
Since 2011, Gustavson has maintained AACSB accreditation. Gustavson is also accredited by EQUIS, a leading international system of quality assessment. In 2021-2022 (the most recent data collected), the MBA graduate employment rate within three months was 92 percent.
UVic offers fellowships of up to $17,500 per year to its graduate students, including the MBA program.
What Students Are Saying
Cam Pedleson, Daytime MBA“It's a great school. Their MBA program (from which I'm an alumnist) exceeded my expectations. Beautiful city, with great weather and nature while receiving a good education. Job prospects for graduates are good. ”
The Curriculum
The MBA in Sustainable Innovation is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of core business disciplines, while emphasizing the responsibility organizations have to society, integrating sustainable innovation with traditional MBA studies.
A capstone consulting project gives students hands-on learning as they work with organizations to solve real business challenges, in addition to opportunities to compete with teammates at case competitions around the world. All students participate in a one-week trip to meet pioneers in sustainable innovation and organizational change, a required part of the program that includes a one-time fee of $6,000.
There are two program options: a daytime format for students wanting an immersive, full-time experience, and a weekend format for students wanting to continue working full-time while in the program.
For those who want even more of a focus on international business, the Master of Global Business is a full-time, 12-16-month immersion program, taught across three continents and culminating in a global internship. Students study, travel and work in North America, Europe, and South America or Asia – gaining firsthand international business experience in each location. They spend three months at each MGB partner university (starting at University of Victoria) and conclude their studies with a global internship that ranges from three to seven months. Students can choose different paths, depending on the order in which they want to travel and which regions they want to visit.
What Sets UVic’s MBA Program Apart
The University of Victoria offers students distinct pathways to tackle global challenges.
The MBA in Sustainable Innovation is a unique program that offers complete immersion in sustainability content. The program is designed to disrupt traditional modes of thinking and integrate triple-bottom-line thinking: people, planet, and profit, enabling graduates to create positive change while building their careers.
Through the program’s study abroad opportunities, co-op work terms, and field schools, students gain hands-on experience addressing sustainability challenges in diverse settings. Students also benefit from hands-on consulting projects, case studies, and global competitions.
The Master of Global Business program in particular stands out from traditional MBA offerings with its unique international experience. The program combines study, travel, and work across three continents, enabling students to learn about international business in North America, Europe, and either South America or Asia.
Locations
Victoria, British Columbia
Université Laval Faculty of Business Administration (SFA ULaval)
Université Laval is accredited by AACSB and EQUIS, placing it among the top business schools in the world. Located in Quebec City, Laval’s Faculty of Business Administration offers an MBA program with 20 specializations. These 45-credit programs are offered in French, with some courses available in English. The Global Business specialization can be completed in English. Laval offers a mix of admission and student success scholarships for its MBA students.
What Students Are Saying
Vincent Devrand,“I did my MBA in this faculty; apart from the richness of the teaching and the activities offered, what struck me the most was the dynamism and state of mind of the students and the teaching staff! I did my MBA there, great place to study, professors and staff are very competent. The spirit and the values of this University will teach you all what you need to be successful in your life! Great spirit between students as well! ”
The Curriculum
The MBA program at Laval offers a comprehensive and flexible curriculum, allowing students to specialize in one of 20 areas, including business analytics, health service management, digital marketing, supply chain management, and more. While each specialization provides tailored coursework in a particular field, all students complete a strong set of core courses in key business functions such as accounting, finance, organizational behaviour, marketing, operations, and information systems.
For those pursuing the Global Business MBA in English, the program offers both general training in administration and more specialized training in international business management. In addition to covering all corporate functions, this practice-oriented MBA provides students with international management skills. Students gain hands-on experience by designing and implementing a complex and socially responsible project on the international market.
What Sets Laval’s MBA Program Apart
Laval’s MBA program stands out for its broad range of specialization. Many specialized programs are offered full-time and part-time, with some remote options, including digital marketing, strategic project management, and entrepreneurship and SME management.
Students benefit from this MBA program’s flexibility, with study options including full-time, part-time, remote, and hybrid, making it easier to balance their education with work and other commitments.
A predominantly French program, some courses are offered in English, giving students the option to take English-language classes while still completing assignments and exams in French.
The MBA program also includes an international component, which allows students to pursue study sessions at a partner university outside of Canada (available in French only). Laval also offers study exchanges within Canada, allowing students to spend one or two sessions at a Canadian university outside Quebec to enhance their English proficiency and broaden their academic experience.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
Thompson Rivers University
Located in Kamloops, B.C., Thompson Rivers University offers an MBA program through the Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics. The program has a range of delivery options, including two years or one year accelerated, on campus, online or hybrid, and full-time or part-time. Those with a qualifying business degree may be eligible to enter directly into the second year of the program, completing it in just one year.
On-campus, domestic students who are studying full time may be considered for up to $10,000 in MBA entrance awards (up to 15 given each year).
What Students Are Saying
Reid Swaranson, Master of Business Administration“I chose TRU’s MBA program for its flexibility and affordability, and on those fronts, it delivered. The option to complete the program online or in a blended format made it possible to balance work and study, and I appreciated not having to submit a GMAT or meet a strict work experience requirement to get started. That said, there are trade-offs. Being based in Kamloops, the program doesn’t have the same on-the-ground networking opportunities you might find in a larger city. The student body is diverse, which adds perspective, but also comes with inconsistencies in group work and academic rigor. Career support is there, but you'll need to be proactive—this isn't a program that hands you a job at the finish line. If you’re self-motivated and looking for a cost-effective way to earn your MBA from an AACSB-accredited school, TRU is a solid option. Just go in with clear expectations and a plan to supplement your degree with experience or certifications. ”
The Curriculum
The MBA program at TRU is designed to cultivate managers and leaders equipped to tackle complex market challenges. It emphasizes decision-making amid uncertainty, interpersonal and communication skills, ethics and social responsibility, and globalization. The program offers three pathways: a course-based track with advancement management courses; a graduate project addressing a real-world business challenge; or a graduate thesis, which develops research skills and is ideal for those pursuing a PhD.
On-campus students benefit from small class sizes and direct engagement through case studies, simulations, team projects, and guest speakers. Online courses are offered asynchronously, providing flexibility while encouraging virtual collaboration. The blended option offers the best of both worlds, allowing students to tailor their learning to fit their lifestyles.
What Sets TRU’s MBA Program Apart
TRU’s MBA stands out for its flexibility and accessibility, with options that make the program truly customizable. Students have their choice of academic pathways and study formats to align with their personal lives and professional goals.
Whether you study on-campus or online, full-time or part-time, you’re experiencing the same MBA program at TRU, differing from some schools that offer distinct online and in-person programming. Through innovative online learning technologies, TRU ensures all students receive the same rich learning experience throughout their MBA—regardless of the delivery method.
Locations
Kamloops, British Columbia, and Online
Brock University
Located in St. Catharines, Ont., Brock University offers an MBA at its Goodman School of Business, blending academic knowledge and real-world experience. Its MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a designation earned by just six percent of business schools worldwide.
Professional Program Merit Entrance Award scholarships worth $1,000 are awarded to full-time students admitted to the MBA program with an admission average of 87 percent or higher at the time of admission.
The Curriculum
Goodman’s MBA curriculum combines a comprehensive core curriculum with opportunities to specialize in key areas of business, including accounting, business analytics, finance, human resource management, marketing, and operations management. The school offers an optional co-op program for full-time students, allowing them to gain relevant, paid work experience. Co-op placements typically last four months, though some can be extended up to 12 months.
In addition, MBA students engage in project-based experiential education, working as consultants with community partners. This hands-on approach allows students to apply course concepts to real-world business challenges, meeting with reps from local businesses and gathering information to solve organizational challenges.
What Sets Brock’s MBA Program Apart
Brock University has a strong focus on developing students’ international expertise to differentiate them in the global job market. The Goodman School of Business is the only Canadian partner of the International Partnership of Business Schools (IPBS), a global consortium of 13 leading business schools in Europe, North America and Latin America.
This partnership offers dual and double-degree programs that require studying in two countries, promoting language proficiency, cultural fluency, and business aptitude. Goodman offers two double-degree options in France—pairing their MBA with a Master of Management from Kedge Business School in Bordeaux or Marseille, or a Master of Science from the Burgundy School of Business in Dijon.
In addition to these double-degree options, Goodman’s MBA program offers exchange opportunities with top global institutions such as Aston School of Business (U.K.), KU Leuven (Belgium); Copenhagen Business School (Denmark), University of Mannheim (Germany), Birla Institute of Management of Technology (India) and University of Gothenburg (Sweden). These exchange programs are available for full-time and part-time students and range in duration from a few weeks to several months.
Locations
St. Catharines, Ontario
Saint Mary’s University Sobey School of Business
Founded in 1934, the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax is Atlantic Canada’s largest business school. Its 16-month MBA program (recognized as a two-year program) is accredited by both AACSB and EQUIS.
Each year, the school grants four Sobey MBA Scholarships, entrance awards of $35,000 each for exceptional students in the program. Sobey MBA Scholars will be members of a special student and alumni cohort within the University, with special programming, support and communication.
The Curriculum
As a PRME (Principles for Responsible Management Education) Champion school, the Sobey School incorporates social and environmental responsibility into the curriculum and works to achieve the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
Students gain hands-on experience through immersive “service learning” opportunities, working with businesses and organizations on meaningful volunteer projects. A standout component of the MBA program is the international immersion experience, where students travel abroad to work with businesses on real-world challenges.
In the last semester, students focus in a specialized area, choosing electives from a wide range of areas, including management consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship.
What Sets Saint Mary’s MBA Program Apart
The Sobey School MBA stands out for its immersive, hands-on approach to learning, offering students numerous opportunities to apply their skills in real-world settings across finance, entrepreneurship, consulting, and more.
Marketing-focused students can engage in projects with the David Sobey Retailing Centre, such as product innovation brainstorms, online retail challenges, and working with major retailers to enhance the customer experience.
For those interested in finance, the program covers advanced topics such as investment management and corporate finance, with shared faculty from the Master of Finance program. Students can also join the IMPACT Fund team, managing a portfolio exceeding $400,000, and taking part in competitions in cities like New York and Atlanta.
Students interested in consulting benefit from Sobey School’s partnership with CMC Canada, taking electives that qualify them for the Certified Management Consultant designation and working on real projects with local businesses through the Masters Consulting Project course.
Students passionate about sustainability and entrepreneurship can take part in the venture grade capital fund–Canada’s first student-raised and managed venture fund. MBA students collaborate with students from other programs and universities in raising capital, identifying and researching potential investments, and competing across North America. In the social and sustainable entrepreneurship course, students work on a service learning project, engaging directly with local social enterprises.
Locations
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Editorial Team