For more than a century, Canadian business schools have shaped the country’s corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers. From Queen’s University awarding Canada’s first business degree in 1921 to today’s globally connected, tech-driven programs, business education has evolved alongside the economy it serves.
Modern business degrees—whether at the undergraduate or graduate level—are no longer confined to accounting ledgers and finance models alone. Today’s BComs and BBAs, MBAs, and EMBA prepare graduates to operate in complex, fast-changing environments, where digital transformation, data fluency, sustainability, global markets, and product-led growth are now core business skills, not electives. The strongest schools are those that adapt quickly, align closely with employers, and teach students how to lead through uncertainty and change.
Business degrees consistently deliver among the strongest returns on investment in post-secondary education. According to Statistics Canada, roughly 90 percent of business graduates are employed full-time, and across Canada’s leading MBA programs, average post-graduation salaries typically range from the low six figures well into the $150,000 range. These outcomes help explain why business remains one of the most popular—and competitive—fields of study in the country.
CourseCompare’s ranking of the best business schools in Canada looks beyond brand recognition alone. Our methodology evaluates employment outcomes, graduate earning potential, student satisfaction, and employer reputation, while also assessing how effectively schools are modernizing their curriculum, building industry partnerships, and integrating experiential learning through co-op, internships, and applied projects.
The result is a ranking that reflects not just legacy, but momentum. The schools featured below are those best positioned to prepare graduates for leadership in today’s economy—and for the business challenges still ahead.
CourseCompare’s annual school rankings are determined using a process that considers several core metrics and principles. Read more about our methodology here.
Rotman School of Management
The Rotman School of Management, named after its visionary benefactor Joseph L. Rotman, was formally established 75 years ago in 1950. Roughly 3,200 undergraduate and 1,050 graduate students study at this downtown Toronto campus.
Studying business in Canada’s largest city and economic capital offers significant opportunity to learn by doing. Co-op programs with some of the largest businesses in the world, such as Amazon, Bain & Company, J.P. Morgan, and Mercedes Benz, Royal Bank of Canada, Vale Inco and other leading companies are common destinations for Rotman students.
What Students Are Saying
Jack Gilligan, Master of Management Analytics“This is the best business school in Canada, IMO. Employers recognize it and MBA grads have some of the best salaries in the country after graduation. The analytics program is basically a bolt-on to core business school, networks, curriculum, etc. just with profs that can take you deeper into data. Oh, and some of the best data scientists in the world are at UofT. If you're professionally mature and ready for a challenging master's program in Toronto, then you can't really go wrong here. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Rotman delivers a full-time bachelor’s of commerce degree in partnership with the University of Toronto’s faculty of arts and science. Students gain the skills required to fast-track careers in accounting, financial analysis, and entrepreneurship. Backed by a powerful network of more than 19,000 commerce alumni, graduates join a global community of business leaders and innovators.
Rotman also offers 30 student-run organizations, at least 10 of which focus on different career specialties, such as the Rotman Commerce Accounting Society, Rotman Commerce Entrepreneurship Organization, Rotman Commerce Law Association, and more. These groups assist with building relationships and developing the skills required to excel. Core to campus life is an emphasis on bringing a business idea, or an already established business, to Rotman where students can advance their enterprise through these clubs and teams.
Recently, Rotman began offering a course in blockchain and decentralized finance in which students learn about blockchain technology, cryptography, tokens, digital money, decentralized exchanges crypto trading, corporate finance with tokens, stablecoins and central-bank issued digital currencies. Rotman is also home to the BMO Financial Group Finance Research and Trading Lab (BMO FRT-Lab) which has pioneered experiential learning in finance education since it was founded in 1999.
Among Rotman Commerce undergraduate students in the class of 2024, 93 percent were employed within nine months, with an average salary of $70,000. More than half went to work in financial services or corporate finance.
Graduate Programs
Rotman’s MBA program has an average GMAT score of 678 and suggest a minimum score of 525 for GMAT Focus, however they consider the total application to be more than your test score. You may qualify for an exemption if you hold a professional designation such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA).
Rotman offers masters programs in areas such as financial risk management, and finance, which, in addition to professional accounting (a graduate diploma program), are the schools’ three core strengths. Many graduates find themselves bound for finance and consulting roles in major industries, from venture capital to healthcare and banking. There are also specialized programs in areas such as master of management analytics.
With machine learning and artificial intelligence likely to have a significant influence on most who pursue a career in finance, Rotman also offers a machine learning and financial innovation course at the MBA level.
Also noteworthy is Rotman’s well-respected Initiative for Women in Business, part of the Rotman Executive Programs, which offers female students added career development and practical training focused on three key areas: personal performance, leading growth and transition support. The Judy Project is one of Canada’s leading executive forums, designed to support and prepare women who are ascending into executive leadership and C-suite positions. This attracts those with 10 or more years of senior leadership experience and a proven track record of accomplishments.
Rotman’s MBA graduates of 2024 achieved a 92 percent employment rate within six months, and an average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $121,889, predominantly in the fields of financial services and consulting.
Locations
Toronto, Ontario
Smith School of Business at Queen's University
The Smith School of Business at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, invites students to specialize in one of six dynamic areas of business: sustainable finance, customer analytics, business venturing, social impact, corporate reporting and professionalism, and business research. Each year, more than 3,725 students pursue degrees and diplomas at Smith, immersing themselves in curriculum designed to shape the next generation of business leaders.
Corporate partnerships with financial industry leaders such as RBC, Scotiabank, Accenture, Blackrock, and IBM assist with funding and technological improvements at the school at every level, where many graduates go on to do internships or fill high-paying associate roles immediately after graduation.
Smith prides itself on launching businesses. The school runs the Dare to Dream program, run through the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Social Impact (CEISI), which invests in four different student businesses and entrepreneurship ideas each year. In 2024, the company She Left Home, a digital social network tailored for BIPOC women offering group trips that combine community and solo travel, founded by a Smith student, was one of four recipients. Each award provides up to a total of $15,000 over a three-month period.
What Students Are Saying
David K., Bachelor of Commerce“Queen’s is consistently ranked among the best in the world. You can find average salaries and graduation rates on CourseCompare and on Smith’s website. The numbers speak for themselves. But the best things about Queen’s are the people, the community and the networks. You will probably have fun here while meeting the future CEO of a tech startup or leader in finance and consulting. QC doesn’t set up internships for you and you will have to find one on your own, but recruiters are always on campus and profs are in your court and available to help you. There are also 40+ clubs to join where you can meet amazing people. There are regular conferences happening that attract first-rate speakers, and the exchange program is amazing and not one to be missed. Queen’s and Ivey at Western are both excellent, but I chose Queen’s because it’s a 4-year program. Ivey begins in year three and I didn’t want to have to compete to get in and then make friends halfway through my undergrad experience. To summarize, Queen’s is where future business leaders are being taught. The community is second-to-none and the career results speak for themselves. ”
Undergraduate Programs
The school’s Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) is one of the hardest in Canada to get into, with an annual minimum average required for admission of 90 percent for incoming students—and a job placement rate of 93 percent within six months of graduation. The average base salary at graduation among Smith School BComm grads of 2024 was $79,226, with a top salary of $185,673.
Undergraduate students at Smith School of Business can apply for the BComm, a four-year program that emphasizes accounting and digital business technologies in the first two years. Students can ultimately choose between 11 fields of study including accounting, business economics, digital technology, entrepreneurship, finance, general management, international business, management analytics, marketing, organizational behaviour, strategy and organizations.
Graduate Programs
The Smith School’s full-time MBA covers areas such as analytics, corporate strategy, accounting, leadership, and communications, as well as more than two dozen electives. Additional accelerated MBAs are available in cities other than Queen’s home of Kingston, such as Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Montreal. The accelerated MBA programs are designed for students who want to build on management techniques, after already getting business practice during their undergraduate studies or through work experience.
As of 2024, the Smith School has a job placement rate of 87 percent for MBA graduates within just three months of program completion and average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $139,855.
Locations
Kingston, Ontario
Ivey Business School
Ivey Business School at Western University in London, Ontario, is one of the country’s best providers of real-world business education. Roughly 1,753 undergraduate students and 300 grad students study at Ivey each year.
Ivey is known for its case-method approach, which places learners at the centre of real business decision-making. Nearly all core coursework is delivered through case studies, from undergraduate to graduate levels. This hands-on approach to business education is the hallmark of Ivey Business, and while many other schools do incorporate applied practice into their curriculum, nowhere is it as essential to the programming.
Western’s Ivey Business School was the first North American business program to offer programs in Hong Kong with the EMBA program at Cheng Yu Tung Management Institute. Ivey Business School Asia offers ICE, AMT, and specialty China consortium programs for students to get an upper hand in international business markets.
What Students Are Saying
Sam Lank, Honour Business Administration“Ivey is known for its case method approach, which means you’ll get less theory and more presenting and dissecting real business scenarios here. This is valuable because it will expose you to real issues and train you to make decisions, just like you will in the business world. This is extended in case competitions held by Ivey with other schools. For soft skills, this is a great way to learn. ”
Undergraduate Programs
The Honours Business Administration program is Ivey Business School’s largest and longest running academic program, and CourseCompare’s pick for the best BBA and BComm degree in Canada. The program’s 2+2 structure requires learners to complete two years of broader university study before entering the HBA, creating a highly motivated cohort that has deliberately chosen a business pathway.
The four-year program is centered around the Ivey Leadership Essentials, five aspects of business management that the school hopes to instill in each student: leveraging team talent, managing priorities, embracing complexity, taking action, and communicating persuasively.
Among the class of 2024, Ivey’s HBA grads saw an incredible 99 percent job placement rate within six months of graduating, with average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $84,575.
Graduate Programs
Western’s business school offers a variety of master’s level programming, including a Masters of Science in Management, which builds on previous undergrad business experience, and a Master of Management-Analytics (MMA). Its MBA portfolio includes an Accelerated MBA (ranked the #1 flexible, part-time MBA according to CourseCompare), a direct MBA for Honours Bachelor of Arts students, and an Executive MBA.
Ivey MBA grads in 2024 saw a 92 percent employment rate within six months of graduating, and average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $119,443.
Ivey’s also offers a PhD program that develops students’ talents and research skills while focusing on a teacher-training component ideal for those who wish to become business professors.
Locations
London, Ontario
Schulich School of Business
Schulich School of Business at York University is one of the most international business schools in Canada, with a satellite campus in Hyderabad, India, as well as offices in China, South Korea, and Russia. About 3,000 undergraduate, graduate and post-grad students enroll at Schulich every year.
International business education is one of York’s strong suits, with campuses on two continents and offices in four countries; 500 undergraduate and 400 graduate students study at both campuses. This level of access to international networks and information is a key differentiator among Canadian business schools.
Schulich has developed a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Working Group, which aims to bolster engagement, representation, perspectives, and inclusion of Black and Indigenous staff and students.
What Students Are Saying
Marko S, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)“As a soon-to-be graduate of the BBA program at the Schulich School of Business, I am immensely pleased to share my experiences with prospective students considering this prestigious institution. The Schulich BBA stands out not just for its rigorous academic curriculum but also for its outstanding support structures that truly enrich the student experience. One of the hallmark features of Schulich is its Alumni Network. This vast network connects students with thousands of successful graduates across the globe, offering mentorship, advice, and unparalleled networking opportunities. This community is incredibly active and genuinely invested in helping fellow Schulich graduates succeed, providing a solid foundation for both personal and professional growth. The Career Centre at Schulich is another cornerstone of the program that deserves high praise. Their services are top-notch, featuring personalized career counseling, an array of workshops, and recruiting events. The Career Centre maintains strong relationships with top employers across various industries, significantly enhancing job prospects for students. Whether you're looking to climb the corporate ladder or find exciting opportunities in innovative fields, the Career Centre is an invaluable resource that prepares you for success. The school also offers great specializations in almost every discipline in business. For those inclined towards entrepreneurship, Schulich offers an exceptional resource called Schulich Startups. This initiative provides budding entrepreneurs with crucial support through access to funding, mentorship, and expert advice. The network you gain access to through Schulich Startups is vibrant and supportive, filled with individuals who are eager to see new ventures succeed. It’s a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Schulich offers a flagship Bachelor of Business Administration program. Specializations in accounting economics, operations management, and family business studies are available for students to choose from after their second year in the program.
In 2024, 87 percent of Schulich’s BBA graduates were hired within six months of graduation, earning an average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $70,919.
Competition to get into Schulich is strong. The school receives thousands of applications per year. Ontario high school applicants should aim for a minimum grade point average in their Grade 12 courses ranging from the high 80s to low 90s, although the minimum cutoff in past years has ranged between 91.5 percent and 92 percent. However, meeting the minimum GPA requirement does not guarantee admission. High school applicants who have not earned average grades in the high 80s or low 90s should demonstrate considerable extracurricular achievements in their applications.
Graduate Programs
Schulich offers two MBA programs, one standard MBA and one MBA in India, as well as an Executive MBA that is #1 in CourseCompare’s best EMBA ranking. MBAs at Schulich last between 16 and 40 months, with full-time and part-time options available. The average GMAT score for Schulich students is 665, with most successful applicants scoring between 540 and 740.
Schulich offers 16 specializations for its MBA, including in-demand areas such as Business Consulting, Digital Transformation, Sustainability, and Health Industry Management, providing opportunities to further customize the MBA curriculum to your career goals. Students are also able to switch between full-time and part-time enrolment throughout the program.
As of 2024, 91 percent of MBA graduates from Schulich receive an employment offer within six months of graduation. Their average total compensation is $95,578, with an average signing bonus of $9,889.
Additional graduate programs such as Master of Accounting, Master of Business Analytics, Master of Management, Master of Marketing, Master of Finance, Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence, Master of Real Estate and Infrastructure, and Master of Supply Chain Management can each be completed in eight to 12 months of full-time study, and in as many as 24 months of part-time study.
Locations
Toronto, Ontario
UBC Sauder School of Business
Sauder School of Business in Vancouver is home to more than 3,900 students working towards their degrees. Upwards of 100 programs and certificates are on offer for those looking to further both their education and career.
Sauder offers a specific Ch’nook Indigenous business education program, which aims to address the needs for sustainable business development among Indigenous communities. It integrates Indigenous identities, culture, values, and language into its curriculum, regularly working with Indigenous communities and organizations, inclusive of all First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples.
What Students Are Saying
Gillian Shenk, Bachelor of Commerce“My first year at UBC Sauder was a unique and eye-opening experience. The school attracts highly driven students who are ambitious and goal-oriented, which creates a fast-paced and focused academic environment. There’s a strong culture of professionalism—people often dress in business casual, which really sets the tone for preparing students for the corporate world. What stood out most to me were the professors. Sauder has some truly outstanding first-year faculty who are passionate about teaching and committed to creating a more inclusive and thoughtful learning environment. I especially appreciated how classes focused not just on content, but on teaching us how to think differently and spot opportunities in the business world. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Sauder offers a Bachelor of Commerce program that helps students develop their skills and make themselves marketable to employers. The program boasts international exchange opportunities to develop students’ understanding of the international trade and business markets.
Students can specialize in one of 10 primary disciplines in business such as accounting, business technology, entrepreneurship, finance, global supply chain and logistics, marketing, operations and logistics, organizational behaviour and human resources, real estate and general business management. There is also a Combined Major in Business and Computer Science available.
Sauder is recognized for integrating experiential learning into its undergraduate business education. Its co-op program for business undergrads resulted in 59 percent of grads hired by their co-op employer after graduation as of 2024.
79 percent of UBC BCom graduates were hired within six months of graduation in 2024, earning a median salary of $62,200, not including bonuses and other compensation.
Graduate Programs
Students can apply for one of several masters programs including an MBA, International Masters of Business Administration (IMBA), Masters of Management, or a joint Bachelor and Masters of Management dual degree program.
In addition to the full-time MBA program, UBC Sauder offers a flexible MBA program called the Professional MBA (PMBA) with both in-person and online options, designed for working professionals who want to advance their careers without leaving their jobs.
The average salary of UBC MBA graduates was $101,431 within three months of graduation in 2023, plus a $10,469 average signing bonus.
Sauder’s Master of Science in Business Administration program is designed to prepare students for a future PhD program. Students can also apply for a PhD in business administration.
Locations
Vancouver, British Columbia
McGill Desautels Faculty of Management
Desautels Faculty of Management consistently ranks among the world’s top business programs, with more than 2,500 undergrads and about 300 grads enrolled. Its curriculum is designed to prepare students for professional and managerial careers by emphasizing analytical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and the application of theory to real-world business problems.
Desautels stands out with the highest GMAT score required for admission to its MBA program, with students averaging 650 points on the exam. This leads to some of the best minds from more than 60 countries around the world attending McGill’s business programs every year.
What Students Are Saying
Ted Moud“I had an excellent overall experience during my MBA at McGill. Having a degree in electrical engineering, my pre-MBA goal was to acquire business skills to complement my technical background. McGill's intimate environment (only 60-70 students per year) provides for a great learning experience and a great relationship with your teachers. Furthermore, it allows you to get to know your classmates very well and form very strong friendships. McGill's brand is also very powerful worldwide. It gives you the opportunity to work in Canada or abroad. My recommendation is to apply to McGill if you're looking for an intimate environment to acquire business skills at a world class university. If your goal is to network with as many classmates as possible, then maybe it's not right school for you. ”
Undergraduate Programs
McGill offers a Bachelor of Commerce program which leaves students with an international worldview and critical thinking skills. Students can choose from one of 12 majors, and 14 concentrations to focus their vision on what aspect of the business world they want to pursue.
Students from Quebec are eligible for a three-year program, while applications from the rest of Canada, or coming from abroad, enroll in a four-year program. Areas of study including accounting, information systems, labour management, and sustainability are available to students.
The graduate employment rate is 81 percent within six months of graduation among BCom grads in the class of 2024, with an average base salary of approximately $74,700, not including bonus or other compensation. More than half of McGill BCom grads go onto work in finance or consulting.
Graduate Programs
Desautel’s MBA program is offered in several term lengths for flexibility, while its EMBA program is tailored specifically for those with established skills in managerial positions. MBA students from Desautels have an average job placement rate of 92 percent within six months of graduation as of 2025, with an average salary of more than $104,775, not including bonus or additional compensation.
McGill and HEC Montréal also together offer a 15-month Executive MBA designed for experienced bilingual leaders. Classes are held at McGill and HEC Thursday to Sunday once a month, plus two seven-to-ten-day residential sessions. The program focuses on key issues to the participants and their organizations by drawing on the research and international leadership programs of Henry Mintzberg, McGill’s bestselling author and renowned management thinker. The program modules are structured around managerial mindsets, rather than functional silos.
Desautels’ PhD program in Management lets students either pick one or combine several areas of specialization including accounting, marketing, retail management, and organizational behaviour.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
University of Alberta
The Alberta School of Business at the University of Alberta, located in the province’s capital city of Edmonton, was the first school in Canada to be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business in 1968. Today, more than 4,193 students study business at U of A, including 3,485 undergraduate students and 619 graduate students, as well as about 49 PhD students.
U of A puts a focus on entrepreneurship across each of its programs, not just business. In an effort to promote innovation, U of A uses its courses to develop commercial ventures, healthcare and life science labs, clinical trials, and technological innovations.
The University of Alberta is one of a few schools to focus heavily on real estate business ventures. With specific programs, clubs, and partnerships designed to give students the best experience possible, U of A real estate programs rival some of the world’s leading postsecondary institutions.
What Students Are Saying
Thomas Fidani, Online MBA“I graduated from uofa with an economics degree and then worked for my my family's manufacturing business. After 3 and a half years, I knew I needed help taking the company to the next level but I needed to keep working. The online MBA was the perfect solution. After 36 months of studying part-time, I can say my business skills are beyond where I thought they would be. What I learned about leadership and operations I use every single day. I was surprised that I was also able to network and build relationships with my group even though I had the flexibility to choose a lot of my own courses as I went. The other reason I choose the program is because of the flexible start dates. I kept putting this decision off, so when I was finally ready, I didn't have to wait another few semester to get going. ”
Undergraduate Programs
UAlberta offers a Bachelor of Commerce program, which offers 12 majors, including accounting, business economics and law, business analytics, finance, and human resource management, to name a few.
First and second year students take preliminary classes to introduce and develop a foundation in business understanding. In the first year, students are thrown into a number of research projects for their marketing and introduction to Canadian business courses. Students choose one of the available majors in their third year, and complete the degree in their fourth year of study.
Grads of the BCom degree program had an average employment rate of 79 percent within three months of graduating in 2025, and an 83 percent employment rate for co-op students. The average salary was $67,809 for active job seekers three months after graduation, and $64,781 for those in the co-op program.
Graduate Programs
University of Alberta’s school of business offers five different MBA programs, three of which are tailored for students’ flexible scheduling needs, including full time, fast track, and part time MBA courses. U of A has a minimum GMAT score of 550, and an average of 630 (535 for the EMBA program).
U of A offers a specific Energy MBA that puts emphasis on developing leaders for the energy and natural resource industries. It also offers a Master of Accounting program for those hoping to earn CPA designation.
What’s more, the U of A MBA allows students to complete a variety of combined degrees: MBA/JD (Law); MBA/PharmD (Pharmacy); MBA/MEng (Engineering); MD/MBA (Medicine); MBA/MAg (Agriculture); MBA/MScPT (Physical Therapy); MBA/MF (Forestry); MBA/MScOT (Occupational Therapy); MBA/MLIS (Library and Information Studies).
As of 2024, grads of the MBA program are earning a mean total salary of $95,000; 86 percent of the class of 2024 grads were employed within the first three months after earning their degree, a quarter of whom went into public sector and healthcare, standing out from the typical finance focus of many other business schools.
There is also a dual degree option that lets you earn two degrees in two years of study while gaining international credentials and experience. You will complete the first year of your MBA at the University of Alberta, then spend your second year at a partner institution abroad at partner institutions in Germany and Japan.
Locations
Edmonton, Alberta
DeGroote School of Business
McMaster’s DeGroote School of Business in Hamilton, Ontario produces some of the most employable business leaders in the country and is best known for its strong reputation in finance, health care, marketing and operations management. Globally, the school is recognized as a leader in teaching, community, and research in healthcare management and digital technologies.
DeGroote has a reputation for producing grads who are well-prepared for careers in business, thanks in part to its focus on experiential learning that include co-op programs. The Allen H. Gould Trading Floor, established in 1999, is one of only three simulated trading floors in Canada. Equipped with 21 Thomson Reuters Eikon stations, three Bloomberg terminals, and seven NEC screens displaying real-time stock market data, this is an invaluable experiential learning opportunity for business students looking to learn more about trading.
As of 2023-24, Degroote business and commerce graduates reported a 95 percent employment rate within six months of graduation, across private industry, consulting, technology, and public-sector organizations.
What Students Are Saying
Juliette Zhang, Blended Learning Part-Time MBA“The program design demonstrates that DeGroote understands the needs and challenges of today’s business professionals. The blended learning model offers the best of both worlds: Students have the opportunity to engage in immersive learning with their peers on residency weekends, while also benefiting from the convenience of online learning. Another distinct advantage of the part-time program is being able to immediately apply classroom learnings to the workplace. I have very much enjoyed my MBA journey thus far, and look forward to even more valuable learnings. ”
Undergraduate Programs
DeGroote School of Business offers a Bachelor of Commerce degree, the first two years of which put emphasis on the foundations of business. After students begin their third year of classes, they can earn admission to the honours commerce program, or remain in the bachelor program. An internship program with commerce students includes partnerships with major organizations such as Proctor & Gamble, RBC, Microsoft, and Ford, among others.
There is also a four-year Bachelor of Commerce in Integrated Business and Humanities (IBH). This unique program blends a traditional business education with the humanities’ critical thinking and communications skills. By enhancing personal and ethical values, students become more aware of the social, ecological and economic impact they can have in their work and communities. Many courses follow a live format, where students explore current issues faced by various organizations, industries and governments.
Students can choose to apply for an internship, available to both domestic and international students, after the second year of the degree program. Once admitted, DeGroote’s Career and Professional Development team will support your search for an internship position in a paid work term for 12 to 16 months.
In the winter term of third year, students have the option to do a study abroad exchange, with the opportunity to become fully immersed in another culture and strengthen learning from a global perspective.
Graduate Programs
McMaster’s business school offers four variations on its MBA program to help students tailor their educational needs to their professional and personal lives (including part-time, accelerated, and hybrid), in addition to an EMBA program which places emphasis on managing digital systems and using that information to make decisions. DeGroote has an average GMAT score of 600 points.
All programs place a substantial focus on learning through experiences; DeGroote uses co-ops and internships to give students an opportunity to learn in the real world, even at the graduate level. The MBA co-op program is 28 months, including 16 months of in-class learning and 12 months of paid work experience completed in up to three co-op work terms.
Within three months of graduation, 95 percent of MBA graduates in the class of 2022 secured employment in 2022, with an average total compensation of $91,246.
Locations
Hamilton, Ontario
HEC Montreal
Hautes études comméerciales de Montreal (which literally translates to high commercial studies of Montreal) is a French language institution located in downtown Montreal, Quebec that focuses on management education and research. Opened in 1907, HEC is recognized as the first established school of management in Canada. About 9,600 undergraduate students and an additional 4,000 graduate students study each year at this central Montreal institution. HEC is one of the oldest business schools in Canada, with more than 115,000 alumni, and emphasizes academic excellence, global perspectives, and practical skills for diverse careers.
What Students Are Saying
Chris Arnold, Master of Science (MSc) - Data Science & Business Analytics“HEC is a French-focused institution through and through. The recruiters that come to visit will reflect that as well. It is generally a good idea to have a solid grasp on the French language if you plan to attend and work in a French speaking area with an MBA level education. If you want to build connections with the French speaking business community in Canada, there is no better choice than HEC. ”
Undergraduate Programs
HEC offers a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in three language styles. Firstly, it is offered as a French course, with core courses being offered in Quebec’s official language; secondly as a bilingual program with those courses being offered additionally in English; and lastly, as a trilingual course with the third option being Spanish. The bachelor’s program lasts three years, with an optional but highly encouraged semester abroad, and 15 specializations to choose from. You can also take the BBA through HEC Paris.
The program is three years in length, shorter than most Canadian undergraduate business degrees, with an optional but strongly encouraged international exchange semester. This structure appeals to students who want a more focused, accelerated path through undergraduate business studies while still gaining international exposure.
As of 2020-2021 (the most recent data publicly available), 98 percent of BBA graduates reported being employed, with an average salary of $55,549. (Note: The time horizon between graduation and reporting is not listed.)
Graduate Programs
HEC Montreal offers a full-time one or two-year MBA program, with an average GMAT score of 625-635 and a minimum of 570.
As of 2020-2021 (the most recent data publicly available), MBA grads saw a 98 percent placement rate and average total compensation (including base, bonus, and other compensation) of $116,033 annually. Graduates work at large organizations across Canada and around the world at companies such as Bell Canada, CGI, BDC, Bombardier, Citibank, McKinsey & Company and The Kraft Heinz Company.
A joint bilingual EMBA program with McGill University is designed to give students a network of contacts and the decision-making abilities needed to thrive in the business world. The program builds on the experience and diversity of its participants, who have an average of 18 years of business experience and 12 years in management. Students in the EMBA program propose solutions to real world business problems, giving them insight into what the future will hold. There is also the opportunity to support a tech startup through Creative Destruction Lab (CDL), one of Canada’s most prestigious scaling programs.
More than half a dozen other masters programs are available, such as a Masters of Science in Marketing, Masters of Science in Finance, Masters of Science in International Business and Masters of Science in Business Analytics, as well as a PhD in Administration which reports a 100 percent placement rate and average annual base salary of $98,429.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
Wilfrid Laurier University Lazaridis School of Business and Economics
The Lazaridis School of Business and Economics is home to the largest co-op program in the country for students seeking to study and learn the most current business theories and practical applications for today’s challenging business climate.
Since 1976, Wilfrid Laurier has been a pioneer in delivering Canadian management education, including launching the country’s first one-year MBA program. Today, the school is made up of more than 6,000 students between undergraduate and graduate programs, with 14 specializations to choose from. Students get direct access to corporate employers and networking opportunities that prepare them for careers in the field.
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. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Laurier’s business school offers a number of tailored undergraduate programs: Choose from the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), the combined BBA and Bachelor of Computer Science (BSc), a five-year double-degree program that merges a BBA with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, or BBA and Bachelor of Financial Mathematics, another five-year double-degree program. Or, consider a Bachelor of Business Technology Management (BTM), which combines a business curriculum with a specialization in technology to help solve today’s business problems.
The BBA program is direct entry, allowing students to begin business coursework in their first year, and offers one of the largest and most established business co-op programs in Canada.
Among the class of 2024, BBA graduates reported an employment rate of 85 percent within six months, with an average reported salary of $70,819, not including bonus and other compensation. Co-op students are even better positioned to the job market, with a 99 percent employment rate in 2024-25.
Graduate Programs
The Lazaridis School of Business and Economics requires students to achieve a minimum GMAT score of 525 or higher to be admitted to its MBA program. Students can choose between the Waterloo campus for full-time, full-time and co-op, or part time evening courses, and the Toronto campus, for part time alternate weekends, part time accelerated courses, or a joint MBA and Master of Finance program.
The Lazaridis MBA begins with building a foundation of learning including seven integrated courses that cover the essential areas of business. Taught through real-world cases and applied projects, the program builds the knowledge you’ll need to be successful as a business leader across courses including marketing, strategic management, organizational behaviour, financial reporting and analysis, as well as operations management and strategic management.
Laurier has a strong commitment to community service; its MBA programs include a Not-for-Profit practicum where every MBA candidate contributes to a field-based community service project with a not-for-profit organization of their choice.
Among the class of 2024, Laziridis MBA graduates reported an employment rate of 92.4 percent within six months.
Additional graduate programs in business economics, business technology management, accounting, and management are available, as is a PhD in management which focuses on supply chain operations.
Locations
Waterloo, Ontario
Concordia University John Molson School of Business
Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University welcomes more than 9,000 students each year. Being in Montreal is a boon to business students, who have access to employers across a wide range of industries, from large financial institutions to global consulting firms and major Canadian corporations.
JMSOB is yet another member of the coveted Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) on our list. It is also the first business school in Canada to receive the Parity Certification by Women in Governance, demonstrating its commitment to have an inclusive study and work environment.
What Students Are Saying
Chris Lafleur-James“With a beautiful modern building, friendly and social atmosphere, and a number of high-quality professors, JMSB is a great place to study. It is a progressive school that is constantly looking towards the next step, and will soon be a benchmark business school. ”
Undergraduate Programs
At the undergraduate level, students can enroll in the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program, designed with a strong focus on applied learning and employability. The program has nine specializations available for students to pick from, including accountancy, economics, human resource management, and marketing.
John Molson reports that 88.5 percent of BCom graduates are employed within just three months of graduation, with an average base salary of $65,085 for the class of 2024. Employers who seek out Concordia grads include Accenture, KPMG, Manulife, McKesson, Bombardier, Bank of Montreal, and BDO.
Graduate Programs
For entry into its MBA programs, John Molson requires a minimum GMAT score of 580. The school offers full and part time MBAs, executive MBAs, and a specific MBA in investment management, which lets you work towards a CFA charter while simultaneously earning the degree. Initiatives throughout the program like the Community Service Initiative (CSI) connect students with non-profits, social enterprises, small businesses, and government organizations to deliver practical, impactful solutions.
About 86 percent of MBA grads and 100 percent of EMBA grads were employed within three months of graduation, as of 2024. The average salary for a John Molson MBA grad is $107,182, and $113,250 for its EMBA grads. It also might surprise you that John Molson ranks at the top of our Best Affordable MBAs ranking.
Concordia’s business school has a number of graduate programs, in addition to its flagship MBAs. CPA courses and graduate diplomas in areas such as administration and investment management are among the top offerings.
Locations
Montreal, Quebec
University of Calgary Haskayne School of Business
Over 4,000 full- and part-time undergraduate and graduate students attend Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary each year. Haskayne offers a range of business programs, including Bachelor of Commerce, MBA and Executive MBA, Master of Finance, Master of Management. PhD and DBA programs, and is recognized for having one of the top MBA programs for environmental and social impact, as well as being one of the top 100 in the world.
The school’s focus on environmentalism has made it a globally recognized player in the green movement. Specific programs in sustainable energy development, and partnerships with industry leaders in green power, are building diverse cohorts tackling the future of power. Haskayne is a member of the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), a United Nations supported initiative with the goal of raising the profile of sustainability in the classroom through six principles focused on serving society and safeguarding the planet.
Employers hiring from Haskayne include those from the resources sector in Alberta, such as Cenovus Energy, Canadian Natural Resources, Enbridge, TC Energy, and Suncor.
What Students Are Saying
Frank T., Haskayne Executive MBA“Every other weekend I and for one evening each week, more or less, I attended the Executive MBA program. I volunteered with CDL (Creative Destruction Lab) and got to know the local startup scene and made connections to business leaders and founders. The EMBA was a great experience and led to significant growth in terms of my mindset and outlook, connections and knowledge. It was worth the hefty price tag. I got a promotion with a 20% raise after graduating. My only caution is that I live and work in Calgary so I was able to leverage my networks to great effect. A friend and colleague had ambitions of moving to the US after his program and sometimes regrets not applying to a US college. As usual, the EMBA boils down to what you want to get out of it. ”
Undergraduate Programs
UCalgary’s business school offers a Bachelor of Commerce program that provides students with the fundamentals of business understanding. The four-year program includes the opportunity for international exchange programs across three continents. Haskayne enjoys international partnerships with more than 30 exchange partners worldwide.
Haskayne places an emphasis on experiential learning through co-ops, to give students real world experience that will give them insight into how the business world actually operates.
Among the class of 2022 (the most recent data publicly available), 82 percent of BCom graduates were employed within three months of graduation, with an average reported salary of $65,110.
Graduate Programs
Haskayne offers several flexible MBA programs to accommodate schedules, including daytime, evening, and accelerated MBAs, in addition to combined MBA programs, thesis options, and an EMBA offering. The school requires a minimum GMAT score of 550, with an assumed GPA of 3.0-4.0; the average GMAT score is 620.
The Haskayne Master of Management program lasts 10 months, diving into comprehensive coverage of business technologies, finance, and entrepreneurial thinking. Haskayne also offers a Doctor of Business Administration program and a PhD program.
Among the class of 2022 (the most recent data publicly available), 91.4 percent of MBA grads were employed within three months of graduating, with an average salary of $117,000 (not including bonus or other compensation). The average salary increase among MBA grads compared to before the program was 25.9 percent.
Locations
Calgary, Alberta
Simon Fraser University Beedie School of Business
Simon Fraser’s Beedie School of Business in Vancouver, British Columbia was the first school in Canada to offer an executive MBA program in 1968. Today, serving an undergraduate population of nearly 4,000, Beedie has a strong reputation for innovation, social impact and a global perspective, which is reflected in its research, teaching and community engagement.
Beedie School of Business launched the first ever partnership EMBA program for the Americas in 2011 with Vanderbilt University, Mexico Autonomous Institute of Technology, and the Institute of Management Foundation in Brazil. The program invites second year students to travel between the four countries to learn more about each market.
What Students Are Saying
Chris Arnold, Bachelor of Business Administration“I attended Beedie for a BBA program. I did manage to find a job pretty soon after graduating, and I know a lot of people, especially in Accounting or Finance programs did as well. SFU has some pretty competitive marketing and HR programs as well, but the course work isn't nearly as difficult as other programs out there. The biggest contributor to success at Beedie is the extracurriculars, like case competitions, clubs, and the co-ops. Anyone wanting to attend - get involved with these things as soon as you arrive on campus. You will learn so much more than you would just in a classroom, and that's coming from a guy who switched from science to business. ”
Undergraduate Programs
The Beedie School of Business offers a Bachelor of Business Administration program that prioritizes applied learning, problem solving, and case study methods, experiences that enable learning beyond the classroom while preparing students to adapt to a changing global market. SFU’s career management centre works exclusively with BBA students to offer assistance and resources for projects, supplying access to workshops, company tours, and networking opportunities. Students can also explore additional certificates and joint majors alongside their degree to stand out in the job market.
In third year, students choose from nine concentrations, including accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, and operations management. Courses addressing sustainability and social responsibility, such as Business in a Sustainable Society, are built into the program rather than offered only as electives.
According to the BC Student Outcomes Survey of 2024, 89 percent of BBA graduates were employed within two years of graduating, earning an average salary of $70,000.
Graduate Programs
Beedie offers a selection of full and part-time MBAs, as well as a specialty Management of Technology MBA. The business school requires a minimum GMAT score of 550. In 2024, Beedie MBA grads reported a 79 percent employment rate within three months of graduation, and an average salary of $89,823, not including bonus or other compensation.
The internationally diverse classrooms offer a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals, furthering students’ education on leadership, international business, and sustainability. Additionally, the school offers EMBAs, including an EMBA in Indigenous Business Leadership—the only MBA program in North America that focuses on addressing Indigenous business, economic development, and entrepreneurship.
Locations
Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey, British Columbia
Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto Metropolitan University
Toronto Metropolitan University’s Ted Rogers School of Management in downtown Toronto hosts more than 12,000 students, split between 11,814 undergraduate students and 348 graduate students. Ted Rogers is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), alongside other schools on the list.
Studying in the country’s largest city and economic centre has its benefits: access to major corporations in Toronto is invaluable for any business student.
What Students Are Saying
Trevor Long, Business Management“A well-rounded business program with a lot of TRSM grads (in my year) getting jobs at the Big 5 Banks, telecom and tech. Roles span consulting to sales and even a few analytical roles. I had a great time here and would recommend it to anyone who wants a broad business education. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Ted Rogers School of Management offers a choice between five specialized Honours BComm programs: Accounting and Finance, Business Management, Business Technology Management, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Retail Management. Each of these programs includes their own majors (13 in total), co-op paths, and structured career support.
Ted Rogers runs one of Canada’s largest business co-op programs with thousands of students participating in structured work terms that can total up to 16 months of paid work experience before graduation.
Among the class of 2021 (the most recent data available), 91 percent of BComm students were employed within six months of graduation.
The business school also offers two Bachelor’s of Health Administration programs in Health Services and Information Management. The two health programs are joint ventures between Ted Rogers and the Faculty of Community Services.
Graduate Programs
The Ted Rogers School of Management offers an MBA program that has produced industry leaders in sports, government, and information technology, and offered in multiple formats, including Flex Full-Time and Part-Time. The program requires a minimum GMAT score of 550, with an average of about 625. Students who graduate from Ted Rogers School of Management with an undergraduate degree are eligible to apply without submitting a GMAT score, given they meet all other admission requirements.
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.
On average, 91 percent of Ted Rogers MBA graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
The school runs a Master of Science in Management, a thesis-based program for those seeking an academic career in business, and a PhD in Management program. Additional graduate programs, such as a Professional Master’s Diploma in Accounting and a Master of Health Administration, are also available.
Locations
Toronto, Ontario
Dalhousie University Faculty of Management
The Faculty of Management at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia delivers business education with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, interdisciplinary study, and applied management skills. Dal’s institutional strengths in public administration, environmental studies, and applied research, make the school a great fit for students interested in management roles that intersect with policy, sustainability, data, and social impact.
Dalhousie emphasizes disruption; the school expects students to find ways to change the standard way of working, and innovate markets that have been set in their ways for decades. Students are immersed in a rigorous academic environment, and connected to a dynamic community beyond the university, including tech organizations such as the Creative Destruction Lab, Black Business Initiative, Dal Innovates, Digital Nova Scotia, and Volta.
What Students Are Saying
chatgpt, Blended Online MBA“The Dalhousie MBA was super helpful in leveling up my business skills. The program gave me solid knowledge on things like finance, marketing, and strategy, but it also kept things pretty practical. I was able to immediately apply what I was learning to my own company, which was a huge plus. The flexibility of the program worked well for me too — I didn’t have to hit pause on my business while studying. Plus, the connections I made through the program have been awesome for networking and getting advice. Overall, it’s a great mix of academic learning and hands-on application. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Dal’s Faculty of Management has two undergraduate programs that prospective students can choose from: a Bachelor of Commerce Co-op program, and a Bachelor of Management.
Dalhousie has one of only a few mandatory commerce co-ops in the country, completed over three terms at three separate organizations. All students in the Bachelor of Commerce program complete three paid co-op work terms with different employers, making work-integrated learning a required component of the degree rather than an optional pathway.
Dal’s Bachelor of Management program differs from a traditional commerce curriculum: The program integrates management studies with fields such as public administration, information management, and environmental resource management, supporting career pathways in government, public institutions, non-profit organizations, and regulated industries.
Among the class of 2024, 89 percent of Bachelor of Commerce graduates were employed within nine months of graduation, with 57 percent reporting salaries of $55,000 or higher. Bachelor of Management graduates that year reported an employment rate of 83 percent within nine months, with 42 percent earning $55,000 or more.
Graduate Programs
Dalhousie offers four master’s programs: a blended/online MBA, a corporate residency MBA, a Master’s of Management and a Master of Science in Business. Students at the Faculty of Management have an average GMAT score of 595, with a minimum of 550, though only international students are required to take the test.
Among Dalhousie Faculty of Management’s Corporate Residency MBA class of 2024, 100 percent of students found a job within nine months of graduation. More than three-quarters (76 percent) reported earning a salary of $70,000 or more.
The Master of Science in Business program is designed to get students prepared for a future PhD program in 16-months. There are three PhD options, including a PhD in Management, a PhD in Information, and an Interdisciplinary PhD.
Locations
Halifax, Nova Scotia
University of Victoria Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
The Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria is one of the youngest schools on the list, first opening in 1990. Roughly 1,290 undergraduate students and 171 graduate students are enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs, making this a smaller program with a more contained and structured academic environment than many larger business schools.
Since 2011, Gustavson has maintained AACSB accreditation. Gustavson is also accredited by EQUIS, a leading international system of quality assessment.
The school is also responsible for the Gustavson Brand Trust Index, the only study from an academic institution rating customer’s trust in various companies.
What Students Are Saying
Jacob Lalonde, Bachelor of Commerce (BComm)“The main difference between gustavson and other Canadian business schools is that the first two years are 75% elective courses with only 5 required business courses. This is attractive for people who want a range of courses instead of diving straight into all business courses. I took psychology, arts, media and a bunch of other courses to fill up my first two years. Honestly I liked that i took random courses but I know others that don’t. There are three mandatory co-op terms that you have to do so that does give you an edge to get a good job once you graduate. In third year you take all required business courses in classes of the same 50 people, bunch of group projects and participation so it’s good to get to know your classmates better making a pretty good overall atmosphere. Faculty is super helpful, we get our own advisors so it’s super easy to ask them questions and get a real and helpful reply. ”
Undergraduate Programs
The Gustavson Bachelor of Commerce program is an intro to the business world, focusing on building an intimate network thanks to its small class sizes. First- and second-year students are given introduction, or “pre-core”, classes in microeconomics, English, math and statistics. Third- and fourth-year classes get more in depth, with students able to choose between areas like entrepreneurship, international business, and service management.
Every undergraduate completes a minimum of three paid co-op work terms in Canada or internationally, making work-integrated learning a core requirement of the degree rather than an optional pathway.
The BCom class of 2024 saw an 82 percent employment rate within three months of graduation.
Graduate Programs
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 program requires a minimum GMAT score of 550.
The school runs a Master of Global Business program that gives students the opportunity to study at partner universities around the world, and a Master of Management. Integrated international experiences, a fundamental focus on sustainable innovation, and an emphasis on applied learning are core to all of these graduate-level programs. As of 2022, UVic also offers the world’s first MBA in Advanced Reconciliation, in partnership with the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres.
As of 2023-2024, 81 percent of students enrolled in an MBA program found employment within three months of graduating, along with 89 percent of MGB grads.
Gustavson also offers a PhD program, with emphasis on international business.
Locations
Victoria, British Columbia
University of Fredericton (UFred)
The University of Fredericton (UFred), a fully-online, degree-granting institution, has been offering certificate, diploma, and degree programs virtually since 2005. Founded and based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, UFred takes exceptional pride in its offering of innovative, remote and cohort-based education that emphasizes leadership development and lifelong learning.
UFred’s faculty average 11 years of experience specifically in teaching remote learners. Notably, UFred does not charge international students more than Canadians, which has helped the relatively young university build a global footprint and alumni network.
The University’s bold investments in virtual training and high-quality business faculty and curriculum have earned it a rightful place among Canada’s leading business schools.
What Students Are Saying
E. Ghoneim, Master of Business Administration“Excellent organization. I planned to obtain a business post graduate degree as part of my career development and growth, however as I'm working full time and have a family with responsibilities it was very hard / impossible to attend school program in person. University of Fredericton offered the best solution for my situation which is a fully online program for Master of Business Administration, no need to attend anything in person classes and work groups are all virtual with a lot of flexibility for me to study and work on my assignments as per my convenience according to my busy life schedule, I sometimes worked on papers while on a work flight, or waiting in an airport or even while waiting for my daughter during her gymnastics classes. Staff and faculty working in UFred were really great and very helpful, always available to support and answer questions. Great thing about the MBA program is the ease of payment, as payments are done gradually, not as big amounts which comes handy to avoid disrupting family finances. Overall, great experience at University of Fredericton, I highly recommend it to busy professionals like myself. ”
Undergraduate Programs
UFred’s online Bachelor of Business Administration is designed for students who need flexibility without giving up academic structure. The program blends practical, applied learning with core theoretical foundations in management and leadership, making it well suited to working professionals and adult learners.
Students begin the program by completing core business and general education courses delivered in eight-week terms. Once this foundation is complete, they progress into an International Business specialization that explores global markets, cross-border management issues, and international business strategy. The degree culminates in a capstone project that challenges students to apply their learning to a real-world business problem.
The BBA can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time students typically finish the program in about 3.5 years, while part-time students may take between 4.5 and 6.5 years, depending on course load and eligible transfer credits.
Graduate Programs
UFred’s part-time, fully online MBA program is built on four online education pillars: live virtual classes, collaborative group work, online campus environment for student and professor connections (including office hours), and a virtual library for students. Every student also ends the program with a capstone project that allows them to deeply research a topic they are passionate about, which can be done remotely or via an international field study trip.
Meanwhile, UFred’s fully-online Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) program is designed for advanced career professionals who aspire to lead their organization towards superior performance. UFred’s Executive MBA is one just two exclusively online EMBA programs in Canada. Classes are held weekly via live virtual classes led by faculty with industry backgrounds. Each course integrates recurring team assignments that rely on the leadership and operational experience of the cohort.
Available specialty stream options within the MBA and EMBA programs include Global Leadership, Innovation Leadership, Social Enterprise Leadership, Human Resources Leadership, Marketing Leadership, Business Analytics Leadership, Health & Safety Leadership, Consulting Leadership, Professional Selling Leadership, and Artificial Intelligence Leadership.
MBA and EMBA graduates from UFred in 2024 saw average compensation of $135,000.
Locations
Online
Saint Mary’s University Sobey School of Business
The Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia is home to one of the oldest business programs in Canada. The school has roughly 3,300 students, spread across the undergraduate and graduate programs, and roughly half of those are international students from about 80 countries. That level of internationalism gives students from everywhere better understanding of markets from around the world, and an advantage when joining the workforce thanks to student networking.
The school has a national reputation for applied management education rooted in Atlantic Canada’s strong business and entrepreneurial culture.
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.
What Students Are Saying
Chris Arnold, Bachelor of Commerce“When applying for schools, I wanted something that encouraged students to go above and beyond, look for areas to innovate in, and encourage students in all aspects. Reading stories from entrepreneurs who previously attended Sobey, I was inspired by their drive and seeing what they had built. (Startups, new products, etc.) Overall, a great school for anyone looking to start their own business. Highly recommend. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Sobey offers a Bachelor of Commerce program where students can choose from 10 majors.
Students enrolled in this program have the opportunity to study in one of 40 countries around the world. The school also has a partnership with Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai. Intended for students from China, this program involves taking classes from Beijing Normal University, and eventually traveling to China to teach classes yourself.
Graduate Programs
There are eight total graduate programs offered at Sobey School of Business: a Master of Applied Economics, Master in Finance, and Master of Technology Entrepreneurship are run alongside five MBA programs with their own sets of specializations. Saint Mary’s requires students to achieve a minimum GMAT score of 550 to attend.
Students can tailor their learning to their desired career paths, with specialized programming across finance, marketing, consulting, sustainability and entrepreneurship.
Sobey also offers a 16-month EMBA. The Sobey School is one of the few Canadian business schools that has built its EMBA around evidence-based management, a discipline that trains leaders to base decisions on the strongest available research rather than habit, instinct, or anecdote. Students learn to pull insights from academic studies, organizational data, practitioner expertise, and stakeholder perspectives, then apply those findings to real strategic problems. In 2020, the Sobey EMBA became the first in Canada to earn accreditation from the Center for Evidence-Based Management (CEBMa).
Locations
Halifax, Nova Scotia
University of Waterloo Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business
As one of Canada’s technological hubs, it makes sense that the University of Waterloo also has a strong business school—in fact, at the undergrad level, you can minor in entrepreneurship in a variety of programs, including engineering. In the ‘Silicon Valley of Canada’, students looking to make the next great technological innovation can get unique experience in the world of tech start-ups and entrepreneurial endeavours at UWaterloo.
Since 2002, the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business has been developing students’ marketable skills and partnering with industry leaders, such as Rogers Communications and chemical company BASF Canada, based in Mississauga, Ontario, which announced a partnership with the University of Waterloo’s Data and Artificial Intelligence Institute (Waterloo.AI) to advance AI applications through a collaborative research agreement that will run from 2025 to 2028. Around 1,200 students each year come through the Conrad School.
What Students Are Saying
Manan S., Masters of Business, Enterprise and Technology“I am currently studying MBET. It is a very successful program at the University of Waterloo. It’s not a traditional MBA but an entrepreneurship program. The focus of the program is start your own venture at the end of the curriculum. You are however open to join other venture also. It is more close to engineering than to core management program. The whole Waterloo Kitchener ecosystem provides a budding ground for your startups. Many faculties and staff have their own ventures . The class of MBET is very diverse. You get to make many friends from all around the world. If you want a steady job at the end of your masters degree then this might not be the course for you. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Instead of offering a traditional BBA or BComm degree, Waterloo’s business degrees give you two areas of expertise: a deep knowledge of a specific subject (your major), plus skills in marketing, finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, and more. Students choose from 17 programs such as Accounting and Financial Management, Environment and Business, or Mathematics/Chartered Professional Accountancy, each pairing traditional business competencies with other subject-specific content for uniquely specialized degrees. Students can also enroll in the entrepreneurial mindset career specialization, which covers customer experience, marketing, design, and leadership.
For those who do want a Business Administration degree, there are two ‘double degree’ programs between UWaterloo and Laurier: the Business Administration (Laurier) and Computer Science (Waterloo) Double Degree, and the Business Administration (Laurier) and Mathematics (Waterloo) Double Degree.
Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business also offers programming to those outside of the faculty: business, entrepreneurship, and technology courses, enterprising co-ops, and minors in entrepreneurship are open to all undergrad students at Waterloo.
Graduate Programs
Conrad does not offer an MBA program, instead opting for other courses focusing heavily on entrepreneurship. The school offers a Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET), and a Graduate Diploma in Business and Entrepreneurship (G.Dip.), as well as a PhD in Entrepreneurship and Organization.
Locations
Waterloo, Ontario
University of Guelph Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics
The University of Guelph’s Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics has more than 3,891 undergraduate students and 385 graduate students.
Guelph is known for its focus on the environment, and its business programs are no different. Ranked as the number one school in the world for sustainability MBAs, anyone looking for an option to keep their business green should consider the Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics.
Undergraduate Programs
The Lang school offers both a Bachelor of Commerce program and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics program. Minors in areas such as accounting, business data analytics, human resources, project management, and sport and event management are just a few of the options available for U of G students in business undergraduate programs.
As of 2023, 96 percent of Lang Commerce graduates are employed within two years of graduating.
Graduate Programs
Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics does not require students to complete a GMAT exam to attend an MBA program. The University of Guelph’s Lang MBA program invites students to pick from one of three specializations in sustainable commerce, food and agribusiness management, or hospitality and tourism management.
The program has a 96 percent approval rating from graduates, who typically have an average of 10 years of work experience coming into the program. Students report an average salary increase of 26 percent upon graduating from the program, and 96 percent said the program provided a good foundation for further career advancement.
U of G also offers a Masters in Leadership, which teaches students effective leadership techniques and is designed to help them climb the corporate ladder.
Locations
Guelph, Ontario
Université Laval Faculty of Business Administration (SFA ULaval)
Université Laval, based in Quebec City, has more than 1,900 students working towards masters degrees and 300 working towards PhDs. The school has produced some of the most recognized names in Canada in the last century, including two Prime Ministers, among other world leaders. It should be noted that only some courses are available in English. If you want to attend Laval, you must be able to speak French proficiently.
Université Laval is accredited by AACSB and EQUIS, placing it among the top business schools in the world.
What Students Are Saying
Julien Gauthier, Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA)“I had a good experience here and in Montreal. The school ranks in the top 1% of the best business schools in the world and is AACSB accredited. I was honoured to study here as a Quebec native and meet many people who have shaped and are shaping Quebec's business future. ”
Undergraduate Programs
Laval offers a Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Business Administration with emphasis on Accounting, and Bachelor of Quantitative Finance program. The accounting specific program is designed to assist students who are on their way to earning a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. The quantitative finance program is far more numbers centric than the others, focusing on programming and risk management.
Graduate Programs
Laval offers a Master of Science in Business Administration, and an MBA program (with 20 specializations). The Global Business MBA specialization can be completed in English. The school has an average GMAT score of 550 for students that are accepted into its master’s programs.
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.
Locations
Quebec City, Quebec
Editorial Team
Your rankings are so wrong. How does one rank RyHigh (Ryerson) over the great Lazardis School of Business ?
What Abou Aspen’s school of business in university of Manitoba???
Asper Business School from Manitoba is missed on the list. I believe it should be around 10-12.
Not sure how it was missed.
How about uni of York> York university.
What about Goodman School of Business at Brock University?
Laurier should be 7 or 8
Hey Mark! CourseCompare’s ranking algorithm uses verified student reviews, among other key metrics, to rank schools and programs. You can let us know what you think right here: https://www.coursecompare.ca/write-a-review/
Carleton’s Sprott Business School should be included.
Personally, the Goodman School shouldve been there cause my last name is Goodman and im a good man
Of that, we have no doubt, Saul!
You’re totally missing Goodman School of Business in St. Catharines. I transferred there from one of your top 5’s, and the quality of knowledge learned was significantly higher and more useful at Goodman than the other University.
which university u did transfer from?
Good