The Best Online BBA and BCom Programs in Canada of 2024

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Last updated November 21, 2023

If you’re looking to jumpstart or switch to a career in business, but you can’t commit to in-person learning, you may want to consider an online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) or Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree from a leading Canadian business school.

Online programs by accredited b-schools offer flexibility and convenience, allowing students to study at their own pace and schedule from anywhere in the world while still accessing expert faculty and coveted college and university resources (consider internships, networking and mentorship opportunities, virtual access to library collections and more). There are also a variety of concentrations and specializations, such as accounting, finance, marketing, management and entrepreneurship that can be pursued virtually.

Of course, “online” can mean anything from synchronous, real-time, learning through live online classroom discussions to a fully automated, at-your-own-pace, experience — plus a range of dynamic learning environments in between.

The following Canadian colleges and universities offer BBA and BCom programs that, regardless of precise delivery methods, promise an experience that’s fully remote; that aspiring managers, executives and entrepreneurs can complete in virtually any time zone, if not any time, anywhere. If you’ve always wanted an undergraduate business education but can’t travel to a college or university campus, then these online degree programs are definitely worth considering.

Note for international students: Studying outside of Canada can disqualify you from receiving a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Click here to learn more about PGWP eligibility for distance learning

1.

Laurentian University 5/5

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2.

Mount Saint Vincent University 5/5

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3.

Memorial University 4.75/5

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4.

Athabasca University 3.2/5

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5.

University of Fredericton (UFred) 4.95/5

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6.

University Canada West (UCW) 4.8/5

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7.

Nipissing University 4/5

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8.

Yorkville University 4.95/5

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9.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) 3.15/5

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10.

Algonquin College 4.6/5

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11.

Fanshawe College 4.3/5

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1

Laurentian University

best-online-bba-bcom
$ $ $ $

Laurentian University’s online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program prepares students for a management career within a large organization or, for those with an entrepreneurial mindset, provides the skills to grow their own business. Laurentian’s goal is to produce business leaders that are socially responsible with a diversified skill set.

The program also aims to prepare students for an international business career by imparting practical skills, including problem solving, analysis, critical thinking and communication.

Through the program, students will be able to explore which business pathway they resonate with the most, whether it’s entrepreneurship, accounting, finance, HR management, marketing, or finance.

What Students Are Saying

Laurentian, being remote and having to serve students from its Sudbury location, has been fine-tuning its online programs for a long time. I was skeptical about doing a BBA online, but I was a bit older and working and needed the flexility. Laurentian definitely delivered. I secured a loan and a small grant for this program, even though it was online. I encourage everyone to look into these opportunities. Years ago, CourseCompare helped me with this so the university or CC staff can set you in the right direction.

Jonathan Moses, Business Administration (online BBA)

What Sets Laurentian University Apart?

Laurentian University brings a decade of experience developing 100 percent online degree programs and offers a CPA pathway where students can work towards a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

Boasting the most transfer credits applicable to an undergraduate degree in Ontario, students that hold college diplomas can fast track their education with a “2+2.5 year” degree option. For those unfamiliar with what a “2+2.5 year” degree option is, it’s an educational pathway that allows students with a two-year associate degree to transfer their credits and complete a bachelor’s degree in 2.5 years.

Locations

Online

2

Mount Saint Vincent University

Mount Saint Vincent University online BBA | CourseCompare
$ $ $ $

Mount Saint Vincent University’s Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program offers a comprehensive business management education. The fully online program allows students to major in a wide range of business areas, if they would like to specialize beyond the general studies program.

Majors include: accounting, economics, finance, non-profit leadership, marketing, management, tourism and hospitality management, and strategic HR management.

The goal of the online BBA is to impart fundamental leadership skills to get students ready for their business careers, whether their goal is to work with a non-profit, a large organization, a small business, or even to start their own business.

While the program is fully online, instructors will respond to students promptly by email if they have any questions throughout the course. Students may also be able to schedule a one-on-one virtual meeting with instructors if they need further support.

What Sets Mount Saint Vincent University Apart

The online BBA program is offered to students in four possible delivery modes, depending on the level of engagement students are looking for. Students can choose from synchronous online, asynchronous online, multi-mode online and multi-access.

Synchronous online has weekly live meetings with the professor and the class, while asynchronous online is completely self-guided without scheduled weekly meetings.

Multi-mode online has both synchronous class time and asynchronous options, although in-class time likely requires mandatory participation. Finally, the university also offers a multi-access option, which is a course with both online and on-campus students.

Locations

Online

3

Memorial University

Memorial University online BCom | CourseCompare
4.75/5
$ $ $ $

Memorial University offers a fully online Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program, which can be applied to after prospective students have completed foundational courses in the first year of study. The common first year courses include math, economics, English, as well as a business and non-business elective.

The program offers both full-time and part-time options, which can be completed fully online, on-campus, or through a combination of both.

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Memorial University’s business school is also a part of the CFA Institute’s University Affiliation Program.

What Sets Memorial University Apart

Unlike other online BBA or BCom programs that require students to choose a specialization, Memorial University takes a more broad approach. They encourage students to hone in on a focus area without noting it on their transcript.

Focus areas for Memorial University’s BCom program include: accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, HR management, information systems, international business, labour relations, marketing, and more.

The school also offers a BCom co-op program, which is a separate program offered only on-campus.

Locations

Online

4

Athabasca University

Athabasca University online BCom | CourseCompare
3.2/5
$ $ $ $

Athabasca University’s online Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program gears students towards solid, foundational knowledge in core business areas, allowing them to choose a major in accounting, business technology management, finance, HR management, or marketing.

The program’s goal is to equip its graduates with the skills to make effective decisions, demonstrate ethical awareness, and also embrace global perspectives.

For students that have already earned a post-secondary diploma, they can take the post-diploma route and finish the BCom program in just two years, or choose to complete the four-year online program full-time.

What Students Are Saying

 I became an executive while I was learning to be an executive. AU’s online format made it possible for me to complete my MBA as I pursued my passion for geology in countries as far away as West Africa. As I learned, I applied my newfound knowledge to my role as CEO and it allowed me to expand my career in ways I never thought possible.

Shastri Ramnath, Masters of Business Administration

What Sets Athabasca University Apart 

Students can choose to major in Indigenous Business, which is a new program offered only by Athabasca University. The curriculum is centered on Indigenous governance and business principles, while acknowledging and fostering the significance of traditional knowledge.

Students can also choose to forgo declaring a major and pursue a general BCom degree, which will offer them a well-rounded foundation in all fundamental areas of business.

According to data shared by Athabasca University, graduates of the BCom general program have a job placement rate of 91 percent with a median graduate salary of $73,750.

Locations

Online

5

University of Fredericton (UFred)

UFred online BBA | CourseCompare
4.95/5
$ $ $ $

The University of Fredericton’s online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program gives students a flexible pathway to earn a business degree from across the globe.

The program, offered through the Sandermoen School of Business, is committed to online education and imparts leadership and business skills through applied and theoretical learning. The first two years are made up of eight-week long core courses and electives, wrapping up with a capstone project to encourage real world application.

Students are engaged in an asynchronous learning environment through assignments, case studies, papers, and discussion forums, with consistent access and support to instructors for the duration of the course.

The full-time program is 3.5 years, while part-time can range from 4.5 to 6.5 years, allowing students the flexibility to maintain their career while earning their business degree.

What Students Are Saying

I can't imagine a better, more flexible, learning experience. UFred has nailed this aspect of the MBA for people who are working in senior roles, have families and real responsibilities, and can't take 1-2 years off from "real life". I started by being placed into a group. Classes are 15 hours per class per week and then we have discussions using WebEx, group presentations and weekly readings. Classes can be taken as one-offs so you can really do things at your own pace. I'm still in touch with the people from my group to this day and we are from backgrounds as wide-ranging as fintech, manufacturing, law, agribusiness and retail! Also, profs were amazing and led classes virtually from around the world. It's a lot of work; not a "bird" program by any stretch of the imagination. This program really pushed me to take my business and management skills to the next level. I can't recommend it enough for the right people.

Greg Henry, Master of Business Administration

What Sets the University of Fredericton Apart 

BBA program students can choose between taking up to two courses at the same time, depending on their availability and the time they can commit. This flexibility in course load allows students to adapt the program timeline to their schedules, and may even allow them to earn their degree quicker.

Students also have the opportunity to transition into the international business stream after completing their core courses. They will be required to take three specialty core courses and one elective within the specialization track.

For students with a career change in mind, any relevant college or university education might be transferable and help decrease the time and cost to earn their BBA degree.

Locations

Online

6

University Canada West (UCW)

UCW online BCom | CourseCompare
4.8/5
$ $ $ $

University Canada West’s online Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program is accredited by the ACBSP, an accrediting body for global business schools.

The global economy-focused program prepares graduates for a career in management or business by instilling a deep understanding of core business areas, while enhancing fundamental skills in writing, teamwork, and research.

After graduating from the program, students can expect to have learned how to apply management and financial tools to critically evaluate simple business challenges, take a modern business approach when problem solving, as well as be able to develop ethical and legally-compliant proposals, plans, and projects.

What Students Are Saying

Studying at UCW has been an awesome experience for me. At first, when the pandemic hit and students had to study online, I thought it would be challenging and that I wouldn't learn as much as I would if classes were in person. But I would say that all UCW's student resources have been so helpful. I'm grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to learning more.

Winifred Apuasantare, Bachelor of Commerce

What Sets University Canada West Apart

Through self-paced learning, students are engaged through a number of web-based interactive exercises including discussion forums, pre-recorded lectures, and case studies. All course materials are accessible by students at the start of the term, so they can organize their schedules accordingly.

To meet the ongoing demand for accounting skills, University Canada West offers students an elective option in accounting where they can take courses in areas such as managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing principles.

The school has an articulation partnership with the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA), which means that students can transfer their credits towards the CPA Professional Education Program.

Locations

Online

7

Nipissing University

Nipissing University online BCom | CourseCompare
$ $ $ $

Nipissing University’s online Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program offers flexibility in length and duration. The program is customizable depending on the learning style of the student, where they’re located, and whether they’re able to study full-time.

Students can either choose from a fully online course delivery format, where the entire program is self-paced, or they can opt for a more synchronous delivery with live streamed classes. Blended delivery is also possible, where students can attend some courses on-campus and the remainder online.

The versatility of Nipissing’s program lies in their partnerships with four other colleges, which allow students the option to study on-campus in the evenings depending on their location.

What Sets Nipissing University Apart

Nipissing offers two different pathways for their online BCom students, whether it’s a four-year degree with Honours, or the ability to complete the program in just three years. Students in the four-year degree program can choose human resources or accounting as their specialty stream.

Depending on their schedule, students can choose from self-paced learning or a more synchronous approach with live streamed classes during weekday evenings.

The program can be completed fully online; although students that live near one of Nipissing’s college partners Centennial, Lambton, Algonquin, or St. Clair could also register for an on-campus BCom course scheduled in the evenings.

Locations

Online

8

Yorkville University

Yorkville University online BBA | CourseCompare
4.95/5
$ $ $ $

Yorkville University takes a multi-disciplinary approach to running their online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program, allowing students to choose from four different specialty streams.

They can either forgo choosing a focus area and stay within the general degree, or transition into supply chain management, accounting, project management, or energy management specializations.

The program also offers four terms annually, which start in January, April, July, and October. Every core BBA course will be offered during each term, which is helpful for students looking to expedite their degree – many of which can complete their degree in as little as 2.5 years.

What Students Are Saying

Like any other university, YU has some excellent faculty and some not so excellent faculty. My experience was good and I've bee building a successful career in interior design since I graduated. I owe some of that to the lessons, skills and connections I made. The hardest part was motivating myself through an online degree, but that's not YU's fault. My only real complaint is the tuition, which isn't cheap. In my subjective experience, it was worth it, especially for the flexibility of the online degree.

Antonn, Bachelor of Business Administration (Online)

What Sets Yorkville University Apart 

Taking into consideration relevant industry issues, Yorkville has added courses such as Business Intelligence and Analytics, as well as Managing Organizational Change to ensure that graduates will be knowledgeable and well-equipped for contemporary business settings.

Within each of the available specialty streams, Yorkville offers students the chance to earn some of the prerequisites needed to apply for professional certifications, which will give them a leg up in the job market. Take for example, students specializing in accounting. Yorkville University has partnered with the Chartered Professional Accountants Canada (CPA) to offer an expedited route towards becoming designated as a Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP), or a Certified Payroll Manager (CPM).

The online BBA has classroom sizes of an average of 20 students, which promotes active participation and communication with the instructor.

Locations

Online

9

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)

NAIT online BBA | CourseCompare
3.15/5
$ $ $ $

With NAIT’s Bachelor or Business Administration (BBA), classes have a business focus from day one. Students can earn a general BBA by completing core courses and a choice of electives, or declare a concentration in the following subjects: accounting, entrepreneurship & innovation, finance, human resource management, marketing or management (general).

NAIT’s course delivery is flexible, allowing students to take your classes in the daytime, evening or online to suit their schedules. The polytechnic also has transfer credit and prior learning assessments for those who have done prior post-secondary or other formal training experience.

What Sets NAIT Apart 

Hands-on expertise with leading software applications and business processes set BBA grads apart. The BBA degree focuses on experiential learning, including the use of simulations, interactive case studies and applied research assignments. Critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills are also key objectives.

Students are eligible to participate in NAIT’s optional BBA Co-op program, and spend three semesters (12 months) gaining valuable hands-on experience in real workplaces.

According to NAIT, the expected median starting salary for BBA graduates is $50,000.

Locations

Online

10

Algonquin College

Algonquin College online BBA | CourseCompare
4.6/5
$ $ $ $

Algonquin College offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) program that’s focused solely on Trades Management. Students can choose from four educational pathways, including building renovation, motive power or electrician.

There’s also an option to choose the general trades pathway, which imparts the core business competencies needed by people working in a skilled trade looking to further their careers.

The college teams up with two other Ontario-based schools, Mohawk and George Brown, to co-deliver the courses. Like Algonquin College, Mohawk and George Brown bring business and trades expertise to the table, and are well-versed at delivering online courses.

The program is offered on a part-time basis and is entirely online, allowing students to add valuable business skills to their resumes without interrupting their work commitments.

What Students Are Saying

I will be graduating at the end of this semester and I have greatly enjoyed my time here. I'm in the Business Management and Entrepreneurship program. The teachers are highly qualified and approachable, the campus is nice and clean, and I have learned lots.

Erica Racine, Business - Management and Entrepreneurship (Co-Op and Non Co-Op)

What Sets Algonquin College Apart

Algonquin College is the only online program on this list dedicated to helping those with apprenticeship or journeyperson training to hone the business management skills they need to advance their careers.

The ultimate goal of the BBA program is to help people working in a skilled trade to either build upon their own business, be promoted in their current role, or apply for managerial roles within an organization.

Graduates from Algonquin’s online BBA program can either pursue small business ownership, or apply for leadership opportunities as a project manager, business manager, quality control manager, and so forth.

Locations

Online

11

Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College online BCom | CourseCompare
4.3/5
$ $ $ $

Fanshawe College’s Honours Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) program can be earned part-time and fully online for students that have already earned business diplomas and are interested in laddering on a degree as well.

Offered through the Lawrence Kinlin School of Business, the online program has three possible start dates every year (in January, May, and September). Prospective students can enter the degree program after completing a two-year business diploma or after earning an advanced, three-year business diploma.

What Sets Fanshawe College Apart

Fanshawe College offers four part-time online BCom programs to students who have already completed a two- or three-year business diploma. BCom degrees can be earned in accounting, digital marketing, human resource management, or general management.

Those in the accounting stream can expect to learn concepts such as finance, cost accounting, auditing and taxation, on top of general principles including HR, marketing, and business strategy.

Students that choose to specialize in digital marketing will learn brand management, analytics, and search engine marketing, while HR stream students will learn the ropes in talent acquisition, performance management, and more.

The general management stream offers a well-rounded curriculum of business fundamentals, while giving students a chance to apply those skills in the real world through mentorship and practical experience.

Locations

Online

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