Business

Program Overview

This full-time Ontario College Diploma in Business equips students with comprehensive business knowledge and skills in accounting, finance, marketing, sales, operations, and human resources management. It prepares graduates for entry-level positions in various industries and provides a pathway to further studies or professional designations. The program offers flexible start dates and delivery formats, including online and in-person options.

Program Outline

Business - Full-time - Ontario College Diploma

Degree Overview:

This program equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate in diverse business functions, including accounting, finance, marketing, sales, operations, and human resources management. It provides them with career-ready skills for immediate employment, returning to a family business, or starting their own venture. Students can also use this program as a steppingstone to further studies, such as the third year of the Business Administration - Management program, an 8-month post-graduate certificate, or the second year of the BBA - International Business Management degree program (with a minimum 70% program average). The program offers flexible start dates (fall, winter, or spring) and multiple delivery formats to cater to various needs and lifestyles. It can be completed in as little as 16 months (full-time or online). Graduates are eligible to obtain the C.I.M. (Certified in Management) designation offered by Chartered Managers Canada.

Key Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of business principles and practices.
• Gain proficiency in key business functions.
• Acquire relevant soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
• Prepare graduates for entry-level positions across various industries.
• The program has two intakes per year (September and January).
• It is offered at two campuses: Guelph and Kitchener-Doon.
• Online delivery is also available with an accelerated start date in May.
• Applicants holding the McDonald's Management Development Program designation may apply for credit toward this program.

Outline:

Program Duration:

2 years

Delivery:

Full-time

Modules:

• Business Fundamentals
• Business Communication
• Accounting Principles
• Marketing Principles
• Sales and Customer Service
• Operations Management
• Human Resource Management
• Business Law
• Economics
• Finance
• International Business
• Entrepreneurship
• Management

Course Schedule:

The course schedule varies depending on the intake and delivery format.

• Modules are subject to change and may vary depending on the student's chosen concentration.
• Students have the opportunity to specialize in Human Resources, Marketing, or Accounting during their second year.
• Capstone project and professional development courses are included in the program.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through various methods, including:

• Assignments
• Projects
• Presentations
• Case studies
• Exams
• Portfolio
Assessment criteria are specific to each module and are outlined in the course syllabus.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures
• Group discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Guest speakers
• Project-based learning

Faculty:

The program faculty comprises experienced professionals with real-world industry experience. Students benefit from diverse expertise and perspectives.

Unique Approach:

• The program emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, simulations, and projects.
• Students benefit from personalized attention due to small class sizes.
• Emphasis is placed on developing both technical and soft skills.
• Industry connections provide students with networking opportunities and potential internships.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Business Analyst
• Marketing Specialist
• Sales Representative
• Operations Manager
• Human Resources Generalist
• Financial Analyst
• Entrepreneur
• Account Manager

Career Opportunities:

Graduates are equipped to find employment in various industries, including:

• Manufacturing
• Retail
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Government
• Non-profit

Career Outcomes:

• Graduates are prepared for immediate employment in their chosen field.
• The program's emphasis on both technical and soft skills makes graduates highly marketable.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles are available for graduates with experience.

Other:

• Graduates are eligible to take the National Occupational Exam (NOE) to become Certified Management Accountants (CMAs).
• The program prepares students for professional designations such as C.P.A.
(Chartered Professional Accountant) and C.F.A. (Chartered Financial Analyst).
• Students can choose to complete a cooperative education work term to gain valuable on-the-job experience.
• Graduates have access to Conestoga's Alumni services and career resources.