Online MBA programs are rapidly gaining traction in Canada, especially among working professionals seeking to upskill without putting their careers on hold. This popularity is primarily due to the fact that the universities and colleges tailor these programs for students who seek flexibility to pursue higher education at a pace they are comfortable with. These programs enable them to advance their careers while continuing to work their regular jobs. All these are essential factors that have swayed working professionals towards these programs. It also helps that the average annual base pay of an MBA degree holder in Canada is CAD 89,000.
This blog will discuss the top MBA programs for working professionals and highlight the key factors candidates should consider when selecting the most suitable option from the available options.
Top 10 Online MBA Programs in Canada
| Program Name | University/Institution | Duration | Accreditation |
| MBA to DBA Pathway | Golden Gate University | 39 months | Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Master of Business Administration | Edgewood University | 14 months | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Master of Business Administration | Golden Gate University | 13 months | WASC |
| Master of Business Administration | Liverpool Business School | 18 months | World Education Services (WES) |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | O.P. Jindal Global University | 12 months | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) |
| Online MBA | Faculty of Business, Athabasca University | 2.5 to 3 years | AACSB |
| Online MBA | Sprott School of Business, Carleton University | 12-24 months | AACSB |
| Online MBA | University of New Brunswick | 2.67 years | AACSB |
| Online MBA | Laurentian University | 2 years | AACSB, Association of MBAs (AMBA), and European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) |
| Online MBA | UCW | 2 years | AACSB and ACBSP |
The following are the 10 leading online MBA programs in Canada:
1. MBA to DBA Pathway, Golden Gate University
The MBA to DBA Pathway program at Golden Gate University is a 39-month doctoral program. It has been rated as the top program for working professionals. The program has been designed for senior leadership roles, with a pathway for experienced professionals who are prepared to drive meaningful change.
2. Master of Business Administration, Edgewood University
The Master of Business Administration program at Edgewood University is delivered entirely online. It spans 14 months. This affordable MBA program helps you unlock true potential.
3. Master of Business Administration, Golden Gate University
The Master of Business Administration program at Golden Gate University spans 13 months. It offers scholarships for 5000 students and has been designed specifically for working professionals. This is an ideal opportunity for students seeking the right MBA program.
The university’s location in San Francisco’s thriving financial and high-tech district also significantly enhances its standing in the world of education.
4. Master of Business Administration, Liverpool Business School
The Master of Business Administration program at Liverpool Business School offers you an optional United Kingdom (UK) immersion. The Master’s program spans 18 months and includes one-on-one mentorship and career assistance. The UK-based MBA program helps you transform your career in the truest sense of the word.
5. Master of Business Administration (MBA), O.P. Jindal Global University
The MBA program at O.P. Jindal Global University offers you live projects and case studies. The Master’s program spans 12 months and includes six specializations. The program provides you with insights from a world-class faculty equipped with vast industry experience and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.
6. Online MBA, Faculty of Business, Athabasca University
Athabasca University was one of the first schools in Canada to embrace distance education. It is still considered to be the standard-bearer for online MBA programs in the country.
7. Online MBA, Sprott School of Business, Carleton University
The Online MBA program at Sprott School of Business, Carleton University, focuses on integrated management education.
8. Online MBA, University of New Brunswick
The Online MBA program at the University of New Brunswick comprises 48 credits and is designed for working professionals.
9. Online MBA, Laurentian University
The MBA program at Laurentian University is delivered entirely online, making it a good option for students who must balance various commitments, such as work and studies.
10. Online MBA, University Canada West (UCW)
The MBA program at UCW can be taken entirely online or on the Vancouver campus. This means that you can choose the format that works best for you.
Best Online MBA Specialization in Canada for Working Professionals
One of the most significant benefits of studying the best online MBA for working professionals is that it offers a high-quality education to students, preparing them best for the challenges they will face as MBA professionals later on.
Finance
An MBA in finance is ideal for working professionals seeking careers in sectors such as banking, corporate finance, investment, and financial consulting. These programs usually cover areas such as financial analysis, capital markets, risk management, and strategic budgeting.
They train students in using tools to lead financial planning processes and make data-powered financial decisions. Regardless of whether the student is working in a finance role or looking to change careers, these programs can enhance their ability to manage company assets, mergers, and investments.
Marketing
Marketing-focused MBA programs are the best executive MBAs for working professionals seeking careers in domains such as advertising, sales, digital marketing, and product management. Through this specialization, students can develop skills in the following areas:
- Consumer Behavior
- Brand Strategy
- Digital Campaigns
- Market Analytics
- Pricing Models
Working professionals studying in these programs can also benefit as they learn how to create data-driven marketing strategies that drive customer engagement and revenue.
Business Analytics
Professionals who want to harness the power of data for business decision-making can always opt for MBA programs that focus on business analytics. The key areas of focus in this specialization are data modeling, AI applications, predictive analytics, and data visualization.
In these programs, professionals prepare to interpret complex datasets and transform them into actionable insights that can inform strategy.
Human Resource Management
Specializing in human resources management in an MBA is the right way to go for professionals who want to work in HR, organizational behavior, and talent development. The focus areas in these courses are:
- Strategic Workforce Planning
- Performance Management
- Labor Law
- Employee Engagement
- Leadership Development
Now, in the post-pandemic era of digital HR tools and hybrid work, these programs also explore HR tech, DEI (Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion), and remote team management.
Operations and Supply Chain Management
An operations and supply chain management-focused program is the ideal MBA for working professionals seeking opportunities in logistics, operations, and manufacturing roles. These programs provide students with in-depth knowledge and training in key areas, including process optimization, supply chain strategy, quality control, and inventory management. Nowadays, supply chains around the world are facing greater complexities, and as such, these programs also encompass risk mitigation, the role of AI in operational automation, and sustainability.
Also Read: Scholarships & Financial Aid for MBA Students in Canada
How to Choose the Right MBA as a Working Professional
When selecting the right MBA programs for working professionals, students should ensure that the program aligns with their career goals, work experience, and interests.
| Main Factor | Secondary Factors to Consider |
| Assessing Career Aspirations and Goals. |
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| Exploring Program Options. |
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| Evaluating Lifestyle and Work Experience. |
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| Researching and Seeking Expert Advice. |
|
Also Read: HR Career Paths: From Generalist to Specialist Roles
Why upGrad is a Smart Choice for Canada’s Working Professionals?
Students seeking the best online MBA programs for working professionals can be confident that they will not go wrong with the MBA courses offered through upGrad. These programs are from some of the most prestigious educational institutions around the world, and they can indeed help students achieve success in a relatively short period.
Related Article
Top MBA Jobs in Canada: High-Paying Career Opportunities and Career Paths for MBA Graduates
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FAQs on Online MBA Programs in Canada for Working Professionals
Yes, online MBA programs are indeed worthwhile pursuits in Canada, as they can enhance the professional growth of students.
Online MBAs can be fruitful pursuits for working professionals, especially so for individuals looking to advance their careers, balance work and studies, and increase their earning potential.
MBAs are potent tools for candidates seeking to change careers, as they provide a broad foundation in business, equip them with valuable skills, and enhance their credibility in the job market.
The typical duration of an online MBA program in Canada can vary, but most of them last between 1.5 and 3 years.
Yes, online MBAs contribute significantly to salary hikes after course completion, which is so helpful for working professionals looking to advance their careers.
