An MBA degree is renowned for enhancing the career prospects of graduates. With the added advantage of flexibility in pursuing it online, professionals in Canada can unlock more rewarding career opportunities in the country and secure lucrative salary packages as well.
According to 2024 data from McGill University, Canada, the base salary for MBA graduates was recorded at CAD 114,064. This indicates a high demand for MBA students in the country, who are equipped with industry-relevant skills such as strategic thinking, leadership, and analytical abilities.
In this blog, we further explore the top online MBA benefits for graduates in Canada, in addition to flexibility.
Online MBA Benefits in Canada – How It Can Boost Your Career
The table below highlights some of the key benefits of getting an MBA in Canada. Each of these benefits is detailed below for better understanding:
Online MBA Benefits | Description | Career Impact |
Flexibility and Convenience | Self-paced study while managing other commitments | Career progression made possible without relocation or career break |
Access to Top Canadian Schools | Several reputed Canadian universities offer online MBA courses | Strong credentials added to your resume boost your employability prospects |
Strong Networking Opportunities | Opportunity to connect with mentors and industry experts worldwide | Increased professional network unlocks rewarding job opportunities globally |
Career-Focused Curriculum | Online MBA programs focus on specific industry-relevant specializations | Expertise in a particular domain helps align with market demands |
Lower Cost Compared to On-Campus | No commutation cost as the course can be pursued from home or anywhere else | Higher ROI, lesser financial burden |
Flexibility and Convenience
One of the best online MBA advantages is that the program can be learned anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.
Access to Top Canadian Schools
Several top-ranked Canadian universities offer online MBA programs in addition to their conventional full-time on-campus courses. A few examples include McGill University, the University of Toronto, and Queen’s University.
Strong Networking Opportunities
The key answer to “how does an MBA help your career” is the strong networking opportunities that it provides. An online MBA program, though delivered virtually, enables ample access to top industry experts and world-class faculty from diverse backgrounds worldwide.
Career-Focused Curriculum
Online MBA courses in Canada are designed to meet the specific demands of various industries. The core curriculum, therefore, is industry-specific, aligning with the exact requirements of each sector.
Lower Cost Compared to On-Campus
Online MBA courses are relatively more affordable than their traditional counterparts. On-campus programs are generally more expensive, considering the expenses involved in commuting, relocation, and infrastructure, among other factors.
Advantages and Challenges of pursuing an Online MBA in Canada
To help you make an informed decision, listed below are the key online MBA benefits as well as some challenges that students may come across while pursuing the program.
Top Benefits
- Access to top Canadian business schools: Without having to necessarily relocate to Canada, students sitting in any part of the world can gain an MBA degree from one of the top Canadian universities.
- Flexible learning: You can choose to study at your own pace and in your time, alongside other work and personal commitments.
- Improved career growth: Online MBA courses equip students with crucial skills like leadership and business knowledge to help them advance into top managerial roles.
Key Challenges of Online MBA
Some of the common challenges are:
- Limited interaction: Virtual lectures and self-paced learning reduce the scope for in-person interaction between the students and the faculty. This limits networking and growth prospects.
- Lack of motivation/self-discipline: It’s easier to become demotivated or lack self-discipline when learning online. You need strong time management skills and self-motivation to keep moving forward on your learning path.
- Dependence on technology: You need a reliable portable device and strong internet connectivity at all times and places to access an online MBA program. This may become a hurdle when you are in a location with poor network connectivity.
Also Read: One-Year vs. Two-Year Online MBA in Canada
upGrad’s Online MBA in Canada is the Smart Choice for Career Growth
Ready to pursue an MBA and avail of its many advantages? upGrad can help. The most popular digital learning platform, we offer multiple solutions to meet the distinct needs of working professionals in Canada who seek career progression through flexible, industry-relevant learning.
Some of our most popular online MBA courses include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA), O.P. Jindal Global University
- Master of Business Administration, Paris School of Business
- Master of Business Administration, Golden Gate University
- Master of Business Administration, Edgewood College
- Master of Business Administration (MBA), Liverpool Business School
- Dual Degree MBA and DBA, Edgewood College
FAQs on Benefits of Earning an Online MBA for a Career in Canada
Q: What are the significant MBA benefits for professionals in Canada?
Ans: An MBA in Canada offers working professionals the benefits of developing leadership skills, advancing their career, and enhancing their earning potential. Additionally, students gain industry exposure and network with top employers.
Q: Will I receive the same MBA benefits online as in a classroom setting?
Ans: Yes, online MBA courses are on par with traditional classroom programs, offering the same academic excellence and credentials. However, on-campus courses offer higher face-to-face interaction and networking opportunities.
Q: Can international students in Canada also get MBA benefits through online courses?
Ans: Yes, international students gain numerous benefits from an online MBA, including global recognition of the degree, enhanced career prospects worldwide, and the flexibility and convenience of self-paced learning.
Q: How does an online MBA benefit someone looking to switch careers in Canada?
Ans: Career switchers benefit from an online MBA by acquiring transferable skills, business acumen, and industry-relevant knowledge within the program. With these skills, they can better access new and improved career roles.
Q: Is upskilling a significant benefit for tech professionals with an MBA in Canada?
Ans: Yes, upskilling is one of the top benefits of an online MBA program that tech professionals in Canada experience. They become better equipped with strategic thinking, analytical skills, and leadership abilities.