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PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS

Credentials that boost your qualifications – and what it takes to earn them

ACCOUNTING

CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant)

Description: Since 2015, the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) is the only regulated professional accounting body in the province of British Columbia. With over 36,000 CPA members and 5,000 CPA students and candidates, CPABC is responsible for the regulation and professional development of more than 210,000 CPAs across Canada and the globe, as well as the training and certification of CPA candidates. Prerequisites: Four-year, 120-credit-hour university degree or equivalent, plus specific subject area coverage that can be met through approved programs in post-secondary institutions, or through the CPA Western School of Business. The prerequisite education required consists of 14 modules; students complete only those courses they require. Requirements: The CPA professional education program has six modules: two core modules, which focus on the development of competencies in management and financial accounting, and the integration of the six core technical competency areas – audit and assurance, finance, taxation, financial reporting, management accounting, and strategy and governance; two elective modules; and the final two courses, which include a capstone integrative module that focuses on the development of leadership and professional skills, and a capstone examination preparation module. At the conclusion of the six modules, students write a common final examination. All CPA candidates must also complete relevant, progressive, practical experience that is approved by the CPA profession. Experience can be gained in positions pre-approved by the CPA profession, or through the experience verification model, in which CPA candidates may work for an employer they choose.

Administering organization: Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (bccpa.ca).

CAREER COUNSELLING

CCDP (Certified Career Development Practitioner)

Description: A CCDP knows career development, has skills and expertise in assessment and referral and has interpersonal competence in career development. A CCDP has skills and expertise in at least three of: assessment, facilitated individual and group learning, career counselling, information and resource management, work development and community capacity-building. Requirements: Master’s degree in related field and at least one year’s related work experience; bachelor’s degree in related field and at least two years’ related work experience; diploma in careerdevelopment practice or related field and at least three years’ related work experience; certificate in career-development practice or related field, or equivalent post-secondary education and at least four years’ related work experience; evidence of all core competencies and three areas of specialization; evidence of completing course in ethics related to career development, counselling or adult education that includes at least 10 hours’ instructional time, as well as course in careerdevelopment theory that includes at least 20 hours’ instructional time. EDITING

CPE (Certified Professional Editor)

Description: Candidates can become CPEs or earn separate certifications in proofreading, copy editing, structural editing or stylistic editing. Requirements: Passing of required tests (four tests for CPE designation). No formal requirements, but at least five years’ extensive editing work experience is recommended.

Administering organization: Editors’ Association of Canada (editors.ca).

EVENT PLANNING

CMP (Certified Meeting Professional)

Description: Helps people employed in meeting management pursue continuing education, increase involvement with industry and gain industry-wide recognition. Requirements: Three years’ work experience in the industry, having been employed within the last 12 months; a degree in meeting, event, exhibition or hospitality/tourism management and two years’ work experience; three years’ full-time instruction experience in a meeting/hospitality university program. Completion of 25 hours’ continuing education or completion of approved internship/ apprenticeship in the industry with a minimum of 200 hours of work experience. Written exam.

Administering organization: Events Industry Council (eventscouncil.org).

CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional)

Description: This designation recognizes event professionals who have successfully demonstrated the knowledge, skills and ability essential to perform all components of a special event. Requirements: To qualify for CSEP exam, a candidate must have minimum three years’ full-time professional employment in the special events industry. Documentation of work experience required. Exam is a 4.5-hour computerbased examination scored either pass or fail and consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions and a written portion, both based on the CSEP content outline at ileahub.com/csep.

Administering organization: International Live Events Association (ileahub.com).

DMCP (Destination Management Certified Professional)

Requirements: To qualify as a candidate for the written exam, applicant must have minimum three years’ destination management experience or bachelor’s degree in hospitality-related major from accredited university; current employment in hospitality; responsibility and accountability for successful completion of destination management programs and minimum 90 points on the application.

Administering organization: Association of Destination Management Executives (adme.org).

EXECUTIVE COACHING

ACC (Associate Certified Coach), PCC (Professional Certified Coach), MCC (Master Certified Coach)

Description: The International Coach Federation (ICF) establishes and administers minimum standards for credentialing professional coaches and coach-training agencies. A coach credentialed by the ICF has coach-specific training, has achieved a designated number of hours of experience and has been coached by a mentor coach. Requirements: Vary by designation; for details, see coachfederation.org/credential.

Administering organization: ICF (coachfederation.org).

FAMILY ENTERPRISE ADVISING

FEA (Family Enterprise Advisor)

Description: The Family Enterprise Advisor designation demonstrates an advisor’s commitment to excellence in family enterprise advising. Granted to experienced lawyers, wealth managers, accountants, facilitators and family therapists, the designation represents a substantial opportunity in a marketplace where more than 80 per cent of businesses are family-owned. Appointed by the Family Enterprise Xchange (FEX), this designation is unique in the world. Requirements: Completion of the Family Enterprise Advisor program at the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, possession of a professional designation or equivalent, passing of the written and oral components of the designation exam offered by FEX. The multidisciplinary approach teaches advisors to integrate their own disciplines with others to provide collaborative and complementary advice to business family clients, all of whom must navigate the unique challenges of family dynamics, governance, communication and succession planning. Offered only once each year, the program is the education requirement for a designation with FEX.

Administering organization: FEX (familyenterprise-xchange.com).

FINANCE AND INSURANCE

CAIB (Canadian Accredited Insurance Broker), CPIB (Canadian Professional Insurance Broker), CCIB (Canadian Certified Insurance Broker)

Description of CAIB: The Insurance Brokers Association of BC (IBABC) offers the CAIB program through provincial member associations. Designed for property and casualty insurance brokers, CAIB provides insurance knowledge to develop competence and enhance career opportunities. Four course modules constitute the program and cover personal and commercial lines of insurance plus brokerage management skills. Each course culminates in a national exam. Courses prepare students to meet B.C. licensing requirements.

Requirements for CAIB: Completion of four course volumes and exams. Employment by insurance brokerage that is a member of a provincial brokers’ association that is, in turn, a member of Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC). Description of CPIB: The new senior designation program developed by IBAC and its provincial member associations is specifically designed for property and casualty insurance brokers. The program has three distinct streams: personal lines, commercial lines and broker management. To earn the CPIB designation, students must complete the three mandatory courses and any three of the elective courses in the stream of their choice. Description of CCIB: CCIB is a senior designation designed for commercial insurance brokers who have already completed their CAIB. The CCIB program is a self-study program involving three exams, which are all practical and experiencebased.

CCP (Certified Credit Professional)

Description: The CCP designation is recognized as a symbol of excellence in credit management. The program is delivered online. The credit basics program (also offered online) can be used as a stepping-stone to this certification. Requirements: Completion of required courses in financial accounting fundamentals, credit management, micro/macroeconomics, corporate finance fundamentals, business communications, managing credit with information technology, Canadian credit law and advanced credit management. Transfer credits applicable. Ongoing requirements: Continued membership and participation in a continuing professional development program.

Administering organization: Credit Institute of Canada (creditinstitute.org).

CFP (Certified Financial Planner)

Requirements: Completion of core curriculum program approved by the Financial Planning Standards Council (FPSC), agreement to abide by FPSC code of ethics and maintain registration in registered candidate program, passing of financial planning examination Level 1, at least one year full-time (or equivalent) financial planning work experience, completion of an FPSC-approved capstone course, passing of financial planning examination Level 2 and at least two additional years’ full-time (or equivalent) financial planning work experience. Total financial planning work experience must be at least three years. Candidates who qualify under approved prior credential policy (those who hold CA, CGA, CMA, CFA, CLU or FCIA designations, have PhDs in finance, economics or business or are members of provincial law society) must still complete both exams and successfully complete the capstone course. For all candidates, there is a maximum of four attempts on financial planning examinations. Candidates must meet other administrative requirements and abide by maintenance requirements.

Ongoing requirements: Annual renewal of licence by 30 hours’ continuing education, continued agreement to abide by FPSC code of ethics and adhere to the Marks Use Guide for Canadian CFP Professionals.

Administering organization: FPSC (effective April 1, 2019, FP Canada Standards Council; fpsc. ca).

CIP (Chartered Insurance Professional), FCIP (Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional)

Description of CIP: Comprehensive designation program for property and casualty insurance that integrates practical and theoretical knowledge and features concentrations for underwriters, brokers/agents and adjusters. Requirements for CIP: Ten courses taken in class, online or by distance learning, five being mandatory, three applied-professional and two elective (chosen from more than 30 available courses). Costs for CIP: See insuranceinstitute.ca/en/cipfcip-designations/cip/fees. Description of FCIP: Designed to promote leadership skills, the FCIP program provides a comprehensive business education with a specific property and casualty insurance focus.

Requirements for FCIP: Prior completion of CIP course and work experience requirements; current Insurance Institute membership, current CIP membership (for CIP graduates) and an undergraduate degree from a Canadian university or equivalent. (An alternate route is available for those with a college diploma.) Completion of FCIP program consists of six courses (delivered online): Strategy in the P&C Insurance Sector, Leading in the Insurance World, Financial Management for Insurance Leaders, Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) in the Insurance Sector, Emerging Issues: Implications for the P&C Insurance Leader, and Integrative Learning for the P&C Insurance Sector (a work-based capstone project). Five years’ relevant work experience by completion of the program.

Administering organizations: Insurance Institute of BC, Insurance Institute of Canada (insuranceinstitute.ca).

ECBA (Entry Certificate in Business Analysis), CCBA (Certification of Competency in Business Analysis), CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional), CBATL (Certified Business Analysis Thought Leader)

Description: The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) has launched a new global multi-level certification program. This competency-based program recognizes BA professionals’ knowledge and skills. For more information, visit iiba.org/certificationrecognition.

Administering organization: IIBA (iiba.org).

GRAPHIC DESIGN

CGD (Certified Graphic Designer)

Description: Awarded to practising designer who has completed at least seven years of combined graphic design education and professional practice and whose work and professional integrity are of acceptable standards. Requirements: Applicants submit membership form and resumé, sign licensing agreement and undergo confidential case study/portfolio review. Practising web and new media designers are eligible to apply for CGD status. Also included in this category are professional design educators and design administrators. Three- or four-year course of studies in graphic design is recommended but not required.

Administering organization: Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (gdc.design).

HOME INSPECTION

Licensed Home Inspector

Description: Home inspectors must be licensed in British Columbia. Licensing and regulation are conducted by Consumer Protection BC. Requirements: Candidate must hold appropriate designation from the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC, Canadian National Association of Certified Home Inspectors, National Home Inspector Certification Council or Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors BC. As of September 1, 2016, membership in a home inspection association is no longer required. Disclosure of any criminal history, insurance coverage, peer recommendation letter and 50 hours of home inspection with an approved trainer also required. For a complete list of licensing requirements, visit homeinspectionrightsbc.ca.

Administering organization: Consumer Protection BC (consumerprotectionbc.ca). HUMAN RESOURCES

CPHR (Chartered Professional in Human Resources)

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and successful completion of National Knowledge Exam (NKE), plus a completed experience assessment validated by current employer. This assessment must prove: a minimum of three years working in an HR role within the last 10 years (at least one year must be within Canada), and experience gained using technical HR knowledge and a level of autonomy in the application of HR knowledge. It is not necessary to be a manager or supervisor. Experience covers at least two of the seven required professional capabilities. Membership in Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR) required. Recertification required every three years by reassessment or with 100 points for professional development activities and experience from various categories. Administering organization: CPHR (cphrbc.ca).

PHR (Professional in Human Resources), SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources), GPHR (Global Professional in Human Resources)

Requirements for PHR: One year’s demonstrated professional HR experience with master’s degree or higher; two years’ demonstrated professional HR experience with bachelor’s degree; or four years’ demonstrated professional HR experience with less than a bachelor’s degree. Three-hour, 175-question multiple-choice exam.

Requirements for SPHR: Four years’ demonstrated professional HR experience with master’s degree or higher; five years’ demonstrated professional HR experience with bachelor’s; or seven years’ demonstrated professional HR experience with less than a bachelor’s. Three-hour, 175-question multiplechoice exam.

Requirements for GPHR: Two years’ demonstrated global professional HR experience with a master’s degree or higher; three years’ demonstrated professional HR experience (with two of the three being global HR experience) with bachelor’s; or four years’ demonstrated professional HR experience (with two of the four being global HR experience) with less than a bachelor’s. Three-hour, 165-question multiplechoice exam. Certification exams occur twice a year. Recertification required after three years by accumulation of 60 credit hours of HR-related continuing education activities prior to end of the three years or by retaking of exam.

Administering organization: Human Resource Certification Institute (hrci.org).

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

CITP (Certified International Trade Professional)

Requirements: Minimum one year’s professional international trade experience. Completion of Forum for International Trade Training program (FITTskills) or equivalent thereof. There are eight FITTskills courses, each requiring approximately 45 hours’ classroom instruction. Completion of all eight earns candidate the Forum for International Trade Training diploma in international trade. FITTskills courses are available at partner learning institutions from seasoned international trade professionals or online. Exemptions from course requirements available through prior learning assessment and recognition process, which provides credit for previous work experience and/or education. Adherence to standards of ethical conduct. Designees must maintain membership in

good standing. Members must engage in ongoing professional development.

Administering organization: FITT (fitt.ca).

LAW

B.C. practising lawyer

Description: Membership in the Law Society of British Columbia (LSBC) required for eligibility to practise law. Eligible lawyers from other jurisdictions may practise in B.C. temporarily. Requirements: To become a lawyer for the first time, a person must complete a law degree from a Canadian common-law university or obtain a Certificate of Qualification from the National Committee on Accreditation if the law degree is not a Canadian common-law degree. Candidates must then complete the 12-month Law Society Admission Program, which includes nine months of articles and the Law Society’s 10-week Professional Legal Training Course. Lawyers from other jurisdictions can apply to transfer to B.C.; examinations may be required.

Administering organization: LSBC (lawsociety.bc.ca).

MANAGEMENT

CIM (Certified in Management), C.Mgr. (Chartered Manager)

Requirements for CIM: Two years’ proven and recognized Canadian management/administration experience. Completion of certificate in management and administration or graduation from accredited program. The certificate in management and administration program involves completion (minimum grade of 60%) of eight-subject study: six mandatory and two option courses. Requirements for C.Mgr.: There are three paths. (1) Graduate degree – master’s degree or doctorate in management, commerce or business administration from an Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC) institution or CIM-approved non-AUCC institution; two years’ experience in senior managerial, academic or research position. (2) Undergraduate degree – bachelor’s degree in management, commerce or business administration from an AUCC institution or CIM-approved non-AUCC; submission of 25,000word graduate-level research paper on a managerial or business administration topic reflecting the applicant’s research or industry interests or submission of substantial portfolio of work demonstrating application of managerial principles; four years’ managerial, academic or research experience. (3) Non-degree – eight-course CIM certificate in management and administration studies or equivalent; 12 additional pre-approved non-introductory courses reflecting a continuation of the concepts covered by the CIM certificate in management and administration studies (or equivalent); submission of 25,000-word graduatelevel research paper on a managerial or business administration topic reflecting the applicant’s research or industry interests or submission of substantial portfolio of work demonstrating application of managerial principles; six years’ senior managerial, academic or research experience; comprehensive examination (at discretion of C.Mgr. committee). There are additional requirements for all paths, including reference letters, a detailed CV and official transcripts.

Administering organization: Canadian Institute of Management (cim.ca).

CMC (Certified Management Consultant)

Requirements: Minimum undergraduate degree or a CA, CGA, CMA, CPA or P.Eng. designation. Membership in the Canadian Association of Management Consultants (CMC-Canada). Completion and signature of declaration serving as bond to abide by the association’s Uniform Code of Professional Conduct. For entry stream, at least three years’ experience in management consulting. Candidates must each find two current CMCs in Canada to sponsor them and attest to their experience in management consulting. Completion of required courses of study, written descriptions of three consulting assignments and a structured interview, and references from three clients. Note: Qualifications are also available in experienced stream, executive stream and approved MBA and continuing education stream.

Administering organization: CMC-Canada (cmccanada.ca) through affiliate institutes.

PAYROLL

PCP (Payroll Compliance Practitioner)

Description: The PCP certification is the foundation for a career in payroll. It provides candidates with the legislative content required to keep an organization compliant throughout the annual payroll cycle, effectively communicate payroll information to all stakeholders and understand the accounting function as it relates to payroll. Requirements: Four courses including Payroll Compliance Legislation, Payroll Fundamentals 1, Introduction to Accounting, and Payroll Fundamentals 2. Ongoing requirements: 14 hours of continuing professional education credits earned annually.

Administering organization: CPA (payroll.ca).

CPM (Certified Payroll Manager)

Description: The CPM certification builds on the PCP knowledge and at least two years of payroll compliance experience to develop payroll management skills. It provides the core management subjects and competencies required to manage a payroll department, such as decision-making, managing people, project management, organizational policy and strategy development. PCP certification is a

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prerequisite for this program. Requirements: Each student must submit an application form and receive approval from the CPA prior to enrolling in the Introduction to Payroll Management course. Students must have at least two years of experience being responsible for an organization’s payroll, which includes being accountable to management for the accuracy of employees’ pay and all government statutory remittances, or equivalent experience, obtained in the past five years. The CPM program involves five courses: Introduction to Payroll Management, Organizational Behaviour Management, Managerial Accounting, Compensation and Benefits Management, and Applied Payroll Management.

Ongoing requirements: Membership in CPA, adherence to CPA’s code of professional conduct, 21 hours’ continuing professional education credits earned.

Administering organization: CPA (payroll.ca).

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

PMP (Project Management Professional)

Description: Recognizes demonstrated knowledge and skill in leading and directing project teams and delivering results within schedule, budget and resources. Requirements: For candidate with high school diploma or global equivalent, five years’ project management experience and 35 hours’ project management education. For candidate with bachelor’s degree or global equivalent, three years’ project management experience and 35 hours’ project management education. For all candidates: four-hour, 200-question multiplechoice exam.

Ongoing requirements: 60 professional development units (PDUs) within three-year cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management)

Description: Recognizes understanding of fundamental knowledge, processes and terminology, as defined in A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge. Requirements: For candidate with high school diploma or global equivalent, 1,500 hours’ project management experience or 23 hours’ project management education. Three-hour, 150-question multiple-choice exam.

Ongoing requirements: PDUs not required for CAPM certification holders; instead, there is a re-exam before the end of the five-year certification cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PMI-SP (PMI Scheduling Professional)

Description: Recognizes demonstrated knowledge and advanced expertise in specialized area of developing and maintaining project schedules. Requirements: For candidate with high school diploma or global equivalent, 5,000 hours’ project scheduling experience and 40 hours’ project scheduling education. For candidate with bachelor’s degree or global equivalent, 3,500 hours’ project scheduling experience and 30 hours’ project scheduling education. For all candidates: 170-question multiple-choice exam. Ongoing requirements: 60 PDUs to be earned in three-year cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PMI-RMP (PMI Risk Management Professional)

Description: Recognizes demonstrated knowledge and expertise in specialized area of assessing and identifying project risks while mitigating threats and capitalizing on opportunities. Requirements: For candidate with high school diploma or global equivalent, 4,500 hours’ project risk management experience and 40 hours’ project risk management education. For candidate with bachelor’s degree or global equivalent, 3,000 hours’ project risk management experience and 30 hours’ project risk management education. For all candidates: 170-question multiple-choice exam. Ongoing requirements: 60 PDUs to be earned in three-year cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PgMP (Program Management Professional)

Description: Recognizes demonstrated experience, skill and performance in oversight of multiple, related projects aligned with an organizational strategy. Requirements: For candidate with high school diploma or global equivalent, four years’ project management experience, seven years’ program management experience. For candidate with bachelor’s degree or global equivalent, four years’ project management experience, four years’ program management experience. For all candidates: passing of panel review on application, multiple-choice exam, multi-rater assessment. Ongoing requirements: 60 PDUs, to be earned in three-year cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PMI-ACP (PMI Agile Certified Practitioner)

Description: Recognizes professionalism in agile practices of project management. Requirements: For general project experience, 2,000 hours’ general project management experience earned within the last five years; for agile project experience, 1,500 hours’ agile project management experience earned within the last three years, in addition to the 2,000 general project experience hours; 21 hours’ education accrued in agile project management topics; 120-question exam. Holders of PMP and/ or PgMP credentials are already verified to have exceeded the experience requirements.

Ongoing requirements: 30 PDUs/three continuing education units every three years in agile project management.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PfMP (Portfolio Management Professional)

Description: For portfolio managers looking to demonstrate a proven ability to manage and align a portfolio of projects and programs to realize organizational strategy and objectives; increase their visibility and value with their organization; and separate themselves in the eyes of employers. Requirements: Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or the global equivalent) with at least seven years (10,500 hours) of portfolio management experience within the past 15 consecutive years; or fouryear degree (bachelor’s degree or the global equivalent) with at least four years (6,000 hours) of portfolio management experience within the past 15 consecutive years. All applicants must possess a minimum of eight years (96 months) of professional business experience.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

PMI-PBA (PMI Professional in Business Analysis)

Description: Highlights and validates expertise in business analysis. Requirements: Secondary degree (high school diploma or global equivalent), up to five years (7,500 hours) of business analysis experience earned in the past eight years, 2,000 hours of experience working on project teams and 35 contact hours earned in business analysis practice. Ongoing requirements: At least 60 PDUs, to be earned in three-year cycle.

Administering organization: PMI (pmi.org).

REAL ESTATE

AACI (Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute), CRA (Canadian Residential Appraiser)

Description: The Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC) grants two designations. AACI designates fully accredited membership and may be used by the holder in connection with appraisal of a wide range of properties. CRA designates a member qualified in appraisal and valuation of individual undeveloped residential dwelling sites and dwellings containing not more than four selfcontained family housing units. The designations identify highly qualified persons who have completed AIC’s rigorous education, experience and examination requirements. Requirements: Designation comprises a university-level program administered by the University of British Columbia as the partner of AIC BC; experience under mentorship of a member of the institute; a written exam; an oral exam; AIC’s mandatory professional practice seminar; and the introductory We Value Canada online workshop. See the “path to designation” section of appraisal.bc.ca.

Administering organization: AIC BC (aicanada. ca/province-british-columbia/british-columbia).

RI (Real Estate Institute)

Description: An RI designation recognizes the achievement of rigorous standards of education and experience that guarantee a high standard of real estate knowledge. Requirements: University of British Columbia – bachelor of commerce with a major in urban land economics, urban land economics diploma, bachelor of business in real estate, postgraduate certificate in real property valuation. British Columbia Institute of Technology – marketing management (professional real estate option) diploma. University of Guelph – real estate and housing major in the bachelor of commerce program. Ryerson University – School of Business Management, real estate management major.

Administering organization: Real Estate Institute of BC (reibc.org).

Real Property Administrator (RPA), Facilities Management Administrator (FMA)

Description: An RPA designation program is for property managers and teaches all aspects of operating a commercial building. The FMA designation is for facility managers. Requirements: Mandatory and elective courses. Professional experience is necessary to complete the qualification process.

Administering organization: Building Owners and Managers Institute Canada (bomicanada. com).

SALESAND MARKETING

CSP (Certified Sales Professional), CSA (Certified Sales Associate), CSL (Certified Sales Leader)

Requirements: College diploma plus 35 hours of recognized professional development in sales aligned to the Canadian Professional Sales Association (CPSA) professional sales competencies; minimum four years of verified experience independently managing client accounts and meeting or exceeding targets. Ongoing requirements: A membership in good standing with CPSA.

Administering organization: CPSA Sales Institute (cpsa.com).

CRSA (Certified Retail Sales Associate), CFLM (Certified Retail First Level Manager), CJRP (Certified Jewellery Retail Professional)

Description of CRSA: Helps sales associates become expert in all aspects of retail sales. Participants build solid career foundations and gain industry-specific credential that major retailers recognize countrywide. Requirements for CRSA: Retail sales associate course, multiple-choice exam, in-store evaluation conducted by the corporate research group, 600 hours as retail sales associate. Description of CFLM: Allows first-level managers to build business skills of professionalism, communication, leadership, human resources, operations, marketing, sales, customer service, administration and planning. Requirements for CFLM: First-level manager course, multiple-choice exam, telephone interview by the corporate research group, 1,500 hours or one year on-the-job experience in retail. Description of CJRP: Designed for jewellery retail store managers and consists of 14 online, self-directed e-learning modules. Requirements for CJRP: Complete the program, multiple-choice exam, performance review conducted by We Check, one year of on-the-job experience in jewellery industry.

Administering organization: Retail Council of Canada (retailcouncil.org).

SCPS (SMEI Certified Professional Salesperson), CSE (Certified Sales Executive), CME (Certified Marketing Executive), SCPM (SMEI Certified Professional Marketer)

Description: SMEI Inc., with support of its local chapter, SMEI Vancouver, offers these four designations. Requirements: Appropriate education and experience. Preparation for certification exams available through self-study and other options, including professional courses offered through the University of British Columbia Sauder School of Business.

Administering organization: Sales and Marketing Executives International Inc. – SMEI Vancouver (smeivancouver.org).

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

APICS CSCP (APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional)

Description: Provides professionals with the knowledge necessary for understanding and managing integration and co-ordination of end-to-end supply chain activities. System is self-directed but can combine with instructor-led courses for students preferring classrooms. Requirements: A conferred bachelor’s degree or equivalent; or APICS CPIM, APICS CFPIM, APICS CIRM, APICS SCOR-P, APICS CTL, CPM, CPSM or CSM designation; or at least three years of related business experience. Four-hour exam consisting of 175 multiplechoice questions. Ongoing requirements: Must earn a total of 75 professional development points within five years of receiving designation.

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Administering organization: APICS (apics.org).

APICS CPIM (APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management)

Description: Looks in depth at production and inventory activities within internal operations of companies. Focuses primarily on manufacturing. Provides in-depth view of materials management, master scheduling, production planning, forecasting and quality improvement. Requirements: Passing of five exams on basics of supply chain management, master planning of resources, detailed scheduling and planning, execution and control of operations, and strategic management of resources. APICS certification review courses and study aids help prepare candidates for exams and are available through British Columbia Institute of Technology part-time studies or online. Ongoing requirements: Must earn a total of 75 professional development points within five years of receiving designation.

Administering organization: APICS (apics.org).

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APICS CLTD (APICS Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution)

Description: Covers a comprehensive body of knowledge that sets the global standard for best practices in logistics, transportation and distribution. Requirements: Three years of related business experience or bachelor’s degree or the international equivalent or CPIM, CSCP, CTL, CFPIM, CIRM, SCOR-P, CPM, CSM or CPSM designations. An eight-module program with an exam that reflects critical areas in logistics, transportation and distribution for the roles and responsibilities of logistics managers. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions (130 operational and 20 pretest).

Administering organization: APICS (apics.org).

CCLP (CITT-Certified Logistics Professional)

Requirements: Candidates who already have a university or college degree or diploma in a business discipline can simply apply for advanced standing toward the CCLP designation. Candidates must have at least five years of experience working in a supply chain or logistics function and successfully complete the Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation’s (CITT) five-course suite of expert-level, specialized logistics courses, including three core courses plus two electives (online options available).

Administering organization: CITT (citt.ca).

SCMP (Supply Chain Management Professional)

Description: The SCMP designation is the mark of strategic leadership in supply chain management (SCM). An SCMP’s adherence to a code of ethics ensures the highest level of integrity. With procurement, operations, logistics and all areas of SCM playing increasingly important roles in organizations, employers benefit from the SCMP’s unique and distinctive competence. Offered through Supply Chain Management Association – the largest association in Canada for SCM professionals – and taught by distinguished academics and senior practitioners, the SCMP designation program is designed to be taken over 36 months concurrent with full-time employment. In-class and online formats available. Requirements: Business degree or diploma from a public Canadian university, college or technical institution. Other candidates must complete specific business management courses at postsecondary institutions. Successful completion of eight modules covering foundations of SCM and six interactive workshops addressing highlevel business skills, including SCM; leadership and professionalism; procurement and supply management; negotiation skills; logistics and transportation; communications and relational skills; operations and process management; knowledge management; competitive bidding; contract preparation and contract management; global sourcing; risk management; SCM in the public sector; SCM for services, capital goods and major projects; ethical behaviour and social responsibility. Weeklong session in residence integrates knowledge from the modules and workshops. Program includes a final written examination and a minimum of three years’ progressive SCM experience concurrent with the program.

Ongoing requirements: Minimum 30 maintenance credits on a three-year block period.

Administering organization: Supply Chain Management Association of BC (scmabc.ca).

P.Log. (Professional Logistician), LS (Logistics Specialist)

Description of P.Log.: This internationally recognized certification for professionals in logistics certifies competence as global supply chain leaders. Depending on where you are in your career and what the company needs to succeed, there are two different options to earn the P.Log. designation: a leadership program or a process management program. Description of LS: For logisticians working in tactical and supervisory careers who are looking for certification to create the foundation for a successful career in logistics. The Logistics Foundation program consists of core modules in the Essential Series, Frontline Logistics and Integrated Logistics Networks. The program will be completely online with the use of a learning management system. Estimated time to complete the program is one to three months.

Administering organization: Logistics Institute (loginstitute.ca).

TECHNOLOGY

AScT (Applied Science Technologist), CTech (Certified Technician)

Description: The Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) registers technologists, technicians and technical specialists in applied science and engineering technologies. AScT and CTech are two of numerous credentials available to technology professionals registered with ASTTBC. Requirements for AScT: Diploma of technology in an applied science and engineering technology program that meets academic requirements for registration in one of 16 applied science technology disciplines in which ASTTBC currently certifies practitioners. Completion of two years’ experience in field of practice in which certification is sought. Experience must be reasonably current, progressive, accumulated and relevant to an approved discipline and supported by references.

Requirements for CTech: Certificate of technology in an applied science and engineering technology program that meets academic requirements for registration in one of 16 applied science technology disciplines in which ASTTBC currently certifies practitioners. Applicant may also demonstrate equivalent outcome competencies to national technology standards. Completion of two years’ experience in field of practice in which certification is sought. Experience must be reasonably current, progressive, accumulated and relevant to an approved discipline and supported by references.

Administering organization: ASTTBC (asttbc. org).

ISP (Information Systems Professional), ITCP (Information Technology Certified Professional)

Description of ISP: Demonstrates knowledge and technical background in IT. Visit cips.ca/isp. Description of ITCP: Directed specifically for senior IT practitioners and academics who want to demonstrate that in addition to possessing IT knowledge, they understand how to use and apply organizational experience effectively to achieve goals and expectations. The ITCP standard has been accredited by the International Professional Practice Partnership (IP3), and ITCP holders are internationally recognized under the IP3 umbrella. Visit cips. ca/itcp. Requirements: Documented evidence of ability to meet or exceed established criteria for academic qualifications and relevant experience. Experience must be in role requiring use of significant level of IT knowledge where high level of independent judgment and responsibility is exercised.

Administering organization: CIPS – Canada’s Association of IT Professionals (cips.ca).

TOURISM

CTC (Certified Travel Counsellor), CTM (Certified Travel Manager)

Description of CTC: A professional credential based on ability to perform the knowledge and performance tasks required for meeting expectations for employment within the travel industry. Requirements for CTC: Enrolment, passing of knowledge exam, minimum 1,000 hours’ recent and relevant work experience and completion of performance checklist and performance evaluation. Annual membership with the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies (ACTA). Description of CTM: Certification demonstrates competence in meeting job standards set by travel industry. Requirements for CTM: Enrolment, passing of knowledge exam, completion of performance evaluation (case-study activities) and five years’ related industry experience (minimum three years’ applicable travel trade experience and two years’ proven supervisory or managerial experience). Annual membership with ACTA. Certification steps must be completed within six months of enrolment.

Administering organization: ACTA (acta.ca).

WORKPLACE LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE; TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

CTP (Certified Training Practitioner), CTDP (Certified Training and Development Professional)

Description: CTP and CTDP are national standards for excellence in workplace learning and performance, stressing the roles of learning and training in today’s organizations. Prerequisites: For CTP, two years’ part-time experience in instruction/facilitation; for CTDP, four years’ full-time work experience in field.

Requirements for CTP: Knowledge exam on theories and principles of adult learning and facilitation and instruction. Submission of facilitation video or participation in live skill demonstration. Two references validating skill in facilitation.

Requirements for CTDP: Knowledge exam on theory and principles of assessing performance needs, designing training, facilitating training, supporting transfer of learning, and evaluating training. Submission of work project or participation in live skill demonstration in one of three competencies. Two professional references.

(performanceandlearning.ca).

MBA–VANCOUVER ISLAND UNIVERSITY

INTEGRATED LEARNING POWERED BY TECHNOLOGY

Non-traditional MBA prepares students for complex challenges

Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers the ideal MBA program for the adventurous, the ambitious and those wanting to embrace the digital age. If you’re seeking a non-traditional MBA in Canada to prepare you for success, VIU’s MBA is the program for you.

The revamped program puts a strong emphasis on active, applied learning. Learners are inspired to become professionals able to navigate and meet the challenges of an increasingly complex, digital, interconnected world. Our graduates are the business leaders of the future, modeling global citizenship values by encompassing financial, social and environmental perspectives in organizational and business decisions. In addition to providing foundational knowledge around accounting, finance, management, economics and marketing, the program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, technical/ digital literacy and developing a growth mindset.

SETTING STUDENTS UP FOR SUCCESS

VIU’s faculty of management is defined by six fundamental values: teaching excellence, intimate class sizes, applied focus, faculty-student interactions, an international outlook and an unrelenting drive for student academic and career success. The MBA program begins with an introductory module that builds a strong learning foundation focused around intercultural and learning literacies. Students are given every opportunity to shine, empowered by career coaching, work-integrated learning and an internship that provides real-world business experiences.

AN INTEGRATED LEARNING EXPERIENCE

The MBA learning pathway at VIU reflects the multi-faceted reality of business management careers, recognizing that work does not happen in silos by subject. A series of intensive course modules are designed to focus on student engagement with, and application of, knowledge to address the challenges of tomorrow’s business landscape. A twoweek break between semesters provides down time to support knowledge retention, career exploration and optional field school opportunities. During their final semester, students participate in a four-month internship. Working with an industry mentor, students identify a significant organizational problem that will be used to write an applied business project under faculty supervision.

DIGITAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL SAVVY

The VIU MBA is among one of the most technologically integrated programs in Canada where students learn to leverage data analytics through applied research courses and dedicated, technology-focused courses. Students graduate with specialized expertise on how the digital and technological landscapes influence an organization’s entire value chain, exploring phenomena such as surveillance capitalism and digital media management.

DYNAMIC GLOBAL SETTING

MBA students at VIU experience a dynamic global setting with peers and faculty from around the world. The diversity of our students and faculty provide a relevant global perspective for today’s business realm. VIU faculty bring a unique combination of industry-based expertise and international experience into the classroom, providing academic rigour to real-world examples and cases from their own experience.

Our graduates are confident leaders with the ability to navigate the complex, integrated nature of demanding careers that require a growth mindset and creative and critical thinking as foundational skillsets. To learn more or apply, visit viu.ca/programs or contact Helene Viau, MBA admissions assistant, at helene. viau@viu.ca.

SOURCE: VANCOUVER ISLAND UNIVERSITY

MBA–UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA

A BRAVE AND BOLD NEW DIRECTION

UVic launches new MBA in sustainable innovation

Business today needs to engage communities and work for the good of people and the planet. Here at the University of Victoria (UVic), we’ve always believed that the fates of business, the planet and society are woven together.

The Gill Graduate School at UVic’s Gustavson School of Business launched a new MBA in sustainable innovation in September 2020. The program is offered in daytime and weekend program formats. In addition, there is a unique master of global business program and our new master of management program.

In the MBA in sustainable innovation, students will learn new ways of looking at innovation, management and leadership, and will be ready to take on the wicked problems of the 21st century.

Most of all, students will learn about themselves, and how to bring about change. They will be part of a community of creative thinkers who share a passion for sustainability and think far beyond the status quo.

DAYTIME PROGRAM STREAM

Our daytime MBA takes place over 16 months and is an immersive, full-time experience. It is delivered in a unique integrated block format. Each block consists of three integrated courses taught intensively over a six-week period.

Students will collaborate intensely with peers from all over the world. Real-world projects, integrated across different business disciplines, will develop their skills and decision-making.

Daytime cohorts are up to 40 students with one intake in September every year.

WEEKEND PROGRAM STREAM

Our weekend MBA takes place over 24 months. Students take three integrated courses each term. The program is tailor-made to be manageable for working professionals. Regular classes – approximately one weekend a month for two years – are blended with assignments and online teamwork between weekends.

Weekend students are practising professionals: people from backgrounds in large and small business, from start-ups to multinationals, from private sector to public sector, from for-profit to not-forprofit. What they share is the drive and experience to make a real difference in the world.

Weekend cohorts are up to 24 students with one intake in September every year.

PROGRAM FEATURES

Courses are taught in blocks of three courses at a time. Integrated projects put the learning from the courses into practice. Often, the integrated projects involve live client organizations. One project has an international focus and culminates in an international trip, where students work with client organizations in the country being visited to explore business opportunities or help solve business problems.

All students also complete a teambased capstone consulting project.

Throughout the MBA, students participate actively in a professional development course. They develop their long-range life/career vision and actively work towards it while in the program.

The UVic MBA in sustainable innovation is affordable: total cost (including tuition, program fees and travel costs for the international project) is approximately $35,000 for domestic students. Details are available at uvic.ca/gustavson/gill/ mba/index.php.

The Gill Graduate School offers two full-time, one-year pre-experience master’s degrees. These graduate programs enable students to further their post-graduate studies right after their undergraduate degree.

MASTER OF GLOBAL BUSINESS (MGB)

With a focus on cross-cultural skills and global business knowledge, the MGB program includes an academic component with study modules in three countries and a global internship.

Details are available at uvic.ca/gustavson/gill/mgb/index.php.

MASTER OF MANAGEMENT (MM)

Designed for non-business graduates pursuing careers in diverse organizational settings, the MM program develops collaborative minds, nimble thinkers and creative problem solvers to tackle today’s complex societal and organizational issues.

Details are available at uvic.ca/gustavson/gill/mm/index.php.

Like all Gustavson programs, the MGB and MM degrees are cohort-based, and provide students with the balance of a rigorous academic program and experiential learning opportunities all through a sustainability-focused lens.

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA

MBA–ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY

ROYAL ROADS DUAL BUSINESS DEGREE BY STUDENTS, FOR STUDENTS

New program offers real-life leadership skills without course duplication

The newest dual-degree program at Royal Roads University combines the executive leadership of the MBA in executive management and the global focus of the master of global management (MGM). The new program offers students and alumni the opportunity to earn two highlevel business credentials in an accelerated time frame – and credit for its existence goes to students, too.

“The genesis of this program really began with students,” says professor Charles Krusekopf, one of the program heads. “This was something that our students and alumni asked about, adding to their experience without having to retake similar courses. It also really speaks to the responsive and adaptive nature of Royal Roads.”

Dual degrees are increasingly popular as students seek to optimize their learning experiences and credentials to compete professionally.

Allan Purves, who holds an MGM from Royal Roads, has applied to add an MBA to his credentials with the new program. Purves is an experienced manager and certified fraud examiner with 20 years in the construction, transportation, retail, parking and software development industries.

“The program is ideal for me because it provides the highest quality instruction at a price that doesn’t break my budget,” says Purves. “The international exposure in the MGM program, coupled with the business fundamentals of the MBA, will open doors in my career that would be otherwise unimaginable. The dual degree provides real-life leadership skills that transcend the boardroom, and the level of care the professors provide in helping you reach your full potential is unmatched.”

Krusekopf and professor Deb Linehan collaborated to create a dual degree that highlights the unique aspects of each program, while avoiding areas of overlap.

“Students interested in the dual degree will spend the first year of their studies in one of the two programs, then take the required courses in the second program to complete the degree,” says Linehan. “They can focus on the unique classes offered by each program, such as leadership and organizational behaviour in the MBA, and intercultural studies and international operations in the MGM, while avoiding course and content duplication.”

The dual degree can be completed in 26 months if the two programs are taken back-to-back, but students can also arrange to take a break before they enrol in the second program. The dual MGMMBA is now open for applications, and students may apply for the dual degree at the beginning of their studies, or apply later in their programs or after graduation. Call 1-877-778-6227 or email learn. more@royalroads.ca for more information about the program.

SOURCE: JENNIFER RATHWELL, ROYAL ROADS UNIVERSITY

MBA–THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY

CHANGE YOUR FUTURE, CHANGE THE WORLD

Now more than ever, a program should fit your needs

Everyone’s goals are different, including yours. At Thompson Rivers University (TRU), our business graduate programs are different, too. Learn on campus or online, part-time or full-time, and make our program your own.

FLEXIBLE AND ACCESSIBLE You can choose to complete the program in a face-to-face environment or on your own time through our open learning online courses, or combine both ways of learning to suit your individual work and life commitments. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face campus courses have been transformed to provide learning to students virtually. Faculty members continue to deliver lectures and engage students through the use of technology. TRU also offers students the ability to study full-time or part-time, so busy working professionals can advance their leadership skills without putting their careers on hold. With no minimum professional work experience requirements, the TRU MBA is a great choice for recent graduates and those who want to fasttrack their careers.

CHOICE The TRU MBA is designed to meet your needs, and you can customize your learning experience with maximum flexibility and choice. The core courses of the MBA provide competency in all the major functional management areas of an organization, preparing you to manage effectively in today’s complex and rapidly changing business environment. The program offers a choice of completion options: the graduate project and thesis completion options allow for focus on an area of interest in depth, while the course-based completion option provides additional course choices in advanced management topics.

GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE It is critical for leaders to understand and embrace the international business environment. Global perspectives are incorporated throughout the curriculum, and the diversity of the students and faculty further enhances the development of intercultural understanding. Graduates leave the program with a high degree of understanding of the cultures and business practices found around the world and empathy for all participants in our rapidly globalizing economy.

LEARNING INITIATIVES Last year, TRU’s MBA launched a pilot to release one-credit micro elective courses in various areas relevant to today’s business world. Capitalizing on faculty members’ expertise, the program offers additional courses in areas like digital and social media marketing, supply chain management, commercial law and investments. For more information and to apply, visit tru.ca/mba.

MASTER’S DEGREES IN ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT A TRU master in environmental economics and management prepares students to become leaders in environmental and socially responsible decision-making, and grow their career opportunities in sustainability policy and management. The program is a course-based degree, while the master of science in environmental economics and management consists of both coursework and research. Students with a business education background may be eligible for direct entry into the second year of the program, so they might be able to complete a master’s degree in 12 months. Career prospects include environmental management and policy development in the private and public sectors. For more information and to apply, visit tru.ca/eem.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Beyond the classroom, students engage in a series of initiatives designed to enhance experience and knowledge while fostering collaborative relationships within the business community. They have opportunities for innovative research, networking and mentoring with business professionals and community leaders. TRU fosters partnerships with community businesses and organizations that have resulted in paid graduate research fellowships in business.

LEARN AND LIVE ON CAMPUS Situated near the centre of Kamloops, TRU is close to all the amenities this city of more than 90,000 people has to offer, including a vibrant arts and culture scene, shopping and some of the best four-season recreational activities in Canada.

MBA–TRINITY WESTERN UNIVERSITY

FINDING THE ‘WHY’ BEHIND THE ‘HOW’ OF BUSINESS

Connected cohorts and purpose-driven learning in TWU’s MBA and new EMBA

The world in 2021 needs people who are not only organizational leaders, but also agents of positive change. At Trinity Western University (TWU), MBA and executive MBA (EMBA) candidates are challenged to investigate not only how they do business, but why.

“One of my goals after graduating is to apply what I have learned to open up a business in the Vancouver area that brings people together in a city known for loneliness,” said Amanda Birkenstock, a 2020 MBA graduate who said the program “stirred up an entrepreneurial spirit” in her.

To meet the needs of working professionals, TWU’s School of Business works with candidates to design a personalized program that allows them to achieve their professional development goals and accommodates their busy schedules. Depending on the specialization, graduates earn their degree in 12 to 18 months through full-time studies, or in 21 months using a blended format.

The difference of a Trinity Western MBA and EMBA program is the close network of like-minded professionals and small cohort sizes that provide individualized attention. Beyond gaining knowledge, graduates build connections with peers and faculty members that will last a lifetime. When things get tough in life, the TWU graduate is never alone.

“There are about six people I still keep in contact with from the program, and we all reach out to each other on various things,” said Grace Chiu, an MBA graduate and now senior manager of regional marketing at Scotiabank. “Plus, when you make connections with people who aren’t in the same industry, you also gain insights into other industries, which could also lead to other career paths.”

Thomas Spraggs, a 2013 MBA graduate who owns a law firm, said that TWU’s MBA “has been the most valuable education” in his academic journey and that “the program provoked reflection on ethical conduct in all aspects of business.” He added: “These considerations have been personally fulfilling and have provided a renewed appreciation that business can be both ethical and financially rewarding.”

The concept of creating and doing business with purposeful vision is woven into the fabric of the Trinity Western experience. In fact, the TWU School of Business is a member of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, an organization that sets standards in the world of business education with the aim to create a generation of leaders who strive for global prosperity.

The program offers three specializations: international business, management of the growing enterprise, and non-profit and charitable organization management. Each specialization is tailored so that you can integrate your personal and professional goals into the courses, and apply what you’re learning directly in your professional practice.

The MBA program’s core courses are taught at both the Langley and Richmond campuses. Trinity Western launched its brand-new EMBA in January 2021 with classes starting in September 2021. Apply now to be in the inaugural cohort of a new class of executive leaders, and get ready to advance your career to the next level.

ADMISSIONS

Tuition costs for the 12-to-18-month full-time MBA with a specialization in international business are $36,225 ($805 per semester hour), plus additional travel costs for the international study trip. The international business specialization has a rolling entry throughout the year, allowing students to begin in any month.

Tuition costs for the 21-month MBA with specializations in managing the growing enterprise or non-profit and charitable organization management are $34,200 ($760 per semester hour). Students can start the program at the beginning of each term, allowing applications to be received year-round. The most common entry point is in August of each year. Scholarships are available. Tuition costs for the EMBA are $45,000. Students can start the EMBA in September and January each year.

To learn more, connect with us today at gradadmissions@twu.ca or visit twu. ca/mba.

SOURCE: TRINITY WESTERN UNIVERSITY

MBA–UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

AN EDUCATION THAT TRANSFORMS CAREERS

UBC Sauder’s top-ranking, innovative programs equip students for professional success

The University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business empowers students to transform their careers. Recently, UBC Sauder designed a new crisis management course to further enhance students’ ability to make strategic decisions and develop resilience during critical times. Ranked the No. 28 university in the world for business and economics by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2021 and the No. 1 business program in Canada by Maclean’s University Rankings 2021, UBC Sauder is the only Canadian member of the prestigious Global Network for Advanced Management, a collaboration of 32 top business schools spearheaded by the Yale School of Management.

FULL-TIME MBA

The 16-month full-time MBA at UBC Sauder equips students to strategize like a CEO. Small class sizes and various mentorship programs allow students to focus on their career goals and to receive dedicated support to get there. Five career tracks are offered: technology analytics leadership; finance; product and service management; innovation and entrepreneurship; and a custom track tailored to individual career objectives. The innovative classroom curriculum offers hands-on experiences and opportunities to learn from senior business leaders, as well as courses in ethics and corporate responsibility. Learn more at sauder. ubc.ca/ftmba.

PROFESSIONAL MBA

UBC Sauder’s part-time professional MBA propels careers without taking students away from work. The 24-month program is designed around a full-time work schedule: classes take place every two to three weekends, all exams are online, winter and summer breaks are included, and three separate eight-day professional residencies help students deepen their network. Through collaborative coursework and personalized career coaching, students develop an ethical leadership style, deepen their understanding of the inner workings of an organization and cultivate their strategic thinking skills. As a result, 90 per cent of the students in the part-time MBA classes of the last three years have enhanced their careers by promotion or by changing companies or entire career paths. Each year, students have the opportunity to connect virtually with MBA candidates around the world to collaborate on projects and gain skills working in a global business setting. Learn more at: sauder.ubc.ca/pmba.

MASTER OF BUSINESS ANALYTICS

The 12-month UBC master in business analytics (MBAN) is about much more than technical know-how; it captures the full analytics spectrum, including data management, data analytics and decision analytics. Students learn how to make strategically sound recommendations and data-driven business decisions – exactly what companies around the world need. UBC MBAN candidates acquire the professional skills to complement academic accomplishments. All candidates participate in a four-month internship to consult on an analytical challenge faced by a partner company or non-profit organization. Students can apply for a traditional internship contributing to an analytics project on site at a partner company in Vancouver. Past industry partners include Telus, Boeing Vancouver and the Fraser Health Authority. With 91 per cent of graduates achieving full-time employment within three months of graduation, the program offers an accelerated path to career success in the analytics field. Learn more at: sauder.ubc.ca/mban.

COSTS AND APPLICATION DEADLINES

Full-time MBA: Runs August 2021 to December 2022. Cost for Canadian citizens and permanent residents: $50,408. Final application deadline: May 4, 2021.

Professional MBA: Starts in January of an academic year; next intake is January 2022 to December 2023. Cost for Canadian citizens and permanent residents: $50,408. Applications for January 2022 entry will be accepted starting in mid-February 2021.

Master of business analytics: Runs August 2021 to August 2022. Cost for Canadian citizens and permanent residents: $41,133. Final application deadline: May 11, 2021.

Master of management: Runs August 2021 to May 2022. Cost for Canadian citizens and permanent residents: $30,808. Final application deadline: April 6, 2021.

SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

UBC Sauder offers a number of financial aid and support options for exceptional students, as well as dedicated scholarships for Canadian candidates. All students are evaluated for scholarships upon admission. Visit sauder.ubc. ca to learn more.

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

MBA–UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

FINDING THE CONFIDENCE TO SUCCEED

UNBC’s MBA prepares students for the complex business world

A diverse learning model at the University of Northern British Columbia is providing MBA students the confidence to face their business challenges head-on.

“The MBA at UNBC gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone,” says Shane Sienaert, a 2019 MBA graduate and wealth management director for Assante Wealth Management. “I now have the ability to create solutions to issues I might not have thought about before. After finishing the program, I am not intimidated by things I do not know.”

UNBC’s MBA reflects the versatile skillset required of today’s business leaders, with the intent of preparing students for the complex business world. It covers a vast range of topics, including business and corporate strategy, managerial economics, accounting, corporate finance, organizational behaviour, marketing, operations management, strategy implementation, financial management and project management.

The diverse range of courses gives students the essential knowledge and understanding to navigate the business environment they work in.

“The knowledge that you gain you are able to immediately apply in the workforce,” says Andrea Born, an MBA alumna. “It makes you a better person. It makes you a better business person.”

Beyond the various topics of study, students also find they benefit from being in a classroom with peers from diverse sectors. In fact, the MBA program places an emphasis on peer-to-peer learning through group work and is devoted to bringing together professionals from an assortment of fields. Graduates consistently state that being in a cohort with peers from different business backgrounds was the greatest advantage to them because they were able to experience new perspectives and acquire skills they would not have learned anywhere else. Being part of a unique cohort challenged them to think differently, try new things and connect what they learned to their own profession.

“The MBA will help you in any business to do things smarter,” says Sylvain Godbout, a 2017 MBA graduate. “It is a safe environment to try your argumentative self, to come out of your shell, to do things you are not normally comfortable doing.”

Students also have the option to conduct a capstone project with support from their instructors. This practical learning opportunity enables them to apply relevant theory to an actual challenge in their own company that they will work to overcome during their degree.

With the program offered in Prince George and Vancouver, students have the option to attend courses in either location, and those who travel for work are able to schedule class times around their career. Additionally, though it is a full-time degree, classes meet just one weekend a month, giving students even more flexibility to balance school with their personal and professional lives.

“Being a new father when I started the program there were other individuals that had families, so you really got to share that challenge with your cohort,” says Sienaert. “You could step up and help each other, or just know that sometimes it is tough to have a balance of everything and you are not alone.”

To learn more about the UNBC MBA, visit unbc.ca/mba or contact a program representative via email at mba@unbc.ca.

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN BRITISH COLUMBIA

MBA–SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY

PREPARE FOR THE RECOVERY WITH AN MBA FROM SFU BEEDIE

Options include full-time and part-time study, and a roster of innovative programs

The world is navigating a period of change unlike anything experienced in generations, as organizations and individuals come to terms with new ways of living and working in the era of COVID-19. While this poses challenges for many, there are also significant opportunities for those who can adapt and thrive in this evolving environment.

In fact, this may be the perfect time for ambitious professionals to invest in business education, developing the skills and networks that can yield significant returns in the anticipated economic recovery. The Segal Graduate School at SFU’s Beedie School of Business offers targeted MBA programs that have a proven track record of helping students discover their potential and achieve career success.

“It does give you the tools so that you can adapt to the different crises that arrive in management,” says executive MBA alumnus Barbara Dunfield. “It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in or what sector you’re in, I think that we’ve got a good toolbox.”

The school has continued to deliver an outstanding learning experience for students throughout the restrictions on in-person teaching, drawing on deep knowledge of remote learning. SFU Beedie has pioneered online business education for more than 20 years, through its fully online graduate diploma in business administration, and is applying that accumulated knowledge to deliver all programs safely until in-person teaching is again possible.

In addition, the school has gender-balanced cohorts for many of its MBA programs. By comparison, at many other business schools, female participation in MBA programs falls well below 35%. SFU Beedie is a values-driven school that takes business education beyond the walls of academia and empowers people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to reimagine the role of business in tackling society’s most significant issues.

FULL-TIME MBA IN DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER

With a small class and tight-knit cohort, the full-time MBA – which includes 12 months of academics and a four-month work term – helps students grow professionally and personally to realize their career potential. On average, 96% of its graduates find a job within three months after graduation. Executive MBA – Canada’s first EMBA

For those who have already accomplished a lot in their careers, the EMBA is the catalyst that will give them the executive-level support and knowledge to unlock their full leadership potential. Students develop the confidence and capabilities to drive business strategy at the senior management level.

INDIGENOUS BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE MBA

This new MBA program responds to the needs and aspirations of seasoned Indigenous business leaders seeking graduate education in the field of business management. The IBL EMBA – the only one of its kind in North America – encourages and supports nation-building-based research and study on topics that are of interest and importance to the Indigenous community, and which promote Indigenous worldviews, protocols and traditional knowledge. The program combines the latest business tools and best practices with Indigenous ways of knowledge and traditional decision-making practices within Indigenous communities.

PART-TIME MBA IN SURREY

Because students don’t have to quit their job to pursue the part-time MBA, they can bring their learnings to the office and their work challenges to the classroom. Of the 2018 cohort, 48% received promotions within four months of graduation.

MANAGEMENT OF TECHNOLOGY MBA

Optimized for tech, the management of technology MBA is the first of its kind in Canada and gives students all the cutting- edge business best practices they expect from a top-tier MBA, plus tools and contacts that will help them lead in the technology sector.

ALUMNI NETWORK FOR LIFE

Completing a program at SFU Beedie gives alumni lifetime membership into an exceptional group of more than 25,000 leaders, innovators and gamechangers around the world. Many SFU Beedie alumni remain highly engaged with the school, sharing their experience and expertise and giving back to the community.

Visit beedie.sfu.ca/graduate to learn more or take the quiz to find out which program is right for you.

SOURCE: SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY

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