Business Administration (Core)

Build a challenging and rewarding career in business.

  • Offers a broad business foundation, while allowing you the flexibility to explore a variety of business fields before ultimately deciding on one of three majors
  • In the third semester, you'll take one course from each major to help you understand the various majors and career paths available to you
  • All qualified graduates meet the academic requirements to apply for the ‘Certified in Management (CIM)’ designation through the Canadian Institute of Management

Program Availability and Schedule

Availability

Schedule

Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.

Program Summary

Credential

Not Applicable (See overview for details)

Program Code

Area of Interest

Business

Other Campuses

The three-year Business Administration Ontario College Advanced Diploma program provides you with essential skills and knowledge for a career in business. This program is the perfect option if you are interested in pursuing a career in business but are unsure at the outset of the program which specialization best fits your career interests.

In the first three semesters, which are called "Core," you will take a variety of general business courses to help you best choose the Major that will be offered in the final three semesters of the program. You will receive your advanced diploma only upon completion of your sixth semester in your third year....(read more)

Overview

Build a challenging and rewarding career in business.

The three-year Business Administration Ontario College Advanced Diploma program provides you with essential skills and knowledge for a career in business. This program is the perfect option if you are interested in pursuing a career in business but are unsure at the outset of the program which specialization best fits your career interests.

In the first three semesters, which are called "Core," you will take a variety of general business courses to help you best choose the Major that will be offered in the final three semesters of the program. You will receive your advanced diploma only upon completion of your sixth semester in your third year.

In the third semester, you will select the Major most aligned with your career interests from among the following three options:

  • Accounting
  • General Business
  • Human Resources

All your courses in the program's final three semesters are specific to one of the above Majors that you will choose to pursue, which allows you to network and learn directly from business professionals in your chosen career path.

Our active Program Advisory Committee ensures that the program continuously evolves to meet the ever-changing demands of today's organizations.

A possible option upon completion of the six-semester advanced diploma is to apply to Nipissing University and, with as little as 12 months of additional study at Algonquin College's Ottawa campus, complete a Bachelor of commerce degree.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

  • Enjoy problem solving using analytical and critical thinking methodologies.
  • Demonstrate organizational and leadership abilities.
  • Enjoy working in a dynamically driven environment.

Courses

Registration Note:

If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting "Register Online".

OnlineDistance Education   
Course
Number
HoursCourse NameWinter
Series: 01
BUS230142.0Business Computer ApplicationsDistance Education
ECO230542.0MicroeconomicsDistance Education
ENL1813B42.0Communications IDistance Education
LAW170242.0Business LawDistance Education
MGT231942.0Skills for Academic & Business SuccessDistance Education
QUA000242.0Business MathematicsDistance Education
Series: 02
ACC231042.0Accounting Concepts IDistance Education
BUS230342.0Database & Advanced Excel ConceptsDistance Education
ECO230642.0MacroeconomicsDistance Education
ENL1823B42.0Communications IIDistance Education
MGT232842.0Introduction to Management FundamentalsDistance Education
QUA000342.0Quantitative Methods IDistance Education
Series: 03
ACC231342.0Accounting Concepts IIDistance Education
BAI230042.0Global Business EnvironmentDistance Education
FIN230342.0Introduction to FinanceDistance Education
MGT232042.0Material and Operations ManagementDistance Education
MGT238142.0Human Resources ManagementDistance Education
MKT231742.0MarketingDistance Education
Other Electives
MGT111160.0BUAD - Approved Reach Ahead - MajorBUAD - Approved Reach Ahead - Major

There are no classes currently scheduled for this course.

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MGT111245.0BUAD -Approved Reach Ahead ElectiveBUAD -Approved Reach Ahead Elective

There are no classes currently scheduled for this course.

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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

BUS2301 Business Computer Applications

The knowledge gained in this course provides students with a solid foundation for future learning in other studies, and in business. Students learn a variety of tasks in Windows file management. Students also learn tasks and produce assignments in Microsoft Office for PC. Web-based software running computer-based simulations and assessments are used to support and enrich the learning experience. It is strongly recommended that students use a PC. Mac students may be required to install and learn additional software to successfully complete the course.

ECO2305 Microeconomics

Knowledge of contemporary microeconomics issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students examine fundamental microeconomic principles with an emphasis on the use of economic models to analyze economic developments accurately and objectively. Students examine the role of prices and competitive markets in the allocation of resources, firm behaviour and market structures, as well as evaluate the effects of government intervention in the economic marketplace.

ENL1813B Communications I

Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students develop stronger grammar and business-writing skills to become effective business communicators. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.

LAW1702 Business Law

Students are prepared for a business environment increasingly affected by laws. They learn how laws must be understood and applied by management in the conduct of business. They also learn how to analyze a business situation from a general legal perspective. Emphasis is placed on methods of dispute resolution, contracts, torts, employment law, methods of carrying on business, creditors' rights, sale of goods and marketing law.

MGT2319 Skills for Academic & Business Success

Business and higher education have evolved and so have the skills necessary to succeed in these new and dynamic environments. Students explore the strategies, tools, and theories needed to thrive throughout their college career and chosen professions. Reflections, workshops, mini-lectures, and learning activities support the holistic development of each student. A focus is placed on establishing effective habits as a team member and developing self-awareness.

QUA0002 Business Mathematics

Students review basic arithmetic and algebra, as well as mathematic tools and concepts required for solving problems found in a business environment. Problem-solving areas include cost-volume-profit analysis, linear functions and systems of equations, index numbers, markup and markdowns, terms of invoicing and business finance.

ACC2310 Accounting Concepts I

Students are provided with the basics of financial accounting whether they are interested in becoming a practitioner or are looking to broaden their knowledge of how to properly interpret financial information. Emphasis is on what accounting information is, understanding the accounting cycle, recording transactions, and the preparation and analysis of financial statements.

BUS2303 Database & Advanced Excel Concepts

Databases and data analysis are pervasive in today's work environments. Students study advanced Excel topics, including pivot tables, filters, tables, what-if analysis tools, data validation and error checking and preparing Excel data for use in databases. Students also learn how to design and use a database using Microsoft Access, and import data from Excel. Emphasis is on extracting information from Access databases by creating and using queries. A combination of lectures, practical demonstrations, in-class and out of class assignments and review simulations contribute to the students' learning experience. Mac students, please note that Microsoft Access will not run on a Mac without additional software.

Pre-requisites: BUS2301 or DAT5758

ECO2306 Macroeconomics

Knowledge of contemporary macroeconomic issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students investigate fundamental macroeconomics principles with an emphasis on the use of economic models to analyze economic developments accurately and objectively. Through a combination of instruction and practical application, students examine unemployment, inflation and economic growth, as well as evaluate government use of fiscal and monetary policy in dealing with these key macroeconomic issues. In addition, Canada's international economic relationships are explored. Individual assignments and formal examinations are used to assess student knowledge of key objectives.

ENL1823B Communications II

Students continue to expand their practical writing and speaking skills for successful communication in business. Using real-life scenarios and research skills, they produce informal reports and proposals, deliver presentations to a live audience supported by technology, and create a job-search package. Students create professional documents, such as information reports, progress reports, justification/recommendation reports, summary reports, and minutes of meetings to develop up-to-date writing skills. The job search package includes employment-readiness skills, resumes, persuasive cover letters, and interview techniques. In all written work, students continue to develop and enhance their grammar skills to meet professional, workplace standards.

Pre-requisites: ENL1813B

MGT2328 Introduction to Management Fundamentals

Today's business owners and managers must not only recognize but excel in achieving organizational objectives for long term business success. This course examines the fundamental people and business management functions within a small to medium-sized enterprise, including best-practices related to recruitment, selection, onboarding, compensation, performance development, performance management, and leading a diverse workforce. Students will review the underlying management functions that support effective business operations within the framework of federal and provincial employment law. Learning is applied through the completion of a simulation, case studies, and a major project where students examine various organizational strategies leading to effective decision making and achievement of business objectives. Upon successful completion of this course, students will understand how to create a work culture that supports innovation and change.

QUA0003 Quantitative Methods I

Mathematical methods are used in fields such as finance, marketing, accounting and operations management in order to help make reasonable business decisions. Students are introduced to basic statistical measures of central tendencies and dispersions. Students use basic probability and different probability distribution to problem-solve. Decision theory is used to solve problems in situations of certainty and uncertainty. Students study the components of time series and make forecasts. Students apply course content within Excel functions.

Pre-requisites: QUA0002

ACC2313 Accounting Concepts II

Students are introduced to and explore the background, goals and methods of managerial accounting and its role in business planning, control and decision-making. Key workplace skills involve the ability to plan direct control and to evaluate and extrapolate key accounting data. Topics covered include product costing, cost behaviour, cost-volume-profit analysis, profit planning, differential analysis and budgeting. Curriculum is delivered in lecture and hands-on problem-solving formats.

Pre-requisites: ACC2201 or ACC2310

BAI2300 Global Business Environment

As the global economy continues to change rapidly, and as the number of international trade agreements grows, trade barriers come down and Canadian companies and entrepreneurs must have a clear understanding of the effects of globalization and ensuing opportunities. The forces defining the international economy are examined and the skills that global business professionals require in order to succeed today internationally are introduced. Students learn the major components of international trade of products and services, including marketing, market entry strategies, supply chain management, trade finance, legal aspects of international business and international management. The subject of foreign direct investment is also introduced.

FIN2303 Introduction to Finance

Building a solid understanding of personal finance is crucial for students who intend to choose the Finance major in the Business Administration (BUAD) program. Students acquire knowledge of the personal financial planning process, statements, taxation, banking, borrowing and investing through in class discussions and activities. Students solve time value of money (TVM) questions for saving, investing, financing and retirement funding using a calculator. These skills will be useful for everyday life situations involving money management and are the foundation for future courses in the finance major program.

MGT2320 Material and Operations Management

Operations managers make tactical decisions in support of carrying out the vision and strategies for businesses in the supply chain and/or in service production. Students are introduced to the responsibilities and current tools of operations and supply chain managers in manufacturing and non-manufacturing organizations. Topics include quality management, layout management, location, inventory management, MRP and ERP, and JIT/Lean.

MGT2381 Human Resources Management

Human capital is a critical organizational resource contributing to the organizational strategy and operational success through progressive human resources management. Students are introduced to human resources management areas of practice including the role of human resources management within the organizational strategic context, human resources planning, employee recruitment and selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, and employee and labour relations. Furthermore, students are introduced to occupational health and safety, international human resources management, organizational behaviour, and relevant legislation.

MKT2317 Marketing

Students are provided an overview of the marketing functions used in an organization, which serves to support them in their chosen business career. Students learn the strategic market planning process in both the business-to-consumer and business-to-business market areas. Elements of their learning include environmental scanning, the ability to identify and segment markets, understanding buyer behaviours and the importance of marketing research. This results in the understanding of a coordinated marketing program (product, price, promotion and distribution channels). The relationship marketing has with other business functions and environments in which organizations' marketing professionals operate is also examined. These concepts are viewed within the context of traditional and e-business consumer and business markets.

Careers & Pathways

Pathways

Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Communicate business-related information persuasively and accurately in oral, written, and graphic formats.
  2. Work in a manner consistent with law and professional standards, practices, and protocols.
  3. Develop customer-service strategies to meet the needs of internal and external customers.
  4. Apply strategies to creatively organize, lead, and assume the risks of an organization.
  5. Apply knowledge of the human resources function to the management of an organization.
  6. Apply knowledge of the marketing function to the management of an organization.
  7. Apply accounting and financial knowledge to the management of an organization.
  8. Apply knowledge of operations management to the management of an organization.
  9. Apply computer skills and knowledge of information technology to support the management of an organization.
  10. Take into account the interrelationship among the functional areas of a business.
  11. Work effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and others.
  12. Apply research skills to gather, interpret, analyze, and evaluate data from primary and secondary sources.
  13. Apply creative problem-solving skills to address business problems and opportunities.
  14. Develop strategies for personal and professional development to manage job stress, enhance work performance, and maximize career opportunities.
  15. Apply time management and organizational skills to facilitate the completion of tasks and to meet deadlines in a business environment.
  16. Take into account the impact of the economic, social, political, and cultural variables which affect a business operation.
  17. Apply leadership and management knowledge and skills to assist in the planning, directing, and controlling of an organization.
  18. Plan, prepare, and deliver a variety of presentations.
  19. Develop a business plan in collaboration with others.
  20. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Tuition & Fees

2024/2025 Academic Year

Fees are subject to change.

Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar's Office at 613-727-0002.

Graduation Fee:
Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.

Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $810 per level. For more information go to https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials/students/.

Admissions Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility

The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
  • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
  • General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
  • Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program).

Program Eligibility

The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:

  • English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
  • Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
  • It is recommended applicants with international transcripts have the following IELTS or TOEFL scores to ensure success: IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Application Information

Registration Note:

If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting "Register Online".

Additional Information

Program Resources

International students wishing to study online should visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/international for information related to International online students and for International fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.

This program has flexible delivery options.

Courses appearing to be unavailable online (during the registration period) may have substitute courses which are taken instead. If you are a full-time student, you are automatically put into those courses; if you are part-time, please contact AC Online for the current substitutions and links to these courses.

AC ONLINE ACADEMIC PLANNER:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under 'Part-time Students' on the left-hand toolbar.

PRIOR LEARNING AND RECOGNITION (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.

PROGRAM PROGRESSION:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).

Contact

Future Students

For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.

Current Students

For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.

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