Business Administration - General Business (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)
Explore a challenging and rewarding career in business.
- Earn a comprehensive diploma that shows employers you are skilled in all key areas of business
- Eligible graduates can take advantage of a partnership with Nipissing University to complete a Bachelor of Commerce degree with one additional year of full-time study right here at Ottawa campus
- Small class sizes enable students to have stronger peer relationships, and closer contact with professors
Program Availability and Schedule
Schedule
Coming soon - a schedule that will show when each Level of the program will be delivered. See the Courses tab for further details on the Levels within this program.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are skilled in all of the key business disciplines. General Business is one of five majors. Three of these can be completed online, or online students can transfer on campus to complete one of the other two majors.
Develop a skillset with learning from areas of business that include accounting, finance, human resources, international business, marketing and supply chain and operations management....(read more)
Overview
Explore a challenging and rewarding career in business.
Earn a flexible diploma that shows you are skilled in all of the key business disciplines. General Business is one of five majors. Three of these can be completed online, or online students can transfer on campus to complete one of the other two majors.
Develop a skillset with learning from areas of business that include accounting, finance, human resources, international business, marketing and supply chain and operations management.
Upon graduation, you earn a comprehensive diploma that shows employers you are skilled in all key areas of business. Upon graduation, you may pursue a variety of careers in diverse fields and industries.
Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement. Co-op is not an option for AC online students.
Upon graduation, you may pursue a variety of careers in diverse fields and industries.
Upon completion of your diploma and with a minimum GPA of 2.9 (as calculated by the receiving institution), you can apply to Nipissing University and with as little as 12 months of additional study at the Wood
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
BUS2301
Course Name:
Business Computer Applications
Course Description:
The knowledge gained in this course provides students with a solid foundation for future learning in other studies, and in business. Student... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ECO2305
Course Name:
Microeconomics
Course Description:
Knowledge of contemporary microeconomics issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students examine fundamental microeconom... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1004
Course Name:
Professional Communication Essentials
Course Description:
Communication remains a fundamental skill regardless of discipline or field of study. Using an applied approach, students focus on writing, ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LAW1702
Course Name:
Business Law
Course Description:
Students are prepared for a business environment increasingly affected by laws. They learn how laws must be understood and applied by manage... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2319
Course Name:
Skills for Academic & Business Success
Course Description:
Business and higher education have evolved and so have the skills necessary to succeed in these new and dynamic environments. Students explo... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
QUA0002
Course Name:
Business Mathematics
Course Description:
Students review basic arithmetic and algebra, as well as mathematic tools and concepts required for solving problems found in a business env... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2310
Course Name:
Accounting Concepts I
Course Description:
Students are provided with the basics of financial accounting whether they are interested in becoming a practitioner or are looking to broad... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BUS2303
Course Name:
Database & Advanced Excel Concepts
Course Description:
Databases and data analysis are pervasive in today's work environments. Students study advanced Excel topics, including pivot tables, filter... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ECO2306
Course Name:
Macroeconomics
Course Description:
Knowledge of contemporary macroeconomic issues is essential to understanding the world we live in. Students investigate fundamental macroeco... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1823B
Course Name:
Communications 2
Course Description:
Students continue to expand their practical writing and speaking skills for successful communication in business. Using real-life scenarios ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2328
Course Name:
Introduction to Management Fundamentals
Course Description:
Today's business owners and managers must not only recognize but excel in achieving organizational objectives for long term business success... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
QUA0003
Course Name:
Quantitative Methods I
Course Description:
Mathematical methods are used in fields such as finance, marketing, accounting and operations management in order to help make reasonable bu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ACC2313
Course Name:
Accounting Concepts II
Course Description:
Students are introduced to and explore the background, goals and methods of managerial accounting and its role in business planning, control... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
BAI2300
Course Name:
Global Business Environment
Course Description:
As the global economy continues to change rapidly, and as the number of international trade agreements grows, trade barriers come down and C... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2303
Course Name:
Introduction to Finance
Course Description:
Building a solid understanding of personal finance is crucial for students who intend to choose the Finance major in the Business Administra... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2320
Course Name:
Material and Operations Management
Course Description:
Operations managers make tactical decisions in support of carrying out the vision and strategies for businesses in the supply chain and/or i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEP1001
Course Name:
Cooperative Education And Job Readiness
Course Description:
Students are guided through a series of activities that prepare them to conduct a professional job search and succeed in the workplace. Thro... + Read More
Hours:
21.00
Code:
MGT2381
Course Name:
Human Resources Management
Course Description:
Human capital is a critical organizational resource contributing to the organizational strategy and operational success through progressive ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MKT2317
Course Name:
Marketing
Course Description:
Students are provided an overview of the marketing functions used in an organization, which serves to support them in their chosen business ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2305
Course Name:
Finance for Non-Finance Professionals
Course Description:
A solid understanding of basic business finance is an essential part of business administration, regardless of major. To achieve this, stude... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT2357
Course Name:
Project Management
Course Description:
Managing projects is an essential component in today's business environment, and mastering the concepts, tools and techniques can help manag... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MKT0019
Course Name:
Marketing Research
Course Description:
Students apply the theory of sound marketing research to understand its importance in the managerial decision-making process in today's comp... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEP2001
Course Name:
Co-op Job Search 1
Course Description:
Students are guided through a self-directed co-op job search using Algonquin's web-based resource centre, HireAC, as well as independent res... + Read More
Hours:
10.0
Code:
MKT2322
Course Name:
Selling for Success
Course Description:
Students develop the selling skills they require during a business career. Major topics studied include the importance of the selling functi... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
QUA2343
Course Name:
Quantitative Methods II
Course Description:
Students are introduced to the normal probability distribution and its application. They use sampling distribution techniques to become fami... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0216
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT2304
Course Name:
Buad General Co-op Work Term 1
Course Description:
Co-op provides an experiential opportunity which is directly related to the field of study. The first work term centres on attaining entry-l... + Read More
Hours:
0.0
Code:
BAI2312
Course Name:
International Culture
Course Description:
Students become familiar with and understand the importance of culture and how it can positively influence the conduct of international busi... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
BUS2305
Course Name:
Spreadsheet Applications
Course Description:
The ability to function skillfully in a spreadsheet is critical in any business profession. Students engage in both theoretical and applied ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT2315
Course Name:
Scheduling & Planning of Resources
Course Description:
The scheduling and planning of resources and materials is at the heart of an overall MRPII or ERP system. This knowledge is required for on... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT2356
Course Name:
People and Organizations
Course Description:
The nature of human dynamics in the workplace is explored from the perspective of the business professional. Students explore individual beh... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED0216
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT2305
Course Name:
Buad General Co-op Work Term 2
Course Description:
The second co-op work term centres on the opportunity to develop and implement improved tools and techniques within a variety of business fu... + Read More
Hours:
0.0
Code:
MGT2309
Course Name:
Lean Six Sigma
Course Description:
All organizations have "waste" throughout their organization. Lean methodologies show you how recognize this waste, whereas Six Sigma is a ... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT2313
Course Name:
Business Planning
Course Description:
Students integrate key business principles by developing a comprehensive business plan for a small business. Working in teams, they apply th... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT2355
Course Name:
Leadership
Course Description:
Leadership is explored through theory, application, and skills development. Students develop skills that assist in their team and leadership... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT2359
Course Name:
Laws of the Workplace
Course Description:
Human resources management is increasingly impacted by legislation. Students gain appreciation for how laws are understood and applied to th... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GED0216
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT1000
Course Name:
Approved Course - Other Program Or Major
Course Description:
With prior approval by the department responsible for the major area of study, a student may elect to take up to two courses from other prog... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
MGT1001
Course Name:
Approved Course - Other Program Or Major
Course Description:
With prior approval from the department responsible for the major area of study, a student may elect to take up to two courses from other pr... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0001
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute I
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0002
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute II
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0003
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute III
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
DMS0004
Course Name:
Double Major Substitute IV
Course Description:
Course created to solve double major problem.... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
The General Business major provides students with the breadth and depth of business knowledge and skills necessary to function effectively in a wide range of business positions at an entry level. The course choices can also be used for a future role in general management.
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:
- Evaluate the impact of global issues on an organization's business opportunities by using an environmental scan.
- Apply principles of corporate sustainability, corporate social responsibility and ethics to support an organization's business initiatives.
- Assess and use current concepts/systems and technologies to support an organization's business initiatives.
- Conduct and present research to support business decision making.
- Plan, implement and evaluate projects by applying project management principles.
- Perform work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations and business practices.
- Apply human resource practices to support management objectives and the organization's goals.
- Use accounting and financial principles to support the management and operations of an organization.
- Assess marketing and sales concepts and strategies and apply them to the needs of an organization.
- Outline principles of supply chain management and operations management and assess their impact on the operations of an organization.
- Participate in the development of a business plan.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance in the business field.
- Outline strategies used to manage risks in an organization's business activities.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2026/2027 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost $2400 to $3600 for the entire program and can be purchased from the campus store.
- For more information go to www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
Program Eligibility
- Please apply to the Business Administration (Core) program at OCAS under Program Code 0216X01FWO.
Application Information
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Program Code 0216E01FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application
process information: https://algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/
For further information on the admissions process, please visit:
Admissions - Registrar's Office https://algonquincollege.com/ro/admissions/
Additional Information
Program Resources
CO-OP INFORMATION
All applicants apply directly to the non-co-op version of this program through OntarioColleges.ca or the International Application Portal. Eligible students may choose to apply to the co-op option two academic terms before their first co-op work term, subject to availability and academic standing.
Co-operative education (Co-op) provides students with the opportunity to integrate classroom learning with real-world experience through paid, program-related work terms. Two academic terms before their first co-op work term, students must actively participate in and complete a self-directed co-op preparation course, including required readiness activities and workshops.
Students are responsible for conducting a guided, self-directed job search and securing approved, paid co-op employment related to their program of study. Co-op students compete for positions alongside students from Algonquin College and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. While Algonquin College's Co-op & Career Centre supports students by developing co-op opportunities and providing guidance throughout the process, employment is not guaranteed. Co-op work opportunities may require students to relocate. All costs associated with participation-including travel, accommodation, work permits, visa applications, and other related expenses-are the responsibility of the student.
Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during academic terms when students are not enrolled in classes. For details about the number and timing of co-op work terms in your program, please refer to the Courses tab on your program's webpage.
International students are responsible for ensuring they meet all co-op work permit requirements before participating in a co-op work term. Additional information is available at: www.algonquincollege.com/international/student-handouts
For more information about co-op programs, expectations, and general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, visit: www.algonquincollege.com/coop-career-centre
This program is also offered on a part-time basis.
Contact
Stephen Abraham
Program Coordinator
Erika Bryan-Clayton
Co-op Coordinator
Erika is a Professor in Human Resources and is the School of Business Faculty Coop Coordinator.
Erika has over 11 years of teaching experience and over 8 years Coop experience at Algonquin College.
Her industry experience has been as a Human Resources Generalist for both public sector organizations and private enterprises.
Erika holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Ottawa with a double major in Human Resources Management and Marketing.
Erika enjoys guiding and supporting students through their academic journey to develop skills which will enable their success for their chosen career.
When she is not teaching Erika enjoys travelling and participating in a wide variety of sports.