Business Fundamentals
Find your perfect fit in the world of business.
- Gain practical skills through participating in simulations dealing with realistic business problems and solutions, and other applied activities
- Graduates have the ability to continue their business education with advanced standing through shared core courses in various specialized business diplomas
- The program enables you to find your perfect fit by discovering what area of business you are best suited to
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Delivery Options
With a strong focus on developing the skills needed for today`s business environment, this Ontario College Certificate program prepares you to carry out a variety of business functions within an organization. You develop practical understanding of key principles and practices necessary to pursue future studies in the field of business or for an entry-level position in business. This program may also appeal to those who have existing careers or credentials to enhance their fundamental business knowledge and skills.
In this program, you combine theory and hands-on learning to gain practical business knowledge in the areas of:...(read more)
Overview
Find your perfect fit in the world of business.
With a strong focus on developing the skills needed for today`s business environment, this Ontario College Certificate program prepares you to carry out a variety of business functions within an organization. You develop practical understanding of key principles and practices necessary to pursue future studies in the field of business or for an entry-level position in business. This program may also appeal to those who have existing careers or credentials to enhance their fundamental business knowledge and skills.
In this program, you combine theory and hands-on learning to gain practical business knowledge in the areas of:
- business management
- marketing
- human resources management
- document production
- accounting/financial reporting
- professional communications
- business application software
Participate in simulations dealing with realistic business problems and solutions. Gain practical skills through applied activities supported by opportunities to examine current industry issues and find solutions based on an integrated approach. Develop skills in the use of technology and foundational business practices with an emphasis on the practical demands of a job, including:
- preparing professional documents
- interacting with the workforce
- meeting timelines
- prioritizing activities
- working under pressure
- accepting responsibility
- demonstrating initiative
Graduates may apply their newly developed skills and knowledge to improve their existing organization, gain an entry-level position in business, or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. Graduates may find entry-level employment in a variety of business related industries such as:
- educational institutions
- government ministries and agencies
- health-care facilities
- large and small businesses and corporations
- not-for-profit organizations
- regional offices within government
- retail
- hospitality and service sector
- insurance
- financial institutions
With advanced standing through shared core courses, graduates may choose to continue their business education in diplomas such as: Business - General, Accounting, Human Resources Management, Finance, Business Marketing, Business Management and Entrepreneurship, or Business Administration.
To qualify for this certificate, you must complete the program within 3 years.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are well-organized and can work effectively under tight time constraints.
- Are team-oriented and enjoy working with others.
- Like using computer and technology applications.
- Have strong organizational and leadership abilities.
- Enjoy working in a dynamic environment.
- Have a collaborative style and good communication skills.
- Like to solve problems using analytical and critical thinking skills.
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".
Online  |
| Course Number | Hours | Course Name | Winter | Summer | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series: 01 | ||||||
| BUS2301 | 42.0 | Business Computer Applications | | |||
| ECO2305 | 42.0 | Microeconomics | | |||
| ENL1813B | 42.0 | Communications I | | |||
| MGT2319 | 42.0 | Skills for Academic & Business Success | | |||
| MGT2328 | 42.0 | Introduction to Management Fundamentals | | |||
| QUA0002 | 42.0 | Business Mathematics | | |||
| Series: 02 | ||||||
| ACC2310 | 42.0 | Accounting Concepts I | | |||
| BAI2300 | 42.0 | Global Business Environment | | |||
| ENL1823B | 42.0 | Communications IICommunications II There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. |  | |||
| MGT2320 | 42.0 | Material and Operations Management | | |||
| MGT2381 | 42.0 | Human Resources Management | | | ||
| MKT2317 | 42.0 | Marketing | | | ||
| Choose one from equivalencies: | ||||||
| GED0457X | 42.0 | General Education ElectiveGeneral Education Elective There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | | | ||
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.
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.
MGT2328 Introduction to Management Fundamentals
Management principles, including planning, leading, organizing, and controlling in today's organization within the context of ethics, corporate social responsibility and sustainability are explored. The role of the manager and the skills and techniques required to achieve organizational outcomes are identified. These skills include an understanding of how external and internal environmental influences affect the decision-making process undertaken by these organizations.
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. Students who are taking this course as part of the Business Administration Ontario College Advanced Diploma program need a minimum grade of C in this course in order to choose Accounting as a major.
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.
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
Careers
Graduates may find employment opportunities in a variety of entry-level business and administrative positions such as: customer service, sales, service industry, insurance or financial institution trainees or associates.
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:
- Identify factors that have an impact on an organization`s business opportunities.
- Explain the impact of corporate sustainability, corporate social responsibility and ethics on an organization`s business initiatives.
- Use current technologies to support an organization`s business initiatives.
- Apply basic research skills to support business decision-making.
- Perform basic accounting procedures and financial calculations to support the operations of an organization.
- Describe marketing and sales concepts used to support the operations of an organization.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
- Outline the functional areas of a business and their interrelationships.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2023/2024 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.
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 requirement is recommended to ensure success in the program:
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C 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 105, minimums of 105 in Literacy and 85 in Production.
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.
Laddering Opportunities:
This general, foundational business certificate program prepares students wanting to further their business studies to ladder into a variety of college business diploma/certificate programs including Ontario College Certificates in Bookkeeping and Accounting Practices or Office Administration - General; Ontario College Diplomas in Business, Business - Accounting, Business - Management and Entrepreneurship, Business - Marketing or Office Administration; and Ontario College Advanced Diplomas in Business Administration-Accounting, Finance, General Business, Human Resources, International Business, Marketing or Supply Chain and Operations Management.
While building foundational knowledge and skills in a wide range of common core business courses, students have the opportunity to discover which areas of business they would like to continue to develop and apply transfer credits. Students who complete their business diploma can then access existing laddering opportunities with university business programs, subject to admission criteria.
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.
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 Studies' on the left-hand toolbar.
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). For more information please contact your Program Coordinator.
For more information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.
Contact
For additional information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.