Master of Business Administration
Regulations effective Sep. 1, 2024, unless otherwise noted.
The Athabasca University (AU) online Master of Business Administration (MBA) helps students develop the advanced leadership and management skills they need to succeed in any sector—without putting the rest of their lives on hold. The curriculum concentrates on the key management areas that affect organizational performance: strategy, human resources, finance, marketing, economics, operations, and information technology. It requires students to exercise their critical thinking and decision-making skills, and to apply what they are learning to their work in their own organizations—leading to immediate workplace and career impacts.
The AU MBA is designed for working, experienced managers and professionals who want to lead more effectively, move into more senior level positions within their organizations, or start to grow their own business or not-for-profit ventures.
Athabasca University has developed program learning goals that can assist you in making informed decisions about your career options upon graduating.
Applicants to an AU MBA program must have:
- an undergraduate degree from an accredited post-secondary institution, and at least 3 years of acceptable managerial experience that may include supervisory or professional experience with management-level responsibilities;
OR - an acceptable professional designation as approved by the Graduate Management Program Council and at least 5 years of acceptable managerial experience that may include supervisory and professional experience with management-level responsibilities;
OR - a minimum of 8 years of substantial managerial experience and relevant education and/or training. Applicants without a degree or designation must first apply to the AU Graduate Diploma in Management (GDM) and upon successful completion, transfer into Phase 2 of the MBA program. The GDM is identical to Phase 1 of the MBA.
Non-program admission requirements
Individuals who are not enrolled in one of the graduate programs with the Faculty of Business, may be permitted to register in an MBA course for which they have the appropriate prerequisites on a first-come first-served basis, space permitting and upon meeting minimum program entrance standards. The non-program applicant must:
- meet the qualifications for admission for either the Graduate Diploma in Management (GDM) program or the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, or
- have an MBA degree from Athabasca University or an MBA or equivalent master degree from another accredited post-secondary institution, or
- be an active student in good standing in another AU graduate program, or
- be an active student in good standing in an MBA or equivalent master degree program from another accredited post-secondary institution and receive approval from the AU MBA program director, or
- receive special exemption from the AU MBA program director.
The non-program applicant must demonstrate:
- appropriate level of management experience required (minimum 3 years) to contribute positively to both online and in-residence group discussions/projects;
- have the system requirements to take the course online (hardware and software);
- meet any course prerequisite requirements (with the exception that STMT 500: Strategic Management as a prerequisite will normally be waived for non-program students);
- access to organizational information required for MBA course activities and assignments.
Other
Applicants must be proficient in the English language and confirm access to a computer system that meets the program's requirements. A Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score is not normally required, but the MBA Admissions Committee may request one should they deem it necessary. Detailed instructions for assembling an application package can be found on the faculty's website.
Accelerated Admission Route admission requirements
Applicants holding a bachelor degree in business (e.g. bachelor of commerce, bachelor of management, or bachelor of business administration) from an accredited post-secondary institution may be admitted into the Accelerated Admission Route in the MBA program, at the discretion of the MBA Admissions Committee. An applicant admitted through this route will be considered to have completed Phase 1 of the MBA program but will not be eligible for the Graduate Diploma in Management (GDM).
To be eligible for the Accelerated Admission Route, the applicant must have obtained an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 in the final 60 credits of the presenting bachelor of business degree and the degree must have been obtained in the previous 10 years. At the discretion of the MBA Admissions Committee, applicants with a bachelor degree in business that is more than 10 years old may be admitted through the Accelerated Admission Route but may be required to take 1 or more Phase 1 and/or Phase 2 core courses in addition to the regular Accelerated Admission Route courses.
Applicants applying under the Accelerated Admission Route will pay the Transfer Credit Fee to have their transcripts reviewed for acceptability to the admission route. A full transfer review is conducted upon applying to the program. Applicants who lack content coverage may be required to complete additional courses extra to the program.
Transfer credit
Transfer credit means that students may apply to transfer graduate course credits earned elsewhere at recognized academic institutions into the MBA programs.
In order to apply for transfer credit, applicants must first apply and be accepted to the MBA program.
Only graduate level course credits that have never been applied toward any degree program, are eligible for consideration. Up to a maximum of 15 credits can be transferred upon approval of the MBA program director.
Courses being considered for transfer credit must be from a fully accredited institution (i.e. members of Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, Canadian Association for Distance Education, Canadian Association for Graduate Studies, etc.).
Applicants are required to complete a transfer credit form, pay a transfer credit evaluation fee, and provide official transcripts and detailed course outlines for each course (outline requirements will be provided by the MBA program director).
The MBA program director will determine whether transfer credits will be permitted into the MBA program. If transfer credit is awarded, a study plan will be provided outlining how students will integrate previous coursework with the program.
Transfer of elective courses
Subject to the approval of the MBA program director and payment of the appropriate fee, students may take one of their required MBA program online elective courses from another post-secondary institution if such a course is relevant and equivalent to courses in the MBA program at Athabasca University. Transfer credit will not be permitted for the in-residence elective requirement.
A written request, including a detailed outline of the course, must be sent to the MBA program director at least 1 month before the course registration deadline. Upon successful completion of the course (with the appropriate passing grade), students must submit an official transcript in order to obtain credit for the course.
English language proficiency
There are minimum English language proficiency requirements allowed for admission to a graduate program at Athabasca University. It is the student's responsibility to ensure they meet the minimum requirements.
Admission to the MBA program occurs three times each year. Application deadlines are June 15 for a fall start, Oct. 15 for a winter start, and March 15 for a spring start.
Applicants must provide:
- a completed application form;
- a detailed resumé demonstrating appropriate management experience;
- 3 letters of reference, preferably 2 business and 1 academic. References from personal friends or relatives will not be accepted. It is the applicant's responsibility to notify his or her references that, in accordance with the Province of Alberta's Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, the information contained in the letter of reference is not considered to be confidential. The applicant, upon request, may view the information. The letters shall normally contain full contact information for the reference, be signed on company letterhead, and be sent directly to the Faculty of Business, Athabasca University;
- a 1000-word personal essay;
- official transcripts of post-secondary education and/or professional designation(s) sent directly to the Faculty of Business, Athabasca University, from the respective institution(s). Applicants with degrees obtained outside of North America may be required to have educational qualifications assessed independently (see International Transcripts)*;
- a non-refundable application fee.
Upon acceptance to the program, students must pay the required non-refundable Admission Fee.
For detailed information on applying to the program, visit the Faculty of Business website.
The submission of undergraduate degree transcripts is mandatory for applicants applying for the undergraduate degree plus 3 years of managerial experience pathway and for those applying for the Accelerated Admission Route. For all other applicants, the submission of official transcripts for diplomas, undergraduate and post-graduate degrees, as well as professional designations, is strongly encouraged.
Non-program application
Non-program applicants must make formal application to Student Services, Faculty of Business, and include the following:
- a completed application form;
- a cover letter stating their interest in the course(s) to be taken and why they would like to select the course(s);
- permission letter from their program director to take the course (if registered in another degree program outside Athabasca University);
- a current, chronological resumé detailing their managerial experience;
- reference letters in support of their academic and management abilities as well as their ability to work effectively in teams (if requested);
- official transcripts (if you have completed an MBA or equivalent master degree from another accepted university);
- non-refundable application fee.
Fall 2024 | ||
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Sep. 2 | Labour Day | University closed |
Sep. 30 | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | |
Oct. 14 | Thanksgiving Day | University closed |
Oct. 15 | Application deadline for Winter session start in January. See course schedules for course start dates. | |
Nov. 11 | Remembrance Day | University closed |
Dec. 25, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025 | The university will close at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024 and will reopen at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025. |
Winter 2025 | ||
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Feb. 17 | Family Day | University closed |
March 15 | Application for Spring session start in May. See course schedules for course start dates. | |
April 18 – 21 (inclusive) | Easter break | University closed |
April 30 | Deadline to apply for graduation in June. All final grades must be received by the Office of the Registrar, and all program requirements must be completed by this date. Plan ahead. Allow professor at least 10 days for grading, and the Faculty of Business office 5 days for processing final grade report(s), in advance of this deadline. | |
Spring 2025 | ||
May 19 | Victoria Day | University closed |
May 31 | Deadline to register for Convocation 2025 (Note: All requirements to graduate must be done by April 30. See above.) | |
June 15 | Application deadline for Fall session start in August. See course schedules for course start dates. | |
June TBD | Convocation 2025. Visit the Convocation website for more information on this hybrid event. | |
July 1 | Canada Day | University closed |
Aug. 4 | Heritage Day | University closed |
Upon admission to the program, MBA students will receive a course schedule for the cohort group to which they belong. Registration information is provided to students on a regular basis. Courses are paced, with specific start and completion dates. Phase 1 and 2 core courses are offered in sequential order. Subject to the approval of the MBA program director, students may be permitted to take more than 1 course at a time, or to take courses in a different order except for:
- STMT 500 – Strategic Management, which must be successfully completed before students can progress to any other course; and
- FMAC 503 – Financial and Managerial Accounting, which must be successfully completed before taking CFIN 601 – Corporate Finance.
Program requirements
Program structure | |||||||
Total credits in the program | 48 credits | ||||||
The MBA is divided into 2 phases: | |||||||
Phase 1 consists of an orientation, 6 core courses and a comprehensive examination (18 credits). This phase provides a solid grounding in general management fundamentals. | |||||||
Required courses | |||||||
MBAO 599 – MBA Orientation | (0) | ||||||
or | |||||||
MBAO 598 – MBA Orientation | |||||||
STMT 500 – Strategic Management | (3) | ||||||
HRMT 502 – Human Resources Management | (3) | ||||||
FMAC 503 – Financial and Managerial Accounting | (3) | ||||||
MKMT 504 – Marketing Management | (3) | ||||||
MEQA 501 – Managerial Economics and Quantitative Analysis | (3) | ||||||
OPMT 505 – Operations Management | (3) | ||||||
CPEX 506 – Comprehensive Exam for Phase 1 | (0) | ||||||
Upon successful completion, students may apply to receive the Graduate Diploma in Management (GDM). | |||||||
Phase 2 offers 2 options for completion. Both options begin with 4 advanced management courses (12 credits), followed by either 3 electives (9 credits), and an applied project (9 credits), or 6 electives (18 credits). | |||||||
Required courses | |||||||
INTS 602 – Information Technology Strategy | (3) | ||||||
CFIN 601 – Corporate Finance | (3) | ||||||
STOA 603 – Strategy and Organizational Analysis | (3) | ||||||
MEDM 604 – Ethical Decision Making | (3) | ||||||
Electives | |||||||
Students may choose either:
All students must take at least 1 of their electives in the in-residence formation and may choose to take more. * There are some 6-credit electives scheduled from time to time that are equivalent to two 3-credit electives. Not all of these electives are always available for registration. View the course schedules to see what is currently available. | |||||||
RAFM 646 – Applied Hockey Franchise Management | (3) | ||||||
EBSL 631 – Business Law | (3) | ||||||
ETDW 603 – Business Transformation in a Digital World | (3) | ||||||
ECGR 688 – Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility | (3) | ||||||
RDLD 680 – Developing Leaders | (3) | ||||||
EDDB 604 – Due Diligence for Business | (3) | ||||||
EEPM 675 – Essentials of Project Management | (3) | ||||||
EEIM 665 – Energy Industries and Markets: Canada and Beyond | (3) | ||||||
EFNC 609 – Innovation Finance | (3) | ||||||
RMRR 699 – Financial Markets, Risk Management, and the Regulatory Environment | (6) | ||||||
EISM 622 – Implementing Strategy Through Management Evaluation | (3) | ||||||
ERMS 690 – Information Risk Management & Security | (3) | ||||||
EICH 643 – Integrated Marketing Communications for Hockey | (3) | ||||||
EFIC 698 – International Finance, Investment and Capital Flow | (3) | ||||||
EGMK 655 – Global Marketing Management | (3) | ||||||
EGMM 644 – Game Day Management & Marketing | (3) | ||||||
EHOP 645 – Hockey Operations | (3) | ||||||
RIBR 605 – International Business: Understanding and Managing Risks | (6) | ||||||
EKLI 682 – Knowledge, Learning, Innovation and Performance | (3) | ||||||
EMGT 692 – Macroeconomics and Global Economic Trends | (3) | ||||||
EOCH 664 – Making Sense of Organizational Change | (3) | ||||||
EMHS 642 – Marketing Hockey Strategically | (3) | ||||||
EMNO 693 – Management for Non-profit Organizations | (3) | ||||||
EMDC 644 – Managing Diversity for Organizational Sustainability | (3) | ||||||
ENVD 612 – New Venture Development | (3) | ||||||
EPMG 681 – Project Management Governance | (3) | ||||||
ESMT 614 – Services Management | (3) | ||||||
ESLS 669 – Strategic Leadership | (3) | ||||||
RSCM 689 – Supply Chain Management | (6) | ||||||
ESDB 619 – Sustainable Development and Business | (3) | ||||||
ETIM 686 – Technology & Innovation Management Strategy | (3) | ||||||
EBSH 641 – The Business of Hockey | (3) | ||||||
RVET 651 – Visionary and Entrepreneurial Thinking | (3) | ||||||
Accelerated Admission Route | |||||||
The MBA also has a 30-credit admission route, recognizing the academic preparation of students who enter the MBA with an undergraduate degree in business. A full transfer review is conducted upon applying to the program. Applicants who lack content coverage may be required to complete additional courses extra to the program. Students in the Accelerated Admission Route will move directly into a modified Phase 2 in which they take an orientation and 2 core courses (6 credits):
All students must take at least 1 of their electives in the in-residence format and may choose to take more. There are some 6 credit electives scheduled from time to time that are equivalent to two 3-credit electives. Not all of these electives are always available for registration. View the course schedules to see what is currently available. |
Hockey Management specialization* | |
* Note: The Hockey Management specialization is closed to new admissions as of October 25, 2022. Hockey Management students complete all of Phase 1 and 2 required courses as noted above and the 6 hockey elective courses below in fulfillment of their elective requirements. | |
Hockey elective courses | |
EBSH 641 – The Business of Hockey | (3) |
EMHS 642 – Marketing Hockey Strategically | (3) |
EICH 643 – Integrated Marketing Communications for Hockey | (3) |
EGMM 644 – Game Day Management and Marketing | (3) |
EHOP 645 – Hockey Operations | (3) |
RAFM 646 – Applied Hockey Franchise Management | (3) |
Comprehensive examination
A comprehensive examination must be written at the end of Phase 1 of the MBA program. The comprehensive examination is scheduled on at least two occasions per year as determined by the admissions committee.
The comprehensive examination is graded on a pass/fail basis, and a grade of 70% is required to pass.
The exam may be written only on the scheduled exam dates. If you are unable to write at that
time, you will have to withdraw from the exam and write it when it is next offered.
Students who fail a comprehensive examination may repeat the examination only once. A fee will be charged for repeating the examination and the student must wait until the next scheduled offering of the examination to re-write it. Students who fail the second writing of the comprehensive examination will be withdrawn from the program with no opportunity for re-enrolment.
Comprehensive examination withdrawal
A student must withdraw from the exam by 1:00 pm MT on the Tuesday afternoon before the exam starts.
Students who have not withdrawn from the exam will be failed if no exam answers are
submitted. This will show as one failed Comprehensive Exam attempt on the student's transcript.
An exam withdrawal request form must be submitted to your Graduate Enrolment
Advisor. Contact fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
Comprehensive exam extensions
Extensions may be granted to students in the case of extenuating circumstances that prevent completion of the exam within the exam period. Students must provide a valid reason for requesting an extension. Students who do not receive approval for an extension and who do not submit their exam on or before the deadline will receive an "F" (failure) grade.
A request for extension must be submitted as follows:
Before the start of the exam period, submit an extension request by email or telephone to
your Graduate Enrolment Advisor, who will forward it to the Exam Coordinator.
During the exam period, submit an extension request by email or telephone directly to the
Exam Coordinator.
The Exam Coordinator may grant extensions of up to 24 hours. Requests for extensions beyond twenty-four hours will be sent to the MBA Program Director for approval. Requests will either be approved or denied.
Comprehensive exam grading
The Comprehensive Exam is graded on a pass/fail basis. You will receive an overall pass for the examination if you pass all the questions required to be answered or fail no more than one of the questions. Not submitting an answer for a required question will be deemed an automatic fail for the respective question.
You are required to obtain a minimum grade of 70% in order to pass. An answer assessed to
be deserving of a grade less than 70% is marked as a fail. Students who fail more than one
question will have their answers automatically re-graded before the final result is sent to the
students.
Students will receive an email indicating whether they passed or failed the exam within 12 working days of the exam submission deadline (see Exam Feedback below for more
information).
Rewriting the exam
The Comprehensive Exam may only be rewritten once. Students who fail the second writing of the Comprehensive Exam will be expelled from their program of study with no opportunity for re-enrolment.
A retake fee will be charged for repetition of the exam, and the student must wait until the next scheduled offering of the examination to rewrite it.
Exam feedback
Students who pass will receive an indication of an overall pass. Individual feedback may be provided.
Students who fail will be sent an email by the Exam Coordinator with individual feedback
on the questions that they failed. They may use this feedback to prepare for their exam rewrite.
Applied project
The applied project is normally associated with the end of Phase 2 of the MBA program but students may receive permission to begin work on their applied projects at any time during Phase 2 of their program.
The applied project is completed in 2 consecutive phases. In the first phase, students register in a course that guides them through the preparation of their applied project proposal. Once the proposal has been approved, each student is assigned to an academic supervisor who supervises the project through to completion.
The applied project is graded on a pass/fail basis, with a grade of 70% required to pass. The course is worth 9 credits and must be completed in 5 months.
Applied project registration
Registration for the applied project is not automatic. The registration form must be filled out
and submitted to Student Services at fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
The applied project course starts every month except for the months of April and July. Registration and payment deadline iIs always the 10th of the month previous to the start date
(i.e. Aug.10 is the deadline to register and pay for a Sep.1 start date).
Applied project deferral process
A deferral is a request to alter the start date of your project.
If a student is unable to finish their Applied Project Draft Proposal and submit it on or before the end of calendar Month 1 from the current start date as per the instructions provided, they may defer from the Applied Project and re-start when they can make the five-month time commitment. Only one deferral is allowed. No deferrals are allowed after the end of
calendar Month 2. If you fail to defer it is assumed you intend on completing the applied
project within your current five month time allowance. Otherwise, you may find it necessary to extend or withdraw.
Scenario #1: If you are deferring your applied project prior to your current start date, please send an email requesting deferral to fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
Scenario #2: If you are deferring after your current start date, please follow the deferral
instructions below and indicate the month in which you would like to restart.
Applied project
I. To submit your deferral, click the pay now link below to go to the secure banking
online payment site. As this is a secure site, you will be prompted to log in with your myAU
password. If you have not set up your login information, click the "myAU Help Page for
Students" link to set this up.
Important: Once signed into the pay now link, fill out the course withdrawal to defer your applied project. Please type in the month (any month except for April or July) in which you would like to restart in the "Remain Inactive" section (do not use the drop-down menu).
II. It is a student's responsibility to ensure that Student Enrolment Services has received your
Applied Project deferral. If you do not receive a confirmation from Student Enrolment Services within 3 to 5 business days of your request, you should immediately contact
fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
Deferrals will not be processed without payment of the deferral fee.
Applied project extensions
A student may request an extension to their Applied Project completion date due to extenuating circumstances. An extension adds a one month period to the end of your course contract. In such cases, the student must email the Applied Project Coordinator at aprj@fb.athabascau.ca to request the extension and provide details of the circumstances.
If the Coordinator grants an extension, there is a charge for each one month extension. A
maximum of two extensions may be granted. An extension must be requested each time it is
required and must be requested prior to your contract end date. Failure to request the extension prior to your end date will result in a fail.
An extension should only be requested if you believe you will still be fully capable of completing your applied project within the adjusted timeframe. Otherwise, you would be advised to withdraw from the course and either a) re-register for a later date or b) change to the course-based route of the MBA program.
If you are unable to still complete within an approved extended timeframe please see the
withdrawal process below.
Applied project withdrawals
If you are unable to complete the applied project, you may choose to withdraw at any time prior to the final project being submitted or your contract ending. Students must submit a request to withdraw and pay the applicable fees as per the instructions below, depending on your scenario. For any inquiries with regard to withdrawing from your Applied Project, please contact fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
Scenario #1: If you are withdrawing from the applied project prior to the end of month 3 of your contract start date:
I. To submit your withdrawal, click the pay now link below to go to the secure banking
online payment site. As this is a secure site, you will be prompted to log in with your myAU
password. If you have not set up your login information, click the "myAU Help Page for
Students" link to set this up.
II. It is a student's responsibility to ensure that Student Enrolment Services has received your
Applied Project withdrawal. If you do not receive a confirmation from Student Enrolment
Services within 3 to 5 business days of your request, you should immediately contact
fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca.
Withdrawals will not be processed without payment of the withdrawal fee. Tuition will be
refunded. You will receive a grade of "W" (withdrawal) on your transcript.
Scenario #2: If you are withdrawing after the end of month 3 of your contract start date:
Fill out the following form and submit to fbgradenrol@athabascau.ca. No refunds will be given. Full tuition fees will be required if you choose to attempt the applied project again. You will receive a grade of W on your transcript.
If you fail to withdraw and the project is not completed you will fail and receive a grade of
F and no refund will be issued.
Note: If withdrawing from the applied project for a length of time outside of the maximum
program length allowed a Program Continuation Fee may be required.
Applied project re-registration
Only one re-registration is allowed in the applied project.
Please fill out the registration form when you are ready to register again.
Time commitment
Most students spend about 20 to 25 hours per week on their studies while in the program.
Advanced standing
"Advanced standing" means the student is exempt from some or all of the required assignments in a particular course.
At the time of admission graduate students may, at the discretion of the admissions committee, be awarded advanced standing in specific core courses in light of the students’ combined prior education and experience. Such advanced standing only applies to core courses. Advanced standing will not be awarded for elective courses. Requests for advanced standing must be made to the admissions committee at the time of application to the program. Exemptions to these requirements must be approved by the MBA program director.
Students who are awarded advanced standing in a course:
- are provided with full course materials;
- remain responsible for full program tuition; and
- remain responsible to know and understand all components of the course and to demonstrate this knowledge in the comprehensive examinations.
Active status and continuation
To maintain active status, a student must successfully complete at least 1 course or comprehensive examination in their program of study within any given 12-month period. Students who do not maintain active status will be deemed to have withdrawn from the program. Those students will be required to pay the tuition portion for courses completed and in which they are currently registered.
A program continuation fee may be charged for those who have exceeded 12 months and apply to continue in the program.
Time to complete
Average program completion time is 2.5 to 3 years, but students must complete their MBA program studies within 5 years of their initial enrolment in the program. Students admitted through the Accelerated Admission Route must complete their MBA program studies within 4 years of their initial enrolment in the program. In exceptional circumstances, extensions of up to 1 year will be considered by the MBA program director, and will require the payment of a continuation fee.
A student re-enrolling into the program following a Graduate Diploma in Management (GDM) completion, or program withdrawal, will be expected to complete his or her program studies within 5 years less the duration of time the student was in the GDM or MBA program previously. Exceptions may be made only by the MBA program director.
Program deferrals
Students who have started the program can defer their studies should they find themselves experiencing changed circumstances in either their business or personal lives. A deferral must be requested at least 21 days prior to the start date of the student's next pre-registered or registered course.
Withdrawal from the program
Students may withdraw from any phase of the program by completing the Program Withdrawal Form. Students who wish to withdraw from the MBA without record of registration, must do so within 30 calendar days of the commencement of the program. A withdrawal occurring in this time will not be recorded on the student’s transcript.
Students who withdraw from a program after the 30 calendar-day period from the start of program will have this withdrawal recorded on their transcript and pay the tuition portion for courses completed and in which they are currently registered.
Re-enrolment in the program
Re-enrolment in the program can occur, but is subject to re-application, review, and approval by the MBA program director, and payment of all applicable fees. Students will be required to pay any fee increases that have occurred between the time of their last enrolment and re-enrolment. They will be required to contact the Student Services department of the Faculty of Business to confirm their program requirements. Credit for courses previously completed will be re-evaluated and applied to the program requirements where appropriate.
Non-program students
All non-program students must complete an online orientation prior to beginning their studies.
If a non-program student subsequently applies for MBA program admission, credit for Athabasca University MBA courses previously completed will be evaluated for credit towards the MBA program requirements, where appropriate.
Non-program students are governed by all other applicable graduate business program regulations and policies, and University appeal process.
Note: Non-program students may apply for a maximum of 9 credits in Faculty of Business graduate courses, based on approval of each course. Applications must be submitted at least 3 months prior to the course start date.
Graduation requirements
To be awarded the Master of Business Administration, a graduate student must:
- successfully complete the program course structure set out at the time of admission into the program,
- successfully complete the comprehensive examination and all required elective credits in Phase 2: either three 3-credit elective courses and an applied project, or six 3-credit elective courses,
- complete and submit an Application for Graduation form, and
- meet all other regulations.
In addition, students must have paid any fees owed to the university and have returned all library resources.
All applications for graduation must be approved by the Board of Governors of Athabasca University.
Course delivery
All online MBA courses are paced, with scheduled start and end dates, and assignment deadlines within each course. Individual course activities vary, but participation in online discussions and group projects is mandatory and forms part of the grade for every course. The learning environment is asynchronous, meaning students do not have to be online at a prescribed time.
Upon admission to the program, MBA students will receive a timetable outlining course start and completion dates for the cohort group to which they belong.
Courses are offered in sequential order, but subject to the approval of the MBA program director, students may be permitted to take more than 1 course at a time, or to take courses in a different order within a phase, except for STMT 500 - Strategic Management, which must be completed successfully until students can progress to any other course.
Athabasca University may modify the list of available courses at any time.
In-residence electives are held in major cities across Canada and in several international locations.
Course registration
Students are automatically pre-registered for Phase 1 and Phase 2 core courses according to the course schedule provided when they commence the program. Students are considered registered for a Phase 1 or Phase 2 core course 21 days prior to the start date of each course as indicated on the student's schedule.
Students register for online electives, electives in residence, and the applied project on an individual basis. Timelines for registration and withdrawal for elective courses and the applied project vary and are outlined in the schedules posted online.
To be eligible to register in a 3-credit online elective or a 6-credit in-residence elective, students must successfully complete the 6 Phase 1 courses before the starts date of the elective, with the exceptions below:
MBA students will be permitted to register for one 3-credit in-residence course following completion of MBAO 598/599 and STMT 500, subject to course prerequisites. Only one such Phase 2 course will be permitted before successful completion of the Phase 1 Comprehensive Exam. If the exam is not successfully completed, the student will be permitted to complete the Phase 2 course or elective they are currently enrolled in but then must defer the program of study until successful completion of the exam occurs. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that any course and/or exam participation and any assignments and/or exam participation and any assignments and/or exam requirements are maintained and submitted on time. Exemptions to these requirements may be made only by the MBA program director.
Dual course registration
Doubling up of courses (for example, taking two online courses at once, or overlapping an online course with the Comprehensive Exam, the Applied Project, or a six-credit in-residence elective) is very intense and not recommended unless extra time is made available to accommodate the increased workload.
Note: 6-credit in-residence electives are very intense ten-week courses with a heavy workload. It is strongly recommended that you do not overlap or double up courses or other electives with 6-credit in-residence electives.
Students who elect to overlap courses are responsible for ensuring that all course and/or exam requirements are upheld and submitted on time. There will be no leniency or considerations provided (such as graded course activity or assignment deadline extensions, or reduction in individual or group participation) due to the increased course workload.
Subject to the approval of the MBA program director, students may be permitted to take
more than one course at a time.
Please note: STMT 500 must be successfully completed before students can progress to
any other course; and FMAC 503 must be successfully completed prior to taking CFIN 601.
Successful course completion
A minimum grade of 60% is required for both the assignments and participation components in each course. The comprehensive examination, written at the end of Phase 1, is graded on a pass/fail basis with an overall grade of 70% is required to pass. Please refer to the individual course syllabi for full evaluation details.
Course withdrawal – core courses and online electives
Students are considered registered for Phase 1 and Phase 2 core courses and online electives on the 21st day before the start date for each course. If withdrawing prior to 21 days before the start date, please submit the applicable withdrawal form (no fee is required). After this date, students can withdraw from courses in which they are pre-registered or registered subject to the following:
- To avoid academic penalty, a course withdrawal request must be received within 14 calendar days of the course start date. Withdrawals will not occur by default, and a course withdrawal fee will apply.
- Students withdrawing after 14 days from the start date of the course will receive a W (Withdrawal) grade on their transcript. Full course tuition will be required to re-register in the course.
- Click the pay now link below to access the withdrawal form and to go to the secure banking online payment site. As this is a secure site, you will be prompted to log in with your myAU password. If you have not set up your login information, click the "myAU Help Page for Students" link to set this up.
- Payment of the applicable course withdrawal fee must be made before the course withdrawal can be processed.
- Students who do not withdraw or do not complete the course will fail the course and an F (Fail) grade will be awarded. Full course tuition will be required to re-register in the course.
The course withdrawal fee is a mandatory administrative fee charged hen a student withdraws from a course to help recover costs already associated with your course setup.
Course withdrawal – in-residence electives
If you are withdrawing from an in-residence elective prior to 60 days (or prior to 90 days for
international electives) please submit the applicable withdrawal form (no fee is required). After this date, students can withdraw from an in-residence elective in which they are pre-registered or registered subject to the following:
- To avoid academic penalty, a course withdrawal request must be received within 14
calendar days of the course start date. Withdrawals will not occur by default, and a course
withdrawal fee will apply. - Students withdrawing after 14 days from the start date of an in-residence elective will
receive a W (withdrawal) grade on their transcript. Full course tuition will be required to re-register in another in-residence elective. - Click the pay now link to access the withdrawal form below and to go to the secure
banking online payment site. As this is a secure site, you will be prompted to login with your
myAU password. If you have not set up your login information, click the 'My AU Help Page for
Students' link to set this up.
Note: Please use the drop-down menu in the section "Wish to start again" and choose "Not
applicable (Electives). Name of coach is not applicable.
- Payment of the applicable course withdrawal fee must be made before the course
withdrawal can be processed. - Students who do not withdraw within 14 days of the course start date and/or do not
complete the course will fail the course and an F (Fail) grade will be awarded. Full course tuition will be required to re-register in the course.
The course withdrawal fee is a mandatory administrative fee charged when a student withdraws from a course to help recover costs already associated with your course setup.
Incomplete status
Under extraordinary circumstances, students may receive permission for an incomplete status for a course but they must submit such a request to the academic coach before the course end date. The academic coach will seek approval from the academic area manager (AAM) to grant incomplete status.
If approved, students will have up to a maximum of 30 calendar days to complete the outstanding individual written assignments (as approved). Group assignments and participation components of the course are not included under this policy.
Exceptions to this regulation must be approved by the MBA program director.
Re-registrations and repeats
Students who have received a Fail (F) or Withdrawal (W) grade in any course in the MBA program may repeat that course only once. Full tuition will be required for each course repeated.
Students who fail to successfully complete the same course twice will be removed from their program of study, with no opportunity for re-enrolment.
Course refunds
Students will receive a refund of the full course fees if they withdraw from their course within the timeframes specified in the applicable course withdrawal regulations.
Computer system requirements
Access to a microcomputer is mandatory for the completion of assignments and contact with other students, staff and the Faculty of Business. The Faculty of Business maintains a current list of technical requirements.
Grading system
With the exception of comprehensive exams and the applied project, which are graded on a pass/fail basis, each assignment and participation component that is to be counted towards the final grade for a course shall be given a percentage grade from the academic coach. The official recorded grade will be the Alpha/4.0 grading scale. Please review the Graduate Grading Policyfor more information on grading scales.
The following fees are effective for courses starting Jan. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2024. All fees are quoted in Canadian dollars and are subject to change. Academic-related fees are exempt from the Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST is added to all other goods and services, for example, workshops, some publications, self-help seminars, and Athabasca University promotional sales items.
Program Application Fee (non-refundable), required each time a person applies: | $218 |
Program Admission Fee (payable upon acceptance into the program and non-refundable): | $913 |
Non-program Application Fee | $116 |
Program tuition fees*
MBA Standard Route
Course fees due upon registration.
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Phase 1 | |
6 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
2 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $50,828 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Phase 1 | |
6 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
5 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $55,700 |
MBA for Accountants – Standard Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
Phase 1 | |
5 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Phase 2 | |
3 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
1 online elective ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $41,130 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
Phase 1 | |
5 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Phase 2 | |
3 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $46,002 |
MBA for Supply Chain Managers – Standard Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
Phase 1 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
1 online elective ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $41,130 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
Phase 1 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $46,002 |
MBA Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $31,107 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
7 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $23,387 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $35,979 |
MBA for Accountants – Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
3 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $27,766 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
6 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $32,638 |
MBA for Supply Chain Managers – Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
1 core course ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
3 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $24,425 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $218 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $325 |
1 core course ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
6 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $29,297 |
Estimated program tuition cost (2023-2024)
Total tuition costs for the MBA will vary based on how a student chooses to complete Phase 2. For a student who takes all courses from Athabasca University and chooses to complete 2 online electives, 1 in-residence elective and an applied project, tuition would be $50,828. If the student instead chose to complete 5 online electives and 1 in-residence elective, tuition would be $55,700. Application and admission fees are included in the above calculation. AU Graduate Student Association fees are not included.
Tuition fees for students in the Accelerated Admission Route will vary based on how a student chooses to complete Phase 2. For a student who takes all courses from Athabasca University and chooses to complete 4 online electives, 1 in-residence elective and an applied project, tuition would be $31,107. If the student instead chooses to complete 7 online electives and 1 in-residence elective, tuition would be $35,979. Application, admission, and applicable transfer credit fees are included in the above calculation. AU Graduate Student Association fees are not included.
Other fees
Course Withdrawal Processing Fee1: | $423 |
Applied Project Deferral Fee | $423 |
Comprehensive Examination Fee (repeats): | $290 |
Program Transfer Fee: | $126 |
AU Graduate Student Association Fee (per credit): | $14 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee (1 time): | $325 |
Program Continuation Fee: | $652 |
Letter of Permission Fee: | $93 |
Applied Project Extension Fee | $312 |
1 The course withdrawal processing fee is a mandatory administrative fee charged when a student withdraws from a course. Refer to the information about course withdrawal under Course regulations and procedures.
Fee information effective Jan. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2024.
The following fees are effective for courses starting Sep. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2025. All fees are quoted in Canadian dollars and are subject to change. Academic-related fees are exempt from the Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST is added to all other goods and services, for example, workshops, some publications, self-help seminars, and Athabasca University promotional sales items.
Program Application Fee (non-refundable), required each time a person applies: | $233 |
Program Admission Fee (payable upon acceptance into the program and non-refundable): | $913 |
Non-program Application Fee | $124 |
Program tuition fees*
MBA Standard Route
Course fees due upon registration.
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Phase 1 | |
6 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
2 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $50,843 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Phase 1 | |
6 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
5 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $55,715 |
MBA for Accountants – Standard Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
Phase 1 | |
5 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Phase 2 | |
3 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
1 online elective ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $41,168 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
Phase 1 | |
5 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $16,705 |
Phase 2 | |
3 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $46,040 |
MBA for Supply Chain Managers – Standard Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
Phase 1 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
1 online elective ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $41,168 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
Phase 1 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Phase 2 | |
4 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $46,040 |
MBA Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
4 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $13,364 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $31,145 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
7 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $23,387 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $36,017 |
MBA for Accountants – Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
3 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $27,804 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
2 core courses ($3,341 per course) | $6,682 |
6 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $32,676 |
MBA for Supply Chain Managers – Accelerated Route
Applied Project Route | |
---|---|
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
1 core course ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
3 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $10,023 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
Applied project | $5,151 |
TOTAL | $24,463 |
Course-based Route | |
Program Application Fee | $233 |
Program Admission Fee | $913 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee | $348 |
1 core course ($3,341 per course) | $3,341 |
6 online electives ($3,341 per course) | $20,046 |
Elective in-residence (Canada) | $4,454 |
TOTAL | $29,335 |
Estimated program tuition cost (2024-2025)
Total tuition costs for the MBA will vary based on how a student chooses to complete Phase 2. For a student who takes all courses from Athabasca University and chooses to complete 2 online electives, 1 in-residence elective and an applied project, tuition would be $50,843. If the student instead chose to complete 5 online electives and 1 in-residence elective, tuition would be $55,715. Application and admission fees are included in the above calculation. AU Graduate Student Association fees are not included.
Tuition fees for students in the Accelerated Admission Route will vary based on how a student chooses to complete Phase 2. For a student who takes all courses from Athabasca University and chooses to complete 4 online electives, 1 in-residence elective and an applied project, tuition would be $31,145. If the student instead chooses to complete 7 online electives and 1 in-residence elective, tuition would be $36,017. Application, admission, and applicable transfer credit fees are included in the above calculation. AU Graduate Student Association fees are not included.
Other fees
Course Withdrawal Processing Fee1: | $453 |
Applied Project Deferral Fee | $453 |
Comprehensive Examination Fee (repeats): | $310 |
Program Transfer Fee: | $135 |
AU Graduate Student Association Fee (per credit): | $14 |
Transfer Credit Evaluation Fee (1 time): | $348 |
Program Continuation Fee: | $698 |
Letter of Permission Fee: | $100 |
Applied Project Extension Fee | $434 |
1 The course withdrawal processing fee is a mandatory administrative fee charged when a student withdraws from a course. Refer to the information about course withdrawal under Course regulations and procedures.
Fee information effective Sep. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2025.
MBA in Hockey Management specialization*
* The Hockey Management specialization has closed to new admissions as of October 25, 2022.
Athabasca University has collaborated with the Business of Hockey Institute (BHI) to develop an elite, graduate level, online MBA with a specialization in hockey management to elevate the business of hockey. For the first time in hockey’s history, a program is in place to develop the leaders in the boardroom, rather than on the ice. The hockey-specific courses build on AU’s internationally acclaimed online MBA for executives program and focuses specifically on the issues, challenges, and opportunities confronting middle and senior level managers in a rapidly changing, global hockey industry.
This program is offered under the written consent of the Minister of Advanced Education effective Jan. 10, 2018, having undergone a quality assessment process and been found to meet the criteria established by the minister. Nevertheless, prospective students are responsible for satisfying themselves that the program and the degree will be appropriate to their needs (for example, acceptable to potential employers, professional licensing bodies, or other educational institutions).
Information effective Sep. 1, 2024 to Aug. 31, 2025.
Helpful links and resources:
Updated August 12, 2024 by Office of the Registrar (calendar@athabascau.ca)