Ivey, the highest-ranked non-US business school by Bloomberg, seeks future leaders with diverse backgrounds. Its international focus and case study approach set it apart in Canada.
Ivey, the leading Canadian business school, has known change. Ranked as the top non-US business school by Bloomberg, Ivey has over the years reduced the length of its full-time MBA to 12 months, launched a masters in management degree with a Paris-headquartered network, and an EMBA in China.Internationalization is a consistent theme. It less recently set up a campus in Hong Kong. More than 64% of faculty are from outside Canada, according to the most recent rankings data. Ivey, known as the “Harvard of Canada” for its focus on case studies, distributes more than 500 cases centred on Asia Pacific companies; 750 translated into Chinese.
Ivey students come from around the world, bringing diversity to the classroom that recruiters crave, says J.D. Clarke, executive director of recruitment and admissions for master’s programs at Ivey, in this interview with BusinessBecause.
Case studies bring learning to life. But there are opportunities for practical immersion in China, India and South America among other global locations.
With around 100 faculty members, Ivey is small by global standards. This forms a tight-knit community.
A powerful alumni network has been formed over a decade within global MBA rankings. 40% are in senior management positions, suggests J.D. Alumni success is illustrated by the fact that Ivey MBAs have the highest weighted salaries among Canadian schools – $96,990.
This is a sign that Ivey’s decision to switch to a 12-month program is paying off – a move which sets them apart in the increasing competitive North American market.
Competition among business schools in Canada has increased. What makes Ivey unique?
We focus on quality, not quantity. This means we can choose the very best. And we take the time to get to know candidates from the beginning of the recruitment process, with a strong emphasis on the importance of fit for the student.
Ivey also demands extensive prior work experience and unlike many of our competitors, we are holding firm on this requirement. This means the classroom experience is that much stronger and that students get that much more from their classmates.
And finally our graduates get results. Ivey has the highest job placement rate and highest starting salaries of any MBA school in Canada, according to the Financial Times, and is recognized as the best international business school by Bloomberg Businessweek.
What are you looking for in MBA applicants and what can they do to stand out?
Ivey is looking for interesting students with strong academic backgrounds coupled with significant complimentary work experience.
We view the MBA program as a transformational experience for ambitious leaders who want to hone their skill-set, develop their leadership abilities and accelerate their career success.
Ivey students come from around the world, bringing incredible diversity to the classroom. Our international students are high-quality, globally cosmopolitan individuals with varied worldly experience in-line with what recruiters are looking for.
In 2006 the Ivey MBA degree was reduced in length. What are the benefits of this model?
Our 12-month program is intense and demanding – a classroom experience like no other in Canada, with the best return on investment compared with our direct competitors.
This is possible in large part because of Ivey’s Career Management team, [which] is widely regarded as the best in the country, attracting top flight employers from around North America. Our placement stats illustrate what we have been saying over and over – that you do not need a two-year program and an internship to achieve your career goals.
That's not to say that a one-year program is right for every person, but our employment statistics demonstrate where students can go with a one-year program, and that includes those who are looking to change industries.
Ivey is smaller than other international business schools. What impact does this have on teaching and learning?
Ivey has chosen to focus on quality and selectivity when it comes to student recruitment. As a result students are exposed to a tight-knit, dynamic classroom experience which focuses on leadership development.
However, graduates also join a robust alumni network, with 40% of all Ivey alumni holding the title of Chair, President, Vice-President, Managing Director or Partner, or are in other areas of the C-Suite, and boasts more emerging leaders in Canada’s "Top 40 Under 40" list than any other business school.
Ivey has been referred to as the "Harvard of Canada" for its focus on case studies. Why do students value the case method?
Our students value real-world, experiential learning – Ivey maintains you can't be lectured into becoming a great decision maker. Driven by case method teaching, our classroom brings business scenarios to life, enforcing the need to become comfortable making decisions when faced with uncertainty.
The business school has a campus in Hong Kong. What opportunities are there for international immersion?
Ivey is proud to be the first international business school to set-up a campus in Hong Kong and [to] have had strong ties in the region for over three decades.
Ivey MBA students are offered international study trip opportunities, exposing them to on-the-ground experiences with companies in China, India and South America. We firmly feel the best way to learn about international business is to experience different business cultures first-hand, rather than simply reading about them.
Student Reviews
Western University - Ivey Business School
The Faculty of Information Media
The Faculty of Information Media excels in not only introducing students to crucial angles and aspects of media and communication studies, but also listens carefully to students to teach them about the aspects of culture they interact with regularly, allowing students to apply their learned skills to their preferred field immediately. The University promotes the growth of different communities not only through vast course selection, but through extracurriculars and an active student body as well. The winters are harsh, but it's very easy to be kept busy.
UWO
Western University in London, Ontario, excels with its exceptional academics, picturesque campus, and strong educational support. The university's blend of beautiful scenery and ample resources fosters a stimulating learning environment. Its diverse opportunities, from research to extracurriculars, prepare students for success in various fields. I recommend Western University for those seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.
Western University: Fostering Growth and Diversity
I am currently in my fourth year at Western University, pursuing a unique combination of International Relations and Digital Communications. My time here has been nothing short of transformative, and I'd like to share a brief review of my university experience.
Western University has been a place of remarkable opportunities for me. The campus exudes a vibrant atmosphere that encourages students to get involved, and I've taken full advantage of this. From joining student organizations to participating in events and workshops, there's always something happening on campus that fosters personal growth and community engagement.
What truly sets my university apart is the exceptional International Relations program it offers. As one of only two schools in Canada providing this niche field, Western has allowed me to delve deeply into my passion. The program's hands-on approach, with group projects and simulations, has not only expanded my knowledge but also honed my practical skills, making me feel well-prepared for my future career.
Moreover, Western University's commitment to mental health and well-being is commendable. It's reassuring to be part of a university that prioritizes the mental health of its students, providing the necessary support systems and resources to ensure our well-being throughout our academic journey.
As a black student with ADHD, I've found Western to be exceptionally accommodating and accessible. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity is evident, and I've felt welcomed and supported in every aspect of my university life!
More academic support is needed
It’s a great university with great programs. Everything have worked out the way I expected university to be, but just a little bit more academic support would be great. The information regarding academic support is posted but for some classes, when I find it difficult because there is not sufficient level of support (understaffed)
Great
I would definitely recommend UWO. It has a great student experience. Resources are always available to those who need them and their number one priority is students. One thing I dislike is they’re academic consideration system.
Computer science
The computer science program at UWO offers a solid foundation in theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. The faculty is knowledgeable and supportive, and the program emphasizes collaboration and teamwork. Overall, the program prepares students well for a variety of careers in technology. The computer science program at UWO offers a solid foundation in theoretical and practical aspects of computer science. The faculty is knowledgeable and supportive, and the program emphasizes collaboration and teamwork. Overall, the program prepares students well for a variety of careers in technology.
Life Balance
I have loved my first year at the University of Western Ontario. I am in Kinesiology and I am also on the varsity track and field team. Western has strong academics as well as great sports teams. The student athlete balance Western has provided me has taught me numerous skills that will help me in the future. I would definitely recommend Western to any student athlete looking to compete at the highest level while still getting a great education.
Western: A Dream Come True
Western University is known for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and vibrant campus life. With a wide range of programs, world-class facilities, and renowned professors, Western provides students with an education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. The campus is situated in London, Ontario, a city known for its cultural events, outdoor activities, and vibrant downtown. The university also offers a range of extracurricular activities and clubs, allowing students to pursue their passions and make meaningful connections with their peers. With all these features and more, it's no surprise that I love attending Western University.
Personal Recommendation of University of Western
As a current student at University of Western Ontario, I can confidently say that my experience thus far has been nothing short of exceptional. When I was first looking into potential universities to attend, I was drawn to Western because of its reputation for academic excellence, as well as its strong sense of community.
Throughout my time here, I have found that this reputation is well-deserved. The professors are knowledgeable and engaging, and the coursework is challenging but rewarding. Additionally, there are a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs available to students, which has allowed me to explore my interests and meet new people.
One thing that I appreciate about Western is its commitment to student well-being. There are a variety of resources available to students, including mental health services and academic advising. This has made it easy for me to navigate any challenges that I have encountered during my time here.
In terms of the campus itself, I have found it to be well-maintained and easy to navigate. The facilities are modern and up-to-date, and there are plenty of places to study, socialize, and relax. Additionally, the university is located in a beautiful part of London, Ontario, which has allowed me to explore the city and take advantage of everything it has to offer.
Overall, I would highly recommend University of Western Ontario to anyone looking for a high-quality education in a supportive and vibrant community. The university has exceeded my expectations in every way, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful institution.
MAC program
Western University is a one of a kind experience in Canada. It has a beautiful campus, and the student life is welcoming and extremely fun. The program i am in is Media and Communications, formerly Media, Information, and Technoculture. This degree provides me with theoretical understandings of media industries, as well as writing and project based learning.
Great Academic
I have been absolutely loving my time here at Western University because of the welcoming campus life and close knit community. Signature events like Hoco and O-Week were so much fun and truly brought the student body together, creating a sense of unity and school pride. Also, Western is an excellent place to study and grow my academic capabilities as I feel like I'm learning something new everyday. The strong balance between academics and a fun student experience makes Western University an amazing institution to attend.
My Western University Experience
Western University has a beautiful campus and a university bubble feel. It's located in a small charming city, London, Ontario and there are students everywhere you go. The residence experience is a particularly fond memory for me. Living in a traditional residence, I connected with many other students, created lasting friendships and got the dorm experience you see in movies. I would highly recommend Western's Ivey Business School. To get in you can take your first two years in a program of your choice and then apply at the end of the second year, completing your last two years in Ivey. With this 2 2 model, you complete university with an Honours Business Administration degree. Still, a dual degree program is offered, and a fifth year is required to finish the requirements of your prior program to graduate with both degrees. Learning from the intelligent students in your classroom is part of the experience, and seeing your sectionmates daily creates an environment to meet new people and make new friends. The main thing I want you to take away from this review is the ability to make friends at Western. The culture is inclusive, friendly and fun and it's a place where anyone can find their people!
