From a thriving job scene to high quality of life—here’s why Canada could be the perfect destination for your MBA
When it comes to maximizing your MBA return on investment, location makes all the difference.Whether you’re aiming to boost your career prospects or improve your quality of life, Canada stands out as an exceptional choice for MBA hopefuls.
Voted the second-best country in the world by US News based on a variety of metrics, Canada offers a diverse and friendly environment, a thriving job market, and the ability to work after graduation.
Here are four reasons why Canada is a top destination for MBA students.
1. The Canadian visa process
Renowned for its accessible visa process that sets it apart from its southern neighbor, Canada is a strong destination for MBAs looking to break into the North American market.
Nigerian Catherine Kelechi-Onyeocha, a graduate of the one-year MBA at University of New Brunswick Saint John (UNB Saint John), chose Canada for its streamlined visa process, high-quality education, and thriving job market for post-graduation opportunities.
“The immigration process was very fast for me. I was looking for a location where I could settle after my MBA, without waiting years to start studying. In New Brunswick, the process was easy and fast,” she says.
One of the key advantages for international MBA students is Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which offers graduates the possibility to work in Canada for up to three years. With the permit requiring a minimum of eight months of study, this means that graduates from a one-year MBA are eligible to apply.
2. Cost-competitive and high-quality MBA programs
Studying for an MBA is an investment in your future, but it doesn’t have to come with an exorbitant price tag. Opting for a location with affordable tuition and living costs can result in significant savings and will boost your return on investment.
Catherine entered the program with extensive legal experience and a master’s in international business law. She sought an MBA that would expand her career prospects in the commercial sector. Affordability was crucial, but she was not willing to compromise on the quality of education and career preparation.
“Coming to Canada, I needed a university where I could qualify in the shortest possible time, that was on the map, within my financial capacity, and still gave me value. This is why I chose New Brunswick,” she explains.
Beyond learning the fundamentals of business and specialized knowledge in one of six MBA specializations, the program at UNB Saint John includes comprehensive training in soft skills. This ensures graduates are well-prepared for all aspects of business, from their first post-MBA job interview to high-level boardroom negotiations.
As a one-year program with tuition fees at just over CAD $25,000 for domestic students and CAD $35,000 for international students, it stands out as one of the most affordable MBAs on the market.
3. Gain strong career prospects
As a leading global economy, studying in Canada opens a wealth of career opportunities for MBA graduates.
Luckily, the MBA at UNB Saint John favors a career-oriented approach, bringing real-world business experience to the classroom to ensure graduates are equipped with enhanced knowledge and skillsets to bring to the workforce.
“The lecturers aren’t just academics, they’re businessmen with practical knowledge. Even before I arrived, I knew I was in for a practical experience that went beyond theory,” says Catherine.
This exposure pays off for graduates such as Catherine. Just six months into her MBA, she landed her current position as policy analyst for the government of New Brunswick.
“Everything I do in my work today is an application of the practical experience and hands-on learning of my MBA class. Thanks to my knowledge of international investment and business strategies, for example, I can evaluate potential markets and investment destinations,” says Catherine.
4. High quality of life
It’s not just career prospects that draw international students to Canada. Ranked third in the world for quality of life, Canada offers a vibrant and enriching environment for students.
Coming from Lagos, one of the largest cities in the world, Catherine was particularly attracted to the serene and flexible lifestyle that Saint John offers, located just a stone’s throw away from the ocean and surrounded by natural parks.
“I come from a large and crazy city, so I wanted to move to a calmer place that could offer me a high return on investment. Saint John gave me the community environment I was looking for,” she says.
From the Saint John campus, students are a short flight away from major urban centers such as Toronto and Montreal. But with as many as 80% of MBA graduates choosing to stay in the Saint John area post-graduation, local opportunities and quality of life make the city an attractive choice to build a career.
“New Brunswick is a home away from home. Even when you are an international student, you don't feel lonely. Everyone is so nice and receptive,” Catherine says.
Student Reviews
University of New Brunswick Saint John
Electrical & Computer Engineering
"University of New Brunswick is fantastic! Professors are knowledgeable and supportive, campus life is vibrant, and the curriculum is challenging yet rewarding. The supportive community and abundance of resources have made my university experience unforgettable. Highly recommended!"
A quality program for a mechanical engineer
I would Highly recommend the university.
The oldest university of Canada with most affordable fee structure. That is why it is the heaven for foreign students who wish to accuire quality education with less fee.
Review for Unb
One of the cheapest university in canada. I have really enjoyed my time here. Professors are great. Really good future opportunities. Everyone is very welcoming to international students here. The province is super cheap while comparing to other provinces.
Unb Rating
One of the cheapest university in canada. Super welcoming to international students. Cheap province compared to other provinces. Plenty of part time job opportunities. Would highly recommend unb to all fellas out there
My Program
The University is excellent in terms of infrastructure and wide variety of programs available. It has a beautiful campus with a lot of extracurricular activities going on in the campus. I would definitely recommend it to other prospective students looking forward to their undergrad and grad program.
Transformative Journey at UNB
I had the privilege of pursuing the Master of Electrical Engineering program at the University of New Brunswick (UNB), and I am delighted to share my review of this transformative academic experience.
From the moment I stepped onto the UNB campus, I was impressed by the vibrant and inclusive learning environment. The faculty and staff members demonstrated unwavering support and commitment to the success of their students. Their expertise, coupled with their passion for teaching, created an engaging and intellectually stimulating atmosphere.
One of the standout aspects of the program was its comprehensive and cutting-edge curriculum. The coursework covered a wide range of topics, including advanced electrical systems, renewable energy, power electronics, and control systems. Each course was meticulously designed to provide a strong theoretical foundation while incorporating practical applications and hands-on projects. This multidimensional approach greatly enhanced my understanding and prepared me for real-world challenges.
The research opportunities available within the program were exceptional. Collaborating with esteemed professors and industry partners, I had the privilege to work on groundbreaking projects that pushed the boundaries of electrical engineering. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and well-equipped labs provided the necessary resources to conduct experiments and delve deeper into my research interests.
The faculty members played an instrumental role in my academic and professional development. Their mentorship and guidance went beyond the classroom, as they encouraged critical thinking, fostered innovative ideas, and instilled a passion for lifelong learning. The professors' open-door policy and willingness to engage in thought-provoking discussions created a supportive and stimulating academic community.
Furthermore, UNB's emphasis on practical experience and industry collaboration enhanced the program's relevance to the professional world. Through co-op placements, internships, and networking events, I had numerous opportunities to connect with industry professionals, gain practical insights, and build valuable relationships. These experiences not only bolstered my technical skills but also provided a platform to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios.
The university's commitment to innovation and research excellence was evident through its involvement in cutting-edge projects and industry partnerships. UNB's reputation as a leading research institution in electrical engineering attracted industry leaders and experts, offering students unparalleled exposure and networking opportunities.
Lastly, the supportive and diverse community at UNB made my experience truly enriching. Interacting with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and cultures broadened my perspectives and fostered a collaborative learning environment. The university's commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity created a welcoming space where all voices were valued and respected.
In conclusion, the Master of Electrical Engineering program at the University of New Brunswick surpassed my expectations in every aspect. The program's rigorous curriculum, research opportunities, dedicated faculty, practical experiences, and inclusive community have shaped me into a well-rounded and highly competent professional in the field. I am immensely grateful for the transformative educational journey and the countless opportunities for growth and success that UNB provided.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Master of Electrical Engineering program at the University of New Brunswick to aspiring students who seek a world-class education, impactful research experiences, and a supportive academic community that nurtures personal and professional growth. UNB is a place where dreams turn into realities, and the possibilities are limitless.
UNB Opinion
This university is fun and culturally diverse, with teachers who care about their student's well-being.
I like the activity options. I feel like there's a club/society for everyone. Personally, I enjoy the arts and crafts events and am a part of the African and Caribbean society. I also like that the school takes bullying and racism seriously.
The only thing I dislike about the school is the culturally limited food options. I believe that the school's diversity in people should translate into diversity in food as well.
Lastly, I'd recommend the school, especially to those who prefer a slow-paced and quiet life.
Worth the money
UNB is one of the best university in Canada that is pocket friendly and also allows all its students to do co-ops. University of New Brunswick is a highly respected institution that provides students with an exceptional academic experience and numerous opportunities for practical experience and personal growth. The university's commitment to research, innovation, and sustainability, combined with its vibrant campus community and location in one of Canada's most charming cities, makes it an excellent choice for prospective students seeking a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
World-class education in a beautiful city
The one-year MBA program offers a fast-paced and intensive learning experience that is divided into five modules. This exceptional opportunity is designed for seasoned professionals who possess a wealth of work experience and seek to expand their knowledge and skills in a shorter timeframe. The small class sizes foster an interactive and engaging learning environment, allowing students to develop the necessary competencies to achieve career growth and advancement. With a focus on practical application and hands-on learning, the program equips students with the skills and expertise needed to excel in their chosen fields.
