Business Administration – Certificate Courses

Business Administration

This course introduces you to the nature and scope of decision making in business and provides an overview of the functional areas of management, marketing, human resources, finance, and operations. Using a case study approach, you will use business frameworks for defining and analyzing business problems and developing solutions and plans of action.

It is strongly recommended you take this course first in the Certificate in Business Administration and Diploma in Business Administration. 

Business Writing

This course prepares you to become a better workplace communicator. You will focus on ways to strategically plan, format, and send business messages — presentations, letters, e-mails, proposals, and more — leading to better efficiency and efficacy on the job.

Those wishing to assess and add to their business writing skills will find this course a confidence builder. Developing the self-assurance to communicate effectively in the workplace will be the main goal, and you will benefit from the practical approach to building these skills. You will identify the characteristics of effective communication and learn how to successfully critique business documents.

You will also have at least one other goal, and that is to improve your confidence in your ability to communicate effectively. In a business environment, egos and professional reputations are on the line, and people often feel threatened. The result is either poor communication, or no communication at all.  Being an effective business communicator has many advantages and rewards. Some are financial, and others relate to your emotional well being. It is important to recognize that communicating in your job is key to not only your success, but also to your enjoyment and your perception of acceptable self-worth in the workplace.

Delivering messages effectively allows you to share ideas and contribute, and to lead and inspire others.

This course will focus on seven key topics:

• Today's Successful Business Communicator
• Presentations
• Characteristics of Effective Business Writing
• Direct Messages
• Unwelcome Messages
• Persuasive Messages
• Career Messages

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Financial Accounting

This course is an introduction to financial accounting. You will be introduced to the accounting cycle as well as the preparation of journal entries and financial statements. Other topics covered include the accounting for:

• cash
• accounts receivable
• inventory
• capital assets
• current liabilities
• owner’s equity

A strong knowledge of the principles of accounting gives you the power to make sound business decisions.

Marketing

This course has been designed to introduce you to the fundamentals of marketing. You will learn the fundamentals of key marketing theories, concepts, and principles as well as their application in making sound marketing management decisions in a variety of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.

Part of the focus of this course is to give you two perspectives – that of an aspiring marketer but also to have you be a more astute consumer. When you consider that much of what is marketed are things we don't really need, it makes some sense to pay attention to cues and approaches so that we can make decisions that work for us - both professionally and personally.

We will cover a lot of diverse business concepts such as demographic and psychographic segments, understanding the history of marketing, product life cycles, the four p's, and marketing plan development. 

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Organizational Behaviour

This course will look at the impact that individuals, groups and structures have on human behaviour within any modern organization, from nonprofit to public sector to private sector. Organizations are made up of people who behave and act within certain constructs, and learning about these processes is important to understanding how to make organizations effective and productive.

Airport Operations

The objective of this course is to provide an understanding of operations management in the aviation industry with specific emphasis on the following key components:

• airport business development and finance
• airfield operations and maintenance
• terminal building operations
• airport security
• crash fire rescue
• environmental issues, community relations and career planning

Applied Communications Concepts

Utilizing basic interpersonal communication skills as a foundation, this course delves into developing a deeper understanding of more complex communication issues in business settings and enhancing communication skills. The course will focus on applying effective communication and conflict resolution skills through a discussion format.

Business Ethics

This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex ethical dilemmas in the corporate world. Through a blend of theory, immersive exercises, and case studies, you will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence individual and organizational decision-making, while also exploring the intersection between ethics and innovative realms like technology, artificial intelligence development, and the ever-evolving role of media.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, ethical conduct and social responsibility are more critical than ever. The conversation on business ethics and corporate social responsibility has captivated both the business community and the public, with the media consistently drawing our attention to the frequent occurrences of unethical conduct by corporations and executives. While media coverage tends to highlight egregious ethical transgressions, it is crucial to recognize that ethical challenges are not just lead media stories; they permeate our daily professional lives, presenting themselves as subtle dilemmas that demand our attention.

In this course you will delve into these compelling subjects, dissecting the negative implications and effects unethical practices have on companies, employees, customers, partners, and investor confidence. You will explore the critical role played by ethics in driving overall organizational performance and uncover the harsh truth that neglecting ethical issues can lead to undesirable, even disastrous consequences.

Business Intelligence and Data Analytics Fundamentals

Become proficient in fundamentals of business intelligence and data analytics. This course will provide the framework for you to understand, use and evaluate a variety of techniques and skills in analyzing data sets and making appropriate interpretations of the data.

Business Law

It is essential for business people to acquire a general understanding of the law as it affects businesses in the conduct of their operation and the legal framework within which management decisions take place. Topics include:

• the Canadian legal system
• claims and court system
• intentional torts
• unintentional torts
• law of contracts
• law of agency
• employment and insurance
• business structures
• e-commerce
• patents, copyright, trademarks and industrial design

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Change Management

Change management is all about executing strategies to achieve goals and objectives. This course focuses on managing the motivation, behaviours, business controls and work environment in order to introduce, stabilize and normalize changes that are necessary to implement new strategies. Topics include the types of change, change planning, organizational readiness, pacing, prioritizing objectives, monitoring progress and business controls, behavioural vs. non-behavioural considerations, leading change and change execution.

This course addresses managing change from three perspectives:

1. The type of change and the situational context in which it is intended
2. The change continuum and its effect on people, and execution of change strategies
3. The planning and implementation of a change management program; the triggers and tools to manage the transition

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Cloud Computing for Business

Cloud Computing is now fundamental to the digital economy and labour market. It is the on-demand availability of computer system resources, especially data storage and computing power. Employers value people who can understand and evaluate the design, construction and structures of cloud systems. This course introduces you to cloud computing: its history, current methods and systems, economic advantages for small and large businesses and organizations. Explores how the progressively complex area of cloud computing creates business value.

This course will also help you understand different service models and practice key job skills, such as setting up a cloud environment and constructing and employing a solution in the Cloud. You will learn cloud computing service models such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS) and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). You will explore other subjects, including security and disaster recovery.

Computing Concepts

This new and improved course will increase your productivity in both the workplace and at home. Explore hardware/software integration, discover networking fundamentals and the "cloud". Employ Microsoft apps to gather interrelated data for multi-user collaboration, construct dynamic and engaging presentations, acquire sophisticated financial proficiencies, develop database competencies, create and annotate PDFs, and learn to tweak your online presence using HTML coding.

(Note: This course has a new course code. It was formerly TECJ100)

Data Analytics Coding Fundamentals

This course will explore the fundamentals of coding and scripting for data analytics. You will develop the ability to script and code for basic tasks in data analytics in common data analytic tools such as R, Python and Excel. This will allow you to import and export data appropriately, perform fundamental data manipulations, and automate basic analysis elements.

Data Analytics Provisioning, Importing, Extracting and Manipulation

This course will explore the fundamentals of coding and scripting for data analytics. You will develop the ability to script and code for basic tasks in data analytics in common data analytic tools such as SQL, R, Python and Excel. This will allow you to import and export data appropriately, perform fundamental data manipulations, and automate basic analysis elements.

Data Visualization and Reporting

Develop your skills in data visualization and reporting. Learn how to use common industry reporting and visualization tools such as Excel and Tableau. You will also learn how to evaluate strengths and weaknesses of various data visualization techniques and the fundamentals of dashboard design for various types of reporting.

Digital Communication

In a world where we increasingly live and work online, managing both your personal and professional digital communications and understanding the technology behind digital communication tools such as Zoom, Skype, Teams, or Messenger has become imperative. This course will provide you with the skills, tools, and plans to succeed and communicate effectively and efficiently in an online environment. You will gain awareness of most relevant and common communication technologies and will be able to decide upon the most appropriate technology according to your purpose or need.

You will learn how to effectively use and compare video conferencing tools, mobile chat platforms, social media or other online communities, and mobile collaboration options. This course will enhance and develop your professional communication skills in the digital and online environment in ways that are different from face-to-face. Other aspects of online communications, including email and social media use, document collaboration and content sharing, online security, and online ethics and behaviour will be covered in this course. Gain the skills you need to confidently navigate the digital world.

Funding

This course is eligible for the StrongerBC future skills grant. To register using this grant please first review your eligibility and then select the StrongerBC future skills grant fee type below. 

Economics

This course introduces learners to economics and provides an overview of Canadian microeconomics and macroeconomics. The course covers basic concepts related to demand and supply, opportunity cost, scarcity, elasticity, and how resources are allocated in the economy. Other topics include market structures, gross domestic product, inflation, unemployment, fiscal policy and monetary policy. 

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Employment Law and Labour Relations

This course will examine some of the legal principles that, to an ever-increasing extent, govern the employer-employee relationship. In the non-union sector, the common law of contract and several employment related statutes—such as the Employment Standards Act and the Human Rights Code—are of principal concern. Course components may include reviewing relevant statutes, analyzing judicial decisions, class presentations and discussion.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Finance

This course is designed to follow the introduction to finance and continues using material presented in Financial Accounting. You will be introduced to:

• basic financial management theory
• financial and operating leverage
• project planning
• financial statement analysis
• capital structure
• capital investment decisions
• forecasting
• sources of financing

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Human Resource Management

This course focuses on the management of human resources (HRM) in a Canadian context. The topics to be covered in the course include:

• a strategic view of the role HR plays in today’s organizations
• HRM planning and staffing, recruitment and selection
• employee training and development
• performance management
• compensation and reward systems
• employment contracts
• managing the HRM process in a unionized environment

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Human Side of Information Systems

How is information technology changing our workplaces, homes and society as a whole?

Complement your technical knowledge by examining how computing and communication technologies are transforming business, education, health care, government and everyday life. Engage with your instructor and fellow learners in discussing current topics in privacy, security, intellectual property, global development and community management.

The online format of this course lets you study from anywhere, anytime.

The course is 13 weeks in duration. Students log in to the course and communicate with the instructor and fellow students via the course management system, Brightspace. View our page about online learning for further information.

Text: Web-based readings only

Intercultural Communication in the Workplace

As a global citizen, an understanding of cultural difference and ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities is critical for work in both local and international settings. Find out how power imbalances can impact interactions, discover practical tools to strengthen inclusivity, and develop the interpersonal communication skills required to develop constructive relationships in a diverse workplace.

International Business

This course examines the global environment in which firms operate and how that environment affects the strategies and choices the companies make. We will examine how businesses are managed across different countries, considering factors both external and internal to the company. For example, while considering international expansion, a firm needs to take into account exchange rates, international taxation, free trade agreements, market conditions, culture, language, politics and many other factors which will affect its operations, but over which it has little control. In the context of these external factors, a firm must then make internal decisions to devise a strategy effective for operations in the global environment. Does the firm choose to export its products or invest in production facilities in a new country? Should the company buy production facilities or businesses already present or build its own? What about a joint venture with a local entrepreneur? How do local culture and language influence domestic and international operations of the firm?  

This course will investigate these and other questions as part of an exploration into how international corporate strategy is shaped and what are the economic factors that influence it. More broadly, the course will offer insights into major topics as well as emerging themes in international business.

International Marketing

In this course you will learn to recognize marketing issues and problems; analyze research information; apply diagnostic tools; perform research for international marketing plans; participate in the development, implementation, and management of an international marketing plan; and evaluate an organization’s marketing efforts and strategies to enhance value, and attract and retain customers.

Note: This course has an updated course code. It was formerly BMIT 130.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Interpersonal Business Communication

The primary goal of this course is to assist in improving the effectiveness of your interpersonal communication in a workplace and personal setting. As a participant, you will be challenged to examine the way you communicate, the effect that your communication has on others and the application of the course material in a workplace settings. This is a dynamic course structure, one that will require introspection and involvement.

This course examines communication from many perspectives and explores the skills that improve interpersonal communication, the communication between two people. The course will help to develop effective communication approaches for personal and workplace relationships through a thorough study of communication concepts.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

IT Privacy and Security

Concerned about IT security issues? Want to understand how your privacy may be at risk? Assess the risks and understand the available tools to provide a secure environment in the office and on your personal devices. An industry expert will lead you through this course, employing a variety of activities including news stories to inform and illustrate how IT security and privacy can be managed – with a plan.

Complete case studies and self-assessment exercises for reinforcement and self-evaluation of the concepts presented in the course.

The online format of the course lets you study from anywhere, anytime.

The course is 13 weeks in duration. Students login to the course and communicate with the instructor and fellow students via the course management system, Brightspace. View our page about online learning for further information.

Text: Web-based readings only.

(Note: This course has a new course code. It was formerly TECJ425)

Leadership Skills Development

"I've talked to him three times already, and he's still coming to work late!"

"They've made an effort to improve, but the results haven't changed!"

It's all about keeping employees engaged and motivated and about getting results! This activity rich course provides students opportunities to learn about and practice effective and targeted management techniques to bring out the best in their work teams. It also addresses methods to address issues and to manage challenges in the workplace that require coaching or correction. Focused on applying situational management concepts to real life situations, this course will help students to grow confident in their supervisory abilities, and to be better prepared for management opportunities or roles.

Machine Learning Fundamentals

This course covers fundamental concepts and components of machine learning (ML) such as Python programming, regression, classification and clustering, and essential tools, such as modern data visualization, and skills to fully understand the field of ML. This course is designed as an elective for the Professional Development Certificate in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics and a stand-alone course for those with data science and coding backgrounds. 

Additionally, the course is packed with practical exercises based on real-life examples, so you will also get some hands-on practice building your own models. This course will then ladder to an AI micro-credential that is currently under development. 

Making Sense of Management

This course deals with management thought and practice. You will be provided with some “how-tos” relating to various management imperatives, e.g. strategy development, motivating and managing individuals and teams, managing customers, operating efficiently and effectively and, managing yourself.

The course asks you to critically think about what management really means in your own day-to-day work. The intent is to provide you with the knowledge to be comfortable and confident in tackling real-life management challenges.
If you are a student, a first-time supervisor, a recently appointed project manager, a professional who manages more than yourself, or someone simply interested in the evolution of management then Making Sense of Management  is for you.

Management Accounting

This course is an introduction to the fundamental concepts of management accounting. It complements concepts covered in Financial Accounting by focusing on the accounting functions internal to the organization.

Management Accounting is concerned with the data and techniques used in the decision-making process. This includes:

• analysis and accounting for costs
• exposure to cost behaviour (cost-volume-profit)
• the contribution approach
• variance analysis
• differential cash flows
• budgeting

The course will also discuss recent developments such as activity-based costing.

Management Communication

The course is an introduction to business communication from a management perspective. Our studies will include:

• developing communication strategies
• enhancing written and oral messages
• writing reports, proposals and executive summaries
• diagnosing and addressing some of the more challenging management communication issues such as crisis management and media relations

Also covered will be managing communications in related professional settings including meetings, oral presentations and media interviews.

Management Computing

This course provides a brief introduction to the historical development of computers, the fundamentals of using a PC using the Windows desktop operating system, and hands-on training in the use of office automation application. Specifically, the course will offer instruction on the use of:

• Windows 10
• Word 2016
• Excel 2016
• PowerPoint 2016

We will also discuss Web browsers (specifically Microsoft Internet Explorer, FireFox and Chrome) and learn more about the Internet and Cloud Computing. The course will also spend time on using these applications together, linking information from one application to another. The emphasis of the learning outcomes will be on practical business management applications.

Management Consulting

This course serves as a foundation course for those of you intending to enter into the management consulting field on a full- or part-time basis. During this course you should expect to research and develop a business plan for a consulting practice in a field of your own choosing. Topics include:

• professional management consulting in Canada
• the management consulting process
• organization and management of a consulting practice
• legal issues
• professional ethics
• business planning
• marketing
• networking
• client service
• quality control
• personal career development and management

Management Practices

This course provides managers and students who aspire to management positions with an opportunity to assess and enhance their own use of contemporary management techniques and practices.

Based on the extensive use of simulations in a workshop setting, the course focuses on:

• strategic management
• decision-making
• leadership and supervision
• group process
• conflict resolution
• employee development
• performance planning and review

Managing in the Digital Economy

The business environment is rapidly changing as a result of the evolution of information technology and systems. It does not matter whether you work in a large company or small, for yourself or for others, for profit or public service – technology affects your business decisions.

This course will demystify the opportunities and challenges created by technology and provide guidance on how to successfully leverage technology for business success while mitigating risk. This is not an IT course; it is a business course for Business Leaders/Managers/decision-makers (current or aspiring) in any industry.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Marketing Communication

This course will build on skills and knowledge introduced in your introduction to marketing course. In marketing communication, you will develop communication planning strategies which will support your organization. 

This overview will work to enhance the development of integrated marketing communication strategies, including planning, development of key messages, the use of the appropriate marketing communication tools and development of key audience segments.

Through project, individual and group work, you will build practical skills in developing a marketing communication plan.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Negotiation Skills

Knowing how to negotiate is critical. Whether between suppliers, clients, other managers, external stakeholders or even family members, negotiation isn’t about winners and losers. Traditional approaches to negotiation promote competitive tactics, often resulting in unsatisfactory outcomes for one or both negotiators. Collaborative or interest-based negotiation aims for agreements that respond to the needs, goals and objectives of all parties. Gain the insight, skill and experience you need to uncover the real interests of yourself and the other party, and practical tools and techniques to create more value with less conflict during any negotiation process.

This course will provide learners an overarching strategic negotiating framework and approach that is flexible to suit each individual style, skillset, and situation. Negotiation concepts will offer a foundation for effective negotiating, and thoughtful application and repeated practice of strategic negotiating skills will make collaborative negotiation a habit. You will prepare for negotiations, assess your alternatives, build a climate of collaboration, and get beyond stubborn position-taking to develop agreements that work for both sides.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Operations Management

This course will introduce the basic concepts involved in the design and management of the core function of any business: the transformation process that produces the good or service delivered to the customer.

Despite the wide diversity of firms and industries, firms generally select from a limited set of transformation processes. Each of these processes has its own set of strengths and limiting characteristics. This course focuses on understanding these process tradeoffs as they support the firm's strategic objectives as well as the resulting implications for efficiency and effectiveness. In addition, the course will explore the appropriate "best practice" to ensure that customer value is maximized once a particular transformation process has been chosen.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Organizational Diversity and Inclusion

In order to thrive and reap the advantages of a diverse workforce, it is vital for organizations to adopt and integrate equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles at all levels. Harness the power of diversity in the workplace by discovering how it drives creativity, boosts employee participation and retention, and provides better services to clients. Learn to identify the barriers to diversity and inclusion in organizations and develop the practical skills to build inclusive, equitable and innovative workplaces.

Predictive Data Analytics and Modelling

Using standard industry-accepted informatics tools, you will design and create descriptive, diagnostic and predictive models. Learn how to translate stakeholder needs into model designs and understand the ethical implications of the analytical models you use.

Professional Sales Skills

Based on the consultative sales approach, this course focuses on the self-management, business development and selling techniques that facilitate a successful career in modern professional sales. Lectures, discussions, group learning activities, hand-in assignments and simulated sales presentations provide you with a step-by-step approach to building relationships and servicing customer needs. Topics include:

• selling as a profession
• social and ethical issues
• buyer behaviour
• preparation for relationship selling
• the Relationship Selling process
• time management
• negotiation skills and other keys to a successful sales career

Project Management

Get a handle on your project. Whatever your area of expertise, learn and apply the fundamental concepts of effective project management. A seasoned PMP designated professional will work with you throughout a project management cycle: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling and closing. This course will have participants take on the role of project team member to learn and apply the essential concepts of effective project management throughout a project management life cycle.

(Note: This course has a new course code. It was formerly TECJ410)

Format

The online format of the course lets you study from anywhere, anytime.

The course is 13 weeks in duration. Students login to the course and communicate with the instructor and fellow students via the course management system, Brightspace. For more information, visit our page on online learning.

This course is also available for in-person, on-campus instruction in a classroom environment.

Selected Management Topics

2019 Topic: Leadership Skill Development

"I’ve talked to him three times already, and he’s still coming to work late!"

"They’ve made an effort to improve, but the results haven’t changed!"

"There’s nothing I can do. He’s a member of the union!"

It’s all about keeping employees engaged and motivated and about getting results! This activity rich course provides students opportunities to learn about and Practice effective and targeted management techniques to bring out the best in their work teams. It also addresses methods to address issues and to manage challenges in the workplace that require coaching or correction. Focused on applying situational management concepts to real life situations, this program will help students to grow confident in their supervisory abilities, and to be better prepared for management opportunities or roles.

Small Business Management

Small businesses represent a vital economic activity in Canada, and small business owners and managers must quickly develop a broad range of entrepreneurial and managerial skills in order to prosper and grow their companies.

BMBA 290 provides essential business skill development in marketing, business modelling and strategic planning, scaling up, understanding customers and delivering value, managing cash flow, funding and financing, intellectual property protection, and government compliance.

Social Media Marketing

As the internet has evolved to play a larger role in our daily lives, it has also developed into a powerful tool for businesses. But with so many possible platforms and technologies available online, where should a business focus its digital marketing efforts? In this course, you will learn about web-based business models, social media technologies and strategies, and digital marketing trends. We will also examine privacy and security considerations.

Note: This course has an updated course name. It was formerly called Social Marketing and E-Commerce.

Strategic Leadership

The objective of this course is to create an awareness of what constitutes the process of leadership, and the skills needed to effectively lead in a complex and constantly changing environment. This course is competency based, and emphasizes five essential elements:

• taking charge
• strategic visioning
• communications
• teamwork
• integrity

A variety of approaches are used in the delivery of the course. Selected movies bring to life in the classroom different leaders from a variety of backgrounds. In addition to discussing these leaders, short lectures develop in more depth the elements of leadership. Role-playing and other experiential exercises demonstrate some of the skills that are required to lead effectively.

Strategic Management

This course uses a strategic management approach to provide you with a systematic framework for evaluating the strategies, policies, design, productivity and performance of organizations.

View sample course outline (PDF). 

Strategy Execution

Using an intensive workshop format, this course explores the art of executing strategy in organizational settings. Topics include:

• strategy identification and risk assessment
• strategy mapping
• stakeholder identification and management
• management and control frameworks
• resource identification, acquisition, and management
• change management
• adapting and refining strategy execution in dynamic environments