[cliffhanger33]

Just wondering what are the top business schools we have in Canada? I know UBC Sauders Business School and SFU that we have here in BC are already pretty good.
I am aware that U of Western Ontario Richard Ivey has the best commerce program in Canada, as well as Queens, Rotman in UT, and other schools east of Canada.
If you were to rank top undergrad and MBA business schools in Canada only, how would you guys rank it and why?

[le fu]

If you're trying to decide which school to go to, just go east.

Nobody really cares about Sauder or SFU. Well, except Sauder students. Most of whom think they're really attending Harvard.

[jackmeister]

what do you want to learn in business school? different places offer different things. if you're just going in because you feel compelled to have a degree, then there is no difference between all the universities. I think UWO was regarded as "better" but its more of what you make out of it.

for MBA.. its mostly about the name of the school and the 3 letters behind your name, and the people you meet. if you have undergrad business then you do not learn much more from MBA

[Geoc]

Heard Wilfrid Laurier has a pretty reputable business faculty.

[Razor Ramon HG]

My two business professors graduated from Richard Ivey.

[twitchyzero]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8QrI-jYtZM

[Szeto]

^what he said

[haha13]

depends on what you want to do after you get your degree.

[cliffhanger33]

depends on what you want to do after you get your degree.

maybe into finance

[flagella]

Richard Ivey or Rotman I would say. You want to go for the one that's globally recognized. Having said that, if you can manage being top students here in SFU or UBC, you will still be well off. If you plan to remain average, then go for the one that's more well known.

[cliffhanger33]

I know ivey is well known in canada, but hows ivey known globally? i know UT and McGill are rlly well known globally but is U of WO recognized, let alone ivey? I mean of course its not for the "name" but it cud also be a factor when choosing schools. What i find pretty annoying is the fact that in Ivey, they require u to take 2 years of non business courses with Richard Ivey status in U of WO and on the 3rd year,when you maintain at least 80 percent average, thats when you actually enter Richard Ivey business school. I guess in a way, its good as this way makes you a more well-rounded student, but it could also be a hassle too.

[StylinRed]

HEC Montreal is ranked pretty high on some rankings list

Forbes had it in the top 10 Business schools outside of the USA etc

Financial Times says the MSc finance is top in the world etc (different i know but something to think about)

and I hear the Tuition is low

Richard Ivey, Sauder, Schulich of course

I've got 1 cousin @ HEC and 1 who just gradded Richard Ivey; the one who gradded Ivey can't find a job

[haha13]

i would suggest you get your bachelor's from a local uni then transfer to UT and get MBA then you can do finances with the big companies at toronto

[flagella]

You know, when it comes to business schools, it's really about YOU making full use of networking event and having the ability and charisma to network with professionals. I hear sentences like "he/she gradded from xxxx uni but still can't find a job." This really doesn't tell anything about the school.

[kknater]

Are you planning on working outside of Canada after you grad? cuz if not, the globally thing plays no part.

Its impossible to decide which school fits you best if you dont even know what you want out of it

[butter_sashimi]

I graduated from Rotman (undergrad) and I don't feel any more special than any other graduate. There is some pride in where you went to school but I don't recall my old classmates being overly proud or cocky about it. In fact, no one really cared. Everyone was preoccupied in what to do after getting their degrees which is just the next step in their life/blossoming career.

[cliffhanger33]

What about if you hv plans going to Asia to work, such as China or HK, or w/e, then whats globally recognized more?

[Nlkko]

UBC is a research intensive school. Unless you're into research, you won't get the most out of it.

The average person outside Canada wouldn't even know wtf is SFU or Ivey. Go to UBC and McGill if you want international prestige--like if you plan to work in China or something.

As for undergrad, if you can go to any school, preferably in the East near financial centers such as Toronto and NYC or a booming area such as Alberta. Take into account your budget as well as do your homework on campus life, weather, local community, etc. Then think about MBA after you work for a few years. Not much point of doing an MBA anywhere else but Ivy League. Schools can claim they have the best program but it could mean shit. A target school with a big alumni and professional network will always yield better grad employment result.

Avoid all the stories like: "I got a cousin went to Ivey and my other cousin went to Queens and the Queens guy can't find a job". There are many reason one might be unemployed. Look into statistics if you're interested in grad's employment number.

[jameswift]

MBA isn't worth the paper it's written on these days unless it's from a top school. Many people make the mistake of taking business as an undergrad and then taking an MBA. The amount you learn is pointless in my experience and the time plus salary increase has been described in magazines for the last few years.

Simply put, the cost and time does not pay itself back to the average graduate of an MBA program.

If you really want to be a big player you have to think about hitting up a teir one school and one that will allow you to network with the right people. Harvard, Yale, and Wharton are great schools not just because of their reputation, but the network.

If your plan is to go to New York and work in the Financial mecca of the world, your chances are much more defined going to a high profile school. The people you meet will blow your mind.

I never went to an Ivy school although I did spend half of one semester with a friend living on campus at Havard. The school was like any other but the drive of the students was unreal. The level of competition in the business program actually made me want to go back to school. It's what inspired me initially to do my CFA.

I'm not bashing UBC because I'm sure there are a lot of great networking opportunities there as well. There are a lot of Asian families with money that are sending their kids to Sauder so the network might still be good for those wanting to work more in the Asia Pacific (an area that is obviously growing).

I think you're better off being a networking machine in general and leave the MBA on the shelf.

[cliffhanger33]

that is true, in the end it is all about networking and who you have connections with to do business with
in a way, business is never a solid and stable career, theres always ups and downs, and risks to take

[zonda_s]

If you're trying to decide which school to go to, just go east.

Nobody really cares about Sauder or SFU. Well, except Sauder students. Most of whom think they're really attending Harvard.

As a 4th year Sauder student, I couldn't say that any better!

My prof even put it this way: most Sauder students think they are entitled to get the job they want. SFU students fight for the job they want.

[cliffhanger33]

As a 4th year Sauder student, I couldn't say that any better!

My prof even put it this way: most Sauder students think they are entitled to get the job they want. SFU students fight for the job they want.

Well from stats, is that true? How many sauders students actually come out with a good job ? where do most go to work?

[MG1]

Whoa.......... whoa, whoa................. where's our resident star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright.......... from Sauder?

I forgot his name, but he was, Westward leading, still proceeding, guiding us mere mortals to the perfect light. He was a rap star or something.

I'm surprised he hasn't graced this thread with his holiness...........:bowdown::bowdown::bowdown:


I'm just teasing................

[Sid Vicious]

definitely here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJl0XuDKSjc

[drunkrussian]

overall nobody really cares what school you go to - it's not about the degree but your skills, experience and value. The school just provides the degree.

With that said, i don't know about outside BC, but when it comes to BC sfu vs. ubc, the former will give you a far better chance to get some really good work experience in, from the classes you take as well as the programs offered. This will maximize your value as an employee, like i said.

If you're looking for to go international and are just looking for the name - yeah then maybe UBC is better...although I'd still argue it's more about what you bring to the table.

[rien]

Well from stats, is that true? How many sauders students actually come out with a good job ? where do most go to work?

UBC Sauder BCOM employment stats for graduating 2010 class
http://www.sauder.ubc.ca/Careers/For_Employers/~/media/Files/Careers/Sauder%20Annual%20Report%202010/Sauder_BCC%20Sauder_UBC_Annual%20Report%202010_WEB-MINI-BCOM.ashx

UBC MBA if anyone's interested
http://www.sauder.ubc.ca/Careers/For_Employers/~/media/Files/Careers/Sauder%20Annual%20Report%202010/Sauder_BCC%20Sauder_UBC_Annual%20Report%202010_WEB-MINI-MBA.ashx

[GabAlmighty]

Nobody cares about your degree. They care about where you did your Masters.

[flagella]

MBA isn't worth the paper it's written on these days unless it's from a top school. Many people make the mistake of taking business as an undergrad and then taking an MBA. The amount you learn is pointless in my experience and the time plus salary increase has been described in magazines for the last few years.

Simply put, the cost and time does not pay itself back to the average graduate of an MBA program.

If you really want to be a big player you have to think about hitting up a teir one school and one that will allow you to network with the right people. Harvard, Yale, and Wharton are great schools not just because of their reputation, but the network.

If your plan is to go to New York and work in the Financial mecca of the world, your chances are much more defined going to a high profile school. The people you meet will blow your mind.

I never went to an Ivy school although I did spend half of one semester with a friend living on campus at Havard. The school was like any other but the drive of the students was unreal. The level of competition in the business program actually made me want to go back to school. It's what inspired me initially to do my CFA.

I'm not bashing UBC because I'm sure there are a lot of great networking opportunities there as well. There are a lot of Asian families with money that are sending their kids to Sauder so the network might still be good for those wanting to work more in the Asia Pacific (an area that is obviously growing).

I think you're better off being a networking machine in general and leave the MBA on the shelf.

How's your CFA going? Writing my level 3 this June and I definitely hate studying for it :lol

[liu13]

uwo is a top 10 party university

[zonda_s]

Well from stats, is that true? How many sauders students actually come out with a good job ? where do most go to work?

Depends what a you would define as a good job and what another would (to each their own). I've noticed that some people with little or no work experience starting from entry level positions (eg. bank teller) and having to work their way up. Of course, some are whiney, get a little arrogant saying the graduated from Sauder and try to flaunt it in an interview/conversation (those are the ones I really hate).

Co-op students tend to get the upper hand in getting "good jobs" because of their experience in the specialization/industry they want to be in.

UBC Sauder BCOM employment stats for graduating 2010 class
http://www.sauder.ubc.ca/Careers/For...MINI-BCOM.ashx

Good find. I find it somewhat misleading though, since it doesn't show statistics on job roles (eg. entry, supervisory, managerial, etc). Someone could be a receptionist in an investment banking firm and be categorized under that area (correct me if I'm wrong).

[Wongtouski]

If you're trying to decide which school to go to, just go east.

Nobody really cares about Sauder or SFU. Well, except Sauder students. Most of whom think they're really attending Harvard.

I have to qualify your statement sir and say that many of us who were in the program do not share this sentiment, in fact we all mutually agree that the program sucks balls. We got offered very generic courses that provided no real advantage compared with other universities, and the photocopied case studies from Harvard that has a "DO NO DUPLICATE" watermark do not count.

Having said that, I think many of the people who have drank the kool-aid and think they're in Harvard have people like Dan Gardiner to thank. The unofficial "ham sup lo" of the Henry Angus building is the godfather of BS and I literally wasted my youth attending his Marketing Research and Sales classes. Do you know how I got my final mark for the Sales class? You literally go into his office and negotiate a mark. He gives you a mark, you accept it, or give him a tug if you're a chick and get an A. WTF was the point of all the work that I did during the year then?

My biggest gripe was during graduation, both Science and the Art faculty had banners congratulating their students on graduating, Commerce? We got shit. They also had the audacity to call us not even two years post graduation to ask for money for the remodeling of Henry Angus, and would only provide info on the development if we committed 50bucks. There's UBC Sauder for you.

edit: They're also heavily subsidized (lobbied I'd say) by all the BIG 4 firms. You see their ads in your planner, they sponsor non Accounting events, and are in your face everywhere you go. Result? Everyone vying for Accounting major and little attention paid to other options. Real Estate? Please. HR? You want to be unemployed? MIS? WTF. International Business = Rich boy needs a "degree" and I speak Canto too. Perhaps it's because I'm having a semi bad day, but the more I think about it the more the program feels like a sham.

One more thing: they love to hire people that don't speak English. You should pray to Allah when you get someone from China, fat chance understanding the Korean/Indian Prof.

[Ulic Qel-Droma]

the business world is the modern day battlefield. you can get the top training, and still cower at the sound of a gunshot.

rising to a general, takes a particular type of person.

knowledge is only a small portion of the skills you need.

[le fu]

edit: They're also heavily subsidized (lobbied I'd say) by all the BIG 4 firms. You see their ads in your planner, they sponsor non Accounting events, and are in your face everywhere you go. Result? Everyone vying for Accounting major and little attention paid to other options. Real Estate? Please. HR? You want to be unemployed? MIS? WTF. International Business = Rich boy needs a "degree" and I speak Canto too. Perhaps it's because I'm having a semi bad day, but the more I think about it the more the program feels like a sham.

To be fair, I'm certain that the majority of business students at every college/university in greater Vancouver are accounting majors trying to become CA's.

And do Sauder MIS students even exist? lol. Most of the people I've met from firms that hire MIS students (Deloitte IT consulting, Accenture, IBM consulting) seem to hire more UBC engineering or comp sci. grads than commerce grads. I know SFU has a really strong MIS program and Accenture recruiters have told me that they love SFU MIS students. In fact, they hired the entire executive team from SFU's MIS club one year.

[Wongtouski]

To be fair, I'm certain that the majority of business students at every college/university in greater Vancouver are accounting majors trying to become CA's.

And do Sauder MIS students even exist? lol. Most of the people I've met from firms that hire MIS students (Deloitte IT consulting, Accenture, IBM consulting) seem to hire more UBC engineering or comp sci. grads than commerce grads. I know SFU has a really strong MIS program and Accenture recruiters have told me that they love SFU MIS students. In fact, they hired the entire executive team from SFU's MIS club one year.

The accounting thing isn't a big issue as that's the job that its most readily available in the market, I'm more concerned with people being led to this path without really thinking about what they truly want, because the amount of "brainwashing" (using this term very lightly here) is quite profound.

I actually know ppl who did HR/Real Estate, hard pressed to find MIS people, but it does exist (the two of em lol)

[Z3guy]

If you're trying to decide which school to go to, just go east.

Nobody really cares about Sauder or SFU. Well, except Sauder students. Most of whom think they're really attending Harvard.

what's that on your shoulder?.....it's a big chip! hahahaha, who really cares about an undergrad degree....better off doing your undergrad anywhere and then spend your money on a eastern US or Canada MBA......

[cliffhanger33]

How about finance in sauders, I believe it's different from accounting
How do finance students find it there?
Where do these students work in the "real" world?
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Wongtouski]

How about finance in sauders, I believe it's different from accounting
How do finance students find it there?
Where do these students work in the "real" world?
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Strictly from the experience of my friends and their's in Finance in Sauder (this is 2,3 years ago), many of them could not find jobs that are on par with the Audit route. Many of them were simply working in a branch and felt that opportunities in Vancouver were not abundant to say the least. In fact, some of them went back to do DAP just so they can be an auditor and get a stable, good paying job.

[f00tzilla]

If you want to do finance and want to stay in Canada I would suggest going to Rotman or Ivey because of their proximity to Bay street.

There are a LOT more career opportunities in finance in Toronto than in Vancouver ..

[cliffhanger33]

If you want to do finance and want to stay in Canada I would suggest going to Rotman or Ivey because of their proximity to Bay street.

There are a LOT more career opportunities in finance in Toronto than in Vancouver ..

That totally makes sense, thanks

[AutozamAZ-3]

does anyone know much about uvic's commerce program? their 2+2 program format sounds interesting

[ncrx]

To be fair, I'm certain that the majority of business students at every college/university in greater Vancouver are accounting majors trying to become CA's.

And do Sauder MIS students even exist? lol. Most of the people I've met from firms that hire MIS students (Deloitte IT consulting, Accenture, IBM consulting) seem to hire more UBC engineering or comp sci. grads than commerce grads. I know SFU has a really strong MIS program and Accenture recruiters have told me that they love SFU MIS students. In fact, they hired the entire executive team from SFU's MIS club one year.

i gradded from ubc mis.. but i was in coop and had the opportunity to work in large multinational billion dollar orgs since that time. as people have said earlier, its not the school its what you do with it. bachelor's degrees mean shit nowadays.

[heleu]

I think the OP should do a bit more research. MBA and B.COM, no matter the specialization are basically generalist business degrees.

If you want to move up in accounting, you still need your designations (and thus more studying) like a CGA, CMA, or CA.

If you want to move up in finance, you'll want a CFA or something similar.

Of course the university degrees will help, but the industry recognized certifications are what employers really look for.

[chun]

^ While I agree with this, one of the biggest things in the current market situation is that a lot of the younger people, aka the lost generation, don't stand a very good chance without a foot in the door. So in terms of recommending more education, the OP should consider things outside of it as well imho including a proper business school with proper networks, for example.

Also, to the OP, you want to keep in mind what industry specifically you'd like to get into, or which that you're interested in. It was mentioned before but a lot of the finance jobs are out east, where the market is naturally. However, that doesn't rule out that Vancouver is the mining capital of the world and there is a very large, but naturally very risky, small-cap mining industry here. I only bring that up as an example of a possibility in terms of industry/sector choices.

Set that original goal first, as to which position or industry/sector, then plan out your choices accordingly to make it there. Most likely, it's going to be outside of Vancouver so be prepared to move.

[Meowjin]

Man from what I can tell the first 1 or 2 years of school is literally bullshit.

[chun]

^ Yes but it really is what you take/make of it.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[orange7]

^
you mean by joining clubs, partying, and just being active in general instead of sleeping through classes?

[cliffhanger33]

does anyone know much about uvic's commerce program? their 2+2 program format sounds interesting

What is this 2+2 program?

Edit: nvm, the 2+2 program also goes for Ivey.