Solving the world’s biggest problems, one business programme at a time
Solving the world’s biggest problems, one business programme at a time
Business schools are uniquely positioned to address global challenges such as climate change and inequality because businesses are both part of the problem and an essential part of the solution. Many of today's pressing issues stem from consumption patterns and business practices. To drive systemic change, businesses must take a leading role.
UBC Sauder School of Business equips students with the tools, knowledge and experiences needed to tackle the biggest challenges of the modern world with creativity, ethical reasoning and a different perspective.
“Unconventional thinking is critical in developing solutions for societal challenges. Businesses must think differently to solve the complex issues we face today,” says Darren Dahl, Dean of UBC Sauder.
“At UBC Sauder, we encourage our students to push the boundaries of traditional thinking to discover innovative solutions that can drive both economic and social progress. By empowering students to think creatively, we prepare them to address global challenges in ways that move society forward.”
It's a great launchpad for anyone passionate about making a positive impact in the world.
“Through real-world applications, such as climate labs and partnerships with companies on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) projects, we arm students with the practical skills and mindset necessary to lead responsibly in business and experiment with solutions to solve complex problems like climate change,” says Dahl.
In addition, UBC Sauder provides students with a wide range of global opportunities, co-op programmes and access to a robust alumni network to broaden their perspectives. The school’s faculty is comprised of a passionate group of instructors and professors, dedicated to empowering students to forge their own paths and create meaningful value in the world. As a research-driven institution, the university provides an ideal environment for experimentation and innovation in these areas.
“It’s this combination of motivated, like-minded individuals, world-class resources, and a supportive academic structure that helps shape our students — to challenge their thinking and try something new,” says Dahl.
best business program in Canada for eight consecutive years (Maclean’s Magazine)
#1
in Canada for business & economics (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 by subject)
#2
top university in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)
#38
Programmes that transform you and the future of business
The four-year UBC Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) programme helps you develop the skills and confidence to become responsible business leaders. In Year 1, you'll build a foundation by covering modules such as “Values, Ethics, and Community,” “Introduction to Quantitative Decision Making” and “Management and Organisational Behaviour.” You’ll then build on this by learning the fundamentals of business in Year 2, with modules like “Financial Accounting” and “Introduction to Marketing,” and more. In Year 3, you’ll specialise in one of 10 areas – accounting, entrepreneurship, finance – before combining all you’ve learned into a capstone project in Year 4.
UBC Bachelor of Commerce
The Dual Degree programme allows you to build subject-matter expertise in a non-business area, paired with a UBC Master of Management (MM) degree in 4.5 years. You'll collaborate with top students from various disciplines, gaining insights from peers with expertise in math, fine arts, and psychology, creating a dynamic learning environment from day one. After completing your primary undergraduate degree, you’ll focus on MM courses for six months, graduating with a master’s degree from UBC Sauder’s Robert H. Lee Graduate School, preparing you for advanced leadership roles.
UBC Bachelor + Master of Management Dual Degree programme
The 16-month MBA programme caters to high-achieving professionals seeking to realise their full potential. Students can choose from five specialised career tracks: Climate, Technology and Analytics Leadership, Finance, Product and Service Management, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The programme also offers immersive, global experiences such as International business school exchanges, the Global Network for Advanced Management, and the Global Immersion Experience. Coupled with access to career strategists, networking opportunities and an engaged alumni community, the UBC MBA is a “game changer for career development,” as described by graduates who are now sought after by top employers such as Deloitte Consulting, IBM lululemon athletica, and TELUS, to name a few.
UBC Master of Business Administration
The 12-month UBC Master of Business Analytics (MBAN) is equal parts data analysis and big picture decision-making. You’ll gain the knowledge and skills to transform big data into actionable insights, thanks to a curriculum that covers key areas like data visualisation, analytics and modelling, machine learning, and optimal decision-making. With hands-on learning opportunities like internships, hackathons, industry projects, and more, you'll gain real-world experience that makes you the kind of “top performers and innovators” Canada's dynamic tech and digital economies need.
UBC Master of Business Analytics
The nine-month Master of Management programme is ideal for those who are early in their career (and have less than two years of full-time working experience), seeking to build on a non-business bachelor's degree. The curriculum covers the fundamentals of business, from accounting and finance to marketing and strategic management. Through a three-month Community Business Project, you’ll apply your new knowledge and skills by working on a consulting project for a non-profit or charity, focusing on areas such as business planning, market expansion, community planning, and environmental sustainability initiatives. Alongside case studies, teamwork, and presentations, it’s another great way to learn by doing.
UBC Master of Management
Student testimonials
The exceptional faculty at Notre Dame are deeply committed to their research and possess the expertise to mentor students into becoming accomplished researchers. Their dedication and guidance are invaluable assets in my academic journey.
Himanshu Sharma,
PhD in Electrical Engineering
The classes I took were closely related to real-world problems. I was able to apply my knowledge directly to real-life situations. I feel prepared to conduct research independently, and I am encouraged to do so. Over the past year, I have collaborated with people from different departments and areas, which has complemented my research and broadened my worldview.
Francisca Schiaffino Pereira,
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences
“My experience in the PhD program has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Adapting to the demands of advanced finance research in a second language was initially difficult, but it has strengthened my resilience and academic skills. Through this journey, I've gained a profound understanding of finance and research methodologies, and I find the insights and expertise of the faculty to be the most rewarding part of the program. The professors’ guidance has been invaluable in shaping my knowledge and advancing my research abilities.
“The MSA program at AUS allowed me to delve deeper into critical aspects of accounting and business. My MSA journey was challenging yet very rewarding. The program’s classes are very interactive and are geared towards preparing students for professional accounting certifications. If you are looking for a program that challenges your thinking, opens for you promising career options, and ensures quality throughout the learning process, then the Master of Science in Accounting at AUS is your best option!”
“My experience in the PhD program has been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Adapting to the demands of advanced finance research in a second language was initially difficult, but it has strengthened my resilience and academic skills. Through this journey, I've gained a profound understanding of finance and research methodologies, and I find the insights and expertise of the faculty to be the most rewarding part of the program. The professors’ guidance has been invaluable in shaping my knowledge and advancing my research abilities.
“My experience in the master’s program has been incredibly rewarding. I have gained a profound understanding of finance principles, developed critical analytical skills, and worked closely with professors on real-world research projects. The collaborative environment and challenging coursework pushed me to grow both academically and personally, making this program invaluable to my career aspirations.
“My overall experience in the PhD program has been a journey of growth, challenges and immense learning. I found the research opportunities at AUS to be the most rewarding aspects in the PhD program.”
Hear from students
Hear from students
