York University (Schulich) Online MBA Overview
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- About York University and Schulich School of Business
- Overview of Schulich MBA Programs
- Is There a Fully Online MBA at Schulich?
- Different MBA Formats at Schulich
- 5.1 Full-Time MBA
- 5.2 Part-Time MBA
- 5.3 Weekend & Evening MBA (WEMBA)
- 5.4 Accelerated MBA (AMBA)
- Program Structure and Curriculum
- Admission Requirements
- Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
- Key Features and Benefits
- Limitations and Challenges
- Who Should Choose the Schulich MBA
- Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
- Comparison: Schulich vs Fully Online MBA Programs
- How to Apply
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Introduction
The Schulich School of Business at York University is one of the most respected business schools in Canada. Known for its global perspective, innovative curriculum, and diverse student body, Schulich offers MBA programs designed for professionals at various career stages.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!While the school doesn’t currently provide a fully online MBA, it offers several hybrid and flexible options that combine in-person and virtual learning. These formats are ideal for working professionals who want to balance their careers while earning a world-class business degree.
2. About York University and Schulich School of Business
- Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Established: 1966
- Global Rankings: Consistently ranked among the top 100 business schools worldwide.
- Accreditations: AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS — giving it the prestigious “Triple Crown” status.
- Global Presence: Partner schools in over 75 countries.
The Schulich School of Business is widely recognized for its leadership in management education and its strong focus on global, sustainable, and technology-driven business strategies.
3. Overview of Schulich MBA Programs
Schulich offers a variety of MBA formats to meet the needs of different students, including:
- Full-Time MBA (for career changers or accelerators)
- Part-Time MBA (for working professionals)
- Weekend & Evening MBA (WEMBA) (for flexible learners)
- Accelerated MBA (AMBA) (for candidates with prior business degrees)
Each program emphasizes leadership, analytics, global thinking, and ethical decision-making — preparing students for senior roles across industries.
4. Is There a Fully Online MBA at Schulich?
As of now, Schulich does not offer a fully online MBA that can be completed entirely remotely.
However, the school integrates hyflex (hybrid + flexible) learning modes into several MBA formats.
Key Highlights:
- Some courses allow students to attend classes remotely via live streaming.
- Hybrid models let students choose between in-person and online attendance for select sessions.
- The Weekend & Evening MBA offers partial online participation (up to four remote sessions per course).
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, the entire MBA temporarily shifted online, proving Schulich’s ability to deliver high-quality digital education.
In summary, Schulich’s MBA is best described as hybrid or blended, not purely online.
5. Different MBA Formats at Schulich
5.1 Full-Time MBA
Duration: 16–20 months
Start Dates: January and September
Delivery: On-campus in Toronto
Highlights:
- Immersive experience with full-time study.
- Focus on leadership, teamwork, and consulting projects.
- Students complete the Strategy Field Study, a two-term consulting project with real companies.
- Access to over 15 specializations.
Ideal For:
Students who can dedicate full-time effort and want a complete immersion in business education.
5.2 Part-Time MBA
Duration: 3–4 years (flexible schedule)
Delivery: Mix of evening and weekend classes
Highlights:
- Allows working professionals to continue their careers.
- Classes typically held during evenings or weekends.
- Students can switch between part-time and full-time status.
- Same faculty, curriculum, and degree as the full-time MBA.
Ideal For:
Professionals in the Greater Toronto Area balancing work, family, and study.
5.3 Weekend & Evening MBA (WEMBA)
Duration: 32 months (10 terms)
Delivery: Hybrid / Hyflex (in-person + partial remote access)
Schedule Example:
- Fall/Winter: Two weeknight classes + Saturday sessions
- Summer: Evening courses
- Students can attend up to four sessions online per course.
Highlights:
- Designed for mid-career professionals.
- Combines structure and flexibility.
- Networking opportunities with experienced peers.
Ideal For:
Professionals who want minimal disruption to their careers but prefer in-person interaction occasionally.
5.4 Accelerated MBA (AMBA)
Duration: 8 months (Full-Time) or ~20 months (Part-Time)
Eligibility: Candidates with undergraduate business degrees or equivalent.
Highlights:
- Skip up to 10 core MBA courses.
- Focus on electives, strategy, and leadership.
- Offered in both full-time and part-time modes.
Ideal For:
Business graduates seeking a fast-tracked MBA to enhance their credentials.
6. Program Structure and Curriculum
The Schulich MBA curriculum combines foundational business courses with experiential learning and global exposure.
Core Courses Include:
- Financial Accounting & Analysis
- Strategic Management
- Business Analytics
- Marketing Management
- Operations Management
- Leadership & Organizational Behaviour
- Managerial Economics
Electives & Specializations:
Students can specialize in over 15 areas, including:
- Finance
- Marketing
- Real Estate & Infrastructure
- Supply Chain Management
- Business Analytics
- Technology Management
- Sustainability
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Capstone Project:
- The Strategy Field Study — a real-world consulting project spanning two terms.
- Students work with actual companies to analyze problems and present actionable solutions.
7. Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
- Recognized undergraduate degree (minimum B average).
- Business-related degree required for Accelerated MBA.
Work Experience:
- Minimum of 2 years of post-graduate full-time work experience.
Standardized Tests:
- GMAT or GRE required (waivers available for strong applicants).
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL (minimum 100 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 7.0) if applicable.
Additional Requirements:
- Two references
- Statement of intent
- Résumé
- Interview (for shortlisted candidates)
8. Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
| Program Type | Domestic Students (per term) | International Students (per term) |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time MBA | CAD 18,000+ | CAD 25,000+ |
| Accelerated MBA | CAD 18,095 | CAD 24,597 |
| Part-Time MBA | CAD 3,800–6,000 per course | CAD 4,900–8,000 per course |
Financial Aid Options:
- Merit-based entrance scholarships
- Graduate Assistantships
- Bursaries and external funding opportunities
- Employer tuition reimbursement for part-time students
9. Key Features and Benefits
✓ Prestigious Reputation
- Schulich consistently ranks among the top business schools in Canada and globally.
- Triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) assures global quality standards.
✓ Flexible Learning
- Weekend, evening, and hybrid options make it ideal for professionals.
- Ability to switch between part-time and full-time modes.
✓ Experiential Learning
- Real-world consulting projects and leadership labs.
- Students gain practical, hands-on management experience.
✓ Global Perspective
- Partnerships with over 75 international business schools.
- Opportunities for global exchanges and internships.
✓ Strong Alumni Network
- 35,000+ alumni across 90 countries.
- Access to senior professionals and global networking events.
10. Limitations and Challenges
While Schulich offers strong flexibility, there are certain drawbacks:
- ❌ No fully online MBA option (some in-person attendance required).
- ❌ High tuition fees for international students.
- ❌ Toronto living costs can be expensive.
- ❌ Limited online participation (only certain classes allow remote access).
- ❌ Competitive admissions process — requires strong academic and professional record.
11. Who Should Choose the Schulich MBA
The Schulich MBA is best suited for:
- Working professionals who live in or near Toronto.
- Managers looking to move into senior leadership roles.
- Business graduates seeking an accelerated MBA path.
- Students who value networking and classroom collaboration.
- Professionals who want a reputable Canadian business school degree without leaving their job entirely.
12. Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Employment Statistics (Recent Cohort):
- Average Base Salary: CAD 105,000+
- Employment Rate: 92% within 3 months of graduation
- Top Sectors:
- Consulting
- Finance
- Technology
- Real Estate
- Healthcare
- Energy
Top Recruiters:
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- PwC
- IBM
- TD Bank
- RBC
- Accenture
Alumni Network:
- Over 35,000 alumni in 90+ countries.
- Strong presence in Toronto’s financial and corporate sectors.
- Active mentorship and career support programs.
13. Comparison: Schulich vs Fully Online MBA Programs
| Feature | Schulich MBA (Hybrid) | Fully Online MBA (Generic) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery | Hybrid (in-person + partial remote) | 100% online |
| Networking | Strong in-person networking | Mostly virtual |
| Flexibility | Moderate | High |
| Tuition Cost | Higher (CAD 90k–110k total) | Varies widely |
| Location Requirement | Toronto or nearby | None |
| Learning Experience | Immersive, collaborative | Self-paced or synchronous |
| Best For | Working professionals near campus | Remote international students |
14. How to Apply
Application Steps:
- Choose your preferred MBA format.
- Complete the online application form at schulich.yorku.ca.
- Submit required documents:
- Transcripts
- Résumé
- References
- Statement of intent
- Upload GMAT/GRE and English test scores.
- Attend the admission interview (if shortlisted).
- Wait for admission decision (typically 6–8 weeks).
15. Final Thoughts
The York University (Schulich) MBA is a premier business program known for its academic rigor, flexible structure, and strong career outcomes.
While it does not yet offer a fully online MBA, its Weekend & Evening and Part-Time formats make it one of the most accessible high-quality MBAs in Canada. If you’re seeking a program that combines in-person networking, academic excellence, and career advancement — Schulich is an excellent choice.
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Does Schulich offer a 100% online MBA?
No, it currently offers hybrid formats with partial remote participation.
Q2. How long does the Schulich MBA take to complete?
Full-time: 16–20 months.
Part-time/Weekend: ~3 years.
Q3. What is the tuition for international students?
Around CAD 25,000 per term for full-time students.
Q4. Are scholarships available?
Yes, Schulich offers various merit-based scholarships and bursaries.
Q5. Is the Schulich MBA globally recognized?
Yes, it’s triple-accredited and ranked among the world’s top MBA programs.
Schulich School of Business — Overview
Schulich is one of Canada’s leading business schools. It is well known for:
- Having a wide variety of MBA formats (full-time, part-time, accelerated, evening/weekend options). (Schulich School of Business)
- A large number of specializations / elective choices: functional (finance, marketing, operations, etc.), industry sector specializations (health, real estate, etc.). (Study Business in Canada)
- Good reputation for Return on Investment (ROI). Schulich MBAs rank very well in terms of how quickly graduates recoup their investment. (Schulich School of Business)
Delivery Formats & Flexible / “Online-friendly” Options
While Schulich does not appear to offer a fully online MBA that is explicitly marketed as “100% remote” (as of current public info), there are several flexible and blended delivery formats, useful for working professionals or those requiring non-traditional schedules:
- Weekend & Evening MBA (WEMBA): This is aimed at working professionals. Courses are split: during Fall & Winter, two courses are on weeknights and two are on Saturdays (condensed schedules). In Summer term, part-time in evenings. (Schulich School of Business)
- Part-time MBA: Offers daytime & evening classes. Completion typically over 10 terms (~3 years). Students can shift between full-time and part-time status. (Schulich School of Business)
- Accelerated MBA: For students who have done a business undergraduate (or equivalent) recently, this cuts out some core requirements and can be much faster. But still on-campus, requires more intensive schedule. (Schulich School of Business)
- Full-time MBA: Traditional, on-campus format. Some options to switch status (full to part, etc.). (Schulich School of Business)
During periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, classes at Schulich moved online temporarily. But that doesn’t necessarily reflect permanent fully-online program delivery. (Schulich School of Business)
Key Features: Curriculum, Specializations & Student Experience
- Specializations / Electives: Schulich offers 15+ specializations in the MBA. These include both traditional business functions and industry sectors or special issues (e.g. sustainability, real estate, health, etc.). (Schulich School of Business)
- Capstone / Consulting Project: The full-time (and some flexible programs) include real-world consulting or strategy projects, requiring students to apply learning in practical/industry settings. (Schulich School of Business)
- Career Services: Schulich has a strong Centre for Career Design, alumni network, recruitment by major companies. Many students find job placements soon after (or around) graduation. In the Weekend & Evening MBA, Schulich reports that 88% of students are hired within 3 months of graduation; average compensation ~CA$94.2K. (Schulich School of Business)
Costs / Tuition & Time to Completion
Here’s what the numbers look like (roughly) as of the most recent info:
| Program Type | Student Status | Total or Term-by-Term Tuition | Typical Duration / Terms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time MBA | Domestic (Ontario) | ≈ CA$18,094 per term, bringing total to ~ CA$72,376 for the full program. (Schulich School of Business) | ~4 academic terms (plus summer) for regular full-time path. (Schulich School of Business) |
| Full-time MBA (International students) | International | higher: ≈ CA$30,982 per term; total ~ CA$123,928 for full program (Schulich School of Business) | same number of terms but cost per term much higher. |
| Part-time MBA | Domestic | CA$7,298 per term; total cost over many terms can approximate the full-time path depending on pace. (Schulich School of Business) | ~10 terms (~3 years) typical. (Schulich School of Business) |
| Weekend & Evening MBA | Domestic / Professional working | Same core tuition as MBA, but structured to accommodate working schedules. (Schulich School of Business) | Over several terms, depends on chosen load. |
Also important: living expenses, books/course materials, other supplementary fees (health, student fees) also add up. For example, estimates of living costs in Toronto for a 4-month term are given. (Schulich School of Business)
Admission Requirements
If you plan to apply, here are what Schulich looks for:
- Work experience: Minimum ~ 2 years of relevant post-degree full-time work (or equivalent life experience). (Schulich School of Business)
- Academic transcripts: Undergraduate degree from recognized institution. Prior grades matter.
- GMAT/GRE: Required or optional depending on program, though application requires these unless exempted. (Schulich School of Business)
- Language proficiency: For those whose previous studies weren’t in English. E.g. IELTS scores requirement is ~7.0 with minimum sub-scores. (Schulich School of Business)
- Essays, Resume, References: Standard application components; Schulich’s process includes essays (some timed/written), video components, two references. (Schulich School of Business)
Deadlines & rounds: Multiple application rounds for different term starts (Fall / Winter). International applicants are encouraged to apply early because of visa processing time. (Schulich School of Business)
Strengths & Competitive Advantages
Here are what appear to be the key selling points of Schulich’s MBA offerings:
- Flexibility: With options like part-time, weekend/evening, accelerated, students can often work or meet other commitments while studying.
- Breadth of specialization: More specializations than many competitors; allows tailoring to specific industries or functional preferences.
- Strong ROI: As noted in rankings (e.g. Forbes) Schulich is frequently ranked highly in terms of MBA Return on Investment and speed of payback. (Schulich School of Business)
- Good employment outcomes: High placement rates; substantial numbers of companies recruiting Schulich grads; strong salary averages.
- Reputation & network: Schulich is respected both within Canada and increasingly internationally; strong alumni base.
Weaknesses & Trade-offs
No program is perfect. Here are some trade-offs / possible limitations to be aware of:
- Not truly “fully online” in many cases: Many flexible formats still expect in-person attendance (weekends, evenings, downtown campus etc.), which may limit utility if you need zero campus presence or want remote only.
- Cost for international students is high: The tuition for international students is significantly more, which may render the ROI less favorable depending on your post-MBA location / salary expectations.
- Time & workload for flexible formats: Doing part-time, weekend/evening formats while working can be demanding. Balancing work + study + personal life can be challenging.
- Living expenses and ancillary costs in Toronto area: These can add up quickly, especially housing, travel, etc. Costs of living in Toronto are relatively high.
- Competition & admission competitiveness: Especially for more selective specializations or scholarship rounds, competition is high. Applicants will need strong work experience, academic credentials, leadership potential.
Who Schulich MBA is Best Suited For
If you are thinking of doing an MBA at Schulich (or considering similar programs), you may find it especially attractive if you are:
- A working professional who wants flexibility (weekend / evening / part-time) so you don’t have to quit your job.
- Someone who values specialization in a particular field (say sustainability, health industry, real estate, etc.) and wants to tailor your MBA to it.
- International students willing to relocate (or comfortable living/working in Toronto or Canada), or aiming for work opportunities in North America / globally where Schulich’s brand is respected.
- Individuals who place a high value on ROI — wanting to see salary uplift and recoup investment in a reasonable time.
What “Online MBA” Means in Schulich’s Case
Because “online MBA” can mean different things, it’s worth clarifying what Schulich does and doesn’t offer along the remote/flexible delivery axis:
- Temporary online delivery during pandemic (forced adaptation), but this doesn’t necessarily convert to a permanent, fully remote version. (Schulich School of Business)
- Hybrid / mixed-delivery is more realistic in many of the flexible formats (weekend/evening, part-time). Some courses may be offered online or in hybrid form depends on subject and campus, but full details must be checked per course and term.
- If someone needs 100% remote, asynchronous delivery (no mandatory on-campus residencies, etc.), Schulich may have fewer options meeting that requirement.
Things to Check / Questions to Ask If You’re Considering Schulich MBA
Before deciding, here are important questions to clarify with the school or via your own research:
- Which courses / specializations are available remotely or in hybrid vs in-person (for your schedule)?
- What are the required in-person components (campus residencies, seminars, weekend requirements)?
- What is the expected time per week for study + assignments + group work for your chosen format (weekend/evening, part-time)?
- What scholarships / financial aid options are available (especially for international students)?
- What is the placement/salary outcome for graduates in your specialization or region (domestic vs international)?
- How strong is the alumni & employer network in your target sector (industry / geography)?
- Can you switch formats (for example from full-time to part-time) without penalty if your circumstances change? Schulich does allow switching in many cases. (Schulich School of Business)
Conclusion
While Schulich does not clearly offer a fully-online MBA as its base offering (based on the most recent public information), it provides ample flexibility, strong curriculum, specialization choices, and solid ROI. For many students, especially those who need to balance work commitments or geographic constraints, Schulich’s weekend/evening, part-time, hybrid or accelerated formats are viable and attractive.
If your priority is completely remote learning (no campus requirement), it may be worth contacting Schulich to see whether there are newer or upcoming online-only or hybrid programs, or checking competitor schools that offer fully online MBAs.