Why Study Business in Calgary?
- Access to networking Canada's burgeoning energy industry.
- Internationally recognized business schools like Haskayne, Bisett, and SAIT.
- Opportunities for bursaries and scholarships for business students.
- Pathways for study outside the typical university degree options.
Canada is a vast country with so many cities that bring their different economic strengths. International students choose Canada for business programs and diversity. Prospective business students looking to find the right postsecondary programs should always consider the advantages and benefits of location when choosing the right school.
Those who live in Alberta or are interested in learning in Canada’s heartland should consider the country’s energy capital - Calgary. Calgary packs a punch when it comes to business education, largely because it is at the centre of Canada’s energy industry and home to a strong local economy.
Whether you are looking to complete an undergraduate business degree, an MBA, or an executive program, Calgary’s business schools offer world-class education options tailored to meet the needs of today's rapidly-changing economy. Let’s take a look at some of the best schools in Calgary.
University of Calgary Haskayne School of Business
Haskayne Business School is located on the main campus of the business University of Calgary, and is known for its quality academic programs and connections with the local business community. Haskayne faculty focus on leadership, innovation, and ethics, particularly in the region's booming energy sector and industries like technology and finance.
With a history that stretches back to the 1960s, Haskayne has a long tradition of innovating business education in Canada and establishing cutting edge programs in areas like sustainability. Haskayne's MBA program has been ranked highly by publications like the Financial Times and ranks second in Canada.
Programs include BComm, MBA (Daytime and Evening), Executive MBA, Master of Management, PhD, and DBA (Doctor of Business Administration). Canadian online business programs help students balance work, life, and learning.
Mount Royal University Bissett School of Business
The Bissett School of Business is located in Southwest Calgary on the Mount Royal University campus. U Unlike many other university programs, Bissett boasts a practical approach to business education with a focus on skills application. Class sizes are small, and specialized programs like Aviation Management reflect local economic growth. Other areas of study include International Business, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management.
Bissett's history dates back to 1911, when Mount Royal University started offering business education. Thanks to the generosity of philanthropist David Bissett, the school has grown and is one of the top business schools in Alberta. Bissett's program offerings include Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Diploma in Aviation Management, and Post-Bachelor Certificates.
Experience the best of both worlds with bilingual business education in Montreal.
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) School of Business
The SAIT School of business is located on the main campus near downtown Calgary. It is known for offering workplace-focused programs with a strong emphasis on skill development. SAIT is one of the leading polytechnic institutions in Canada. Students can major in areas like Accounting, Marketing, Financial Services, Human Resources, and Management.
SAIT's School of Business was established in 1966 and has since become one of the largest schools in Western Canada. Consistently ranked high in Canada and around the world, the School of Business is a fantastic choice for any prospective business student in Calgary.
SAIT offers diplomas, degrees, and certificates designed for students that are already working or want a quick transition into the workplace. Program offerings include Business Administration Diplomas, Bachelor of Business Administration, and post-secondary certificates.
Ottawa’s business schools blend innovation, leadership, and real-world experience.
How Calgary's Business Schools Compare Globally 🌍
Though Calgary doesn't always get the attention it deserves as a global city compared to places like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, prospective Calgary students should take note that its schools are highly respected around the world. Calgary offers Canadian students high quality business school options that are truly competitive - let's take a look at how Haskayne, Mount Royal, and SAIT measure up on a global scale.
Vancouver’s business schools offer cutting-edge programs and real-world experience.
| Haskayne School of Business | Bissett School of Business | SAIT School of Business | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accreditation | Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), placing it in the top 5% of business schools around the world | Received initial EFMD (formerly known as the European Foundation for Management Development) Programme Accreditation for its Bachelor of Business Administration program in October 2021 | Part of the World federation of Colleges and Polytechnics, and is known as one of the top polytechnic institutions in Canada |
| Rankings | Ranked 11 in Canada, #201–250 globally by QS Global MBA Ranking (2025) | Not globally ranked. Rather than worldwide prestige, the focus is on teaching applied skills, a pedagogical practice that is increasingly valued by employers and students around the world | CEOWorld Magazine ranked the school in 2024 as one of the best Business schools in the world |
| Notable Strengths | Leader in the areas of energy, sustainability, and entrepreneurial development | Bissett's practice of offering programs aligned with local business and industry mirrors models found in top ranked liberal arts business colleges in the USA and Europe | Similar to schools in Germany, SAIT School of Business blends learning with hands-on experience, producing globally competitive graduates that work around the world |
Calgary Business Schools Outside of the University Track 💼
For those that want to study business without the stress and cost of pursuing a university degree, Calgary has fantastic options outside the university track. Consider attending a community college to earn a diploma or certificate in a specific area of business, such as accounting or digital marketing. Private professional schools are also an option for those looking to upskill or learn something new.
Let's take a look at some alternative options to university coursework.
Bow Valley College Chiu School of Business
Bow Valley College is the perfect option for students seeking flexible, fast, and career-focused training. Diplomas and certificates are built to get you into the workforce quickly or upgrade credentials in a matter of months. Mature students who are already working part or full time will appreciate the real-world projects, career support, and and small class sizes.
Global College of Business and Technology
Founded in 2019, this private career college offers training in areas like Digital and Social Media Marketing, Business Administration, and Accounting and Payroll. Learn quickly for a career change, and take advantage of the school's focus on job preparation.
University of Calgary Continuing Education
Those that want a credential backed by an established university without the hassle of a degree program will find solid options in Continuing Education. University of Calgary's Continuing Education department offers certificates in management with specializations in construction, entrepreneurship, and human resources - just to name a few!
Studying business in Toronto combines academic excellence with real-world experience.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Business Students in Calgary
Business school can be costly in terms of tuition, especially if you are pursuing a degree like an MBA independently. If you are looking for financial aid or support, be sure to look into the many funding options schools offer to support their students.
For example, the Inspiring Business Leaders Scholarship at Haskayne awards up to $5,000 to five undergraduate students that demonstrate their leadership and commitment to their learning. The Chiu School of Business at Bow Valley College also provides over 300 awards to support students financially, and you will find similar opportunities at schools like Mount Royal University and SAIT.
Black Canadian students should also look in to Calgary Black Chambers Scholarships, which offers up to $5,000 to Black Canadians pursuing studies in business. Alberta Student Aid also provides loans, grants, and scholarships for Alberta residents.
✅ Tips for Securing Financial Aid
Learn at a Calgary Business School
Calgary’s business schools reflect the city’s energy, resilience, and entrepreneurial mindset. Those looking for a research-focused university degree, a practical diploma, or an executive-level program, will find the right fit in Calgary.
Studying in Calgary also means learning in a city with one of the highest livability and employment rates in Canada—while enjoying access to a diverse economy, active lifestyle, and breathtaking mountain views just a short distance away.
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