Advance Your Education with
Essential Business Fundamentals
Apply between February 1 - April 1, 2026 to start in May
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Build on your academic achievements with business expertise from Smith School of Business at Queen’s University.
The Certificate in Business program consists of six introductory-level courses taught by the same renowned faculty who lead Smith’s top-ranked Bachelor of Commerce program and MBA programs. Delivered fully online, the Certificate offers a flexible way to gain essential business skills that complement your post-secondary education and help you stand out in the eyes of employers.
You’ll complete four core courses that establish a strong foundation in business essentials: marketing, finance, accounting, and organizational behaviour. Two electives allow you to shape the Certificate around your interests and career goals.
Upon completion, you’ll earn an official Queen’s University credential — a valuable addition to your academic background that helps you stand out to employers.
Program capacity
A limited number of applicants are accepted annually from outside of Queen’s University. No business background is required.
Apply NowNo Business Background? No Problem.
All courses are taught at the introductory level, allowing you to build a strong foundation in business. Strengthen your professional skillset and open new career pathways – when it’s convenient for you. No prior business coursework is required.
Flexible Learning That Fits Your Life.
Whether you’re working full-time, exploring new opportunities, or balancing personal commitments, CIB’s fully online format allows you to complete courses from anywhere, whenever you have time in your schedule.
Study on Your Schedule.
Choose from three start dates and take courses during Summer, Fall or Winter terms. CIB’s flexible pacing enables you to pursue skill development at a speed that aligns with your goals.
Key Features
Flexible Scheduling
Three start dates annually with asynchronous online delivery
Extended Timeline
Complete up to five years after enrollment
Career-Aligned Skill Development
Build practical business capabilities you can apply immediately, from financial literacy and marketing fundamentals to accounting and organizational behaviour
Admission Requirements
University Graduates
Graduates from universities outside of Queen’s must have the equivalent of a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.60.
College Graduates
Graduates from a recognized community college who have completed a two‐year diploma or a three‐year full‐time advanced diploma with a minimum GPA of 2.90 (Queen’s grading standards) will be considered for admission.
Progression Requirements
- Achieve a minimum grade of C- (1.7) in each Certificate course.
- Once enrolled in the Certificate, students from other post‐secondary institutions have up to five years (fifteen terms) to complete the Certificate.
Fees for 2025-2026
All credits must be taken at the 600-level to meet the certificate requirements.
600-Level Courses
| Student | Units per course | Fee per unit | Fee per course |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Students | 3.0 | $493.56 | $1,480.68 |
| International Students | 3.0 | $1,843.63 | $5,530.89 |
Any applicable student activity fees (SAF), student assistance levy (SAL), and University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) assessed by Queen’s University are not included in the above totals.
Note: fees do not include access to the Smith School of Business Career Advancement Centre.
Pay as You Go
Applicants pay a non-refundable application fee of $100. Tuition is assessed per course at the time of enrollment. There are no additional program fees.