Post-Degree Diploma in Business Studies (PDDB)

Today’s global business environment is fast-paced, requiring managers with specialized skills. Rapid changes in technology, resource allocation, structural shifts in the economy, changes in consumer preferences, global competition, and shifts in the employment market all require a better understanding of the role and nature of business in today’s society.

VIU’s Post-Degree Diploma in Business Studies (PDDB) is a 1 year post-degree program which provides an opportunity for students who already possess an undergraduate degree to hone their managerial skills to meet the challenges of the global business environment. Students may select concentrations in Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Financial Services, General Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Management and Leadership, Marketing, and Not-for Profit, or following consultation with the PDDB academic advisor, take a personalized program of courses that suits their interests. The program may be completed on a part time basis.

The PDDB Program also offers a stepping stone for students who wish to pursue the VIU MBA degree but need to develop a stronger academic background. To ensure a greater degree of success in the VIU MBA program, students are strongly encouraged to take courses from the five disciplines which form the MBA program. These disciplines are Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management and Marketing. Students who successfully complete the PDDB program with a minimum "B" average will be deemed to have met the minimum grade entry requirement for the VIU MBA program. For more details, please contact the PDDB academic advisor Neil Macmillan.

Admission Requirements

The applicant must have a university degree from a recognized institution, from a business or non-business program.

International Students must meet the English language requirements for academic programs and have completed VIU’s English Language Centre's University Preparation Program, or have already achieved a minimum TOEFL 550, TOEFL Computer Based Test (CBT) 213, iBT 80 (with no score under 19), IELTS 6.0 (with no score under 5.5), CAEL 60, Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (minimum “B”), or Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (minimum “B”).

An on-line application form for the PDDB is available.

Graduation Requirements

Successful completion of the Post Degree Diploma in Business Studies requires a total of 30 credits (10 courses), with a minimum "C" average, earned from a selection of business courses. A minimum of 15 credits at the 300 and 400 level must be completed.

Students who graduate from this program with a minimum "B" average will be deemed to have met the minimum grade entry requirement for the VIU MBA Program.

Tuition

Domestic and International. Textbooks, housing and living costs are an additional expense.