Toronto professionals select Executive MBA program outside the city

Embarking on an Executive MBA (EMBA) journey is a big decision, often fueled by a desire for professional growth, expanding skill sets, and advancing career prospects. The motivations behind choosing a specific EMBA program are as diverse as the individuals pursuing them. Four Toronto, Ontario residents’ shed light on their rationales for choosing to pursue Telfer’s Executive MBA at the University of Ottawa rather than to study in their hometown.

Diverse backgrounds and motivations of EMBA alumni

The interviewed alumni have very different backgrounds and diverse motivations for pursuing an MBA. Among them is Syeda Afrina, a science graduate who ventured into the financial industry and was interested in enhancing her business acumen through a master's degree. The second, Aidin Kerem, an experienced business and IT consultant who recognized the need for a deeper business foundation to secure executive-level contracts. Additionally, a real estate professional (prefers to keep her name anonymous), who wanted to better navigate the ever-evolving business landscape, particularly in the technology and international domains and lastly, Scott Johnston who aspired to overcome educational barriers hindering his career progression within the higher education institution where he is employed.

During the search for suitable EMBA programs, Syeda conducted thorough research and reviewed offerings from programs in Toronto, Ottawa, and British Columbia. Similarly, the remaining three alumni evaluated four different programs before ultimately selecting Telfer's program. Notably, Scott mentions that despite researching EMBA programs extensively in the Toronto area, it was a friend's recommendation that influenced his decision to choose Telfer.

Factors driving the decision to study in Ottawa

Although based in Toronto, their choice of the Telfer Executive MBA program in Ottawa was driven by distinct factors. Having lived and studied in Toronto for most of her life, Syeda wanted to explore a different city and program style for her master’s degree. Aidin shares, “I am the sole provider in my family, and needed to find a program which was relatively easy to travel to, affordable and would give me a comprehensive business education. I chose the Telfer Executive MBA because to me, it was the best well-rounded program, the best value for dollar and I could travel to Ottawa easily enough from Toronto.” Additionally, the prospect of networking in Canada's capital, the program’s favorable reputation, and positive recommendations, the affordability of the program and the hands-on consulting projects were other significant contributing factors in the decision-making process for the four alumni.

Overcoming logistical challenges

Studying in a different city presented logistical hurdles for the alumni, especially with commuting, accommodations, and managing their time. They employed various strategies to address these challenges. Syeda shares, “Once I was accepted into the program, I contacted all the surrounding hotels in Ottawa and spoke to the sales managers to see if they would be able to offer me a fixed rate for the duration of the program. I was able to receive a few competitive offers.” Scott tackled the commuting and accommodation challenges in a similar manner. “I utilized a student pass from Via Rail, coordinating trips efficiently. Accommodation costs were managed by renting a room with graduate students from the University of Ottawa,” he says. With regards to time management, the alumni collectively used the travel time from Toronto to Ottawa to complete their reading, finish assignments, and prepare for their classes. Time blocking was another strategy used to be efficient with their time.

Cost efficiency: studying in Ottawa vs. Toronto

Contrary to misconceptions, all four of the alumni maintain the overall cost of studying in Ottawa, including tuition, travel, food, accommodations, and miscellaneous expenses was lower than just the tuition alone in Toronto EMBA programs. The time and financial investments in commuting were offset by the comparatively lower tuition fees in Ottawa.

While studying away from their primary workplace might seem counterintuitive for networking purposes, having separate professional networks in Ottawa proved advantageous. It facilitated diverse connections, opportunities, and an extended alumni network.

Hybrid learning model

When three of the four alumni pursued their studies, the Telfer Executive MBA program operated solely in an in-person format. However, the program has now transitioned to a hybrid model allowing candidates to study in-person, online or a combination of both. Upon contemplating this change, the four alumni recognize the advantages of online study from Toronto particularly during challenging weather conditions or when managing demanding work schedules. Nevertheless, they unanimously emphasize the irreplaceable value of in-person interactions, networking opportunities, and applied learning in real-life scenarios. Aidin says, “I think the hybrid model would have been helpful to me being in Toronto, but I would have still traveled to Ottawa for classes - in-person interaction is important for me.” Scott supports the point saying, “While an online program format has merits, in-person interactions are irreplaceable. Networking opportunities and insightful conversations during breaks enriched the learning experience for me. Although a hybrid format could have been beneficial for me during busy work periods, I cannot emphasize enough the value of the in-person class time and networking.”

Exploring EMBA programs beyond your city

Overall, given the chance to revisit their decision, the consensus among the four Toronto professionals remains resoundingly positive. They affirm their commitment to choosing the Telfer Executive MBA in Ottawa. “Even though Toronto is considered to be the “financial center,” I think there are many mid-sized business owners who could benefit from learning business fundamentals such as strategy and scaling a business. Based on my research, the Telfer Executive MBA offers a much broader business education that is valuable in any line of business you may be in,” asserts Aidin. Scott adds, “I would absolutely choose the Telfer Executive MBA program again. It was an invaluable opportunity that expanded my capacity and provided me significant learning experiences. I have a lot of gratitude for the program, its support staff, and dedicated professors.”

For professionals wanting to enhance their business skills through an Executive MBA, consider exploring programs beyond your city. You may discover a hidden, affordable option that aligns perfectly with your educational and career goals.