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Queen’s University MBA

Dhruvin Jain

Dhruvin Jain

Dec 17, 2024

24 mins read

Queen’s University MBA

Queen’s University MBA Review: Your Guide to Success

Are you considering an MBA in Canada? Let me tell you why the Queen’s University MBA should be on your radar. Delivered by the Smith School of Business, this program doesn’t just focus on academics—it’s a transformational experience designed to mold future leaders.

One standout feature of this program is its team-based learning model, which simulates real-world collaboration. Imagine working with peers from different industries, cultures, and perspectives to solve complex business challenges. Doesn’t that sound like the ultimate preparation for a global career?

And let’s talk about location! Kingston, Ontario, offers a welcoming environment perfect for focused learning. It’s quieter and more affordable than bustling urban centers like Toronto or Vancouver, but still close enough to major cities for networking opportunities. Plus, the charm of this historical city and its tight-knit community will make you feel right at home.

Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to supercharge your career or a career changer seeking new horizons, the Queen’s MBA offers the tools, network, and skills to make it happen.

Queen’s MBA Class Profile

Curious about the kind of people you’ll be sharing this journey with? Let’s dive into the class profile of a typical Queen’s MBA cohort.

Metric

Details

Class Size~80 students
Average GMAT Score650–700 (GRE also accepted)
Average Work Experience5 years (ranging from 2 to 10 years)
Gender Split40% women, 60% men
International Students35%+ from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and more
Industry BackgroundsConsulting (25%), Finance (20%), Tech (15%), Healthcare, Non-profits, etc.

Here’s why this matters: Queen’s MBA students bring a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether they’ve been consultants in New York, engineers in India, or tech entrepreneurs in Nigeria, they contribute unique insights. This diversity enhances every discussion, making case studies and group projects truly dynamic.

Plus, you don’t need to be a GMAT wizard. While the program has competitive averages, it values work experience, leadership potential, and your ability to work in diverse teams just as much.

What’s the vibe like?
Picture this: a classroom buzzing with energy as students collaborate on real-world challenges. You’ll not only form professional connections but also build lifelong friendships in a supportive and inclusive environment.

A World-Class Education at Queen’s University

When it comes to academic excellence, Queen’s University stands tall among Canada’s top institutions. Known for its long-standing tradition of producing leaders, the university consistently ranks as one of Canada’s finest.

The Smith School of Business, which offers the Queen’s MBA, has played a pivotal role in shaping global business education. With its innovative programs and a strong focus on leadership development, Smith has earned a reputation for creating well-rounded professionals.

Why is this important? Think about the value of a degree from a school recognized globally. Employers see it as a mark of quality—proof that you’ve been trained to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change. Combine this with the school’s focus on experiential learning, and you’re not just earning a degree—you’re building skills that will set you apart.

Here’s what you’ll love about the Smith School of Business:

  • Innovative Curriculum: Courses designed to solve real-world business challenges.
  • Global Partnerships: Opportunities to collaborate with international peers.
  • Alumni Network: Over 24,000 professionals spread across 80+ countries, ready to support your journey.

When you enroll in the Queen’s MBA, you’re tapping into a legacy of excellence that empowers you to succeed on the global stage.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Queen’s MBA Acceptance Rate

Let’s talk numbers. How hard is it to get into the Queen’s MBA?

The program is selective but not impossible to crack if you meet the criteria. While Queen’s doesn’t publish its exact acceptance rate, industry estimates suggest it ranges between 30-40%, making it one of Canada’s more accessible elite MBA programs.

Here’s how it compares to some other Canadian MBA programs:

MBA Program

Estimated Acceptance Rate

Queen’s University (Smith)30-40%
Rotman School of Management25-30%
Ivey Business School~30%
McGill (Desautels)~35%

What impacts your chances?

  1. Academic Record: A competitive GMAT/GRE score (650–700 GMAT range is common).
  2. Work Experience: At least 2–5 years in a professional role.
  3. Leadership Skills: Evidence of managing teams or leading initiatives.
  4. Diversity: Unique backgrounds and perspectives are highly valued.

Pro tip: If you’re worried about your GMAT score, don’t panic! Queen’s also evaluates your career achievements and ability to thrive in team settings. A strong overall profile can offset a lower-than-average GMAT score.

Queen’s MBA Ranking

Rankings are an essential factor when choosing an MBA, and the Queen’s MBA consistently performs well in both global and national lists.

Here’s how the program stacks up:

Ranking Body

2024 Position

Financial Times Global MBATop 100 globally; Top 5 in Canada
QS Global MBA RankingsTop 120 globally; Top 5 in Canadian MBAs
The Economist MBA RankingsConsistently ranked among the best

What makes Queen’s stand out in these rankings?

  • Leadership Development: A core strength, thanks to the program’s focus on teamwork and personal growth.
  • Strong Alumni Outcomes: Graduates report high post-MBA salaries and rapid career growth.
  • Return on Investment: With competitive tuition and impressive placement rates, the Queen’s MBA is a smart choice financially.

Here’s the real kicker: Unlike many global MBA programs, Queen’s MBA graduates benefit from Canada’s friendly immigration policies. Whether you want to work in Canada after graduation or explore international opportunities, you’ll have a head start.

Program and Curriculum of Queen’s MBA

The Queen’s MBA program is designed to create versatile, forward-thinking leaders. Whether your goal is to lead teams, solve complex problems, or drive innovation, this curriculum prepares you to excel.

What sets it apart? It’s not just about crunching numbers or learning theories. The program emphasizes leadership, analytics, and teamwork, ensuring you’re ready to tackle challenges in the real world.

Core Curriculum

The foundation of the Queen’s MBA lies in its core courses, which cover essential business disciplines like:

  • Leadership Development: Building the skills to lead diverse teams effectively.
  • Data Analytics: Harnessing data to make informed decisions.
  • Strategy and Operations: Learning to think like a CEO and optimize processes.

But what makes it unique is how these courses integrate team-based learning. From day one, you’ll be placed in carefully selected teams where you’ll collaborate on assignments, presentations, and case studies. It’s like having a mini-boardroom experience every day!

Specialization Options

Not every MBA journey is the same, and Queen’s gets that. The program offers a flexible structure with options to specialize in areas like:

  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Consulting
  • Entrepreneurship

You can even tailor your MBA with electives and experiential learning opportunities, making it truly your own.

Electives

Electives allow you to shape your learning around your career aspirations. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Digital Transformation: Perfect for tech enthusiasts.
  • Healthcare Management: For those eyeing roles in one of Canada’s fastest-growing industries.
  • Sustainable Business Practices: Aligns with global trends in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance).

Why are electives important? They give you a chance to dive deep into industries or skills that matter most to your goals. For example, if you’re transitioning into consulting, electives like Strategy Consulting or Organizational Change can prepare you to hit the ground running post-graduation.

Experiential Learning Programs

What’s learning without doing? The Queen’s MBA experiential learning options are where theory meets practice. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between classroom lessons and the real-world business environment.

Here are some highlights:

Program

Description

Consulting ProjectsWork with real companies to solve live business problems.
InternshipsGain hands-on experience in industries like finance, healthcare, or tech.
Team-Based SimulationsRole-play as executives to tackle simulated crises and challenges.

Why does this matter?
Imagine presenting a strategy to a Fortune 500 client or crafting a marketing plan for a growing startup. These experiences don’t just boost your résumé—they build confidence and prepare you to contribute on day one of your post-MBA job.

Pro Tip: Networking during these experiential programs often leads to internships and full-time offers. Many students credit these opportunities for landing their dream roles.

International Study Programs

In today’s interconnected world, gaining global exposure is more crucial than ever, and the Queen’s MBA delivers this through its international study programs.

What are the options?

  1. Global Exchange Opportunities: Students can spend a term at one of Queen’s partner institutions across Europe, Asia, or South America. These exchanges provide firsthand insights into international markets and cultures.
  2. Study Tours: Think of this as a global business crash course. You’ll visit countries like Germany, India, or Brazil, learning directly from industry leaders and witnessing global business practices up close.

Why does this matter?
These experiences help you:

  • Build a global network of peers and professionals.
  • Gain a deeper understanding of cross-cultural business dynamics.
  • Develop adaptability and cultural intelligence, which are essential for leadership roles in global companies.

Imagine negotiating deals in Tokyo or consulting on a sustainability project in Berlin—these programs prepare you for exactly that.

Research Centers and Thought Leadership

The Smith School of Business isn’t just about teaching—it’s about advancing business knowledge and innovation. Queen’s plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of business through its cutting-edge research centers.

One standout is the Centre for Business Venturing (CBV). Focused on entrepreneurship and innovation, the CBV helps students and businesses explore new opportunities, scale ventures, and navigate challenges.

Other notable research initiatives include:

  • The Institute for Sustainable Finance (ISF): Promoting sustainability in financial systems.
  • The Monieson Centre: Advancing research in knowledge-based industries.

What’s in it for you?
As a student, you can engage in these research projects, gaining insights into emerging trends like green financeAI in business, or entrepreneurial strategy. These opportunities add significant value, especially if you’re eyeing roles in consulting, strategy, or policy-making.

Accelerated and Executive MBA Options

If you’re an experienced professional looking for a faster or more flexible path, Queen’s offers specialized MBA programs tailored to different career stages:

Accelerated MBA

This program is designed for professionals with substantial work experience and a business undergraduate degree. It’s completed in just 12 months and focuses on building advanced management skills.

Why choose this?

  • Perfect if you want to fast-track your career without taking a long break.
  • Combines online learning and in-person sessions, offering flexibility.
  • Ideal for candidates looking to specialize in leadership, innovation, or analytics.

Executive MBA (EMBA)

The Queen’s Executive MBA caters to working professionals in leadership roles who want to climb the corporate ladder. It’s delivered over 16 months, primarily through weekend classes and online modules.

Highlights of the EMBA:

  • Learn while you work, applying concepts in real-time to your current role.
  • Access to a network of senior professionals, creating invaluable connections.
  • Emphasis on strategic decision-making and executive leadership skills.

Both options reflect Queen’s commitment to providing flexible, high-impact education tailored to your goals.

Fees and Financing for Queen’s MBA

One of the key considerations for any MBA program is the cost. Let’s break down the tuition fees, living expenses, and financial aid options for the Queen’s MBA to help you plan your investment.

Tuition Fees

The tuition for the Queen’s MBA program varies based on residency:

  • Domestic Students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents): Approximately CAD 72,000.
  • International Students: Approximately CAD 98,000.

These fees cover tuition, books, and access to Smith School of Business resources.

Living Expenses in Kingston

Kingston is significantly more affordable compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Here’s an estimate of annual living expenses:

Expense

Estimated Cost (CAD)

Housing12,000 – 15,000
Food3,000 – 5,000
Transportation1,200 – 1,500
Personal Expenses2,000 – 3,000
Total18,200 – 24,500

Pro Tip: Shared accommodations and student discounts on public transportation can significantly reduce your costs.

Scholarships, Bursaries, and Financial Aid

Queen’s MBA offers several funding options to ease the financial burden:

  • Entrance Scholarships: Automatically considered during admission based on academic performance and work experience.
  • Named Awards: Targeted scholarships like the Forté Foundation Scholarship for women in business.
  • Bursaries: Need-based financial aid available for eligible students.

For international students, it’s worth exploring:

  • External scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
  • Education loans from home countries or international providers like Prodigy Finance.

Pro Tip for International Students: Start researching financial aid early and consider part-time on-campus work, which is permitted under Canadian student visa rules.

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Employment and Career Outcomes Post-Queen’s MBA

The Queen’s MBA program isn’t just about learning; it’s about setting you up for success. Let’s explore what you can expect in terms of career outcomes and support after graduation.

Placement Statistics

Metric

Details

Employment Rate95%+ within 3 months of graduation
Average SalaryCAD 115,000 – CAD 120,000 per year
Top EmployersDeloitte, PwC, Amazon, RBC, McKinsey

Graduates of the Queen’s MBA program frequently land roles in consulting, finance, technology, and healthcare.

Top Industries and Roles

Industry

Popular Roles

ConsultingStrategy Consultant, Business Analyst
FinanceInvestment Analyst, Corporate Banker
TechnologyProduct Manager, Data Analyst
HealthcareHealthcare Strategist, Operations Manager

Smith School of Business Career Support

Here’s where the Smith School of Business excels:

  1. Career Coaches: Personalized guidance for résumés, cover letters, and interview prep.
  2. On-Campus Recruitment: Access to top recruiters across industries.
  3. Alumni Network: A global network of over 24,000 professionals, many of whom are eager to mentor or hire fellow graduates.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of the school’s case competition coaching and networking events to boost your career prospects even further.

Queen’s MBA Application: Essays and Interviews

The Queen’s MBA application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail.

Essays

Expect to write essays that highlight your leadership experience, career aspirations, and fit with the Queen’s MBA program. Typical prompts include:

  • “What are your career goals, and how will the Queen’s MBA help you achieve them?”
  • “Describe a time when you demonstrated leadership in a challenging situation.”

Pro Tip: Be authentic and specific. Use real examples to showcase your achievements and potential.

Interviews

If your application makes the shortlist, you’ll be invited for an admissions interview. This is a chance to demonstrate your fit for the program and clarify any details from your application.

What to Expect:

  • Questions about your career journey and leadership experiences.
  • Behavioral questions like, “Tell me about a time you worked in a diverse team.”
  • An opportunity to ask the panel questions about the program.

Pro Tip: Practice with mock interviews and research the program thoroughly to tailor your answers.

Essays

The essays in the Queen’s MBA application aren’t just about writing—they’re your chance to showcase who you are beyond your résumé and scores. Admissions committees want to see how well you fit with the program and what you’ll bring to the table.

Why Are Essays Important?

Think of the essays as your personal story. They highlight your:

  • Leadership potential: Examples of how you’ve inspired or managed others.
  • Career aspirations: Your goals and why Queen’s is the perfect fit.
  • Unique perspective: What sets you apart and how you’ll enrich the program.

Essay 1: Prompt Overview and Strategies

One common prompt in the Queen’s MBA application is:
“What are your career goals, and how will the Queen’s MBA help you achieve them?”

This essay requires a clear roadmap of where you are now, where you want to go, and how the program fits into your journey.

Strategies for a Strong Response:

  1. Be specific: Avoid vague goals like "I want to be a leader." Instead, say, "I aspire to become a product manager in the tech industry, focusing on AI solutions."
  2. Connect with Queen’s strengths: Mention how specific aspects of the program (e.g., team-based learning, electives) align with your goals.
  3. Show passion: Share personal stories or challenges that led you to pursue an MBA.

For instance, you might describe how leading a cross-functional team sparked your interest in leadership development, making Queen’s leadership-focused curriculum a natural fit.

Interview Questions

The interview is your chance to shine in person (or virtually). The Queen’s MBA interview typically focuses on your leadership experiences, teamwork skills, and motivations for pursuing the program.

Commonly Asked Questions:

  1. Behavioral Questions:
    • "Tell me about a time you faced a conflict in a team. How did you resolve it?"
    • "Describe a situation where you had to demonstrate leadership under pressure."
  2. Goal-Oriented Questions:
    • "What are your short- and long-term career goals?"
    • "Why did you choose Queen’s over other MBA programs?"
  3. Case-Based Questions:
    • Occasionally, you might encounter a brief business problem to assess your analytical and decision-making skills.

Preparation Tips:

  1. Know Your Story: Be ready to explain your résumé, career shifts, and accomplishments.
  2. Practice STAR Method: For behavioral questions, structure answers as Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
  3. Research Queen’s MBA: Familiarize yourself with the program to articulate why it’s the right fit.

Pro Tip: Practice mock interviews with a friend or mentor, focusing on concise, confident responses.

What Makes Queen’s MBA Unique?

The Queen’s MBA program stands out for its personalized approach and innovative learning methods. Here are the key aspects that set it apart:

1. Team-Based Learning

Unlike traditional MBA programs, Queen’s emphasizes team-based learning. From the very start, you’ll be placed in diverse teams to tackle assignments, case studies, and simulations.

Why it matters:

  • Develops real-world collaboration and leadership skills.
  • Prepares you to work with people from varied backgrounds and industries.

2. Leadership Development

Leadership is at the heart of the program. Through courses, workshops, and coaching, you’ll learn to:

  • Lead diverse teams effectively.
  • Navigate challenging business scenarios.
  • Communicate with impact.

3. Small Class Sizes

With a class size of around 80 students, the program fosters a close-knit community where you receive personalized attention from faculty and build meaningful connections with peers.

What’s the benefit?

  • More direct access to professors and career advisors.
  • Opportunities to form lifelong friendships and professional networks.

4. Alumni Network and Career Outcomes

The Smith School of Business alumni network is a powerful resource, connecting you with over 24,000 graduates in 80+ countries.

Key career advantages:

  • High employment rates (95%+ within three months of graduation).
  • Strong placement in top companies like Deloitte, PwC, and Amazon.
  • Competitive post-MBA salaries, averaging CAD 115,000–120,000 annually.

Pro Tip: The combination of small class sizes, strong alumni support, and a focus on leadership development ensures you get a holistic MBA experience tailored to your success.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Conclusion

The Queen’s MBA program is more than just a business degree—it’s a transformative experience designed to shape leaders for a global economy.

Let’s recap what makes this program exceptional:

  • A strong emphasis on leadership development and team-based learning, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle real-world challenges.
  • Opportunities for experiential learning, including consulting projects and global study tours, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
  • Small class sizes fostering a close-knit community and personalized attention.
  • Outstanding career outcomes, with high employment rates, competitive salaries, and a powerful alumni network supporting you at every step.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, the Queen’s MBA program offers the skills, network, and experiences to help you succeed. Whether you’re looking to lead, innovate, or transition into a new industry, this program could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.

FAQs
1. What is the cost of the Queen’s MBA?
Domestic students: CAD 72,000 International students: CAD 98,000 These fees include tuition, course materials, and access to university resources.
2. How competitive is the Queen’s MBA acceptance rate?
The estimated acceptance rate is 30–40%, making it one of Canada’s more accessible elite MBA programs. Admissions emphasize a balance of strong academics, leadership experience, and cultural fit.
3. Does Queen’s offer an accelerated or executive MBA?
Yes, the Accelerated MBA is a 12-month program for experienced professionals with a business degree. The Executive MBA is a 16-month program for working leaders, combining online and in-person learning formats.
4. What is the focus of the Queen’s MBA curriculum?
The curriculum emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and analytics, with opportunities to specialize through electives. Its team-based learning model mirrors real-world business environments, preparing graduates for collaborative roles.
5. What are the employment outcomes for Queen’s MBA graduates? =
The program boasts a 95%+ employment rate within three months of graduation. Graduates earn average salaries of CAD 115,000–120,000, landing roles in consulting, technology, and finance with top employers like Deloitte, Amazon, and PwC.
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Dhruvin Jain
Dhruvin Jain

Articles: 20

Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

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