Business – Marketing Program (B120)
Program Description
Program Overview
The Business - Marketing two-year diploma program opens doors to exciting and fast-moving careers in marketing. In this program, students will participate in real-world projects and case studies through a combination of hands-on and project-based learning. This diploma prepares students for careers in a wide range of fields, like marketing firms, ad agencies, retailers, banks and other financial services institutions, government, not-for-profit, and small businesses.
After successful completion of the first year or second year, students can transfer into the three-year Business Administration – Marketing advanced diploma.
Full Description
The Business - Marketing program is a two-year diploma that provides students with a solid foundation for a marketing career. During this program, you’ll learn how to analyze the market, the customers, and the competition using the building blocks of a marketing plan. You'll also learn how to help companies build their brands through direct, digital, mass, and social media channels, plus public relations and sales promotion.
Here are some skills you’ll be able to show off after completion of the Business - Marketing program:
- Contributing to the development of an integrated marketing communication plan for a product, concept, good, or service
- Conducting market research to help inform marketing decisions
- Analyzing the viability of a concept, product, good, or service in local, national, and global markets
- Describing the purpose and value of effective market research and design
- Soft skills, including written and oral communication, business presentations, and teamwork
Students can also network and build skills through a variety of extracurricular activities at George Brown—just one of the many ways our School of Marketing helps students get the most out of their business education. Activities may include:
- Ontario Colleges Marketing Competition
- Vanier BDC Case Challenge
- Enactus George Brown
- Speed mentoring event
- Great Canadian Sales Competition
- Ad Week
This Centre for Business program is part of our specialized School of Marketing.
Earn Your College Credential from a Business School Accredited by ACBSP
Fourteen programs at the Centre for Business have earned international recognition from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Advanced diploma and diploma programs at the Schools of Accounting and Finance, Human Resources, Management, and Marketing and the Honours Bachelor of Commerce (Financial Services) program at the School of Accounting and Finance have ACBSP accreditation. George Brown is now one of only two colleges in Ontario to have earned ACBSP accreditation.
Your Field Education Options
Students have the option of earning a business elective credit with the Field Education Course (BUS 1067). Classes often incorporate case studies and projects that can involve industry partners.
George Brown College endeavours to provide field education opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Business.
MARKETING ASSOCIATIONS MEMBERSHIP
George Brown Marketing students have access to membership to two of Canada’s premier marketing associations, the CMA and IAB, included in their tuition fees:
Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) membership includes:
- Live and online events, with free or reduced member pricing
- Professional development opportunities
- Tools, resources, and guides for members only
- Networking opportunities with thousands of marketers
- Exclusive access to CMA NXT, a site dedicated to filling the gap between post-secondary education and professional life
Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) membership includes:
- Student volunteer (and networking) opportunities for marquee events
- Members-only webinars and podcasts
- Original Canadian digital marketing research
- Globally accepted digital ad standards
- Globally standardized courses, certification, and custom workshops
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
B120 graduates can easily transfer into two other Marketing programs at George Brown College: the three-year advanced diploma in Marketing and the four-year degree in Digital Marketing.
Transfer Option 1: Direct pathway into the Business Administration-Marketing three-year advanced diploma program: If you'd like to continue with more in-depth study of the marketing field, consider transferring into our three-year advanced diploma, which introduces you to more specialized topics such as international and digital marketing.
Transfer Option 2: Direct pathway into the Honours Bachelor of Commerce - Digital Marketing four-year degree program: If you'd like to continue with more in-depth study of the marketing field, and earn both a diploma and a degree, consider transferring into our four-year degree, which focuses on digital marketing.
Transferring into the degree program requires a program GPA of 3.0 or higher, plus taking some "bridging courses" to catch up to students already in the degree. This "2+2" transfer model — two years of diploma studies leading to two years of degree studies — is ideal for students who'd like to leverage their time at the college to earn both a diploma and a degree.
For information on future study options, see our transfer guide.
Courses
Required Courses
In order to graduate from the B120 program, you need to complete 26 courses: 23 mandatory courses and 3 general education electives.
Depending on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. Similarly, you may be required to take MATH 1027 (Business Math with Remediation) before progressing to MATH 1008. COMM 1000 and MATH 1027 do not count toward the 27 courses required for graduation, and you will be charged for these extra courses. Please speak to the Business Office staff if you need any assistance.
General education courses (semesters 2, 3 and 4): You must complete three general education courses chosen from at least two of the following categories: Social Sciences (GSSC), Arts and Humanities (GHUM) or Science and Technology (GSCI).
You are required to make up any failed or dropped courses before you are eligible to graduate. You can make up these courses during the day, and some are offered in the evening through Continuing Education. Please check with the business office staff to ensure that the Continuing Education courses are equivalent to what is taught in the full-time program. Note that some courses may not be offered in every semester. Our staff can assist you in any special timetable requirements you may have.
SEMESTER 1
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1038 | Business Concepts I | NONE |
| COMM 2000 | College English | NONE |
| COMP 1010 | Business Computer Applications I | NONE |
| MARK 1020 | Principles of Marketing I | NONE |
| MATH 1008 | Math for Business & Management I | NONE |
| MARK 1046 | Marketing Today | NONE |
SEMESTER 2
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 1036 | Principles of Accounting | NONE |
| COMM 1034 | Professional Communication I | COMM 2000 |
| COMP 1115 | Business Computer Applications II | COMP 1010 |
| MARK 2049 | Principles of Marketing II | MARK 1020 & MARK 1046 |
| MATH 1131 | Mathematical Analysis for Marketers | MATH 1008 |
| CMMK 1087 | Human Skills | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 3
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| CMMK 2034 | Advanced Communication for Marketers | COMM 1034 |
| ECON 1034 | Introduction to Economics | NONE |
| MARK 1055 | Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC 1) | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2007 | Marketing Research | MARK 2049 and MATH 1131 |
| STAT 1012 | Business Statistics | MATH 1131 |
| PSY 1129 | Organizational Behaviour | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 4
| CODE | COURSES | PRE-REQUISITE |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1056 | Business Presentation Skills | COMM 2000 |
| MARK 1002 | Professional Selling | MARK 1020 |
| MARK 2033 | Database Marketing I | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2069 | Digital Marketing I | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2065 | Career Planning for Marketing | MARK 2049 |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Contribute to the development of a marketing plan that will meet the needs or goals of a business or organization.
- Contribute to the development of an integrated marketing communication plan of a product, concept, good and/or service based on an identified market need or target.
- Contribute to the development of new and/or modified marketing concepts, products, goods and/or services that respond to market needs.
- Contribute to the development of strategies for the efficient and effective placement/distribution of a product, good and/or service to respond to an evolving market.
- Contribute to the development of strategies related to pricing for a product, good and/or service.
- Analyze the viability of a concept, product, good and/or service in local, national or global markets.
- Participate in conducting market research to provide information needed to make marketing decisions.
- Communicate marketing information persuasively and accurately, in oral, written, graphic and interactive media formats.
- Plan, prepare and deliver a sales presentation or pitch to address the needs of the client.
- Develop strategies with clients, customers, consumers, co-workers, supervisors and others to maintain and grow working relationships.
- Develop learning and development strategies to enhance professional growth in the field.
- Apply entrepreneurial strategies to identify and respond to new career opportunities that might include contract employment, and self-employment initiatives.
- Operate within a framework of organizational policies and practices, when conducting business of the organization.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (C, M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
COURSE EXEMPTIONS
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Proficiency in English communications is necessary for success in this program. Please review our English proficiency requirements.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Information Sessions
On-campus information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff, and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an upcoming session.
Domestic Student Admissions
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines, or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions section.
International Student Admissions
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
Fees and Financial Information
For inquiries about OSAP, Bursaries, Scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid section.
Entry Advising
For advice on the various program options and which program might be best suited for you, make an appointment to see an Entry Advisor. Please review these frequently asked questions.
Centre for Business
For questions regarding programs at the Centre for Business or if you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff are available to assist you.
For general inquiries, please contact the Centre for Business:
Email: business@georgebrown.ca
Phone: (416) 415-5000 ext. 2160
Business – Marketing (B120)
For inquiries related to this program (for example, course-specific information) please contact the program co-ordinator.
Adrian Bond, Program Co-ordinator
Email: abond@georgebrown.ca
John Peco, Chair, School of Marketing
Email: john.peco@georgebrown.ca
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Marketing and classes usually take place at our St. James Campus, mainly at 200 King St. E., and 290 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
Social Channels:
Business – Marketing Program (B120)
Program Description
Program Overview
The four-semester Business – Marketing diploma opens doors to opportunities in the exciting and fast-moving field of marketing. The marketing programs at George Brown College's Centre for Business in Toronto are more than textbooks and lectures. Our learning is hands-on and project-based, incorporating case studies and projects that can involve industry partners. Students also develop soft skills, including written and oral communication, business presentations and teamwork. After successful completion of the first year or second year, students can transfer into the three-year Business Administration – Marketing advanced diploma.
Full Description
This Business – Marketing diploma prepares graduates for a variety of career opportunities in the exciting field of marketing. Students will build and demonstrate the skills needed to work in a wide range of organizations.
This learning experience will enable you to:
- Use the building blocks of a marketing plan to analyze the market, the customers and the competition.
- Describe the purpose and value of effective market research and design.
- Develop integrated and consistent communication strategies and solutions that will engage customers and help companies grow their brands through direct, digital, mass and social media channels as well as public relations and sales promotion.
Participation in extracurricular activities allows students to build on their knowledge and skills while networking. This is one of many ways that our School of Marketing helps students get a great return on all that they invest in their business education. Activities may include:
- Ontario Colleges Marketing Competition
- Vanier BDC Case Challenge
- Enactus George Brown
- speed mentoring events
- Great Canadian Sales Competition
- Ad Week
This Centre for Business program is part of our specialized School of Marketing.
Earn Your College Credential from a Business School Accredited by ACBSP
George Brown College's Centre for Business programs has earned international recognition from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Centre for Business diplomas, advanced diplomas, and degree programs, 14 in total, have been accredited globally at our Schools of Accounting & Finance, HR, Management, and Marketing. George Brown is now one of only two colleges in Ontario to have earned ACBSP accreditation.
Note: George Brown College has adopted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative. As a result, Centre for Business students registered in this program are required to bring their own laptops. Our Library Learning Commons offers open access computers, as well as equipment that can be borrowed on a short-term basis. For more information, please contact the Centre for Business at business@georgebrown.ca.
Your Field Education Options
Students have the option of earning a business elective credit with the Field Education Course (BUS 1067). Classes often incorporate case studies and projects that can involve industry partners.
George Brown College endeavours to provide field education opportunities with real-world challenges and clients. Find out more about field education at the Centre for Business.
MARKETING ASSOCIATIONS MEMBERSHIP
George Brown Marketing students have access to membership to two of Canada’s premier marketing associations, the CMA and IAB, included in their tuition fees:
Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) membership includes:
- Live and online events, with free or reduced member pricing
- Professional development opportunities
- Tools, resources, and guides for members only
- Networking opportunities with thousands of marketers
- Exclusive access to CMA NXT, a site dedicated to filling the gap between post secondary education and professional life
Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) membership includes:
- Student volunteer (and networking) opportunities for marquee events
- Members only webinars and podcasts
- Original Canadian digital marketing research
- Globally accepted digital ad standards
- Globally standardized courses, certification, and custom workshops
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
This program has a pathway to the Business Administration – Marketing three-year advanced diploma program. Should you wish to continue with a more in-depth study of the field, you will benefit from a seamless transition into the three-year advanced diploma.
George Brown College has agreements with several colleges and universities in Canada and abroad that will give you credit for your college diploma. For information on additional future study options, see our transfer guide
Courses
Required Courses
In order to graduate from the B120 program, you need to complete 27 courses: 23 Mandatory courses, 1 Business Elective or Field Education Course and 3 General Education Electives.
Depending on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. Similarly, you may be required to take MATH 1027 (Business Math with Remediation) before progressing to MATH 1008. COMM 1000 and MATH 1027 do not count toward the 27 courses required for graduation, and you will be charged for these extra courses. Please speak to the Business Office staff if you need any assistance.
General Education Courses (semesters 2, 3 and 4): You must complete three General Education courses chosen from at least two of the following categories: Social Sciences (GSSC), Arts and Humanities (GHUM) or Science and Technology (GSCI).
You are required to make up any failed or dropped courses before you are eligible to graduate. You can make up these courses during the day, and some are offered in the evening through Continuing Education. Please check with the business office staff to ensure that the Continuing Education courses are equivalent to what is taught in the full-time program. Note that some courses may not be offered in every semester. Our staff can assist you in any special timetable requirements you may have.
Printable Curriculum Planner 2023-2024
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Courses | Pre-requisite |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1038 | Business Concepts I | NONE |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts | NONE |
| COMP 1010 | Business Computer Applications I | NONE |
| MARK 1020 | Principles of Marketing I | NONE |
| MATH 1008 | Math for Business & Management | NONE |
| MARK 1046 | Marketing Today | NONE |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Courses | Pre-requisite |
|---|---|---|
| ACCT 1036 | Principles of Accounting | NONE |
| COMM 1034 | Professional Communication | COMM 2000 |
| COMP 1115 | Business Computer Applications II | COMP 1010 |
| MARK 2049 | Principles of Marketing II | MARK 1020 & MARK 1046 |
| MATH 1131 | Mathematical Analysis for Marketers | MATH 1008 |
| CMMK 1087 | Human Skills | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Courses | Pre-requisite |
|---|---|---|
| CMMK 2034 | Communication for Marketers | COMM 1034 |
| ECON 1034 | Introduction to Economics | NONE |
| MARK 1055 | Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC 1) | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2007 | Marketing Research | MARK 2049 and Co-requisite STAT 1012 |
| STAT 1012 | Business Statistics | MATH 1131 |
| PSY 1129 | Organizational Behaviour | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Courses | Pre-requisite |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1056 | Business Presentation Skills | COMM 1007 |
| MARK 1002 | Professional Selling | MARK 1020 |
| MARK 2033 | Database Marketing I | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2069 | Digital Marketing I | MARK 2049 |
| MARK 2065 | Career Planning for Marketing | NONE |
| Select One General Education Elective | ||
| Business Elective or Field Education Course | ||
Electives
Business Electives for Business – Marketing Program
| Code | Courses | Pre-requisite |
|---|---|---|
| BUS 1067 | Field Education | For non-co-op students, by interview only |
| CMMK 1120 | Corporate Communication: Theory and Practice | COMM 1034 |
| MARK 2028 | Marketing Financial Services | MARK 1020 |
| MARK 2053 | Negotiation Skills | NONE |
| MARK 2061 | Applied Marketing Research | MARK 2007 & STAT 1012 |
| MARK 2063 | Advertising & Media Campaign Development (IMC 2) | MARK 1055 |
| MARK 3029 | Case-Based Approach to Marketing Strategy | Successful completion of semester 3, 3.0 GPA, by interview only |
| MGMT 1034 | Retail Marketing | MARK 1020 |
| ACCT 2031 | Managerial Accounting | ACCT 1034 |
| BUS 1044 | Business Law | NONE |
| CMMK 1114 | Business Research and Report Writing | COMM 1034 |
| CMMK 1156 | Talking Business | COMM 1034 |
| MARK 3032 | Advanced Selling Skills | MARK 1002 & by interview only |
| CMMK 1127 | The Business Media in Canada | COMM 1034 |
| MGMT 3013 | Shopper Research | MARK 1020 |
| MGMT 2037 | Retail Management | MARK 1020 |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate demonstrates the ability to:
- Contribute to the development of a marketing plan that will meet the needs or goals of a business or organization.
- Contribute to the development of an integrated marketing communication plan of a product, concept, good and/or service based on an identified market need or target.
- Contribute to the development of new and/or modified marketing concepts, products, goods and/or services that respond to market needs.
- Contribute to the development of strategies for the efficient and effective placement/distribution of a product, good and/or service to respond to an evolving market.
- Contribute to the development of strategies related to pricing for a product, good and/or service.
- Analyze the viability of a concept, product, good and/or service in local, national or global markets.
- Participate in conducting market research to provide information needed to make marketing decisions.
- Communicate marketing information persuasively and accurately, in oral, written, graphic and interactive media formats.
- Plan, prepare and deliver a sales presentation or pitch to address the needs of the client.
- Develop strategies with clients, customers, consumers, co-workers, supervisors and others to maintain and grow working relationships.
- Develop learning and development strategies to enhance professional growth in the field.
- Apply entrepreneurial strategies to identify and respond to new career opportunities that might include contract employment, and self-employment initiatives.
- Operate within a framework of organizational policies and practices, when conducting business of the organization.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
*Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 math (C, M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
COURSE EXEMPTIONS
Some college and university credits may qualify you for exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Proficiency in English communications is necessary for success in this program. Please review our English proficiency requirements.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Information Sessions
On-campus information sessions are held on a regular basis. Come and have your questions answered. Learn about the program content and career options, meet your friendly professors and staff, and experience what it is like to be in a George Brown College classroom. Sign up for an upcoming session.
Domestic Student Admissions
For inquiries about domestic admission requirements, admission deadlines, or the admissions process, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@georgebrown.ca or visit the Admissions section.
International Student Admissions
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page.
Fees and Financial Information
For inquiries about OSAP, Bursaries, Scholarships and other financial inquiries, please contact the Financial Aid Office at FinAid@georgebrown.ca or visit the Financial Aid section.
Entry Advising
For advice on the various program options and which program might be best suited for you, make an appointment to see an Entry Advisor. Please review these frequently asked questions.
Centre for Business
For questions regarding programs at the Centre for Business or if you require more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our knowledgeable staff are available to assist you.
For general inquiries, please contact the Centre for Business:
Email: business@georgebrown.ca
Phone: (416) 415-5000 ext. 2160
Business – Marketing (B120)
For inquiries related to this program (for example, course-specific information) please contact the program co-ordinator.
Adrian Bond, Program Co-ordinator
Email: abond@georgebrown.ca
John Peco, Chair, School of Marketing
Email: john.peco@georgebrown.ca
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
This program is offered out of our School of Marketing and classes usually take place at our St. James Campus, mainly at 200 King St. E., and 290 Adelaide St. E., Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Campus tours are offered on a regular basis. Sign up today! You can also check out our virtual tour.
