Thompson Rivers University

TRU and Okanagan College look to bring MBA degree to Kelowna

June 15, 2006

KAMLOOPS – Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops and Okanagan College in Kelowna are working together to determine the feasibility of offering the TRU MBA program on the local Kelowna campus.

The Deans of the respective Schools of Business have been collaborating on the proposal and are currently inviting both prospective students and potential instructors to find out more about the program, which would be offered through face-to-face, part-time study, in the evenings and on weekends.

The TRU program, unlike others in the market today, is designed for the more recent university graduate, as well as middle managers looking to expand career options.

Dr. Murray Young, Dean of the TRU School of Business & Economics, looks at the initiative as a strategic alliance in graduate business education with Okanagan College.

“As a truly comprehensive university, TRU is in a unique position to work directly with colleges like Okanagan to bring new opportunities to working adults across the province. We are interested in hearing from individuals throughout the Okanagan region who might be considering an MBA degree, and local businesses and corporations interested in upgrading the management capabilities of their employee group,” said Young.

“Recent university graduates from Okanagan (OUC and OC) have indicated an interest being able to continue their education at a graduate level,” explained Heather Banham, Associate Dean of the School of Business at Okanagan College. “By working with Okanagan College, TRU can provide that opportunity with a flexible and reasonably priced program.”

For complete program information, people are invited to visit the program web site. The anticipated cost for the complete 20-course program would be about $20,000 plus books and fees. The MBA degree could be completed in 20-40 months depending on the number of courses a person takes each term.

“This is also a unique opportunity for business professionals in the Okanagan region, as we are also interested in hearing from persons interested in teaching in an MBA program delivered on the Kelowna campus of Okanagan College” said Young.

“Based on market interest, we expect to make a decision by July for a 2006 or 2007 start.”

For more information:
Thompson Rivers University by phone to the MBA office (250)-852-6267 or by email.
Okanagan College by phone to the School of Business (250) 862-5610 or by email.