The MBA Graduate Practicum Program (GPP) at University Canada West offers a unique Work-integrated Learning experience. In this program, employers have the opportunity to hire MBA students for roles that can be paid, unpaid, or stipend based. These positions require a student commitment of 12-24 hours per week, and require employers to provide mentorship throughout the process. For the Fall 2025 Term, which runs from September 29th to December 21st 2025, the program is set to place 8-10 students.

Students develop a robust skill set in business analytics, including data mining, statistical analysis, and advanced data visualization. They gain expertise in predictive modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, applying these tools to solve business challenges. Proficient in Python, R, SQL, and cloud computing technologies, they handle large datasets and implement scalable solutions.

This capstone also emphasizes ethical data practices, preparing students to make responsible data-driven decisions. By integrating technical knowledge with business strategy, students are equipped to lead analytics projects that drive innovation and competitive advantage.

Participating in the MBA GPP presents employers with the opportunity to tap into a talent pool of seasoned MBA students. Employers can benefit from the fresh perspectives and up-to-date academic knowledge these students bring to tackle complex business challenges. 

Application Process:

1. Eva Peng (coordinator) will ask for a job description/project description to determine how closely it matches with the criteria for this level of MBA Placement. Project scope and details can be adjusted if necessary, and we ask you to carefully answer the screening questions.
2. If your job/project description is a good fit for the program, students will be invited to apply to the Project on Riipen, between August 27th - September 20th. ***Please note that your Project might not receive applications***
3. Accept or decline the student's application within 5 days of receiving
4. Begin work with the student starting September 29th at the latest and ending December 21st at the earliest. Depending on the nature of the Project, students may start work earlier or finish later, but they must be working on your Project for the duration of September 29th to December 21st.
5. Upon completion of the Project, submit feedback on Riipen within 7 days

Criteria for Project Acceptance to the MBA Capstone

1. We prioritize organizations that are established and have been operating in North America for a minimum of three years.
2. We prioritize organizations that have at least 3 full-time, permanent employees.
3. We prioritize Projects that involve high-level decision-making, leadership, or strategic responsibilities.
4. The Project should requires the application of MBA-acquired skills in business analysis related areas, including data mining, statistical analysis, and advanced data visualization, predictive modeling, machine learning, artificial intelligence, etc.
5. The Project should NOT be primarily administrative, clerical, or sales-oriented without a strategic component, we are open to considering Projects that blend strategic and transactional tasks.

Deliverables will vary depending on the scope of the project, and might include

• Comprehensive Data Analysis Report (PDF/Word)
• Interactive Dashboard (Tableau/Power BI)
• Presentation Deck (PowerPoint/PDF)
• Weekly Progress Reports (Word/Email)

These deliverables will be structured to provide clear insights and actionable recommendations, ensuring that learners contribute tangible value to the employer while demonstrating their analytical skills.