Learn more about the academic programs we are delivering in Winter 2025. If you have any questions about part-time studies, please contact us.

 

Business - International Business

Ontario College Diploma

 

Overview

This program concentrates on the complexities of the movement of goods and services across the globe. With the Canadian economy increasingly dependent on international trade, Canadian businesses are looking for expertise in international business. Students will receive hands-on training in international selling and marketing, international trade documentation, and transportation selection. In addition, students will research and complete a comprehensive export marketing plan.

Today's global economy offers a wide array of employment opportunities in the dynamic world of international business, and this program prepares students for exciting careers in importing, exporting, international trade, logistics, and marketing within various sectors.

Filter Classes: In Class     Online     Correspondence     Hybrid     Availability   

Part-time Studies courses are being offered in either of the following four formats: Online, Flexible, In-person, Hybrid. Click Availability below to see current offerings.

Curriculum

Business Studies Certificate Courses

COM101 OR COM111
 
COM101
Communicating Across Contexts
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

Placement via English Assessment, or successful completion of ESL934.

COM101 replaces EAC 150.
Students who have successfully completed EAC 150 are not required to complete COM101.

This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centred on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferrable reading and writing skills essential for success in their postsecondary studies, workplaces, and communities.




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COM111
Communicating Across Contexts (Enriched)
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

Placement via English Assessment

This course introduces students to the core concepts of communication. Students will cultivate an awareness of these concepts by analyzing how they are used in a variety of texts and contexts, and they will apply these concepts strategically in their own writing. Through a variety of writing tasks centred on these core concepts of communication, students will develop the transferrable reading and writing skills essential for success in their postsecondary studies, workplaces, and communities.




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BAM101
Introduction to Business Administration
Availability
 

This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the Canadian business environment, business issues and functions, and the major forces at work in the global economy. It provides students with a perspective of business firms as integrated organizations composed of a number of specialized functions.




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MRK106
Marketing I
Availability
 

Marketing is an approach to business that puts the customer at the centre of its activities and focuses on satisfying customer needs and wants. While marketing is used by both profit and not-for-profit organizations to meet the demands of the market place, this course introduces students to the fundamental marketing concepts used by profit oriented business organizations.




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MBF101
Mathematics of Business and Finance
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

No required prerequisite but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics.

This course provides students with the fundamentals of mathematics of business and finance. Following the introduction of concepts of per cent and per cent change, simple and compound interest rates will be discussed. Compound interest rates will be applied to the study of annuities. Students will also learn important models of business mathematics, such as currency conversion, trade discounts, markups and markdowns, break-even and cost-volume-profit analysis.

Please note: For students taking the self-directed OntarioLearn sections, the eTextbook is included in the price of the course.




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ACC120
Accounting Basics I
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

No required prerequisite, but students should have Grade 12 English and Mathematics or equivalent

This course introduces the student to how accounting information is used by, and meets the needs of both internal and external users through effective and efficient communication as well as what accounting information is required by a business concern to reflect clearly the operating results of the enterprise over its operating life. Throughout the course, students will be introduced to generally accepted accounting principles, the interpretation and preparation of financial statements and how this information is recorded in the various business records.




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SMS210
Microcomputer Applications for Business
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

A fundamental working knowledge of Windows Operating Systems and Excel Software.

Building on the skills they have previously acquired in Excel and Windows operating systems, students will further develop their proficiency in these areas and add Access to their skill set. Throughout the course, they will apply these software skills to solve business problems.




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Business - International Business Courses

COM460
Intercultural Communication
Availability
 

This course explores ways in which cultural differences affect communication. Students must initially define culture as it pertains not only to racial of religious denominations, but also includes age groups, genders, social affluence levels, and group affiliations. From verbal expressions to body language, it is important for effective communicators to understand the message that is actually being sent and/or received.




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EAC594
Business Communication for the Digital Workplace
Availability
 

With businesses thriving on good customer relationships, effective business communication is the cornerstone of company success. This course will help you learn the principles, practices, and tools for communicating effectively in the workplace using cases and/or projects.

From learning about audience, context, formats, tone, and media to applying your skills in writing correspondence, reports, and presentations, this course will guide you in developing professional interpersonal, collaborative, and web-based knowledge and practices.




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ECN502
Introduction to Principles of Economics - Macro
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

ECN501

Please note that ECN502 is not recognized as a General Education credit. This is a required subject for the Accounting and Finance program.

This course introduces the process and principles of macroeconomic thought as they have been developed to explain the determination of the levels of national income and output, employment, the price level and other macroeconomic aggregates. The implications of these principles of public policy in Canada will be examined in the contexts of money and banking, stabilization efforts, international trade, the structure of the Canadian economy, and responses to the emerging patterns of global competition.




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INB345
International Transportation
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

None.

The physical movement of goods across national boundaries will be the major focus of this course. Students will learn how to determine the cost of moving cargo by various modes and routes of transportation, how to incorporate the cost into the export quotation and/or the import costing. The topic of supply chain management is introduced. The student will learn how to deal with trucking companies, railway companies, ocean carriers, airlines, freight forwarders and agents.

 




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INB355
Import/Export Procedures I
Availability
 

This course provides students with a thorough understanding of export procedures as they relate to the international marketing of goods. Emphasis will be on the study of traditional payment methods and the most frequently used terms of sale (Incoterms). Accuracy and the timely preparation and presentation of documents are stressed to avoid costly errors. Hands-on documentation practise is provided.




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INB365
Transborder Procedures
Availability
 

This course introduces students to practical hands-on knowledge of various tariff reliefs. Emphasis will be placed on North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) rules of origin determinations as well as United States of America (USA), Canadian and Mexican government requirements for import clearances classified by sector and country of origin.




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MRK320
Marketing: Effective Selling
Availability
 

A career in selling can focus on either industrial or retail sales. This course deals primarily with industrial selling using ethical and logical techniques that many successful salespeople use in their careers.




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OBR250
Organizational Behaviour
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

BAM101

This course introduces the student to fundamental concepts and theories concerning the behaviour of people in workplace organizations. The emphasis is on identifying questions and problems typically encountered by new employees and developing practical strategies and solutions. Contemporary issues and challenges in society are analyzed in terms of their impact on the workplace, on relations between individuals, and on the individual. The course draws on a variety of structured experiential exercises and case studies to apply the concepts of organizational behaviour to practical business issues and situations.




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OPM400
Production and Operations Management - Manufacturing and Services
Availability
 

This subject is an introduction to the study of operations management. Students will study the general principles and techniques used in providing goods and services to satisfy customer demand. On completion of this subject, the student will understand the generalized and technical principles involved in operations management, and be able to apply the various problem solving techniques in the analysis of practical operations management situations. The student will demonstrate these decision making and analytical techniques in written form. This subject is a basic grounding in the field of operations. This field is an intricate part of all organizations, manufacturing and service, as well as both the profit and not-for-profit sectors.




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PMP200
Project Management Tools and Techniques
Availability
 

In today's competitive business environment project management skills must include the ability to deliver projects on time, on budget, and to the satisfaction of the customer. The purpose of this introductory course is to examine the general principals, practices, tools and resources associated with managing a diversity of workplace projects.




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QNM223
Business Statistics
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

MBF101

The statistical methods of collection, analysis, presentation and interpretation of quantitative data used for making generalizations, projections and decisions under uncertain conditions are introduced. Emphasis will be on the use of both descriptive and inferential techniques within the workplace.




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SIB470
International Effective Selling
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

MRK106

This is a practical "how to" subject, providing students with the tools necessary to partner, add value and secure sales in the international marketplace. This subject presents material from the perspective of the Canadian business person and focuses on developing a personal selling philosophy through a team-based project approach to exporting as a means of entry into a foreign market. Relationship, product and customer strategic skills are developed to identify and maximize opportunities and prepare sales forces to effectively present and sell in the international cross-cultural environment.




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SIB520
International Business Law
Availability
 

This course introduces students to basic legal issues that arise frequently in international business. Topics covered may include: Canadian and international trade and investment law, legal organizations, trading blocs, tort law and product liability, contract law, international sale of goods contracts, agency and distribution agreements, transport of goods, export sales financing, forms and legal risks of foreign market entry and methods of risk management, intellectual property, conflict of laws and dispute settlement. The materials are presented from a Canadian perspective.

Students that require this course for the International Business Diploma program, can register for IBS850 - Legal Environment of International Business. Please contact the program contact of the program after you register for this course. This course is only offered in January (Winter Term)




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SIB650
Export Marketing
Availability
 

Prerequisite(s):

COM470, INB345, INB355, INB365, MRK106

This course investigates the criteria and strategies, in a Canadian context, necessary to export products and services overseas. Exporting is a first step entry strategy within the broader framework of international marketing; consequently this course will allow students to explore the processes / systems and develop the skills required for planning the exportation and promotion of products internationally. Students will be expected to develop the skills required to provide comprehensive background knowledge, conceptual understanding and tools and strategies to help companies make informed export marketing decisions and to set companies' products or services apart from the competition.

Students that require this course for the International Business Diploma program, can register for IBS985 - International Sales and Marketing. Please contact the program contact of the program after you register for this course. This course is only offered in January (Winter Term)




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SMS310
Data Analysis Tools for Business
Availability
 

Further developing the knowledge gained in SMS210 - Microcomputer Applications for Business, the student will use spreadsheet functionality to perform metrics and analysis using real business examples. Use of database software for data mining and analysis purposes will add knowledge, skills and abilities related to business intelligence and meeting organizational objectives in a cross-disciplinary environment.




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SOC135
Global Economic Issues
Availability
 

Economic issues that were once confined within national borders, today, can and do have global ramifications. A nation defaulting on its foreign debt creates issues that spiral beyond the confines of its relationship to the banking industry. An oil spill in one part of the world not only impacts the price of crude but also has devastating environmental implications. Global Economic Issues is designed to introduce the student to the key issues behind our complex and changing world from a social, political and economic point of view.




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CAP400
International Career Research and Planning
Availability
 

This course is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and transferable skills required to assist in a successful career launch in the global business sector. In addition to exploring the skills and qualities essential to obtain a position in their chosen career, students will prepare a career development campaign which will consist of resumes and cover letters, practise interviews and follow-up techniques. The importance of ethics and etiquette in the workplace will also be discussed. Both traditional and on-line methodologies will be integrated throughout the course.




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3 General Education Options 3 General Education Options
 

Notes:

  • This curriculum has changed for Fall 2020. Students who began the program prior to Fall 2020 should email Xiaolai.Yu@senecapolytechnic.ca to confirm their program requirements.
  • Effective September 2020, QNM 222 will be replaced by QNM223.
  • Effective Fall 2023, EAC594 replaces EAC894. Students who have already taken EAC894 or those taking it in the Fall 2023 Term will not be required to take EAC594.

General Education Requirements

In order to meet Seneca's breadth requirements for diploma or advanced diploma programs, students must successfully complete at least 3 General Education courses toward their program, satisfying the following criteria:

Communicating Across Contexts (COM101) is not a General Education course.

Student may not use ECN501 or ECN502 as a general education course in the International Business diploma program.

Program Outcomes

This Seneca program has been validated by the Credential Validation Service as an Ontario College Credential as required by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

As a graduate, you will be prepared to reliably demonstrate the ability to:

  • Conduct an environmental scan to outline and analyze the impact of world issues on an organization's international business opportunities.
  • Contribute to market research to support an organization's international business decision-making.
  • Prepare documentation and follow procedures to support the movement of products and services in the organization's global supply chain.
  • Identify statutory and regulatory compliance issues related to an organization's integrative trade initiatives.
  • Select and contribute to the implementation of strategies to address the impact of cultural differences on an organization's integrative trade initiatives.
  • Contribute to the development of an international marketing plan to support an organization's integrative trade initiatives.
  • Identify and interpret relevant international financial documents and identify financial strategies that support an organization's integrative trade initiatives. 
  • Outline the components of an international business plan and assess how it impacts an organization's priorities.
  • Contribute to the planning, implementation and evaluation of team projects using organizational skills.
  • Apply principles of corporate sustainability, corporate social responsibility and ethics to an organization's integrative trade initiatives.
  • Apply current technologies to support an organization's integrative trade initiatives.
  • Develop and present a plan for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance within the international business field.

OSAP Funding Available

This program is eligible for OSAP funding.

Course load is used by OSAP to determine funding options for programs.

If you are taking one to two courses at the same time, you may be considered for part-time student grants and loans.

  • one course (20 per cent)
  • two courses (40 per cent)

If you are taking three or more courses at the same time, you may be considered for full-time student grants and loans.

  • three courses (60 per cent)
  • four courses (80 per cent)
  • five courses (100 per cent)

To find out if you qualify and to learn how to apply, please visit the OSAP website.

For information on other awards and financial assistance, please see Financial Aid.

Pathways

Build on your Seneca Polytechnic credential

Seneca is recognized as a leader in pathways and offers a range of options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

As a graduate of this program, you may be eligible to pathway into a bachelor's degree program at Seneca or at one of our partner institutions.

To explore your pathway options and learn more, visit our Degree Transfer Guide.

If you have additional questions regarding pathways to, within and beyond Seneca, connect with our Academic Pathways team at 416.764.0399 or email academic.pathways@senecapolytechnic.ca.

After reviewing the Degree Transfer Guide, you can also book a virtual appointment to discuss your options in more detail with a dedicated Pathways Adviser.

Graduation/Convocation

When you meet all program requirements and become eligible for a certificate, diploma, or degree, you must inform the Registrar by completing a Graduation Application form and paying the graduation and alumni fee. Certificates, diplomas, and applied degrees are issued twice a year in the Fall (October), Spring (June) and Winter (February).

For further information including deadlines and fees, please visit the Convocation website or contact the Convocation Office at theservicehub@senecapolytechnic.ca.

FITT

Seneca Polytechnic & FITT Equivalence Chart

The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) recognizes Seneca Polytechnic courses as educational equivalents to FITT's industry-validated FITTskills courses. Application for equivalent status may be made to FITT after the completion of all eight courses.

Please contact FITT at 1-888-561-3488 or refer to their website for information about the transfer of credits.

FITT Accredited Program

Our FITT accredited program is a highly practical, hands-on series of courses that focuses on the fundamental aspects of international business. Upon successful completion of our program, including completing two (2) FITT assessments, students will be able to transfer their credits to FITT to receive a FITT Diploma in International Trade. This Diploma fulfills the educational requirement for obtaining the CITP designation.

Faculty who teach within this program are well-respected professionals in their field and bring a wealth of expertise to the classroom setting. Each represents the private or public sectors including: entrepreneurs, representatives from business, government or private consultants.

For more information about the FITT program, contact Xiaolai.Yu@senecapolytechnic.ca

The CITP Designation:

The CITP designation is the world's leading professional designation for the field of international business. It is earned by obtaining the FITT Diploma and meeting standards and requirements as set by FITT. For more information of the CITP designation, visit FITT website.

Credit Transfer Program

FITT Diploma Requirements

  1. Completion of the program, which includes 8 Seneca courses:IBS605, IBS805, IBS801, IBS806, IBS850, IBS820, IBS602 and IBS630.
  2. Submission to FITT of a project from 2 (two) of the following courses: IBS805, IBS630, IBS602 or IBS820. These projects must meet the criteria specified by FITT and identified by your instructor.
    How do you apply?
    1. Complete entire program.
    2. Complete the Standard Accredited Partner – student registration form. Students will be assigned a FITT ID after they've completed the registration form, which they must include on their project cover pages.
    3. Mail an official Seneca transcript to FITT (The Forum for International Trade Training, 116 Lisgar Street Suite 300, Ottawa, ON K2P 0C2)
    4. Upload two (2) projects to your FITT account using your FITT ID login OR email to info@fitt.ca.

Next Steps

FITT will mark your 2 (two) projects. Provided you have completed all steps successfully, you will qualify for a FITT Diploma and will have met the educational requirements for the CITP designation. Minimum passing grade for FITT Assessments is 65%.

Once you have successfully met the educational requirements, your next step is to obtain 1 (one) year of work experience in international trade. If you already have a year or more of work experience you are ready to apply for the CITP designation directly through FITT. For complete information on obtaining and maintaining the CITP designation, please visit FITT website.

What are the fees?*

The complete cost is $575+tax. This fee includes a complete set of FITTskills eBooks, all credit transfer and two (2) assessments, as well as a FITT ID and account login.

Note: *Fees are set by FITT and are subject to change without notice. The fees noted are accurate as of August 2013.

SENECA POLYTECHNIC AND FITT EQUIVALENCE CHART
The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) recognizes Seneca Polytechnic courses as educational equivalents to their FITTskills courses. Application for equivalent status may be made to FITT after the completion of all courses.
SENECA COURSES FITT EDUCATIONAL EQUIVALENTS
IBS605 - Business in the Global Economy Module 1 - Global Business Environment
IBS805 - Global Marketing Module 2 - International Marketing
IBS801 - International Banking and Finance Module 3 - International Trade Finance
IBS806 - Global Supply Chain Management Module 4 - Global Supply Chain Management
IBS602 - Global Market Entry and International Distribution Module 5 - International Market Entry Strategies
IBS630 - Trade Research and Market Analysis Module 6 - International Trade Research
IBS850 - International Business Law Module 7 - Legal Aspects of International Trade
IBS820 - International Business Planning Module 8 - International Trade Management

Faculty Profile

Emiliano Introcaso, CITP, P.Log, MBA (Cand.)

With nearly two decades of experience, Emiliano Introcaso has helped manufacturers and exporters increase their global growth by providing them with the necessary support and guidance needed to operate in the supply chain industry.

His strategy not only focuses on navigating companies through the complexities of global supply chains, but also in the smaller details that can affect an international trade transaction.

Since 2011, Emiliano has taught in several part-time international trade and supply chain management programs. He is a Seneca graduate and has earned designations as a Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) and a Professional Logistician (P.Log.).

Emiliano is currently completing his MBA in global leadership through the University of Fredericton and is one of the export help advisors at Export Development Canada (EDC).

Program Contacts

Note: If you are a current/former Seneca student: include your student number and program enrolled in your communications.


Alice (Xiaolai) Yu, CCS
Part-Time Senior Support Services Officer
Xiaolai.Yu@senecapolytechnic.ca