Program Experience
The Blended Learning Part-Time MBA program incorporates online work and instruction with weekend residencies. We encourage anyone who is strongly considering applying to the program to review this page to gain a better understanding of what will be required of you from a time, technical and professional level of commitment.
Residency Component
Residencies are held from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on a Saturday and Sunday three times per semester.
| Fall Term | September (R1), October (R2), November (R3) |
|---|---|
| Winter Term | January (R1), February (R2), March (R3) |
| Summer Term | May (R1), June (R2), July (R3) |
Daily Schedule
- Breakfast is available from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m.
- Classes may begin as early as 8:30 a.m.
- Lunch will be provided.
- You have time to work on deliverables and meet with group members after 4:00 p.m. Networking activities may also be offered during this time.
Snacks are also available during coffee breaks in the morning and afternoon.
Online Component
Online work and instruction are ongoing between residencies.
Technical Requirements
Computer recommendation:
- PC with Windows 7 (or a later version)
- Intel i5 processor (or better)
- Minimum of 4GB of RAM
The heaviest demand on your computer will likely be during web conferencing. We use web conferencing for webinars, virtual office hours, and team meetings.
If you own a Mac, please contact askBLPT@mcmaster.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Strategic Integration Project?
The strategic integration project is the program’s capstone assignment.
During the final two semesters of the program, you work with a team of students in a collaborative process with a “host” company. Together, you develop recommendations which will help the company improve its performance based on specific metrics.
What courses can I take as electives?
You can choose from some courses delivered to students in other graduate-level courses at DeGroote. Plus, there are elective courses being developed specifically for BLPT students.
Elective courses are posted prior to the semesters in which they will be offered.
Are there any recommended preparatory courses?
No, you are not required to take any preparatory courses before starting the program.
There may be specific skills or prior knowledge required for particular courses. If that’s the case, your instructors will provide a list of online resources before your first residency to help you prepare.
What's the time commitment for the program?
It depends on the courses you’re taking, and will vary from week to week.
Our best estimate is that you’ll spend an average of eight to fifteen hours a week on course work.
Can I miss a residency?
Due to the structure of the program, it’s mandatory that all students attend every residency for the duration of the program.
When can I safely schedule vacations?
We recommend scheduling vacations in December, April, or August. There are no weekend residencies or deliverables due during those months.
Do you offer career services?
Yes. They include personalized career coaching and workshops focused on skill development for career acceleration.
Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes. You’ll have opportunities to network with other students and faculty members during class, virtually, and at scheduled events.
In addition to these program-specific opportunities, you can also participate in school-wide networking events. DeGroote hosts alumni receptions, seminars, and expert guest speakers.
More Options
You’re visiting the Blended Learning Part-Time MBA program website.
More information about our other MBA options, including full-time, full-time with co-op, and accelerated, are available on the main MBA program website.