Is the UBC Master of Management program the right fit for you?
Considering a master’s degree? With so many options out there, deciding on the right graduate program can be an overwhelming decision. For recent graduates or those in their early career who haven’t studied business previously, the UBC Master of Management (MM) program offers an intensive, nine-month journey designed to equip you with foundational business knowledge and the skills needed to excel in your career.
Hear from a current student, program manager and alumnus on their experience and advice to folks who are curious about the UBC MM program.
Alexandra Salzar
Current UBC MM Student
For Alexandra Salazar, a current MM student with a background in international relations, the program has been transformative.
“I applied to the MM program to gain the business skills I needed to work in international project management. The program has taught me essential skills like time management, teamwork and project execution, which will help me succeed in both the private and public sectors.”
Salazar found the application process challenging but rewarding. “Writing the essay questions was tough because I had so many ideas and had to be mindful of the word limit,” she shares. “I overcame this by being genuine and showing my personality and the qualities that made me a good fit for UBC Sauder.”
As all students in the program come from non-business backgrounds, Salazar encourages embracing each person’s unique experience and perspective.
“Different backgrounds make class discussions and group projects richer. The MM program is a great opportunity to build business skills while contributing your unique perspective to the cohort.”
She also stresses the importance of digging deep and evaluating your goals.
“Be genuine about why you want to apply and how the program aligns with your personal and career goals. Share interesting experiences and don’t be afraid to get creative—just make sure to follow the application guidelines. Whether you’re looking to pivot careers, enhance your employability, or broaden your skillset, the MM program could be the perfect fit. Take the time to reflect on your goals, do your research and explore everything the program has to offer. If it feels right, go for it!”
Nicole Kelly
Recruitment & Admissions Manager
MM Recruitment Manager Nicole Kelly recommends curious applicants to begin their journey by learning everything they can about the program.
“Take the time to explore the program thoroughly. Attend information sessions, talk to current students and alumni, and review available online resources,” she says. "Speak with our Recruitment Managers to get a deeper understanding of the program’s structure and benefits. The more you know about the MM, the better equipped you'll be to decide if it's the right fit for you, and the stronger and more targeted your application will be.”
Applicants are also encouraged to reflect on their motivations and career goals.
“Consider how the program aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. You don’t need to have your precise career path mapped out, but reflecting on your interests and the opportunities you hope to explore through the MM will help you craft a compelling application,” says Kelly.
“It’s also valuable to consider how you plan to contribute to the MM community. With an intimate cohort size of 40-50 students, every student plays an important role in shaping the program experience for themselves and their peers.”
For the application itself, prepare early. Review the academic requirements and refer to the school’s waiver policy and deadlines to determine whether you need to submit a GRE or GMAT score. To ensure you’re well prepared, plan ahead and allocate time towards studying for the exam.
“The MM program admits students on a rolling basis, so applying early increases your chances for scholarship consideration and secures your place in the program while spaces are still available.”
Kelly also encourages applicants to dig deep and let your authentic self shine.
“Share your story with us. We want to understand your motivations, goals, challenges and ideas. Our admissions committee values applicants who can clearly express their own thoughts and ideas.”
Wilson Lin
UBC MM Alumnus '18
Wilson Lin, a recent graduate of the MM program, credits the program with helping him make a successful transition into his current role at Uber for Business, where he sells software solutions to enterprise clients.
“The MM program gave me a strong foundation in business management,” says Lin, who studied English literature as an undergraduate in Taiwan. “In just nine months, I gained a broad understanding of business that prepared me for my career.”
To this day, the program’s coursework, experiential learning opportunities and focus on creative thinking continue to influence his work.
“I vividly remember a lecture from a director with experience in sales. They emphasized that sales aren’t just about transactions—they’re about relationships and personalities. That completely changed the way I approach client interactions,” he recalls.
“Darren Dahl’s marketing course at the time also taught me to think outside the box and to offer different solutions, even in rigid corporate settings. That’s a mindset I still apply today when collaborating with stakeholders in my role at Uber for Business.”
For Lin, the camaraderie within the MM cohort was another highlight.
“The program was incredibly engaging socially and academically. Coming from different backgrounds, our cohort leaned on each other’s strengths and had open, candid conversations. Having these discussions and connecting with students with diverse viewpoints and backgrounds really shaped my perspective and prepared me for working in a multicultural environment.”
His advice to prospective students?
“Be open-minded and ready to work hard. The UBC MM program is an opportunity to explore your interests and figure out what you want to do.”