Sandy Wiseman Yates

It was a three-year wait, but it was worth it.

Sandy Wiseman Yates of Corner Brook first learned of the brand new online master of management (MMGT) program at a Grenfell information session back in 2019, but then the pandemic hit.

She said she was "thrilled" when she found out the program would finally begin in September 2023. She applied earlier this year, and was accepted into the competitive program. It's the first and only program of its kind in Atlantic Canada, and one of only a few available in Canada.

"I'm back to school after 25 years, and I'm discovering that I love learning," she said. "It's been a challenge to figure out how to learn in an academic environment, but that challenge has been so rewarding."

The Grenfell MMGT is aimed at professionals with diverse backgrounds who are either currently employed as, or aspiring to become, managers in a broad range of organizations. Ms. Wiseman Yates, Community Support Manager, NLHS Western Zone, has found that the MMGT structure complements her busy work-family-self-care schedule.

"I really like online learning in the context of this program - deliverables, modules clearly outlined, expectations broken down - it's very structured," she said, adding that the professors are approachable and accessible, and her classmates easily contacted through the Brightspace platform. "What drew me to this program was that it's course-based, practical learning. I'm using it as a tool to strengthen my management skills. It's really suited to what I'm doing professionally, and where I see my future going."

The program allows students to explore fundamental management topics as they relate to individuals, groups and organizations in the larger community. For instance, this semester Ms. Wiseman Yates has found that MGMT 6001 (Organizational Effectiveness and Strategic Thinking) has been an "eye-opener" with respect to viewing her own workplace with a business lens.

The program, to which admission is competitive, is primarily intended for those who have not previously studied business or management in a post-secondary environment but who are working in or toward managerial positions and require the skillset that goes along with these. Applicants who have completed an undergraduate degree in business, commerce, management, or similar may also be considered for admission.

The MMGT program comprises 10 courses, to be completed online in a pre-determined sequence. Courses will normally be completed two at a time. In addition, students are required to participate in an orientation workshop in August before beginning the study period.

"My background is occupational therapy - this program lets me look at that from a business perspective," she said. "It's a whole new realm. And it's a lot - almost like another job! But I'm learning that I love learning. I'm enjoying that at the age of 48 I love being back in school. It makes me realize I always want to have this in my life."

For information about admission and course offerings, visit the MMGT website.