Skip to main content

Graduate Diploma in Management

At a glance

  • Credential: graduate diploma
  • Credits: 18
  • Next start: see program details

Get a solid foundation in general management with Athabasca University’s online Graduate Diploma in Management. This graduate-level program builds on and complements your existing management knowledge and expertise.

Be a part of the AU student community

A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Sign up to receive more information from AU and start your education with us.

About Graduate Diploma in Management

Take the next step in your management journey with Athabasca University's Graduate Diploma in Management. This 18-credit online program provides a well-rounded foundation in key management areas like strategy, human resources, and finance, making it perfect for those looking to bolster their existing skills or find an alternative entry route to our online MBA program. Plus, with flexible admission requirements, you don't need an undergraduate degree if you have at least 8 years of managerial experience, offering a tailored approach to your education.

Admission requirements

There are 3 possible routes into the Graduate Diploma in Management. An undergraduate degree is not required if you have at least 8 years of managerial experience.

See full Graduate Diploma in Management admission requirements

Program details

Overview

The program instills effective critical thinking and analytical skills across all key management areas:

  • strategy
  • human resources
  • operations
  • marketing
  • finance
  • economics

The Graduate Diploma in Management program is phase 1 of AU's online Master of Business Administration and you will take your classes with MBA students.

Why take the Graduate Diploma in Management?

If you would like to further your management education, but aren't sure if an MBA program is for you, the Graduate Diploma in Management is an ideal way to complete graduate-level courses while building your knowledge and skills.

If you don't have a prior undergraduate degree, but do have substantial management experience (8 years or more), the Graduate Diploma in Management provides an entry route into AU's online MBA program. After completing the Graduate Diploma in Management, you can apply to transfer into phase 2 of the MBA program.

The Graduate Diploma in Management is an 18-credit online graduate program. If you have taken previous graduate courses, you may be eligible for transfer credits.

All courses are online grouped study, with defined start and end dates. There is a comprehensive examination at the end of the program.

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business logo

Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Our Faculty of Business also holds AACSB accreditation, placing us among the elite 6% of business schools worldwide. This distinguished accreditation, known as the gold standard in the industry, is a testament to the rigor and depth of our program, and the high-quality education it provides.

Application deadlines and start dates

Application deadline Start date
Oct. 15, 2023 Jan. 2024
March 15, 2024 May 2024
June 15, 2024 Aug. 2024

Routes and options

Ladder to a degree

The Graduate Diploma in Management program is phase 1 of AU's online MBA. After completing the Graduate Diploma in Management, you can apply to transfer into phase 2.

Completion times

Finish this program in as little as 14 months of study. You can take up to 3 years to complete all requirements.

Resources and links

Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.


Take your first step to online learning

We'll send you helpful information about programs, financial options, applying, and studying at AU.