Business Essentials Certificate

Step confidently into the world of business with our Business Essentials course. Designed to help you thrive in today’s fast-paced professional landscape, this program delivers the core management and administrative skills that employers value most. Guided by expert instructors from the School of Business, you’ll gain the confidence, knowledge, and practical tools to succeed and stand out in any organization.
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*This program does not require approval under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.
COURSE INFORMATION: 
  • Course Length: Complete in as little as 6 weeks part-time You may also choose to complete this course in any time from 6 to 48 weeks
  • Course Fee: $795 (includes HST)
  • Payment plan option available: $195 now, and two monthly payments of $300)
  • Delivery Format: 100% online & self-paced learning. Balance learning with your schedule
  • Job-ready skills
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Write your awesome label here.
Source: PayScale Canada

Study at Your Own Pace – 100% Online. 
Start Anytime!

Why you should take this course?

If you’re eager to build a strong foundation for your career and gain practical skills that employers value, this Business Essentials course is the perfect place to start. In just six weeks, you’ll explore the core principles of business — from communication and teamwork to marketing, finance, and customer service. The training is flexible, interactive, and designed to fit your schedule, giving you hands-on experience with real-world business scenarios. You’ll learn from experienced instructors and graduate with the confidence to succeed in entry-level business, administrative, or customer relations roles. This is your fast-track pathway to launching a successful and rewarding career in business.

What you can expect to learn

The Business Essentials Certificate is designed to prepare you for success in today’s dynamic workplace. You’ll gain a solid foundation in management, administration, communication, and leadership — the key skills needed to excel in any professional setting. This program combines practical business knowledge with real-world applications, empowering you to contribute effectively to organizational goals and thrive in a competitive business environment.

Discover What It Takes to Thrive in a Shelter Support Role.

Shelter support work requires compassion, resilience, and the ability to approach every individual without judgment. Essential skills and considerations include:
  • Communication & Professionalism: Learn to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and present yourself with confidence in professional settings.
  • Customer Service & Relationship Building: Understand how to deliver exceptional service, build trust, and maintain positive client and team relationships.
  • Time Management & Organization: Master strategies to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work efficiently in fast-paced business environments.
  • Business Operations & Problem Solving: Gain insight into day-to-day business functions, from marketing and sales to administration and planning.
  • Digital & Financial Literacy: Develop essential computer, budgeting, and analytical skills to support decision-making and workplace productivity.
  • If you’re motivated, goal-oriented, and eager to build a successful career, this program is your gateway to meaningful opportunities in business, administration, and customer service.

Where This Certificate Can Take You.

At York College, we’re here to help you unlock your potential and gain the confidence to thrive in your career. With a Business Essentials Certificate, you’ll be equipped to pursue a wide range of opportunities across business, administration, and customer service sectors, including:
  • Office Administration – supporting daily operations, scheduling, and communications within business environments.
  • Customer Service & Sales – helping clients and customers through effective communication, service excellence, and relationship management.
  • Retail & Hospitality Operations – contributing to team success through problem-solving, organization, and client engagement.
  • Small Business Support – assisting entrepreneurs and startups with marketing, bookkeeping, and administrative tasks.
  • Marketing & Promotions – supporting campaigns, digital engagement, and brand awareness initiatives.
  • Financial & Administrative Services – providing essential support in budgeting, documentation, and data organization.
  • Nonprofit & Community Organizations – applying business skills to strengthen operations and community impact.
  • Government & Corporate Offices – working within professional settings that value strong communication and organizational skills.

  • With the right foundation and guidance, this certificate can open doors to diverse career paths and provide the skills needed to grow and advance in the business world.

Certification included.

  • Start the course anytime

    Progress through the course at your own pace and and learn about:
    • Business Communication & Professional Etiquette
    • Customer Service and Relationship Management
    • Introduction to Marketing and Sales
    • Fundamentals of Business Operations
    • Time Management and Organizational Skills
    • Digital Tools for the Modern 
    • Financial Literacy and Budgeting Basics
    • Teamwork, Leadership, and Problem-Solving in Business
  • Complete the course & receive Certification

    Complete your course entirely online at your own pace and earn a Business Essentials Certificate — a valuable credential to showcase your skills and enhance your resume for future employers or career advancement opportunities.

We offer leading programs designed to help you succeed.

Video interactions, note-taking, interactive ebooks, self-assessment, certificates, and much more.

Financial Aid

The institution provides financial aid advice to all students looking for ways to pay their tuition.

Advising

Students are encouraged to reach out to us for an advice on their academic progress.

Career Services

Students are assisted with placement and given names and addresses of job opportunities.

Community & Resources

The school's resources community for job postings, connecting with peers and news & updates is available to students.

Our community & healthcare programs

Join our group of healthcare professionals.
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Shelter Support Worker

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Hospital Unit Clerk

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Medical Assistant

Frequently asked questions

Learn at your own pace. Fully online. Start Anytime.

Earn your Business Essentials Certificate in just 6 weeks for under $1,000—faster, more affordable, and fully online. 

How can I choose my course or program?

We offer a number of different learning paths, which you are invited to explore and choose the one that best meets your needs. However if you need any advice we are always available to you.

Are there any computer requirements?

In order to successfully participate in the program it's necessary that each student has access to:
  • A a computer with working speakers and microphone — a laptop or desktop computer is fine! 
  • A following minimum configurations: CPU:64-bit x86 Intel or AMD Processor from 2011, or later, with full virtualization support with minimum 2GHz or faster core speed.
  • To make the most of your Live Online experience, we also recommend:
  • A working web cam (it doesn’t have to be the greatest quality)!
  • A comfortable desk and chair Noise-cancelling headphones
  • A positive attitude!

What can you offer that I cannot get at other schools?

With us, you’ll have the opportunity to learn directly from distinguished professionals in the field. Our strong global presence in education allows students to gain unique insights and experiences beyond the classroom. Students regularly take part in local, national, and international workshops and events, expanding their knowledge and building valuable professional connections.

Have a question? Get in touch with us.

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