Cape Breton University (CBU) has launched three new Master's programs within the Shannon School of Business (SSOB). The Master of Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics (MAIBA), Master of Digital Marketing (MDM) and Master of Healthcare: Leadership and Innovation (MHLI) are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester.
"At Cape Breton University, we are committed to preparing the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to address the complex challenges facing our communities and industries," says David Dingwall, President and Vice-Chancellor. "These new graduate programs reflect our focus on innovation, sustainability and practical learning, while positioning our graduates to make meaningful contributions to the economy both here in Cape Breton and around the world."
The MAIBA prepares students to lead with the technical, analytical and ethical skills needed in today's data driven global economy, while considering the environmental and social pillars of sustainability in local and global context. The program will equip students with interdisciplinary skills in AI, business analytics and ethical decision making to better prepare them for impactful roles across various sectors, including:
- Business
- Banking and finance
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Government
The MDM program is designed to provide students with the specialized knowledge, theoretical grounding and practical skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing digital environment. The program integrates concepts and approaches from marketing, data science, psychology, computer science and business management to prepare students to:
- Address labour market demand by developing digital marketing skills in the field of AI and automation.
- Make better data-informed decisions in the development of marketing and organization strategies by honing competencies in data analytics.
- Cultivate a responsible digital marketing environment by applying knowledge and understanding of ethical approaches to marketing, cultural, geographic and economic differences.
The MHLI will provide healthcare professionals with the leadership and innovation skills necessary to drive change within the Canadian Healthcare system. The program aims to advance patient care and health outcomes by strengthening leadership and critical thinking, while fostering an innovative change management-based mindset. Graduates from this program will be equipped to:
- Influence change and advocate for evidence-based healthcare while communicating effectively with patients, teams and external stakeholders.
- Use systems thinning to analyze complex healthcare issues and lead strategic interventions.
- Leverage data and analytics with cutting-edge research to improve patient safety, decision making and organizational efficiency.
"We are delighted to offer three new Master's programs within the Shannon School of Business, all of which are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in today's evolving business environment," says Dr. John Nadeau, Dean of the Shannon School of Business. "Our faculty and graduates have shaped business locally and globally. I look forward to welcoming our first cohorts into these programs and supporting them in pursuit of graduate education."
The three programs will be delivered in-person on CBU's campus for full-time study over 16-months. For those interested in part-time study, please reach out to discuss available options by emailing ssobgradstudies@cbu.ca.
Applicants can begin the admissions process by visiting cbu.ca/apply.
