Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business - Specialization

2026-2027 - UG - Major Program Modification (Create New Calendar Entry)

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(A) Proposal summary
Next

  • Generate a GroupID code, if applicable.

  • GroupID
    kSGRqbG
    kSGRqbG
  • STEP 1 - Complete the proposal summary information
  • Home faculty*
    Choose your faculty from the list of available options.
  • Content type*
    Choose ‘program’, unless you are certain the content you are creating should be a shared core. Contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca if you require assistance.
  • Major Program Modification type*
  • Summary of proposed changes*

    Adding a new specialization to all majors within the Bachelor of Commerce program (including co-op):

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business

    Please see attached calendar copy and new course proposals.

    Provide a brief point by point summary of the changes included in this proposal.
  • Is there a change to total credit hours in the program?*
  • Is a new course associated with this proposal?*
    Select 'yes' only if you are adding a brand new course to the calendar copy in this proposal.

  • If applicable, list new course codes, course titles and include hyperlinks to course proposals in Curriculog in the 'new courses' field below. To hyperlink, open a new window and search for the new course proposal in Curriculog. Copy the url from your web browser, return to this form and select the hyper link icon. Paste the url into the url field and save.

  • New courses

    Courses for Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business

    • BUSI 2800U - Fundamentals of AI for Business
    • BUSI 4800U - Business Applications of AI
    • BUSI 4801U - Special Topics in AI for Business
    • BUSI 3820U – AI Beyond the Hype: Ethical, Legal, and Societal Issues in Artificial Intelligence

    Please see attached calendar copy and new course proposals.

  • Are you creating a new minor that is not associated with a standalone major?*
  • If you answered yes to the above question, please describe in detail the capacity available to deliver the minor.
  • Calendar start date*
    Choose when the change should first appear in the academic calendar (e.g., Fall 2021).
  • Registration start date*
    Specify the first active term (e.g., Fall 2021).
  • Have you generated a GroupID code and added to all applicable proposals?*
    A GroupID code is used to match related proposals in the system. Use the link at the top of the proposal to generate a code, if needed.
  • STEP 2 - Attach supporting documents, if applicable

  • Visit the files section of the toolbox on the right-hand side of the form to attach any supporting documentation.

  • Are you attaching any supporting documents*
(B) Program component information and calendar copy
Next
  • STEP 3 - Complete Section B
  • Title of new program component*
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business - Specialization
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business - Specialization
    This will be the title of the program or shared core in the calendar.
  • Program type*
    Select the corresponding program type from the list of options. If you feel an option is missing, please contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca.
  • Degree type*
    Select the corresponding degree type from the list of options. If you feel an option is missing, please contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca.
  • Description of new program component*

    Students are required to complete nine credit hours for the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Business Specialization.

    Students must take the following two courses (six credit hours):

    • BUSI 2800U Fundamentals of AI for Business
    • BUSI 4800U Business Applications of AI

    Students must choose one course (three credit hours) from the list below:

    • BUSI 3504U: Databases, Data Warehouses and Business Intelligence
    • BUSI 3820U – AI Beyond the Hype: Ethical, Legal, and Societal Issues in Artificial Intelligence
    • BUSI 4801U: Special Topics in AI for Business
    • INFR 3700U: Machine Learning
    • INFR 4611U: Trust Systems

    * Students cannot double-count courses in a specialization and their major(s). If a course is listed in both in a major and a specialization, students must select a different elective to satisfy the requirements of this specialization.

    The description of the new program component will be included in the Academic Calendar.
  • Admission requirements*

    The specialization will be open to all students in all majors within the B.Comm degree.

    An outline of the requirements for admission to the new program component, including additional requirements or procedures, and recognition of prior learning experience.
  • Program map*
    Use this section to build a program map for the academic calendar that shows courses and/or research components offered each academic year.
  • Program structure*

    The proposed specialization fits nicely within the current Bachelor of Commerce program structure with minimal impact on current program components. Students will choose the required 9 credit hours for this specialization as part of the existing number of BUSI or Open electives on their existing program maps.

    Describe any experiential or other applied learning opportunities that are part of the new program component.
  • Program learning outcomes*

    Program Learning Outcomes - Commerce

    By the end of the program, students graduating will be able to:

    • Show evidence of relevant knowledge of the internal aspects, functions and processes of organizations, the external environment in which they operate, and the ways in which they are managed.
    • Exhibit coherent knowledge of the key functional areas of business and management, the relationship between these, their application and their importance in an integrated framework.
    • Explain some of the contexts in which accounting concepts and practices are utilized and use the main current technical language and practices of accounting for managerial applications.
    • Understand economic concepts, principles, theories and modeling approaches and explain their use in the context of making business decisions.
    • Use business models and methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, effectively across a range of problems.
    • Apply the knowledge of organizational behaviour and the human resource function to the management and development of people within organizations.
    • Use relevant communication and information technologies to acquire, analyze and communicate data and to support business and management processes.
    • Understand the principles and process of information systems analysis and describe the organizational opportunities and challenges related to the use of computerâ€based technology.
    • Understand the development and operation of markets for resources, goods and services and to devise marketâ€oriented strategies and policies to support the operational and strategic management of an organization.
    • Comprehend theories and empirical evidence concerning financial management, risk and the operation of capital markets.
    • Apply knowledge of the operations processes and systems required in the management of manufacturing, distribution and services to the operation of an organization.
    • Assess, select and devise customer service strategies to meet the expectations and needs of internal and external customers.
    • Use knowledge of functional business components and logistics strategies to effect change in the interâ€related supply chain management system.
    • Define appropriate practices within a professional, legal and ethical framework.
    • Utilize project management and business planning skills to initiate and carry out projects in a timely and proficient manner.
    • Conduct systematic research into issues related to the discipline, deploying accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry.
    • Communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions persuasively and accurately, using oral, written and visual form, to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
    • Display wellâ€developed leadership and interpersonal skills in team environments.
    • Exhibit an awareness of the society and culture in which they live and work and recognize and value the alternative outlooks that people from diverse backgrounds may bring to business and management issues.
    • Apply the cognitive skills of critical thinking, analysis and synthesis to evaluate evidence and arguments, analyze data, identify assumptions and formulate informed and innovative solutions to problems.

    Appreciate the uncertainty, ambiguity, and limits of knowledge and develop strategies for continuing professional development and lifelong learning.,

    If you do not have a recent version of your program’s learning outcomes and alignment with the Degree Level Expectations, or would like to make a modification to them, please contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca.

  • If you do not have a recent version of your program’s learning outcomes and alignment with the Degree Level Expectations, or would like to make a modification to them, please contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca.

(C) Detailed proposal information
Next
  • STEP 4 - Complete Section C
  • Introduction
  • Brief background on existing program*

    The Bachelor of Commerce Program is a four-year, honours degree program. The BCom offers majors and minors in accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, organizational behaviour and human resources management, and technology management. Students are able to double major in the BCom. The program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in the business world by combining the latest technology with current business and information technology trends. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes experiential learning opportunities such as capstones, internships, and co-op placements.

  • Rationale for the new component*

    The Faculty is responding to a major shift in how AI technologies and tools are evolving and becoming an important part of businesses and the wider economy. Our goal is to equip our Bachelor of Commerce students with the knowledge and tools to understand AI, develop skills in using current and emerging technologies, and become informed decision makers. Students who take this specialization will get fundamental knowledge of AI, how it’s used in various business functions and operations, and also choose from electives that will allow them to deepen their knowledge in specific technologies or the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI. The specialization will hopefully help our students become more competitive on the job market and successful in their future roles. It may also create interest in graduate programs in AI for students who are looking to gain further expertise in this field.

    How will this change enhance the program and/or opportunities for students and graduates?
  • Fit with the mission, mandate, strategic plans of the University and broader array of program offerings*

    The university’s mission and strategic priorities highlight technology with a conscience, learning re-imagined, creating a sticky campus, and partnerships. The university’s mandate states that we also focus on career-oriented programs that allow our students to succeed in the current economy. The proposed specialization is built upon the strong foundation of our Bachelor of Commerce program and allows our students to obtain knowledge and skills that are not only relevant in today’s workplaces, but also those of the future. This specialization is also heavily focused on technology and its role in society and businesses. Many of the courses in the program have components that focus on the ethical, legal, and social issues related to AI development and use in businesses and organizations. Our hope is also to strengthen ties to industry and enhance our partnerships by using industry leading tools, and inviting guest speakers who work at the cutting edge of these technologies and business. The program will also have many hands-on components and aims to incorporate various modes of delivery and pedagogy suitable for a variety of learners in our BCom program.

    Finally, this new specialization is a new addition to an exciting suite of AI related programs such as MBAI, MFDA, MITS-AI, and our Technology Management majors. The specialization is also the first step in our plans to introduce more program components or even degrees within the intersection of AI, analytics, cybersecurity, business, and economics.

    Description of how the proposed modifications fit into the broader array of program offerings, particularly those areas of teaching and research strengths, and complementary areas of study.
  • Resource requirements
  • Faculty members*

    The Faculty has experienced some growth in programs that have AI components: MBAI, MITS, Tech Management majors. Continued growth in these programs and anticipated interest in this new specialization may warrant additional hires within this area of expertise.

    List of core faculty associated with the program, including appointment status, home unit, areas of teaching and research interests, and any new faculty requirements and gaps they would be expected to fill.
  • Additional academic and non-academic human resources*

    Software and technology licenses may be needed for some of the proposed courses as they may have hands-on activities using AI tools and technologies common in industry.

    Details of any administrative requirements, including support staff, adjunct and part-time faculty, supervision of experiential learning opportunities, and any other additional academic and non-academic human resources.
  • Physical resource requirements*

    None required

    Details of any physical resource requirements, including library holdings, information technology support and student services, special equipment, and space requirements (classrooms, laboratory, graduate student work/study space, other).
  • Business plan
  • Statement of funding requirements*

    No change in funding

    A summary statement of the funding required to support the modification, including projected enrolments, start-up and continuing costs, if applicable.
  • Statement of resource/funding availability*

    N/A

    Statements attesting to the adequacy of resources to support the modification from Deans who may have faculty members involved in or are contributing resources, the Registrar or the Dean of Graduate Studies, the Chief Librarian and the Provost.
  • Transition and communication plan
  • Transition plan for both new and current students*

    We anticipate that the first course in this specialization will be offered to students in fall 2026. However, since only a limited number of courses in the specialization will be available in the 2026-2027 academic year, students in their last year of their studies will not be able to choose this specialization. The specialization is therefore available to those students in their 1st, 2nd or 3rd year of studies in the 2026-2027 academic year.

    Semester (e.g., Fall 2025) for the implementation of the proposed changes; include a plan for all current students in the program, by year level. If this change impacts students that are not new and/or 1st year students as of the start date, then a transition plan is required. Please remember to consider off-map students.
  • Communication plan for both new and current students*

    The new specializations will be promoted at the OUF and all recruitment events and will be included in the viewbook, OUAC and the corporate website.

    Current students will be notified of the new specialization by email and through academic advising.

    Please explain how the current students will be made aware of this change (e.g., Who will be responsible for notifying students? How? Is Academic Advising aware?). Please remember to consider off-map students.
  • Converting to online options
  • Does this proposal contain any intended conversion of progam components to online options? If yes, please complete the remaining items below.*
  • Adequacy of technological platform
    Describe the adequacy of the technological platform to be used for online delivery.
  • Maintenance of and/or changes to the quality of education
    Describe how the quality of education will be maintained and/or changes when moving to online delivery.
  • Maintenance of and/or changes to program objectives
    Describe how the current program objectives will be maintained and/or changed when moving to online delivery.
  • Maintenance of and/or changes to program-level learning outcomes
    Describe how the current program-level outcomes will be maintained an/or changed when moving to online delivery.
  • Sufficiency of support services and training for teaching staff
    Describe the support services and training for teaching staff that will be made available when moving to online delivery.
  • Sufficiency and type of support for students in the new learning environment
    Describe the sufficiency and type of supports that will be available to students when moving to online delivery.
  • Other
  • Additional supporting information, if applicable

    Please see attached calendar copy and new course proposals.

    Describe any additional information needed to support the proposal.
(D) Impact and consultation
Next
  • STEP 5 - Complete Section D

  • Consultation is central to governance at Ontario Tech. Faculties are required to consult with all areas impacted by this change, and the home faculty dean is responsible for all consultation decisions in this section of the form. Note that any false statements related to consultation may require re-submission of proposals.

  • Faculty Consultation
  • Will this change impact any other faculties? Some examples may include, but are not limited to, the scenarios listed below.*

  • Examples:

    • A course from another faculty is being added or removed from the program map.
    • Changes to joint and/or service programs (e.g., 'and Management' programs, targeted minors).
    • Changes to year of offering for courses from another faculty (e.g., moving a course from Year 1 to Year 2).

    Additional examples can be found in the Resources section of the CIQE website.

  • If you answered yes to the question above, please explain and outline the consultation process in detail. Attach relevant documents (emails, Faculty Council minutes, etc.) or include links to corresponding documents. *

    N/A

  • Student Consultation
  • How have current or prospective students been consulted about this change? (e.g., informal conversations, attendance at meetings, survey, indirectly through academic advising). Please provide details below. *

    This specialization has been developed in response to feedback received informally from current students who are keen to gain skills and expertise with AI to better position them for their career aspirations and/or for continued graduate-level studies.

  • Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
  • What considerations have been made for equity, diversity, inclusion and decolonization?*

    These specializations will continue to use the Bachelor of Commerce program features and follow Ontario Tech’s policies and procedures surrounding EDI.

  • For more information and guidance on incorporating equity, diversity and inclusion principles in curricula, please visit the Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging resource section of the CIQE website.

  • Indigenous Content and Consultation
  • Does this change include any Indigenous content?*

  • For more information on how Indigenous content is defined at Ontario Tech University and how to consult with the Indigenous Education Advisory Circle, please refer to the Protocol for Consultation with the Indigenous Education Advisory Circle.

  • Has the IEAC been contacted?
  • If Yes, when?
  • What was the advice you received from the IEAC? And, how has it been included in your proposal? Please attach or provide links to documents that outline the consultation process and advice given.
  • Did the IEAC ask you to return the proposal to them for review?
    If Yes, have they completed their review?
  • Other Consultation
  • Have you consulted with the Office of the Registrar, Student Life, the Library and/or any other areas on campus that may be impacted? *
  • If yes, please explain and outline the consultation process in detail.*

    N/A

  • Does this change involve co-op?*
  • If yes, please acknowledge that you have consulted with the Director, External Relations and Partnerships by checking the box below.
(E) Routing
Next
  • STEP 6 - Enter routing information

  • Important note: it is imperative that you choose the correct routing path as it cannot be changed once a proposal has been launched. If you have made a routing error after launching the proposal, the proposal will be cancelled and a new proposal will be required. If you require assistance with routing, please contact ciqe@ontariotechu.ca.

    Please note that changes to joint or collaborative programs do require approval at Faculty Council of each faculty involved in the program. You do not need to include other faculties in the routing, however, consultation with other faculties should be noted and any required approval by other Faculty Councils (and date of approval) should be noted in the comments section as approval is logged on the home Faculty Council step.

  • Should this proposal be routed to the Program Approval step prior to Curriculum Committee?*
    If your curriculum committee is organized by program, or if program-level approval prior to curriculum committee is not required, select 'no'.
  • Faculty or program-level group*
    Choose your faculty or program-level group from the list of options. If your faculty has program-level committees, choose the corresponding program group from the list. Otherwise, choose the home faculty. You may choose more than one option, but please note that your proposal will go to the committees of all options selected. The proposal will not move on to the next step until all faculties have approved at their respective committees. Note: If you are making a change for a Bachelor of Engineering program in FESNS, you must select both the Faculty of Energy Systems and Nuclear Science, and the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science from the list of options.
  • Is this change for a Bachelor of Engineering program or program which requires Engineering Curriculum Committee approval?*
  • Are there departments associated with your faculty?*
  • Is this change for the Sustainability Studies program?*
(F) End of proposal
Next
  • STEP 7 - Save and ensure all required fields are complete
  • STEP 8 - Validate and launch proposal
  • STEP 9 - Approve proposal

  • As the originator, you must approve the proposal to send it on to the next step. To approve, navigate to the decisions section of the toolbox on the right-hand side of the form.

(G) CIQE use only
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