Channel your passion for sustaining our planet into a business education that will transform the world. Learn to move a business forward while keeping your values, like environmentalism, top of mind.
You believe in capitalism with a conscience. In doing business in a way that does good for the environment, the community and society.
Complete the last two years of your undergraduate degree on campus. Gain a solid business education that will sharpen your vision for social and environmental change.
Whether you dream of starting your own venture or leading change at a global company, you'll be ready to advance sustainable business solutions.
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September 02, 2025
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September 08, 2026
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Strive to advance sustainable business solutions
In the BBA in Innovation and Sustainability, you'll learn skills to make you a valuable — and valued — employee: problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability and digital literacy.
And, throughout this degree-completion program, you'll complete years three and four of your undergraduate degree and channel your passion for sustainability into project-based experiences as you work with clients in the community and build a portfolio of work that showcases your creativity, work ethic and potential.
Whether you dream of starting your own venture or leading change at a global company, you'll be ready to advance business solutions that are as good for the bottom line as they are for the planet.
Who it's for
This program is right for you if you:
- want to impact the local and global community through social innovation
- are committed to enterprises that are financially, socially, and environmentally sustainable
- believe in responsible management practices
- wish to create value for stakeholders
- are looking for ways to discover, challenge, and maximize your personal potential
- are curious about the relationships between individuals, organizations, society and the environment
- want to develop career-ready knowledge, skills and a portfolio of hands-on experience
Want to learn more? Watch The BBA Experience webinar series, where we talk to current students about what makes the program different from other BBA's.
Program outcomes
Once you've completed this program, you'll:
- have the innovation- and sustainability-focused experience employers want and that global leaders are calling for
- be equipped to tackle the social and environmental issues you care about
Awards
2024 AACSB Innovations That Inspire Award
AACSB recognizes institutions around the world that are innovating to create relevant, equitable, and impactful business education.
2023 Green Gown International Awards - Benefitting Society Finalist
The Green Gown Awards recognizes international universities and colleges' exceptional sustainability initiatives.
Program delivery
Complete the third and fourth year of your Bachelor of Business Administration degree on campus.
Studying on campus brings you together with your class colleagues and instructors. Expect the program to be rigorous. You’ll do homework, readings and team assignments outside of your full-time class hours.
You'll start your program with a non-credit, but required, course about academic integrity.
Program completion options
For the final component of your BBA, you'll choose between three options:
- Capstone option
- Internship option
- International semester option
Project-based learning
With 100% project-based courses, the BBA program will prepare you to launch your career. Working on teams with your classmates, you'll use your skills and knowledge to support the work of organizations and businesses — your project clients — in the community.
Through these projects, you'll learn to:
- engage in client and stakeholder meetings, fieldwork and workshops
- identify, design, prototype and develop concrete solutions
- apply subject-specific knowledge and build the skills you need for a career in business and social innovation
- anticipate opportunities for sustainable development
Example projects
BBA students work on projects like these:
- developing a plan to re-engineer an organization's operations to reduce inefficiency and carbon footprint
- creating a stakeholder engagement strategy for new product development and launch
- developing customer service solutions based on primary and secondary research
- conducting a feasibility study and making recommendations for a proposed for-profit/not-for-profit partnership aimed at increasing employment opportunities for youth
- designing a marketing plan for an eco-conscious brand
- updating a company’s annual reporting process and documents to give a transparent account of sustainability and community impact metrics as well as financial performance
- producing a case study of an exemplary sustainability initiative to submit to the government
Courses
Year 3 & 4 - Degree completion
The following program is for those students who have already completed years one and two of their studies (60 credits) and will be taking the Degree Completion Option. In each term students will be exploring a number of subjects while working on an applied project and as each term progresses they will continue to explore new subject areas.
Students will complete four terms over 16-months, each comprising of applied Business Projects – A, B and C have a 15-credit value, while Business Project D in Term 4 has a 9-credit value and runs concurrent with a Capstone Project (6-credits), or a choice of other completion options that extend the program by another 4-months. Each of these four terms will include work on 2-4 projects, with each projects’ length being determined by their individual complexity.
Projects may take on one of four styles: client-based, simulation, venture or challenge, and will be sourced from organizations in the private, public and non-profit sectors. In following a program comprised of a range of projects, students will build a portfolio of work that will directly demonstrate the skills acquired in business related subject areas throughout the program to their potential employers.
Below is the list of subjects you will be exploring as you progress through the program.
Subjects
BBAS411
Business Model Innovation
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS412
Communicating for Impact
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS414
Creativity, Innovation and Design
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS415
Business Research
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS416
Developing Effective Teams
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS418
Ecology and Management
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS420
Financial Management
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS423
Leading Change with Systems Thinking
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS425
Marketing
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS426
Operations and Processes
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS427
Project Management
0.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAS428
Social Innovation and Social Finance
0.0 Credits
On Campus
Year 3 & 4 - Degree completion - Required courses
BBAP300
Business Administration Applied Projects A
15.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAP301
Business Administration Applied Projects B
15.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAP400
Business Administration Applied Projects C
15.0 Credits
On Campus
BBAP401
Business Administration Applied Projects D
9.0 Credits
On Campus
Year 3 & 4 - Degree completion 0ptions
Students select ONE of the following options below OR to do an International Semester.
BBAP490
Capstone
6.0 Credits
Online
BBAP491
Internship
6.0 Credits
Directed, Field, Lab or Major Project
Faculty
Associate faculty
Associate faculty
Associate professor
Associate faculty
Associate faculty
Associate faculty
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Associate faculty
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Standard admission
Students who have completed a minimum of 60 college or university credits (including 24 second-year level credits) in any discipline from a recognized post-secondary institution with a minimum overall GPA of 'B' (3.00/4.33) are eligible for admission.
Flexible admission
- For applicants who bring a wealth of work and life experience but do not meet standard admission requirements, your application may be considered based on a combination of your education, informal learning, and the real-world experiences, as per our flexible admission policy.
- For applicants with fewer than 15 college or university credits, a minimum five years of full-time work experience (with at least three years at a supervisory, management, or project lead level) is required.
In addition to meeting the admissions requirements above, successful flexible admission applicants will also:
1. Demonstrate strengths gained through work, previous studies, volunteer service and/or personal development in two or more of the following areas:
- Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Social entrepreneurship and social impact
- Environmental protection or conservation
- Social, cultural and/or environmental sustainability
- Civic leadership and/or community engagement
2. Demonstrate through their statement of intent a clear alignment of personal goals and vision with the goals, values, and processes of the program.
English language proficiency
- If English is not your primary language, please review our English language requirements.
Additional recommendations for all applicants
- Solid academic writing skills are required for success in this program; therefore an English composition course focused on academic writing and critical thinking is strongly recommended. APA style citation is used in this program. Continuing Studies at Royal Roads University offers an Academic Writing and Critical Thinking course.
All applications to this third-year program require submission of the following information and supporting documents before your file can be assessed for admission:
Application form
In order to apply online, you will be required to create a log-in account using your email address. You will be required to list all credit courses and/or programs you have completed or are currently enrolled in. An application fee will be required. If your application fees are being paid by a third party, review sponsored student information. Once submitted, you may check the status of your application at any time.
Missed your application deadline? While we can’t make any guarantees, we may be able to accommodate late applications if there's still space and enough time to process. If you're interested in an intake that is now closed to applications, apply for the next available intake and email Admissions with your preferred start date. Make sure you’re prepared to submit your program's required documents right away. We can't make an admissions decision without them.
Official transcripts
Applicants are responsible for arranging for the submission of official transcripts from ALL post-secondary (higher education) institutions currently or previously attended, for all credit courses and/or programs. Transcripts are not required for non-credit programs or courses, though some programs may require proof of professional certifications or designations.
Transcripts are considered official only if submitted directly by the Registrar or other recognized authority of the providing institution in the institution's original, sealed envelope. If the envelope has been opened, the transcripts are no longer official and new (official) transcripts will be required to complete your application.
All international transcripts or credentials are subject to an international transcript and/or credential evaluation.
Additional requirements for flexible admission
For applicants who will be reviewed under the flexible admission process, the following additional supporting documents will be required:
Letter of reference
Typically, applicants will provide one professional, or academic or community service letter.
The letter should confirm suitable candidacy for the program. For example, a reference should describe why they believe you will succeed in the program and why they believe the program will benefit you. The context in which the writer has come to know you should also be mentioned. There is no set standard for formatting, length or level of detail.
Statement of intent
The statement of intent should consist of (but is not limited to) a two to three page essay, addressing the following three points:
- the reason for selecting the BBA program; and
- how the BBA program will support, develop or enhance the applicant’s sense of purpose or personal and professional goals; and
- why the applicant believes that project-based learning is the best learning style for them.
All applicants should highlight their strengths in business, entrepreneurship, sustainability, leadership and community involvement. Statements of intent should reflect a clear and realistic understanding of the program, and its goals, values and processes and should explain why the program is meaningful and relevant to the applicant.
Detailed résumé (chronological)
- Education: List all post-secondary education, degrees, diplomas, and certificates you have achieved.
- Work experience: Please include the name of the organization, length of service, and a brief description of duties.
- Training and professional development: List career-related training and professional development programs completed within the past five years. Include the source of training, and the duration and year completed. List other training and personal development programs not already identified.
- Voluntary/unpaid work experience: List and describe any voluntary/unpaid post-secondary employment and/or community service experience. Please include the name of organization, length of service and a brief description of duties.
- Information technology training and experience: Briefly describe your level of training and experience in the use of information technology including computers, software and telecommunications networks as tools for business, education, teaching and personal use.
- Professional memberships/affiliations: List memberships and positions you hold/have held in professional associations, service clubs, community/volunteer sector.
- Other relevant information: Provide any other information which you believe is relevant to your application and will be of assistance to the review committee.
If applicable:
- Applicants declaring permanent resident or Convention Refugee status in Canada, must submit a copy of their Permanent Resident Card (PR card) along with their application.
- Transcript evaluation fee or credential evaluation report, if submitting international transcripts.
- An official English language proficiency score report or other evidence of proficiency if English is not your primary language.
- Other information or documents may be requested to determine your eligibility.
For information on how and where to send your supporting documents, please refer to the document submission guidelines.
Financial aid and awards
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We offer three options for you to complete your Bachelor of Business Administration.
You can choose the option that works best for your goals.
In all completion options, you'll create a portfolio of work that documents and showcases your learning and skill development.
Option 1: Capstone project
The capstone project integrates your learning into a single project within your area of interest. You’ll take on a real-life challenge for an organizational client. You’ll research, develop and present an innovative business solution for social and environmental change.
The capstone option can be completed with 16 months (four terms).
Option 2: Internship
Take what you’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in the workplace through an internship at an organization.
In order to achieve the required number of internship hours (420), the internship option can be completed within 20 months (five terms).
We'll help you through the process of finding an internship in your preferred industry. You'll attend workshops for career development and work search skills.
Option 3: International semester
Study abroad while continuing project-based learning in business, innovation and sustainability. You will complete at least six credits at one of our partner universities.
- Artevelde University of Applied Sciences, Belgium.
- Avans University of Applied Sciences, Netherlands.
- ITESO Universidad Jesuita de Guadalajara, Mexico.
- National Economics University, Vietnam.
- Management Centre Innsbruck, Austria.
- Singapore Management University, Singapore.
We’ll help you select courses and prepare you to study abroad.
Get to know graduates of the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation program.
Read about their experience in the program and discover how their Royal Roads education helped them professionally.
Mel Lacelle
Enrolling in the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation at Royal Roads University was a transformative decision that reshaped my career trajectory and reignited my passion for making a difference. Coming from a background in Marketing, I found myself in a career rut, yearning for a more fulfilling path. I discovered the program through the transfer agreement pathway between RRU and Georgian College, from which I earned a three-year diploma. The program offered the perfect blend of academic rigour and practical application, tailored for mature students like me.
Throughout the program, I was immersed in a collaborative learning environment that emphasized real-world experiences. One of the most memorable moments was when my team and I presented a project that united local businesses, Indigenous communities, and federal agencies towards a common goal of environmental protection. This hands-on experience reinforced classroom learning and led to tangible outcomes, including a full-time internship with one of our project partners.
The program equipped me with essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership, which have proven invaluable in my current role as an Environmental Specialist at Babcock Canada. Working with clients across various sectors broadened my understanding of sustainability challenges and reinforced the importance of proactive action.
If you're considering the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation, my advice is simple: if sustainability is your passion, this program is tailor-made for you. But be prepared to engage, as it demands active participation and dedication fully. It's not just about earning a degree; it's about personal growth, positive change, and making a meaningful impact in the world.
I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences I gained in the program, and I encourage anyone with a passion for sustainability to embark on this transformative journey.
Mel Lacelle, Environmental Specialist
Babcock Canada
Watch Mel’s video testimonial here.
Dillan Crema
I chose the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation program at Royal Roads University because, I wanted to expand my understanding of business beyond the traditional focus on maximizing shareholder return and embrace a more holistic approach that includes the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit. The program reinforced that we can and should strive to achieve all three.
One of the most memorable moments in the BBA program was connecting with like-minded individuals. Collaborating on team-based projects to tackle real-world challenges was both inspiring and enlightening. These experiences were crucial in broadening my perspective on business and innovation.
The program has had a profound impact on me, both personally and professionally. It has kick-started my career and challenged my conventional business thinking in a positive way. Working with clients was particularly rewarding, providing real-world examples and case studies that are essential for growth.
Understanding real-world business challenges from a sustainability perspective was another significant benefit. The program taught me to consider the full cradle-to-grave scope of business activities and identify opportunities for sustainable change. It reinforced the importance of balancing people, planet, and profit in all business decisions.
My advice to anyone considering the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation is simple: do it! It's a life-changing experience that will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the business world.
Dillan Crema, Advisor, Funding Arrangements
First Nations Health Authority
Andrew Wolfe
I was drawn to the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation program at Royal Roads University due to its flexible admission entry requirements and forward-looking business courses emphasizing hands-on, real-world learning. One of my most memorable experiences in the program was during a trip to the Sooke Basin. We took a fleet of fishing vessels out to tour the area, which allowed us to see firsthand the derelict boats we were working to assist in strategizing a monitoring system for. This experience truly highlighted the practical and impactful nature of our studies.
The program has had a significant impact on me personally and professionally. I've made great friends and had the opportunity to engage in thoughtful discussions with peers with different perspectives. Although I am not currently working in a field directly related to sustainability or innovation, the skills and insights I've gained are invaluable.
Working with clients in the program was an exceptional experience. For those who thrive on social engagement, public speaking, and taking risks, it's a fantastic opportunity to build relationships with real businesses in the community. The program has deepened my understanding of real-world business challenges by encouraging me to think critically about traditional business structures and explore alternative approaches to solving complex problems.
My advice for anyone considering the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation is to not be afraid to ask questions or voice your opinions, even if you think you might be wrong. This approach not only enhances your own learning but also contributes to the group's learning and helps develop leadership skills. With the right attitude and a bit of humour, sharing your values, thoughts, and questions can bring immense joy and engagement to the program.
Andrew Wolfe, Private Banking Associate
RBC
Khushi Shah
I chose the BBA in Sustainability and Innovation because I wanted a program that combined essential aspects of creating a sustainable and innovative business environment. I was driven to make a meaningful impact globally by integrating sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability. This program's focus on design thinking and creativity made it my favourite field of study, igniting my curiosity and passion.
A memorable moment in the program was when we worked on projects and engaged in team-based activities that taught us practical lessons beyond textbooks. I vividly remember developing sustainable models that minimized environmental impact while maximizing efficiency. This hands-on experience in creating and implementing sustainable business models has been invaluable, now aiding me in my current role.
The BBA program profoundly impacted me both personally and professionally. It reshaped my perspective and equipped me with the skills needed to drive positive change in businesses and society. Working with clients in this field was particularly rewarding, as it involved collaborative efforts to address environmental and social challenges, ultimately transforming business models into actionable strategies.
This program has deepened my understanding of real-world business challenges, emphasizing ethical decision-making and sustainable finance. It has guided me to implement cost-effective, environmentally friendly practices, making my business more innovative and impactful.
For those considering a BBA in Sustainability and Innovation, I encourage you to pursue your passion for positive change. Be prepared for a challenging yet rewarding journey that demands creativity, critical thinking, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Stay curious and open-minded, as the field is ever-evolving, but rest assured, it is a fulfilling path that is well worth the effort.
Khushi Shah, Sales Administrator
iA Financial Group
