Rising stars: SAIT’s School of Business and School of Hospitality shine on the global stage

SAIT's School of Business and School of Hospitality and Tourism have reason to celebrate following the release of the 2024 CEOWORLD Magazine rankings — both are #1 in Canada in their respective categories.

"We continue to be deeply honoured, proud by this recognition, and proud of our students, employees and alumni," says James Overall, Dean, SAIT's School of Hospitality and Tourism. "As a school, we are committed to SAIT's vision to be a global leader in applied education and our foundational mission to prepare students for successful careers and lives."

Placing for the fourth consecutive year, the School of Business claimed an impressive 49th globally along with the #1 spot as the highest-ranked business school in Canada.

"This accomplishment reflects the excellence of our programs and the remarkable success achieved by our graduates on a global stage," says Janet Segato, the Dean of the School of Business. "I'm proud of our team and their commitment to student success."

What makes SAIT's School of Business top in Canada?

An emphasis on industry relevance through hands-on skill building, inclusive and engaging learning experiences and instruction delivered by faculty who are experts in the field.

"The learning environment at SAIT is fantastic," says David Leduc, Bachelor of Business Administration student. "Class sizes are small and include hands-on learning elements which foster engagement and collaboration between students to utilize their knowledge and unique ideas to perform meaningful business activities."

Established in 1966, the School of Business offers students meaningful opportunities to connect with industry through work integrated learning opportunities and capstone projects, ensuring graduates meet the demands of today's business world and are prepared for the future.

"Through SAIT's networking events and industry partnerships, I was able to meet many professionals within the accounting industry, and I was able to learn so much from accountants from different backgrounds," says Tom Zhang, Bachelor of Business Administration student. "These experiences were crucial as it helped me with writing a more personal cover letter and at the end secure my internship opportunity."

Up one position from 2023, SAIT's School of Hospitality and Tourism ranked #14 in the world and #1 in Canada.

Home to world-class faculty and programming in both hospitality and tourism management, as well as the culinary arts, students can choose from degree, diploma and certificate programs.

"Being featured in CEOWORLD Magazine's yearly ranking of premier hospitality and hotel management schools highlights the impact our graduates make in the global industry, as well as the excellence of our faculty," says James Overall, Dean of SAIT's School of Hospitality and Tourism. "Our pursuit of excellence is ongoing. I am proud of the collective efforts of our team, students and alumni."

The school is renowned for its immersive classrooms that ensure students are learning in real-world environments and prepared to meet the demands of today's dynamic marketplace.

"It's a very satisfying and prideful feeling to know that SAIT has been recognized and labelled as the number one school in the country for its hospitality program," says Raegan Tomkinson, Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management student. "I feel grateful that I can be a part of such excellence and I feel confident in the education and opportunities I am receiving to help me in my career."

What makes SAIT's School of Hospitality and Tourism world-class?

From fine dining to trip planning the school is renowned for its living classrooms, allowing for hands-on experience in real world settings, industry-renowned instructors and top-tier partnerships. Practicum partners include Azuridge Estate Hotel, Fairmont Palliser, Hotel Arts, Hilton Garden Inn and Suites Downtown, Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel and Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire.

"SAIT's hands on learning opportunities were invaluable during my internship," says Hyunwoo Kim, Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management student. "This semester, I'm collaborating with a local company for a capstone project which offers a great opportunity to connect with industry experts."

The CEOWORLD magazine ranking results are based on an extensive data collected through interviews and surveys of graduates, industry professionals, employers and recruiters. Rankings are based on metrics which include perceived global brand influence, recruiter and employer feedback, job placement rate, admission eligibility and academic reputation.

SAIT's School of Business and School of Hospitality and Tourism 2024 CEOWORLD magazine rankings underscore their exceptional standing on the global stage. As rising stars, these schools secured their positions as leaders in Canada and demonstrated a commitment to excellence that resonates internationally.