MBA in Community Economic Development
Program Types: Degree, Graduate
Program Duration: 2 Year
Fields of Study: Business, Community Economic Development, Sustainability
Develop Stronger Economic Ties
Our communities are the threads that tie our country together. From helping to build a strong economic engine, to facilitating the cultivation of our healthy food, each community plays an important role in the development of our society. The Cape Breton community, although small in size, is big in opportunity. Here, you’re free to explore a welcoming island with warm people who see the same potential in you as you do in them.

The MBA in CED offers a leading edge curriculum that includes all business subjects found in traditional MBA programs, with an emphasis on economic development, leadership, governance and management of change. The program resonates with people who aspire to play leadership roles in the private, public and community sectors.

There are many MBA programs around the globe. However, the program found here at Cape Breton University is the only one in Canada that includes community economic development at its core. It’s for people who want to make a difference where they live and work. Here, we teach the lessons that inspire students to make a positive change wherever they go. The MBA in Community Economic Development has been offered by the Shannon School of Business at CBU since 1997.
Why study at CBU?
As one of Canada’s youngest and most ambitious post-secondary institutions, Cape Breton University is focused on creating some of the most relevant, progressive and innovative programs in the world. Our MBA in Community Economic Development is the only program of its kind in North America. This degree delivers advanced business knowledge and skills to make a difference in the local and global community. In addition to being offered in Sydney, Nova Scotia, the program is delivered on weekends in six locations in face-to-face classes with acclaimed faculty from across Canada. Off-site venues include: Brandon, Edmonton, Saskatoon and Toronto.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Applied Research Projects (ARP)
CBU recognizes the value of, and demand for, research skills in the public, community and private sectors. Given this, CBU is one of the few institutions that requires a mandatory research project as the culmination of the MBA in CED degree.
The ARP is the MBA in CED capstone deliverable. Under the supervision of a research advisor(s), this project provides the opportunity to engage in experiential learning through direct involvement with a community, company, government agency or non-profit organization.
Community Action Research
Community-Based Participatory Research
Community-Engaged Research with Community-Based Organizations
Guest Speakers
Media/Videos Projects
Simulations

Jiawei Zhang’s CV:

EDUCATION
Inner Mongolia University of Finance and Economics Hohhot, China
Bachelor of Management, Major in Labor & Social Security Sept 2020 – Jul 2024
优势课程和分数：社会统计学 95， 社会保险模拟实验85， 劳动法和社会保障法88， 统计学90， 经济数学基础（微积分）94， 社会调查研究与方法91， 微观经济学92， 宏观经济学66， 财政学90， 公共管理学72， 福利经济学85， 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Yonggui Catering Co., Ltd. Hohhot, China
Intern –Financial Accounting Department Aug 2023 –Oct 2023
Responsibilities:
- Assisted the Financial Accounting Department in day-to-day operations, including data entry, invoice processing, and expense tracking.
- Participated in regular team meetings and observed the company’s financial reporting processes.
- Helped prepare financial statements and reports under the guidance of senior accountants.
- Conducted research and analysis on industry trends and competitors to support financial decision-making.
Achievements:
- Streamlined the invoice processing system, resulting in improved accuracy and efficiency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify cost-saving opportunities, leading to an overall reduction in expenses by 10%.
- Received positive feedback from supervisors for attention to detail and commitment to meeting deadlines.
Skills Developed:
- Proficiency in financial software, such as QuickBooks and Excel, for data analysis and reporting purposes.
- Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with team members to achieve common goals.
- Strong problem-solving skills through analyzing financial data and identifying areas for improvement.
- Time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines effectively.

RELEVANT ACADEMIC PROJECTS
Inner Mongolia Huimin Health Insurance (IMHHI for short, Summer Social Practice) Aug 2022 – Sept 2022
− Formed a 6-member team to collect data on people’s perceptions of existing health insurance products through online questionnaires.
− Applied Stata, SPSS to perform comparative analysis on existing health insurance products with “Inner Mongolia Huimin Health Insurance”.
− Explored the significance of the " Inner Mongolia Huimin Health Insurance" for a sound medical insurance system.
− Created and operated a public account by collaborating with others and participate in the promotion and sale of the IMHHI product.

Research on Smart Elderly Care Service Supply in Ordos City Sept 2020 – Nov 2020
− Employed a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods to investigate the smart elderly care service supply in Ordos City.
− Displayed literature reviews, on-site investigations, and case analysis to collect data and information, understand the current research status and development trends of smart elderly care service supply.
− Conducted on-site investigations, including visits to elderly care facilities in Ordos & observations of existing smart elderly care service facilities.
− Employed statistical methods, such as descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, to organize and analyze the collected data.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
School of Public Finance & Taxation, Inner Mongolia University of Finance & Economics Hohhot, China
Dormitory Head Sept 2020 – Now
− Coordinate roommates to develop & implement agreements, procedures to address and resolve concerns in a timely manner.
− Promote a positive community atmosphere through organizing and participating in various dormitory events and activities.
− Supervise daily affairs, collaborated with university administration & other departments to ensure compliance with regulations and policies.

Student Union, School of Public Finance & Taxation, Inner Mongolia University of Finance & Economics Hohhot, China
Student Officer of General Department Sept 2020 – Sept 2022
− Interfaced with different departmental staff for monthly expenditure approval and reconciliation
− Participated in the organization and operation of different school level activities, such as Freshman Orientation, New Year Party.
。 Liaised with relevant departments and guests to work closely with the rehearsals, identified and rectified problems in a timely manner.
。 Controlled time schedule of activities by adjusting & coordinating with various departments according to the actual situation on site.

School of Finance & Taxation, Inner Mongolia University of Finance & Economics Hohhot, China
COVID-19 Management Volunteer Sept 2020 – Sept 2022
− Collaborated with a team of volunteers to effectively manage the spread of COVID-19 within College of Finance & Taxation.
− Assisted in epidemic information entry and distribution of leaflets to raise awareness about preventative measures.
− Successfully handled nucleic acid testing information entry to ensure accurate records and efficient testing processes.
− Participated in disinfection and duty assignments to maintain a clean and safe environment for community members.

PERSONAL
− Languages: Fluent in English and Mandarin
− Interests: Reading, football, travelling
请基于以上Cape Breton University的MBA in Community Economic Development的课程介绍和我的简历，为我polish以下英文Personal Statement,要求向Cape Breton University的MBA in Community Economic Development的课程的招生官：
1. 从各个角度分段详细分析并论证为什么我有能力完成Cape Breton University的MBA in Community Economic Development的课程？
Personal Statement:
Program: MBA in Community Economic Development

Dear Admissions Officer,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the MBA in Community Economic Development program at Cape Breton University. As a dedicated and driven individual, I believe that this program perfectly aligns with my career goals and aspirations.

First and foremost, I would like to outline my career plan and objectives. My goal is to become an economic development specialist in China, utilizing my academic background in Labor & Social Security to address social and economic challenges. I am well-aware of the importance of fostering sustainable economic growth and empowering local communities. By pursuing the MBA in Community Economic Development at Cape Breton University, I am confident that I will develop the necessary skills and knowledge to make a significant impact in my country.

The MBA in Community Economic Development program at Cape Breton University offers a unique and comprehensive curriculum that combines traditional business subjects with a focus on economic development, leadership, governance, and management of change. This emphasis on community-based economic development aligns perfectly with my career aspirations of fostering sustainable development and improving the living conditions in my community.

Moreover, Cape Breton University’s commitment to creating relevant, progressive, and innovative programs has greatly influenced my decision. The MBA in Community Economic Development is the only program of its kind in North America, further reinforcing my belief that Cape Breton University is the perfect institution to pursue my studies. The program’s emphasis on experiential learning through applied research projects, community-based participatory research, and guest speakers will provide me with opportunities to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios, ensuring a deep understanding of the subject matter.

From a personal perspective, I possess several qualities and experiences that will contribute to my success in the MBA in Community Economic Development program. Throughout my academic journey, I have demonstrated strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as evidenced by my performance in courses such as Social Statistics, Social Insurance Simulation Experiment, and Social Survey Research Methods. Additionally, my experience as an intern in the Financial Accounting Department at Yonggui Catering Co., Ltd has given me a solid foundation in financial analysis and reporting, which are essential skills for success in the program. Furthermore, my leadership roles in extracurricular activities have honed my communication, teamwork, and organizational skills, ensuring that I can contribute effectively in both classroom settings and collaborative projects.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that Cape Breton University’s MBA in Community Economic Development program will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to achieve my career goals in China. The program’s unique curriculum, practical focus, and commitment to community engagement make it the ideal choice for my academic and professional aspirations. I believe that by combining my theoretical knowledge with practical skills gained from the program, I will make a meaningful difference in my community and contribute to the overall economic development of China.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to contribute to the vibrant community at Cape Breton University and make a lasting impact. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications and aspirations.

Sincerely,