Cañada College Business Department
Whether you want to transfer to a four-year university, earn a certificate, start a business, advance in your current job, or explore a new career direction, the Business Department at Cañada College can help you take your next step.
Our programs help students build practical skills in accounting, economics, finance, information systems, international business, management, marketing, entrepreneurship, office technology, and business communication. Students learn from experienced faculty in a supportive community college environment with flexible course options and small class sizes.
Explore Business Degrees and CertificatesMeet with a Counselor
Choose Your Business Path
Business students at Cañada College can choose from several pathways depending on their goals:
- Transfer: Complete lower-division business courses and prepare to transfer to a four-year university.
- Associate Degrees: Earn an Associate in Science degree in business, management, marketing, entrepreneurship, or office technology.
- Certificates: Build career-ready skills through shorter certificate programs in areas such as business administration, digital marketing, human relations, entrepreneurship, and office support.
- Entrepreneurship: Learn how to start, manage, and grow a small business.
- Career Preparation: Strengthen your skills in communication, technology, leadership, customer service, project coordination, and workplace problem solving.
Business Degrees and Certificates
Cañada College offers a variety of business programs for students who want to transfer, earn a degree, complete a certificate, or gain practical workplace skills. Visit our Degrees and Certificates page for the most current program details, catalog links, and unit requirements.
Associate Degrees
| Program | Award Type | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Business Assistant | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Business Management | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Marketing | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Business Administration 2.0 | Associate in Science for Transfer | 60 units |
Business Certificates
| Program | Award Type | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | Certificate of Achievement | 19 units |
| Business Assistant | Certificate of Achievement | 18–19 units |
| Business Information Worker | Certificate of Achievement | 18 units |
| Business Management | Certificate of Achievement | 19 units |
| Digital Marketing | Certificate of Achievement | 18 units |
| Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management | Certificate of Achievement | 21–22 units |
| Human Relations in the Workplace | Certificate of Achievement | 18 units |
| Marketing | Certificate of Achievement | 18 units |
| Business Information Worker | Certificate of Specialization | 7.5 units |
| Digital Marketing | Certificate of Specialization | 12 units |
| Entrepreneurship for Spanish Speakers | Certificate of Specialization | 13 units |
Computer Business Office Technology Programs
| Program | Award Type | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative Assistant | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Administrative Support Assistant | Associate in Science Degree | 60 units |
| Administrative Assistant | Certificate of Achievement | 27 units |
| Administrative Support Assistant | Certificate of Achievement | 23.5 units |
| General Office | Certificate of Achievement | 12 units |
View Full Program Requirements
Where Can Business Take You?
Business courses can prepare students for careers and further study in many areas, including:
- Accounting, finance, and business operations
- Marketing and digital marketing
- Management and supervision
- Entrepreneurship and small business ownership
- Human resources and organizational leadership
- International business
- Office administration and business technology
- Customer service, sales, and administrative support
Flexible Course Options
We prioritize flexible course scheduling to support students with work, family, transfer, and personal responsibilities. Core transfer courses are available year-round, including during the summer session. We offer a range of formats, including in-person, day, evening, hybrid, and online courses. Some courses may also be offered on late-start or accelerated timelines.
As part of the San Mateo County Community College District, students may also have access to additional business courses at our sister campuses, College of San Mateo and Skyline College. This broader range of offerings gives students more options when planning their schedules.
Small Classes and Personal Support
Our smaller class sizes help students build relationships with faculty and classmates. Students are noticed, supported, and encouraged to participate actively in their learning.
“At Cañada College we treat our students like family. As faculty, we take the time to get to know and engage with our students. Many of our faculty have been students at a community college at one point in time and understand the challenges unique to community college students.”
— Professor Candice Nance, Department Chair
Learn from Experienced Faculty
Business faculty bring experience from many fields, including business, government, entrepreneurship, education, technology, and not-for-profit organizations. Cañada College is also a member of the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce.
You can learn more about our Business faculty members and learn how to apply to teach business courses at Cañada College.
Career Support for Business Students
Business students can work with the Cañada College Career Center for help with job searching, resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, internships, and employer connections.
“The Cañada College Career Center can help business students search for jobs, prepare cover letters and resumes, and practice interview skills. Our job and internship fairs, along with our online job board, connect local employers to students looking for new employment opportunities.”
— Bob Haick, Career Center Program Supervisor
Meet with a Business Counselor
Business majors are encouraged to meet with a counselor to choose the right courses, understand certificate and degree requirements, and create an education plan. Students may meet with Daryan Chan or Gloria Darafshi for counseling appointments.
Visit the Counseling Center website to learn how to book a counseling appointment.
Not Sure Where to Start?
You do not need to have your entire career plan figured out before taking a business class. Many students begin with an introductory business, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, or office technology course while they explore their interests. A counselor can help you choose courses that match your academic, transfer, and career goals.
What You Will Learn
Students who complete a Business degree or certificate will strengthen their ability to:
- Design and manage business documents using current technology to engage in creative problem solving.
- Communicate an understanding of business concepts professionally through written, oral, and visual presentations using current technology.
- Recognize ethical behavior in their chosen profession and behave in a socially responsible manner.
- Analyze business issues, interpret financial data, and identify economic trends.
Ready to Get Started?
Explore our programs, connect with a counselor, and choose the pathway that works best for your goals.
Explore Degrees and CertificatesSchedule a Counseling AppointmentMeet the Business Faculty