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Marketing, Business Economics and Law
Welcome to the Department of Marketing, Business Economics and Law
At the Alberta School of Business, MBEL combines world-class research and innovative teaching in marketing, business economics, and business law. Our faculty are global leaders in consumer behavior, market research, international business, and natural resource economics. Students gain industry-relevant knowledge through experiential learning, preparing them for dynamic careers in business, law, and policy.
Programs
Undergraduate programs
We offer diverse BCom programs that combine cutting-edge research, industry insights and experiential learning to develop strategic, adaptable and globally minded business leaders.
MBA programs
The U of A MBA equips students with in-depth business knowledge and leadership skills. With flexible career tracks and experiential learning, graduates gain expertise in areas like international business, marketing, and natural resource management. The one year program blends theory with real-world application to accelerate career growth.
PhD Programs
Our PhD programs train future academics in cutting-edge research. Graduates contribute to top-tier journals and secure faculty positions at leading institutions worldwide.
The specialization in Marketing focuses on consumer behaviour, quantitative modeling and strategy, studying topics such as digital and social media, communications, social influence, AI and decision making.
The specialization in Business Economics focuses on urban and international economics, including topics such as housing affordability, supply chain resilience, tariffs, mass transit and environmental economics.
FALL TERM 2026
mark 488/686 (58234) - Generative ai for marketing
Generative AI – tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini – are transforming marketing practice. However, much of the popular discussion around this technology is driven by hype without solid evidence. This course aims to provide an evidence-based understanding of how gen AI can realistically improve marketing.
Instructor: Noah Castelo
Thursdays, 5:00PM - 8:00 PM
mark 488 (58236) - Event Management & Marketing
Events are commonly used as marketing channels to promote products and services. In this fast-paced course, students will learn to identify and use appropriate marketing methods to successfully promote different types of events and gain practical event marketing knowledge that can be applied to real-life scenarios.
Instructor: Caitlin McElhone
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3:30PM - 4:50 PM
B LAW 488 (58657) - ADVOCACY IN PROFESSIONAL REGULATION
This course explores how professionals (e.g. lawyers, accountants, physicians) are monitored and held accountable by their regulatory bodies. Students will learn how complaints against professionals are received, assessed, and resolved within regulatory legislation and frameworks, such as the Professional Governance Act and Health Professions Act.
Instructor: Deema Abou Rizk
Thursdays, 3:30PM - 6:20 PM
Connecting with leading centres
The Department of Marketing, Business Economics and Law is proud to work with the Cities Institute, which harnesses the expertise of the Alberta School of Business to drive innovation in city-building research and education. Through collaboration in knowledge creation, student experience, and community partnerships, we shape urban environments that are inclusive, efficient, and vibrant. By uniting scholars, students and industry leaders, we’re creating the cities of tomorrow — designed for everyone.
Department News
Events
See all upcoming events »Message from the Chair
Welcome to the Department of Marketing, Business Economics, and Law at the Alberta School of Business. Our department brings together a diverse community of scholars and industry experts dedicated to shaping the future of business through cutting-edge research and real-world application. Our faculty specialize in a broad range of areas, from consumer behavior, branding and digital marketing to economic policy, competition strategy and business law — ensuring that our students gain the knowledge and skills needed to navigate an ever-evolving business landscape.
At the core of our department is a commitment to student success. Our programs blend rigorous academic training with hands-on learning experiences, including case competitions, industry partnerships, and experiential projects that prepare students to lead with confidence and creativity. Whether you are exploring the complexities of global markets, understanding the legal frameworks that shape business decisions, or developing strategies that drive consumer engagement, we are here to support you on your journey.
As part of the Alberta School of Business, we believe in the power of collaboration and shared growth. We foster an environment where students, faculty and industry partners work together to push boundaries, challenge ideas and create meaningful impact. Our goal is not just to educate, but to inspire — to uplift one another in pursuit of excellence and innovation.
Paul Messinger
Professor and chair
