Gateway Programs / MLM Program
Middle-level Managers (MLM) with Technical Background Bridging Program
Credential Certificate in Project Management for Technical Professionals
Duration 8 months
Request the Application Form by Email mlm@torontomu.ca
Are you an immigrant professional with financial or technical background and overseas project management experience?
Skilled project managers are in demand across Canada. The Middle-Level Managers (MLM) with Technical Background Bridging Program supports internationally trained immigrants with financial or technical backgrounds as they transition into project management roles in the Canadian workforce.
If you have experience in IT, engineering, science, environmental science, or a related field — and prior project management experience from outside Canada, this provincially supported program helps you strengthen your resume, build leadership and communication skills, and navigate the Canadian workplace with confidence.
You can complete the program fully online in approximately eight months and graduate with a Certificate in Project Management for Technical Professionals. Through the program, you’ll develop:
- Project management fundamentals used in Canadian workplaces
- Leadership and communication skills for technical and cross-functional teams
- An understanding of Canadian workplace culture and project practices
- The education contact hours required to write the Project Management Professional (PMP)® exam
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you:
- Have completed post-secondary education outside of Canada
- Have prior project management work experience from outside Canada
- Are currently living in Ontario as a naturalized Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person, refugee claimant, provincial nominee, or an approved temporary resident (including individuals under emergency travel measures such as CUAET)
- Meet minimum English language proficiency requirements (CLBPT 7, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent)
Questions before you apply?
Join an online information session or speak with our team to learn more about the MLM Program before applying.
Tuition is fully covered for eligible participants through provincial funding provided by the Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program (OBPAP).
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the classes be held?
This program follows fixed semester dates. Applicants must apply and receive program acceptance before classes begin. After acceptance, participants receive direct communication with confirmed start dates and next steps.
If my CLB scores are 6, 7, or 8. Am I eligible?
Yes. CLB scores must be 7 or above.
Is tuition paid to students or directly to TMU?
Tuition is paid directly to TMU.
Who enrolls students in courses after acceptance?
Course enrollment is completed by MLM program staff.
How many study hours per week do I need to allocate?
In addition to scheduled class sessions, participants should plan to spend approximately three to five hours per week on independent study.
Do the courses include group work?
Yes. Courses include group work and team-based presentations.
If I apply for OSAP, can I receive OSAP and OBPAP together?
No. You must choose one funding option.
Do I need to submit a WES assessment if I previously studied at TMU?
If you already have a WES assessment from a previous application, you may submit a copy.
My educational background is non-technical. Am I eligible?
Eligibility depends on your professional experience. Project management experience is reviewed to determine eligibility.
What documents are required for the application?
You must submit the following documents.
- Academic transcripts for completed degree programs. Unofficial transcripts are accepted.
- Language proficiency test results. Accepted options include CLBPT level 7, IELTS 6.0, or an equivalent English language test.
- Current resume outlining education and professional experience.
- Proof of equivalency to a Canadian academic degree. Unofficial assessments are accepted, including results from the WES free online tool.
- Proof of Ontario residency, such as an Ontario driver’s license, Ontario Health Card, or rental agreement.
- Proof of eligibility to work in Canada, including one of the following.
- Permanent resident card
- Canadian citizenship certificate or Canadian passport
- Ontario provincial nomination confirmation under OINP, excluding the International Student Stream
- Open work permit for refugee claimants or visitors under emergency travel measures with a 900 series SIN
- Temporary work permit with IRCC confirmation showing approval in principle for permanent residence
Is job search support provided during or after the course?
Yes. Job support workshops are provided. These include:
- Resume and LinkedIn workshops
- Interview coaching
- Job search and networking resources
Who You Will Learn From
Juzair Ali
Juzair Ali is a project management professional with over 25 years of experience delivering complex initiatives across sectors including finance, engineering, IT, and healthcare. He applies Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid methodologies to support project success and brings a strong focus on practical, real-world learning. Juzair holds a PMP certification, an engineering degree, and an MBA in Management of Technology and Innovation.
Douglas Bower
Douglas Bower is a project management consultant and educator with extensive experience leading complex projects in both the public and private sectors. He has worked with organizations such as the Ontario Government, CIBC, IBM, and Bell Canada, and has over 20 years of experience managing large-scale initiatives. Doug holds a Doctor of Project Management and has published research and spoken internationally on project management practices.
Hamid Faridani
Hamid Faridani holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering and brings over 35 years of experience in academia and industry. He has taught at universities in the US, Iran, and Canada, and spent over 25 years at IBM leading and managing IT projects across multiple industries. Hamid currently teaches project management and is a certified PMP instructor, ScrumMaster, and experienced course developer.
Rishi Kumar
Rishi Kumar is a professional engineer and project management expert with over 35 years of experience across multiple industries. He is President and CEO of Global Educational and Consulting Services and has delivered over 600 courses and seminars globally. Rishi has been actively involved with the Project Management Institute (PMI) and Professional Engineers Ontario, contributing to leadership, ethics, and professional development initiatives.
Cheryl Francis-Nurse
Cheryl Francis-Nurse brings over 20 years of experience in adult education, with roles including professor, program coordinator, project manager, and learning and development consultant. She has worked across higher education, industry, and international organizations in Canada and the Caribbean. Cheryl is recognized for her teaching excellence, including awards from Humber Polytechnic and the League for Innovation.
Anne-Marie Rosada
Anne-Marie Rosada is an educator and leadership specialist with over 30 years of experience working with business professionals, faculty, and adult learners. She has been teaching at Toronto Metropolitan University since 2003, focusing on project management and leadership. Her background includes program management on the Pearson International Airport redevelopment project and extensive work in leadership development and coaching.
Hear From Our Learners
“Moving to a new country as an engineer was overwhelming at first, but studying project management gave me structure and confidence to navigate both technical work and cultural differences. It helped me communicate better, plan with clarity, and feel like I truly belong in the professional space here in Canada.”
— Elisa Ibarra Juarez
Project Management for Technical Professionals, Fall 2024
Caseworker, Toronto Employment & Social Services
Questions?
Email: mlm@torontomu.ca
Phone: 416-979-5000, ext. 552713
Middle-level Managers (MLM) with Technical Background Bridging Program is funded by:
