- Why do people get the MBA degree?
The MBA degree is largely designed to be used in the workforce. While a small percentage of MBA students go on for the doctorate degree, the vast majority return to work. The degree can be used to get a first professional job, to transition into a new area in mid-career or to broaden skills and knowledge of the person
not wishing to make an immediate job change.
- Aren't there a lot of MBA graduates out there now?
There are more MBA graduates now than there were 10 years ago, but the career options for these degree holders have also expanded. Where MBA candidates were once interested primarily in large corporations in traditional industries, career options have expanded to include areas such as health care, nonprofit organizations,
entrepreneurial ventures, educational administration and a wide variety of other areas.
- When is the best time to get an MBA?
This is an individual decision. Most students benefit after some work experience or internships first, but alternatively, it is often difficult to stop a career in order to return to school. Part time study is an option, but it will take you longer to do a program this way. Academic advisors can help you to determine
the advantages of each program.
- What is AACSB accreditation?
AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is the highest level of accreditation of business programs, and requires an in-depth study of the program in terms of curriculum, faculty, facilities and students. Each of the programs in the Ohio MBA Network have this level of accreditation.
For more information about AACSB accreditation, visit our AACSB page.
- What other factors should I consider when choosing an MBA program?
You should examine the course offerings in the programs you are considering and see if they match your interests. Visit the program if possible, or talk with admissions counselors who can answer your questions about class size, teaching methods, areas of strength. If you are interested in a full-time program, ask about
financial aid or scholarships available. You should also ask about graduation rates and career paths of the MBA alumni. Some schools offer the option to visit in order to meet with administrators, faculty and students and tour the university. This visit can tell you a lot about the program. Also check to see if the school
has visitation days, special programs or other ways to learn more.
- Is there a way to meet representatives from several schools at one time in order to use my time effectively?
The member school of the Ohio MBA Network have several opportunities each year for you to meet with representatives from each school and start your search, or add to what you may have learned from brochures or websites. You can find the most recent Information Sessions listed under Upcoming Events.
- Do you need to have an undergraduate degree in business to get into an MBA program?
No, the MBA degree is open to all majors. However, if your degree is in an area other than business, your MBA program will probably differ from a business major. In most cases, it is a longer program.
- I've recently graduated with a bachelor's degree. How important is having work experience?
Some programs require work experience, others will admit students directly from an undergraduate program. However, keep in mind that future employers will be interested in your experience as well as your education, so if you are considering starting a program soon after graduation, be sure to take advantage of internships
to broaden your base of work experience.
- What is the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) and why is it required?
The GMAT is a standardized test designed to test the candidate in three general areas: critical writing skills, verbal skills and quantitative skills. The test takes 3.5 hours and is administered through the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) at Sylvan Learning Centers and other sites worldwide.
The GMAT is helpful in identifying the skills of the candidate in skills areas demanded in most MBA programs. It also serves as a common comparison point for admission committees when comparing candidates of varying background, skills and undergraduate preparation. For more information about the GMAT, click on GMAC while
visiting our Other Links page.
- Can I specialize the degree in a certain area?
Yes, but you will need to carefully examine the curriculum of the schools you are considering to make sure they have the elective courses in the area in which you want to specialize. Some universities offer joint degree program, such as law and business. If you have interests in any specialty area, be sure to discuss
your interests with the school representatives.
- Are part-time programs available?
Many programs have a part-time option for the working professional. To learn more about the various program options of the Ohio MBA Network schools, from weekend to on-line programs, go to School Profiles.
- What type of financial aid is available for MBA students?
Of course this will vary from program to program, but most schools have some type of financial aid options. These forms of funding will vary from loans, full and partial scholarships, graduate assistantships and federal work-study programs. Deadlines are important for these awards, so it is wise to start your search process
early so you don't miss any opportunities.
- Will I have to write a thesis?
In the majority of cases, no. There is no thesis or certification exam required for the MBA degree.
- What criteria are evaluated when making admissions decisions?
Generally, admission criteria includes the GMAT score, undergraduate grades, essays, letters of recommendations, work experience, and possibly an interview.
