Selecting the right graduate business program is a daunting task, but deciding which program is right for you may not be the right question.

The first question when considering an MBA program should be, "Am I ready for an MBA?" Unlike graduate programs in most disciplines, graduate business schools believe that an MBA is more beneficial after a few years working in a managerial position. Today, most schools teach using the case method where students learn by trying to solve real business problems. Schools have found that a few years of significant experience will provide a perspective that enriches the learning experience significantly. As a result, most quality graduate business programs expect applicants to have 2-5 years experience before beginning an MBA. Therefore, if you are ready, the next step is to find the program best suited for you.

How do I choose an MBA program?

The first step in choosing an MBA program is to do your research! MBA programs are designed to cater to students of all different backgrounds (academic and/or professional) with varying levels of professional experience. As such, there are many different types of MBA programs available to choose from.

Program Format

First, you need to decide what format you need in a program. There are full-time programs, part-time programs, accelerated programs, executive programs, and online or hybrid programs. In fact, some schools may offer more than one program format in order to meet the needs of different applicants. Choosing the type of program for which you are interested in applying will depend upon your needs with regard to time/schedule and learning style. For example, while some students are interested in diving into a full time program, others need to continue working while in school and, thus, need more flexibility. Similarly, some students do well with online programs, but other students may need classroom time and face-to-face interaction with faculty.

Curriculum

Next, you need to consider what area of business you&re interested in studying. Although most MBA curriculums will have a similar core of courses, they generally permit concentrating in a specific discipline such as marketing, finance, accounting, or management. In addition, while the course titles among schools may be similar, schools typically emphasize a certain area throughout the program. In the example of the McColl School of Business at Queens University of Charlotte, leadership development is stressed throughout the curriculum as a whole. Be certain that the emphasis is what you want.

Accreditation

Finally, you will want to pay attention to other criteria such as the accreditation(s) that the school carries. While many schools are accredited by more than one body, the gold standard of accrediting bodies for MBA programs is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB, International). This international accrediting body lends its stamp of approval to only 5% of business schools worldwide. You can be sure that schools with this accreditation have passed a rigorous test of quality by the accrediting body.

The bottom line is to reflect on what you want out of an MBA program and to do your research of schools and programs accordingly.

So, now that I’ve chosen a program – what’s next?

Before beginning an MBA program, you’ll need to complete an application to the school. Application requirements can vary from one program to the next, but there are several items that you will more than likely to be required when you submit:

• Letters of Recommendation
• These are usually acceptable from professional colleagues or previous teachers you have had. The letters should state why you would be a good candidate for the MBA program and direct examples of strengths you have displayed.
• Transcripts
• These should be submitted in an official fashion (in a sealed envelope from the school) for all colleges or universities you have attended prior to the application. Most schools will be looking for a minimum GPA, although this can vary from one school to the next.
• Admissions test
• The majority of MBA programs will require a score from the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT); however, more schools are beginning to accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) as a suitable test as well. The required scores for each of these tests will vary from one school to the next.

What can I expect to get out of an MBA degree, a better job, more money, and more prestige?

You should understand that an MBA will add tools to your kit bag. It is what you do with those tools that will determine your success. So if you are ready, choose a program that fits your needs and get started.

Steven Cox, Ph.D.
Professor of Marketing
McColl School of Business
Queens University of Charlotte

Jacquelyn Blankinship
MBA Program Coordinator
McColl School of Business
Queens University of Charlotte