Master of Business Administration (MBA)

VI. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Specific Program Requirements: Students must earn at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all course work on their degree plan. The grading in all foundation courses is done on the Pass/Fail basis and will not be counted toward the degree cumulative GPA. (Any graduate course in which a C, D or F is earned must be repeated. Students who are required to complete a number of foundation courses cannot take more advanced courses before passing the foundation courses required.

In order to become familiar with the business sector, students are additionally required to complete structured internships during vacation and summer periods. This professional experience enhances course participation and serves in the selection of the Business Project or a Case Analysis for the Qualifying Examination. Time in internships should cover a period of four to six months. Participation in seminars and other assigned activities conducted by business partners is mandatory.

Qualifying Exam: All MBA students are required to pass a Qualifying Exam during their final semester of studies. Students are allowed to select one of the following options, accounting for the diversity of students in the MBA program.

Option 1 - Case Analysis: This option involves detailed analysis of a current business issue and may include applied research, business problem-solving or new business creation. Students are expected to select a problem, analyze the problem, and provide potential feasible solutions to the problem. It is highly advisable that students work with a professor in developing the case analysis. The expected time for preparation of Option 1 is approximately one month (160 contact hours). Students are evaluated on their ability to analyze the problem and propose solutions or the need for further analysis. They are expected to make a 30-45 minute presentation, as well as submit the case analysis in written form. The Qualifying Exam can be taken during the last semester of course work in the MBA program.

Option 2 - Business Project: This option requires an in-depth research project, conducted under the supervision of an SBA Faculty Member. The expected time for preparation of Option 2 is approximately three to four months (480-640 contact hours). Since this option requires more time and effort, students who select this option are awarded a ‘Certificate of Recognition’. At a minimum, the Business Project should address the following:

• Identification of a topic for a Business Project
• Statement of the objectives of the study
• Determination of method(s)
• Collection of data and information
• Analysis
• Discussion of results
• Conclusion and perspectives
• References and sources

Students who select to do the Business Project are expected to work very closely with one or more faculty members. Work on this option can commence at any time during their course work. Oral presentation of results to the SBA Qualifying Exam Committee can be done during the last semester of course work. However, the student’s major professor must approve the written work before it is presented to the SBA Qualifying Exam Committee.