Frequently Asked Questions
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- What is the CU Executive MBA Program?
- The Executive MBA is an accredited master's degree in Business Administration designed for the experienced business person or professional. Executive MBA students complete their degree in less than two years with minimal career disruption. In that period they gain a wide range of new skills and sharpen their analytical abilities by applying the techniques and tools learned in classes to problems and situations they face at work.
- What's unique about the Executive MBA Program besides the schedule?
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One important advantage is the close interaction with both faculty and fellow students. Students remain with one group of classmates throughout the program, providing invaluable continuity and mutual support.
The curriculum is distinct from that of a traditional MBA, which emphasizes knowledge a practitioner needs; our program focuses on what decision makers need to know. The Executive MBA Program combines academic learning with real-world experience, producing a challenging, stimulating learning environment that provides the maximum return for the time and money invested in it.
The Executive MBA Program requires a significant time commitment. You should expect to spend an average of 20 hours on schoolwork—in addition to one day of class—per week. Time spent outside of class varies depending on the term, class assignments, and background knowledge.
- Who teaches in the Executive MBA Program?
- Faculty are chosen from nearly 200 full-time faculty in CU's three AACSB-accredited Graduate Schools of Business: Colorado Springs, Denver, and the Leeds School of Business in Boulder. All faculty in the program have earned doctorate-level degrees and have experience working, teaching, and consulting with businesses.
- Who is eligible for admission?
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A very diverse group of people earn an Executive MBA. What they share is a sincere desire to succeed in business by obtaining an MBA and a willingness to work hard toward achieving that goal.
Participants typically have eight to ten years of business or professional experience. Program participants represent all types of organizations from major corporations to small entrepreneurial ventures. Both the private and public sectors are represented, as well as individuals with careers in professions such as medicine, engineering, science, or law. A four-year baccalaureate degree is required, though it need not be a degree in business.
- How much computer experience do I need?
- Personal computers are used as a tool to aid learning in the Executive MBA Program. You should be comfortable using word processing and spreadsheet software. Instruction on the use of class-related software will be provided during the program. Program staff can provide suggestions for introductory computer classes to improve skills before starting the program. Participants are required to have their own personal computer and modem for use in the program.
- Why is the tuition higher than that for a traditional MBA?
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CU's Executive MBA is designed for the working professional; as such, the university provides a premium level of service in terms of faculty, facilities, and support staff. The cost is modest in comparison to the quality and the benefits the program yields an investment in learning and an investment in a person's career and future.
The CU Executive MBA Program is a self-supporting academic program that receives NO state tax dollars to subsidize tuition. All costs associated with the program are covered directly through tuition payments.
- Do I receive an Executive MBA or an MBA degree?
- Upon graduation, you will earn an accredited MBA degree, the recognized standard in management education and a key to success in the business world.
- How do participants pay for the Executive MBA Program? Is there financial aid available?
- Approximately fifty percent of participants receive full tuition support from their employers. Twenty-five percent receive partial support from their employers for tuition. The remaining participants pay their own tuition. CU Executive MBA students are eligible for a deferred payment program that allows participants to defer half of a term's tuition until the completion of the term; interest is charged on the unpaid balance. This assists participants who are reimbursed by their employer after a course is completed. Non-need-based student loans are currently available for up to 70 percent of the tuition. Some need-based loans are available. The Executive MBA also has a scholarship program that targets students accepted into the program who qualify for need-based financial aid. Please contact the Program Office for additional details regarding financial aid.
- Is it difficult to return to school after being out of school for so many years?
- The time demands of the program require all participants to make adjustments in their lives. Typically, most Executive MBA participants have been out of school for 10 to 15 years; therefore, all members of the class face similar challenges. The student study groups play a critical role of support during the program. The Executive MBA is designed to allow students to concentrate their time on academic matters while program staff take care of the administrative aspects of attending a university.
- Can I discuss the program with someone before I apply?
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You are encouraged to contact the Program Director prior to starting the application process. Program staff are available to answer questions and discuss the program. Please phone the Program Office at (303) 623-1888 or (800) 228-5778.
An understanding of algebra-level mathematics is required. Individuals with a limited knowledge of mathematics are encouraged to take a college-prep math class prior to starting the program. Please contact the program staff for several suggestions on ways to improve math skills before starting the program.
- Are there any prerequisites for the Executive MBA Program?
- Participants need to have earned a baccalaureate degree; however, the degree need not be in business. Participants should feel comfortable with word processing and spreadsheet functions on their computer and have an understanding of algebra-level mathematics.
- Should I take the GMAT? What is an acceptable score?
- The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is strongly recommended for applicants whose undergraduate grade point average was below 3.0 or applicants with less than four years in a responsible management position. A score on the GMAT in the upper 500s to lower 600s is typical for an Executive MBA student. Executive MBA applicants need to receive a score of at least 500.
- How will an MBA degree affect my career?
- An MBA serves as recognition that you have attained a high level of knowledge about a wide range of topics considered essential in modern management. As such, it marks you as a person who was willing to invest the time and effort needed to gain the degree, and as someone who is prepared to accept and meet all the challenges the business world has to offer. It says that you not only want to succeed, but that you've been tested and are capable of success.
For additional information, contact us or call:
303-623-1888 or 1-800-228-5778
