Admission to mba. How to apply for an MBA program. What work experience is required to apply for an MBA

Applying to an MBA program can be challenging and confusing. Below we have prepared a guide that will help you correctly build an admission plan and prepare all documents on time.

How to apply for an MBA program

STEP 1: Choose a business school

STEP 2: Choose a program

It would seem that MBA programs should be the same in their content at all universities. This is far from true. For example, you can find an MBA program that does not require work experience. However, most often, work experience is needed, moreover, in a leadership position for several years. Therefore, look carefully at the entrance requirements of universities.

When choosing the right MBA program, be guided by, among others, such parameters as:

• the content of the studied modules, the proposed MBA specializations;
• the required length of work experience;
• the profile of program graduates and in what areas of activity they are employed;
• teacher profile;
• teaching method (Full-time MBA, executive MBA).

Find out which program is right for you with our MBA Program Selection Guide, where we've prepared videos and articles that shed light on this dataset.

STEP 3: Register on the university website

Requirements for a motivation letter and details about the criteria for admission are not always published by foreign business schools on their websites and in program descriptions. Therefore, it makes sense to register in the personal account of the university and in the application submission system before you start working on the documents as part of the application for admission. Consider this nuance.

STEP 4: Prepare documents for the application for admission

Motivation letter

The letter is an essay that should show your interest in getting this particular place at this particular university. Explain why you want this and what you plan to do after completing the MBA program (MBA). For some MBA programs, you may be asked to describe in more detail about your leadership potential, how you dealt with a particular ethical issue at work, your area of ​​responsibility as a professional, and much more. Depending on the educational institution, a motivation letter is treated with more bias or less, plus each university has its own design nuances. Therefore, in order to get a plus sign at this stage, we recommend that you ask our editors for help in preparing a motivation letter - they studied at the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and MIT.

This is a document that is written by a supervisor from a place of work or a teacher characterizing a student.

When applying to MBA programs, 2-3 recommendations from the place of work (from a manager, colleague, client) are most often required. Occasionally, universities ask for a recommendation from the last place of study.

The main thing that should be reflected in the recommendations is examples and evidence of the applicant's professional qualities. He has a high leadership potential - tell us in what situations he showed it. The applicant is stress-resistant - share an example of how he got out of a particular difficult situation. The volume should not exceed 1-1.5 sheets.

We have prepared a special section for you that will help you write a letter of recommendation, but in order to be sure that it is written correctly, it is better to contact our specialists.

When applying for an MBA program, an important step will be the preparation of your resume or CV (lat. Curriculum Vitae, literally “the course of life”). This is a document, usually in A4 format, that summarizes information not found in other related documents.

CV is important because when you send a package of documents to the commission, this is the first document that the commission studies. Therefore, it is important to concisely, but fully reflect all your achievements.

The CV format changes over time: if earlier the volume was required no more than a page, now it can be two, or even three pages. And yet we believe that the less text, the better. However, if a lot of things happened to you in life, then it is better to list only the relevant experience, even if it will be much less than the irrelevant one. Of course, you can also entrust us with compiling a CV.

Document confirming previous education

Business schools necessarily require a translated and notarized diploma of the first higher education from a foreign applicant.

All documents must be carefully checked for errors. It will be very disappointing to receive a refusal to accept documents due to a ridiculous typo. To prevent this from happening, we recommend that you contact us for advice.

STEP 5: Pass a test confirming knowledge of a foreign language

The test is required to confirm your language level. Basically, we are talking about English-language tests, like TOEFL and IELTS. The first is accepted in the USA, and the second is accepted in the USA, and in almost all English-speaking countries that teach in English. Of course, in carrier countries own languages there are separate tests: FSP, DSH and TestDaF are passed for studying in Germany, DELE for Spain, DELF, DALF and TCF for France, only IELTS for studying at universities in England, and Nihongo noryoku shiken in Japan.

All of these tests are taken at specialized centers in a limited number of cities, and they all require pre-registration. Some tests are held 6-7 times a year, and some once a year, so it is important to guess the timing of obtaining a visa and starting training. The validity of most foreign language tests does not exceed 2 years. In general, preparation for TOEFL and IELTS is a separate story, so just leave us an application for free consultation- We'll tell it like it is.

STEP 6: Pass the GMAT / GRE

Almost everyone who wants to get an MBA degree needs to take the GMAT exam (some business schools also accept the GRE). Universities themselves advise preparing for one of these tests for at least 6 months, so we advise you to start preparing well in advance. Moreover, the validity of certificates of passing these tests is 5 years.

There are MBA programs that you can get into without taking the GMAT or GRE, but there are very few of them. However, there are such programs, so please contact us, we will be happy to help you find them.

STEP 7: Clarify existing questions with a representative of the university

STEP 8: Submit a request and wait for a response

You can submit an application only when you are completely sure that everything was done correctly. This is because in case of an error, you will find out about non-enrollment and all exams that have a certain statute of limitations can be handed over for nothing.

Try to prepare an application with a temporary margin of a couple of days, so that you have the opportunity to study and check everything again. In some universities, the competition for a place is really big, so the selection committees will study your documents with a special predilection, paying attention to literally every word. Book an individual consultation to know what to expect when sending documents and how not to fall into despair after a rejection.

Well, if you did everything correctly, then it remains only to wait for an answer. The terms for consideration of applications vary from one week to two months, so you may have to remind yourself through the form feedback university, remembering to include your student ID.

We hope that our article on how to apply to a university abroad will help you in this difficult matter.

Successful entry!

What admission documents are required to enroll in an MBA?

In various educational institutions, the requirements for those wishing to enroll in MBA programs are different. For admission to most MBA programs, GMAT and TOEFL test results are required, provide GPA diploma of higher education, indicate work experience, write an essay, provide letters of recommendation from the educational institution and from the last place of work, pass an interview.

The United States is traditionally considered one of the leading countries in the field of business education, therefore, using the example of this country, we will consider the features of the process of admission to MBA programs.

The system for evaluating submitted applications for participation in the MBA program is rather non-linear. For example, if a student's GMAT test scores are not high, and the GPA of a higher education diploma is in the region of 4.0 on Russian system, this does not mean that the selection committee will not consider your candidacy. The candidate evaluation system is such that the documents submitted by the candidate are considered as a whole, while individual low indicators are not a sufficient condition for rejecting a candidate. Each MBA candidate score is important, but it doesn't always adequately reflect the big picture. The applicant can compensate for low marks in the diploma with significant managerial experience or by providing a certificate of additional professional education.

How are GMAT scores and diploma scores assessed?

GMAT scores and GPA are used to determine an MBA candidate's ability to master the material taught, as well as their academic discipline. In practice, this means that the higher your candidate's score, the better his chances of admission. In this, according to the selection committees of MBA programs, a high selectivity is expressed in the enrollment of candidates for the program. If the GMAT score is 50 points or more below the stated threshold, the probability of being rejected is extremely high, even with excellent other indicators.

University grades and performance

Grades in the first and last years are usually given more attention than even the average score for the entire period of study. In addition to points, the reputation of the educational institution and the structure of the training program are evaluated. At the same time, grades in subjects not related to your future studies, such as ecology or Russian, have a lesser effect on your chances of enrolling. At the same time, special attention is paid to academic performance in the exact sciences (especially mathematics, statistics, econometrics), economics and finance, and legal subjects.

How important is work experience when applying for an MBA?

Of all the criteria, work experience is the most important when deciding whether to accept a candidate for an MBA program. Insufficient work experience or its absence nullifies the probability of admission of the candidate, even in the case when the other admission documents are at a very high level. The admission committee proceeds from the fact that the lack of real work experience will not allow the candidate to get the maximum benefit from the MBA program.

What work experience is required to apply for an MBA?

For many years, most programs required at least two years of professional experience to be accepted into an MBA. However, in Lately When competition for programs has increased significantly, some business schools require a minimum of three years, while top programs and five years of work experience.

How is work experience assessed?

First of all, the selection committee evaluates the status of the employing company and its reputation. Market leaders, according to admission committee usually have highly qualified staff.

The second criterion is the quality content of the work experience. For example, a combination of initial experience as a company specialist with subsequent experience as a manager or starting your own business in an area related to the MBA program, as well as having your own professional or scientific know-how, will be a plus. The selection committee also takes into account the time spent in the same position, in the same company. Frequent job changes do not speak in favor of the applicant, while a series of promotions will be regarded as a positive indicator.

How are the personal qualities of an applicant for an MBA program assessed?

Your personal qualities will also be evaluated precisely through your work experience. The main sources of information about your personality traits will be an essay, a motivation letter, recommendations and an interview. Ability to work in a team, confident skills interpersonal communication, initiative and positive recommendations will help the selection committee see you as a future top manager.

What services does Global Ambassador provide?

Global Ambassador specialists provide a full range of consulting services for admission to MBA programs around the world, namely:

Selection of options for MBA programs in accordance with the client's request;

Maintaining correspondence with representatives of the business school;

Advice and assistance in writing essays, motivation letters, CVs at the level of native speakers (More...)

REQUIREMENTS

MBA PROGRAMS

[extract from the National Accreditation Criteria and the requirement for the general content and conditions for the implementation of MBA level programs, NASDOBR, 2015]

7. TRAINING PROGRAM

7.1. The MBA level program is a master's level program (Masters) of postgraduate education. The educational institution must demonstrate compliance with the program at the Masters level.

The essence and organization of the program

7.2. The nature of the MBA level program takes into account the relevant work experience of the trainees. The program is intended for those who will soon be able to make a significant contribution to the management of the organization at a strategic level. It should provide both an intellectually challenging training program and an opportunity for personal development.

7.3. The structure and content of the program should take into account a range of relevant theories of sustainable leadership and business conduct. Educational institutions should make a direct contribution to the development of the program.

7.4. While all programs should reflect the general nature of the MBA, individual courses may be designed to meet the needs of a specific business function or industry. This implies that functional and other industry specialization is allowed within the framework of the MBA program ("MBA - marketing", "MBA - finance", "MBA - international business", "MBA - production management", etc.) subject to the fulfillment of the requirements for the training of professional managers of a general profile (managers - generalists).

Highly specialized professional retraining programs for managers (in the field of finance, marketing, personnel management, etc.) do not belong to the MBA category if their curricula do not provide a balanced study of all the main aspects of managing an organization in a complex in accordance with clauses 6.1 and 6.7 real requirements.

Taking into account the specifics of the target audience, the EMBA program does not imply the presence of functional specialization, but is essentially supra-functional.

Knowledge, understanding, skills

7.5. The MBA level program should provide relevant knowledge and understanding of the organization, the external environment in which it operates, and interaction with shareholders. Compliance with the requirements for standard program content should be achieved. The program should provide students with general knowledge in the field of management, including:

7.5.1. Concepts and processes in the field of production and marketing of goods and / or services, financing of an enterprise or other form of organization.

7.5.2. Concepts and methods accounting, quantitative methods, and management information systems, including IT applications.

7.5.3. Organization theory, organizational behavior, management by human resourses and interpersonal communication issues.

7.5.4. Processes and problems of general management at the operational and strategic levels.

7.5.5. Macro and microeconomics.

7.5.6. The influence of environmental factors on the organization, including legal systems, demographic, ethical, social and technological issues.

7.5.7. Change management skills.

7.5.8. Business policy and strategy.

7.5.9. Leadership and Entrepreneurship.

7.5.10. Business sustainability, ethics and risk management in business decision making.

7.5.11. Contemporary aspects such as creativity, entrepreneurship, innovation, e-commerce, knowledge management and globalization.

7.6. To ensure the international dimension of the program, the curriculum should generate an understanding of management styles and practices from different regions and cultures, as well as contain a variety of examples and/or case studies. Examples should range from common international business standards to local, local regulations.

7.7. The MBA level program should be holistic (integrated) and form the student's ability to combine the knowledge and skills acquired in individual courses. This can be done through a project where the trainees can demonstrate an understanding of the theory and how to apply it. Corporate programs encourage cooperation with the organization that sent employees for training. The organization may appoint a coordinator. If such cooperation is not possible, the institute must provide students with alternative opportunities to complete the project. Expected outcomes from training in the program and evaluation criteria should be clear. Conducting research and acquiring consulting skills should be built into the program. Any other integration methods are acceptable, but their effectiveness must be proven.

7.8. Evidence must be provided that the program maintains a balance between theory and practice, and between functional and integrative learning.

7.9. The program should also describe the ways in which management skills are transferred. These include change management, organizational communication, leadership, teamwork, working under uncertainty, business negotiations, problem solving, the ability to give a critical assessment, a scale of values.

7.10. The general educational goal of the program should be the development of a range of personal, interpersonal and professional skills at the level of management and leadership. It is important that the trainees are able to apply the concepts learned in the course of the program.
Teaching, learning and assessment

7.11. The applied nature of the MBA level programs requires a range of teaching and learning methods. These methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, master classes, independent reading of the material, individual and group projects, distance learning (webinars, Internet conferences, etc.), corporate training, training with a mentor. Collaboration with companies should be encouraged. It is expected that most of the training will have a practical basis.

7.12. Much of the learning in an MBA program is done between group members. Opportunities should be created for the interaction of trainees within the framework of training through personal or virtual communication.

7.13. A key goal of student assessment is to measure the achievement of the students' goals. The scoring system should have detailed criteria and determine the relative weight of the various scoring methods used. The assessment system should be comprehensive and consistent across different subject areas and be within the framework of a specific strategy.

7.14. The evaluation scheme should reflect the specific objectives and characteristics of the courses. Individual examinations should balance this scheme, performing the function of strict control. Innovations in valuation methods are acceptable, however, they will also be tested.

7.15. The assessment system performs the function of feedback for trainees, promotes subsequent individual and group learning.

7.16. It must be demonstrated that the necessary steps are being taken to assess the individual work of trainees, and that the assessment standards are appropriate.

7.17. The final certification of students of MBA programs is mandatory, carried out by the certification committee. The final certification includes the preparation and public defense of the final qualification (certification) work, which provides for a comprehensive cross-functional consideration of the problems of managing enterprises and organizations (the subject of the work cannot be highly specialized). An educational institution may provide additional forms of final certification.

The educational institution independently establishes the requirements for the content, volume and structure of the final qualifying (attestation) work.

8. MODE AND DURATION OF THE PROGRAM

Duration

8.1. The duration of an MBA level program must be equivalent to at least:

• one full academic year with a break from work;
• one and a half years (excluding vacations) with a partial separation from work and without interruption from work;
• 90 ECTS credits - 1 credit is equal to 20 hours of total labor intensity

More flexible modes are also acceptable: from one and a half to three years with a clear and controlled speed of movement educational process. The upper limit, in exceptional cases, is no more than 7 years.

8.2. The normative volume of the MBA level program for any form of education is at least 1800 hours of academic work, of which at least 600 hours of classroom work. It is allowed to replace classroom studies in an amount not exceeding 300 hours by conducting classes remotely in compliance with the requirements set forth in clause 8.6 of this document and regulated by a separate Regulation on the implementation of MBA programs using remote technologies.

Hours of extracurricular work are included in the curriculum of the MBA program if there is a formalized methodological support and justification of the time spent on its implementation.

Mode

8.3. Programs can take place in the format of full and part-time academic days, use distance learning methods or be mixed. Innovative approaches to program design and delivery that enhance educational opportunities and maintain program coherence and integrity are encouraged. It is assumed that the integration and integrity of the program will be preserved even with the most progressive methods and flexible formats for its presentation.

8.4. The program is expected to be supported through an online platform that students can access off campus and outside of class hours.

8.5. In programs developed on a modular basis, the structure should take into account an interdisciplinary approach to management, provide for the means by which the integration of individual subjects is achieved.

8.6. Some programs may conduct a significant part of the learning process remotely or in a "blended learning" format. In such cases, it is expected that all standards set out in this document will also be met. Programs operating in such modes must ensure that students receive an education equivalent to that of full-time students. The accreditation process will focus in particular on:

• the availability of the material base on which the program is implemented, an effective technical and administrative infrastructure. This should also be extended to various local teaching and support facilities where appropriate.
• a specially designed quality system to constantly ensure the level of work of employees, the relevance of systems and teaching materials
• the possibility of easy access (including during non-academic hours) for all students to the necessary educational materials, library resources and software with dedicated technical support
• the level of academic leadership that ensures the functioning of the program, is based on scientific research, is engaged in scientific activities and is responsible for the content of the course to these standards
• ensuring coordination and regular interaction between the various units involved in the implementation of the program
• system of interaction between the administration and students
• providing distance learning students with appropriate career development opportunities
• a transparent system of regular monitoring of the academic progress of students with an effective mechanism for eliminating any problems that arise in the learning process
• platforms for student team interaction, providing effective means for group work, as well as the opportunity for communication and mutual support
• a reliable grading system that protects against plagiarism, ensures the correct identity of the submitted works and implements feedback from the audience
• platforms for structured, effective and interactive learning based on synchronous and asynchronous interactions between group and faculty. The minimum amount of time allotted for personal face-to-face communication between the teacher and the group (contact hours) within distance learning, is at least 300 hours.

REQUIREMENTS
TO THE GENERAL CONTENT, FORMS AND CONDITIONS OF IMPLEMENTATION

[from the National Accreditation Criteria and the requirement for the general content and conditions for the implementation of programs"Master of Business Administration with Specialization (MBA-s)", NASDOBR, 2015]

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Study program "Master of Business Administration with Specialization"(hereinafter MBA-s) is a kind of MBA program implemented in accordance with the National accreditation criteria and requirements for the conditions for the implementation of MBA level programs, additionally taking into account the requirements for functional or industry specialization within the MBA program, which does not fundamentally change its main content and forms of implementation .

1.2. The "MBA program with specialization" is developed and implemented in connection with the growing need of employers to provide highly professional leadership not only for the organization or its autonomous unit as a whole, but also for individual large areas of activity or in specific industries. The MBA-s program is designed to prepare the graduate for leadership positions requiring in-depth professional and managerial knowledge in sectors of the national economy (for example, MBA banking, MBA production and operations management, MBA real estate management, etc.). As well as positions such as vice president of finance (MBA finance) or marketing (MBA marketing), personnel management (MBA human resource management), etc.

1.3. MBA-s programs should combine generalist training, which provides for the development of managerial competencies in the graduate, and specialized training, which provides for the formation of a specialist capable of solving practical problems in specialized industry areas of activity and business functions. In the "MBA with specialization" program, a balance should be ensured between the competencies of a generalist manager and a specialist manager.

1.4. Unlike other programs master level with a similar specialization, namely "Masters in Management as a 2nd level of HPE" and "Applied Specialized Master of Management", where priority is given to specialized training for solving practical problems, the MBA-s program should provide at the same time training for managers and therefore include full-fledged generalist component.
Specialization is seen as an addition to generalist training. Problems arising in specialized areas should be considered in a complex from the positions of the organization in the interests of the business as a whole, and the graduate should be prepared to occupy a responsible leadership position that provides for independent decision-making.

1.5. The MBA-s program accepts persons with a higher professional education (in any specialty or field of study), with a practical work experience of at least 2 years. In some programs, if necessary, priority for admission may be given to individuals working in the area of ​​the declared specialization or who have completed the basic higher education in this domain.

1.6. Education under the MBA-s program is carried out full-time, part-time or part-time. Full-time education must last at least one and a half years, part-time and part-time education in absentia- in a period equivalent in terms of the volume of academic work, but not less than 20 months. The total labor intensity of the program is at least 1800 academic hours, of which at least 650 hours of classroom studies. The disciplines and topics of the specialized part of the program should cover at least 30%, but not more than 50% of the total study time.

1.7. Students who have mastered the program and successfully passed the final certification are issued a diploma of an educational institution about professional retraining with the qualification "Master of Business Administration" (MBA) with an indication of specialization.

2. Requirements for the content of the MBA program with specialization.

2.1. The business school must define the mission (main goal) of the MBA-s program, taking into account its target orientation and purpose, specialization features, characteristics of the student population. A sound and logical strategy must be developed, realistically reflecting resources and constraints, and consistent with the mission of the business school.

2.2. The development and implementation of a program of any format should be based on a deep and complete understanding of the professional requirements for a manager, as well as for a specialist in a specific specialized field of practice, achieved through the interaction of scientists and practitioners, theoretical and specialized applied disciplines and providing full-fledged training of managerial personnel for this area.

2.3. Features of the content and implementation of MBA-s programs are determined depending on:
- the target group of students (for persons with at least two years of work experience) focused on career growth; for persons with significant experience in managerial positions (at least 5 years) - Executive MBA;
- functional ("MBA - finance"; "MBA - marketing"; "MBA - international business"; "MBA - innovation management", etc.), sectoral ("MBA in real estate management", "MBA and production management ”, “MBA and Operations Management”, “MBA in Information Business”, “MBA in Agribusiness”, etc.), as well as regional and other specifics. At the same time, the generalist nature of the program, based on a comprehensive study of all aspects of the management of the organization, should play a decisive role, and the disciplines of the managerial profile should be at least 50% of the content of the program.
- priorities in the consideration of a particular topic or the formation of specific competencies of students (project-oriented and (or) corporate MBA programs);
- specifics of building the educational process (combined - two-stage or consisting of interconnected modules; implemented using remote educational technologies etc.).

2.4. Based on the above features for the program as a whole, as well as individual courses and their complexes, educational results should be formulated and achieved, which manifest themselves in the form of acquired knowledge, skills, understanding with an accurate indication of tests confirming their real acquisition.

2.5. When wording educational outcomes it is recommended to develop and use elements of a competency-based approach as a guide, providing that, ultimately, a graduate must acquire and develop a variety of competencies, including the following:
- cognitive, involving the use of theories and concepts, as well as hidden knowledge acquired through experience;
- functional (skills and know-how), namely, what a graduate with a specialized master's qualification should be able to do, fulfilling his assigned role in the organization;
- personal, involving behavioral skills in specific situations;
- ethical, assuming the presence of certain personal and professional values ​​and worldviews.
The composition and specific interpretation of the competencies of a holder of the qualification "Master of Business Administration" with a specialization corresponding to the mission of the business school and a specific program can vary widely and are determined by the program developers independently.

2.6. On the MBA program with specialization are formulated:
. managerial educational outcomes;
. subject-specialized managerial results;
. personal and cultural educational results.

2.7. Management educational outcomes for the training of managers should ensure the acquisition of the theoretical knowledge, skills and practical skills necessary for the general management of organizations both in general management (goal setting, decision making, planning and control at the operational and strategic levels, etc.), and in management various aspects of business activity, which include:
— concepts and processes related to the production and marketing of goods and/or services;
- enterprise financing, general idea on accounting and financial management;
- organizational behavior, corporate culture, personnel management, organizational communications, innovations and changes;
- analysis of statistical data and understanding of the possibilities of quantitative methods for managing and supporting decision-making processes in organizations;
- information technologies in terms of their impact on the structures and processes in the organization and the activities of managers;
- new development trends and approaches to business and management - such as globalization and international business, e-commerce, innovation and knowledge management, corporate social responsibility, ensuring sustainable development and others.

2.8. The managerial educational results of the MBA-s programs should also be of a specialized nature, contribute to understanding the organizational features of the specialized field of activity under consideration; relevant business processes and organizational structures; the ability to form projects taking into account the specifics of this area and manage them; carry out management of personnel of different categories, first of all, in the entrusted area of ​​activity. An understanding of the relationship between the management of this specialized functional-branch area with the general problems of managing an organization and the inclusion of specialized analytical and managerial work in the overall process of substantiating and making managerial decisions should be achieved.

2.9. Subject-specialized educational results should contribute to the formation of the listener's competencies as a specialist in the declared field. This implies:
. Knowledge of the object of a specialized field of activity (industry, function, region, type of organization), including its characteristics from the scientific and applied side in functional, technical, economic, institutional terms; as well as the ability to diagnose problems, knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework, typical problems and identify possible approaches to their solution.
. Knowledge of information sources and ways of accessing them, including: statistics, sources and databases within specific functions, industries, regions, the ability to work with them; active and regular use of professional literature, periodicals (domestic and foreign); familiarity with the empirical base: "cases", well-known projects, etc., materials from well-known companies, analytical documents, etc.;
. Possession of special analytical tools and methods quantitative analysis, methodological guides to them at a level that provides communication with narrow lectures; knowledge of the content, capabilities and scope of adequate mathematical models; software products, approaches to their application.
. Understanding the production and technological features of the designated area of ​​specialization, which are important for solving economic, managerial, social and other issues, including the development of aspects of activity that require certain engineering (or humanitarian and other) special knowledge.

2.10. MBA-s programs should provide educational outcomes of an integrated nature, including skills such as:
. developing strategic thinking and building an organization development strategy based on different levels;
. the ability to integrate various aspects of business and management in building a business development policy and solving real problems;
. development of complex, cross-functional solutions;
. the ability to present cross-functional activities in the form of a project (temporary target structure) and lead its implementation;
. Ability to work with consultants, apply basic consulting techniques.
At the same time, the development of strategic thinking in solving any problems of business and management in a market economy should be the most important educational result of MBA programs of any format, but in EMBA and MBA programs for top managers, they should be main point business education.

2.11. The development of personal qualities of an MBA+ qualification holder is the most important component of the program. The development of personal qualities should be provided for by its educational results: including the development of teaching skills, analytical research and preparation of documents; application various methods And technical means that increase the effectiveness of communications; possession of methods of communication with subordinates; skill to work in team; maintaining a status adequate to their role in the organization, the ability to cross-functional interactions. Graduates should show a willingness and desire to reach a new level of successful career, become a leader by developing appropriate qualities, lead activities in important areas of work with the prospect of occupying responsible positions in the middle and the highest levels leadership in the organization.

2.12. The MBA-s program should combine consideration of the problems of Russian business and management and foreign management experience. The specific relationship between domestic and foreign issues should be justified by the specifics of the mission of the program and the contingent of students.

2.13. The business school independently determines the need for training students in foreign language, volume of classes, form and program of study in an educational institution or outside it. It has the right to formulate other educational outcomes for the program, based on its mission and the set of specific competencies that should be formed in the holders of the declared qualification.

3. Requirements for the organization and teaching methods.

3.1. For each form of study under the MBA program with a specialization in a business school:
. separate curricula and educational-thematic plans are drawn up, while specialization, as a rule, is indicated in the general curriculum of the MBA program;
. the composition, sequence and duration of the studied disciplines and performed practical work;
. reveals the topics of classes and the order of their conduct in all disciplines and their sections;
. the forms and processes for monitoring the expected educational results, both intermediate and final, are explained in advance.

3.2. In the curriculum, it is advisable to single out cycles of disciplines for various purposes, ensuring the achievement of educational results, indicated primarily in paragraphs 2.7.-2.11. These include:
. basic courses general management training;
. basic specialization courses;
. specialized courses (instrumental, object-client-oriented, etc.);
. elective courses (specialized and general);
. projects.
Based on the goals of the program and the contingent of students, the proportions between the time for studying the disciplines of different cycles may vary at the discretion of the business school. At the same time, courses providing specialization to one degree or another should occupy at least 30%, but not more than 50% of the time of the entire academic load, and elective disciplines are provided depending on the content of the program and possible career preferences, but, as a rule, about 20% of the time.

3.3. The effective formation and development of competencies in the MBA-s program provides for widespread use in educational process interactive forms of conducting classes (lectures and seminars in an interactive mode, discussions, computer simulations, business and role-playing games, analysis of specific situations, psychological and other trainings) in combination with extracurricular work. The training courses should include meetings with representatives of Russian and foreign companies, state and public organizations, master classes of experts and specialists.
The proportion of classes conducted in interactive forms is determined by the mission of the program, the characteristics of the contingent of students and the content of specific disciplines, but cannot be less than 30%.

3.4. The educational process should provide for a significant amount of individual and group tasks aimed at developing the skills and abilities of a manager by solving practical problems based on the implementation of analytical work on the example of an existing organization, the implementation of applied projects, primarily in the field of specialization, writing a final qualification ( attestation) work, using the system of tutoring (scientific and practical guidance) and obtaining advice from practitioners, teachers with practical experience. Both research (problem-oriented) and consulting (organisation-specific) projects should be practiced and methods of conducting research as well as consulting should be explored.

3.5. When implementing the MBA-s program in any form of education, a high proportion should be occupied by training using telecommunication information means, including the provision of materials on electronic media, the use of the Internet to attract sources of information, the preparation and evaluation of assignments, communications between teachers and students, checking and evaluating knowledge, etc.

3.6. The curriculum of the MBA-s program should provide for a significant amount of extracurricular work of students, providing a total labor intensity of the program of at least 1800 hours (including classroom studies, at least 650 hours).

The extracurricular work of students is divided into:

• individual independent work- study of educational literature; search and study of additional sources, auxiliary materials, including on the Internet; fulfillment of tasks for participation in classes conducted in an interactive form; writing essays, completing term papers and design work; writing a final attestation work, etc.;
• group work on tasks, the implementation of which provides for: team (group) interaction of students outside the classroom (preparation of group projects, execution of settlement tasks by a team, interaction in computer networks, conducting experiments, participating in forums, etc.);
• consultations and presentations (presentation and discussion of intermediate and final results of projects and other developments; statement and discussion of problems; feedback, including the system of "question-answer" in telecommunication networks, etc.).

The volume of extracurricular work should be calculated based on the approved training course programs that provide different kinds individual and group work of students. Hours of extracurricular work are included in the curriculum of the program if there is a formalized methodological support and justification of the time spent on its implementation.

4. Teaching staff.

4.1. The educational institution implementing the programs must ensure the appropriate quality of teaching.
The teaching staff should be involved in management research, scientific activity and consulting in the functional sector specified in the specialization. Most of the teaching staff should take Active participation in all three activities.

4.2. At least 20% of teachers of the MBA-s program must be full-time teachers of an educational institution, 30% have degree and/or title.
It is acceptable and encouraged to teach a number of subjects at English language.
The teaching of special disciplines should mainly involve managers and specialists with practical experience in business or current experience. scientific research and developments in this subject area. At least 20% of teachers and trainers must be current managers and employees of employers' organizations.

4.3. The teaching staff must:
. Own innovative techniques, technologies and software products, have the ability to form and develop special and instrumental competencies to solve practice-oriented management problems.
. Be able to ensure interconnection and continuity of courses curriculum.
. Have significant experience as a business and scientific expert, industry consultant, as well as a deep understanding of best business practices in this area of ​​​​specialization and in related areas.

4.4. An educational institution must demonstrate effective mechanisms for incorporating research results, consulting activities and contacts with the business environment of the industry, including with leading managers and persons who have successfully mastered the MBA, EMBA, DBA, MBA-s program in the program. The educational institution is encouraged to involve graduates of the above programs in teaching and consulting activities.

5. Conditions for the implementation of the MBA-s program

5.1. A business school implementing an MBA-s program must create appropriate organizational, financial, personnel and other conditions that allow it to really influence the implementation of the program, clearly define the powers and responsibilities of those responsible for its implementation. There should be a high degree of autonomy for MBA-s program developers and organizers in decision-making, with an appropriate level of control.

5.2. A separate admission is announced for the MBA-s program and competitive selection. Admission to the MBA program with a specialization is carried out in general order as part of admission to the MBA program as a whole, however, the availability of a specialization must be announced in advance and the desire to choose it is determined at the entrance interview. The decision on the choice of a particular specialization is made by the student, as a rule, during the learning process, but no later than the beginning of the second semester. Such a choice should make it possible to determine the topics of intermediate projects and abstracts, determine in advance the bases for internships, and appoint scientific supervisors. A business school should have an established target audience for MBA-s programs, have a pronounced client-oriented focus, and a reputation in the educational market and in the business community. Entrance tests are mandatory.

5.3. The educational institution independently determines and approves the content, procedure and form of entrance examinations. In some areas of knowledge that are important for the full development of a given specialization, entrance written examinations, as well as interviews, may be provided.

5.4. To guarantee the formation of groups of students motivated to learn and able to achieve certain educational results and to ensure their effective interactive interaction, the number of formed groups should be at least 15 people. A high proportion should be occupied by classes in small groups.

5.5. Education under the MBA-s program is carried out on the basis of separate payment agreements educational services concluded by authorized managers with individuals or legal entities.
The cost and terms of payment for educational services under the MBA-s program must be established before the start of training and approved by the head of the educational institution.
In specific cases (regional specifics, re-crediting of previously completed disciplines, etc.), the cost of educational services for a specific MBA-s program and for specific individuals can be reduced or, conversely, increased within the limits of the regulations in force at the business school.

5.6. In the MBA-s program, training in individual plans, mainly in terms of special disciplines and elective disciplines, as well as for senior managers.
The School of Business has the right to reread the MBA-s program to students academic disciplines that were mastered by them earlier (as when receiving a higher vocational education and when undergoing professional retraining in the field of specialization), but not more than 180 academic hours. For some categories of students, the study of certain disciplines can be expanded (for example, economics for engineers, technical for economists, etc.).
The School of Business is responsible for ensuring adequate control of the compliance of re-credited disciplines with the level and requirements of the MBA-s program. When a student receives the appropriate education earlier than 5 years before the start of study under the program, as well as when re-credited according to a diploma of vocational retraining, additional certification of re-readable disciplines is mandatory.

5.7. For the MBA-s program as a whole and for each discipline, a set of mandatory and additional teaching materials and ensure their availability for all students. Special literature, normative and other documents, reports, projects should form a separate specialized library (section common library), including materials in electronic form. For the current conduct of the educational process, an on-line portal should be formed. Literature and materials should be up-to-date and updated and expanded in a timely manner.

5.8. There should be feedback mechanisms that provide information from students about the organization of the educational process and the content of the program, including the work of individual teachers. The program should clearly define roles in scientific direction and administrative responsibility. Students of the MBA-s program should be able to evaluate the content and level of organization of the educational process, as well as the work of teachers. Based on the results of training for each issue, the students of the MBA-s program as a whole should be evaluated. Analysis should be carried out in a timely manner and adjustments should be made to the educational process.

5.9. The business school should create a permanent system of scientific and methodological evaluation of training courses and their cycles by the faculty and external experts, control the level of teaching, systematic work should be carried out to form and improve the qualifications of the teaching staff.

5.10. Students of the MBA-s program are given the opportunity to practice and internships at specialized domestic and foreign enterprises and organizations, which can be included in the educational program and included in the cost of training or offered on a voluntary paid basis.

5.11. When implementing the MBA-s program, provision should be made for ensuring effective interaction with leading managers, big businessmen, public figures, including those who have successfully completed the MBA-s program, in order to take into account the requirements of business practice and provide feedback.

5.12. The Business School assesses the quality of mastering the MBA-s program by monitoring students' knowledge in each discipline of the curriculum and conducting final certification, as well as by assessing the competencies acquired by graduates.
Specific forms and procedures for intermediate and final control of knowledge in each discipline are developed by the business school independently and brought to the attention of students before the start of training.

5.13. The final certification of the student of the MBA-s program is carried out after the completion of the MBA-s program as a whole and is intended to determine the level of theoretical and practical training of holders of the qualification "Master of Business Administration by specialization" - Master of Business Administration to perform professional tasks in this area of ​​​​specialization.
The final certification is mandatory and includes the preparation and public defense of the final qualification (certification) work of an applied nature with a clearly defined specialization. Such work can be presented in the form of an individual or group project, protected in the prescribed manner. In the case of a graduation assessment in the form of a group project, the individual contribution of each participant must be evaluated. The final attestation is carried out by the attestation commission under the chairmanship and with the obligatory representation of external experts, including current managers of specialized enterprises.
The business school independently establishes the program and requirements for the content, volume and structure of the final qualification (attestation) work (project), as well as the form of the qualification exam (if it considers it appropriate).

5.14. The material and technical support of the MBA-s program must, at a minimum, comply with the licensing requirements for educational programs of higher professional education and create conditions for the use of modern educational technologies in the educational process and for the provision of the necessary social services for the period of study.

6. Communication with the business community.

6.1. MBA-s programs are implemented to meet the needs of interested groups, among which the central place is occupied by: the students themselves, with plans for career advancement and / or success in entrepreneurship; as well as employers who intend, with the help of MBA-s graduates, to ensure the success and increase the efficiency of their business organizations.
The MBA-s program should be built on the principle of consumer orientation.

6.2. Direct involvement of representatives of practice at the stages of development of programs and training courses, specific situations, reading training courses, conducting master classes, reviewing projects, membership in examination committees, etc. should be ensured for the educational process at MBA-s programs.

6.3. Communication with practice is essential for MBA-s programs and should include:
. established stable links with the bases of practice;
. a high proportion of teachers, consultants and experts from the practical field of specialization, actively participating in the educational process;
. regular internships at specialized domestic and foreign enterprises;
. membership in professional associations and active participation in their activities;
. regular master classes and meetings with business leaders.

6.4. Business schools should have a clearly articulated policy and strategy for their relationship with the business community and take into account the requirements of practice in the context of specific goals, objects and activities, as well as stable links with educational institutions providing training in similar specializations.

6.5. The business school should establish collegiate bodies composed of practitioners to ensure that the interests of practice are taken into account in the educational process. This can be a board of trustees, a board of external consultants, an alumni board, committees for specific areas of activity, etc., meeting with sufficient regularity, including through seminars and other collective scientific and practical events.

6.6. It is recommended to establish a documented partnership of a business school with organizations representing the business community, professional associations, domestic and foreign corporations (in some cases, co-founders), participants in joint scientific research, applied projects, etc. A business school should seek to raise corporate funds to finance its activities.

6.7. The School of Business implements measures to promote professional and career growth for holders of the qualification "Master of Business Administration with a specialization ..." (MBA-s) , conducts acquaintance with databases of vacancies, meetings with employers, organizes presentations and job fairs.
If necessary, educational institution issues to the holder of the MBA-s qualification a characteristic-recommendation addressed to the employer (including in English), represents him in the relevant business circles and databases.

6.8. The business school should regularly work with its graduates and, in particular, monitor the careers of graduates, their successes and problems, including on the basis of the opinions of employers, with subsequent consideration when improving their work.

6.9. In the educational process, a high proportion should be occupied by visiting classes in domestic and foreign companies with subsequent consideration and evaluation of their results.
In an open economy, sufficient attention should be paid to the problems of globalization, as well as internationalization in specific aspects of doing business, including the organization of foreign internships.

6.10. The business school should involve the business community (organizations, experts, etc.) for a specific assessment of the quality of the specialists it graduates with the publication of the results of this assessment and taking into account its results in its work, as well as work to create its positive image in the business environment and formation of an environment that is positive in relation to the training of personnel on the basis of additional education for programs of this type.

Often, the baggage of knowledge gained at a university or any other educational institution is not enough to run a business, manage an enterprise, or work in a serious international corporation. The "lucky ticket" to the world of success and the best way for rapid career development is an MBA study at prestigious business schools.

However, many unknowingly prefer fast learning in schools with "mini-MBA" programs. Some people are attracted to loud statements under the mottos "Getting an MBA in 6 months!", Or "Express MBA!", as getting a prestigious education, and even in a short time, is a tempting dream for everyone. Let's figure out what a business school with an MBA is, what mandatory steps you need to go through in the admission process and how not to get "hooked" by educational institutions without accreditation.

The Great Art of Business: What is an MBA

Master of Business Administration or in abbreviated form MBA– special for executives, middle and senior managers, entrepreneurs. The field of study is management, business, marketing, finance and other areas necessary for a person to work in state, municipal structures, in private companies. The best and most prestigious business schools in the world that award the MBA qualification are Harvard, Stanford, Wharton.

Applicants in the process of learning acquire valuable knowledge, applied skills, develop leadership qualities and make connections that will be useful to them in the world of entrepreneurship. Business schools accumulate a "golden contingent" - experienced, smart and ambitious people study here. With their energy and knowledge, they charge each other, enrich inner world and launch a new round in human self-development. After successful completion of the school, the specialist is issued a diploma and an MBA qualification degree.

The Idea Above All: How to Apply for an MBA

The process of entering a prestigious business school is technological and is divided into stages that each applicant must go through. The requirements for admission to an MBA school are standard. To become a student, you need to have a set of documents and pass a lot of additional tests:

• Provide a high school diploma.
• Have leadership experience different schools length of service may be different meanings. Standard - from 2 to 5 years. (For admission to Whartom, for example, you need to have an average work experience of 4 years).
• Successfully pass the GMAT (Standardized MBA Admissions Test) and have high scores(from 600 to 800 points).
• Submit high-quality introductory written work (essay).
• Pass the TOEFL (English language proficiency test).
• Submit several letters of recommendation (at least 2-3 pieces).

It is not easy to get an MBA: the conditions for admission are really tough. In addition, there is another point that cannot be ignored. A person entering a business school must have a sufficiently high managerial potential, developed qualities of a leader and the makings of a manager.

What can help in developing the necessary qualities and managerial potential? . This course by Vladimir Tarasov will give you an extensive toolkit with which you can develop leadership competencies and build a socio-technological picture of the world. You will gain self-confidence, learn how to make the right management decisions, and the knowledge you gain will be useful for you to enter an MBA at the best business school.

In one of his interviews, he divided the training of leaders into several types:

• Basic (necessary skills and basics of managing other people)
• Professional (training taking into account the nuances and specifics of the industry).
• Position (knowledge for work in a specific position).

– a unique portal that gives exactly basic training managers, laying the foundations that will help you in life and in business.

“Our course is a basic quality training, everyone needs it. This is the foundation on which you can "build" the walls of the structure further. And when there is no foundation, there is only professional or official training, collisions with surprises cannot be avoided ... "

Vladimir Tarasov

Leadership competencies are important for managers in modern business. Today, management tools are not well formed, there are few innovative implementations, there is no worthy knowledge in the field of management, and there is also a tangible gap in the effective formation of partnerships. Successful and outstanding leaders leave over time, and there are few in the business space who could become a worthy replacement for them. Therefore, studying at the Vladimir Tarasov Online School, and then successfully entering the MBA is a chance for everyone to build their career and change their lives in a better, more interesting way.

Formula for success: informed choice

Some educational organizations offer tempting "mini MBA" programs. Basically, this is a dynamic, compact learning format that is convenient for busy people. The creators assure that "Express MBA" is a quality education, and the conciseness of the course is explained by the provision of basic subjects and the complete elimination of non-core, in other words, "superfluous" directions.

Let's list what you need to know about the difference between an MBA and a mini-MBA:

Although business schools with an MBA appeared in the Russian space not so long ago (at the end of the 90s), today students are presented with a huge number of proposals. There are business schools that have received prestigious accreditations, such as those from the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) or the Association of MBAs (AMBA). They offer a variety of training formats and cover a wide range of business areas.

To choose the best training, do not trust tempting slogans and loud signs. Analyze the information provided on the school website, compare offers, attend thematic events, analyze ratings, study when the school was last visited by the re-accreditation commission.

What is a good business school with an MBA program? A short list of requirements consists of the following items:

• the existence of a national and international accreditation;
• offer a quality teaching methodology;
• presence of the program in the international (national) rating;
• high quality educational materials;
• long term of study (at least 2 years);
• the availability of assessing the competence of students based on the results of training, and much more.

Of course, the idea of ​​getting a prestigious MBA business education is sometimes so exciting that it turns off rational thinking. Remember: to be a highly qualified specialist, you need to take care of quality training. After completing the “Mini MBA Program”, you will need to continue your studies in an MBA or EMBA course to become a Master (Master) of Business Administration.

Trust proven business schools, get the best knowledge, choose high-quality training programs - after all, your success, career advancement and confidence in the future depend on this!

Entering a foreign MBA is difficult and long, but real. How to facilitate this process and achieve results - in our material. We talk about the features of admission, about required documents and exams, how the interview goes and when it is more profitable to apply to a business school.

Features of admission

The requirements for MBA candidates depend on two factors:

• school ranking;
• education system in a particular country.

With the first moment, everything is more or less clear: the higher the rating, the more serious the requirements. As for the second point, there are two education systems: English and European.

European approach(geography - all of Europe, except for the UK and Malta) provides that an applicant for an MBA has a bachelor's degree in the same specialty. As an exception: the student studied a subject close to the chosen one. Highly ranked universities offer programs in both English and the native language of the country. Studying in English is more expensive, the competition is higher here. Enrolling in a German-language or French-language program is easier, as is getting a scholarship. In this case, you need to confirm language proficiency (for Germany, for example, this is level B2 / 2).

Asian business education market young and flexible, he takes into account both European and English approaches. The requirements for candidates here are lower compared to Europe or the USA. The exception is top business schools, such as Insead, whose campuses are located in France, Singapore and Abu Dhabi.

What you need for admission - a package of documents

1. Bachelor's degree. It is necessary to pass the procedure for recognition of a valid diploma. Almost all universities indicate on their websites a list of disciplines required for admission in accordance with the European / English classification system. A transcript (Permanent Record or Transcript of Records) is attached to the diploma - an extract indicating the subjects passed, the number of hours listened and grades for each diploma. Based on the grades, GPA is calculated, that is, the average score. Some schools require GPA in all subjects, some only consider grades in profile disciplines, some do not take GPA into account at all. Other things being equal, the GPA score often plays a decisive role in enrolling in a program.
2. Language test. For admission to an English-language program, students from non-English-speaking countries must prove language proficiency. Most business schools accept TOEFL iBT scores. The cost of the exam is $ 260, this amount includes sending the test results in printed form to 4 schools chosen by the applicant. Each school specifies a threshold level of required results. For the English Said Business School, for example, this figure is 111 points out of 120 possible. Some universities accept IELTS test results as an alternative to TOEFL, some schools, such as IMD, do not require TOEFL or IELTS results. Those who enroll in non-English-language programs must prove their knowledge of the language in which they will be taught. Applicants to Chinese business schools, for example, take the HSK exam.
3. GMAT test. To test knowledge in the field of management and business, a standardized GMAT test is provided. The maximum possible number of points scored is 800; to enter a business school from the TOP 50, it is enough to get 650 points. The exam costs $250 and the results are valid for 5 years.
4. Academic resume (CV). The generally accepted size of a CV is between 2000 and 5000 characters without spaces. In the resume, the candidate briefly talks about all his key achievements in the chosen field. It's good when each achievement is described by a measurable result (XX person taught, XXXX $ saved, and so on).
5. Letters of recommendation. Their number varies from one to four. The authors are current and past employers, thesis supervisors, lecturers, customers, if the candidate worked in the B2B field.
6. Motivation letter. Brief story about the goals and achievements of the applicant, about why he should be enrolled in the MBA program.
7. Essay on business topics. The topics change every year, but usually they revolve around the following questions: why do you need an MBA, where do you see yourself in 5 years, which school of management has the strongest potential in your opinion, etc. Some schools offer to independently choose a topic for an essay.
8. Official letters confirming work experience(minimum 2 years).

Academic requirements from the TOP 10 business schools

We selected the top 10 business schools according to the Global MBA Ranking 2019 and analyzed their academic requirements for candidates for MBA programs. The results are presented in the form of a table.

Average academic requirements for admission to the TOP 10 business schools

The top ten schools put forward similar requirements: a GMAT of at least 600 points, a GPA of at least 3 points and TOEFL / IELTS tests to choose from. It should be understood that these are approximate requirements, since the decision to enroll in the MBA program is formed on the basis of a complete package of documents and an interview. Some schools, such as MIT Sloan, no longer require TOEFL/IELTS scores to be included with applications. The level of English is checked during an interview with a representative of MIT Sloan.

Apply to business school

The optimal approach is to apply to 3-4 universities at once, the cost of one application varies between $ 200-350.

Applications are accepted a year before the start of training (mostly online), admission ends a few months before the start of the MBA program and takes place in three stages. Most business schools organize admission tours in October, January and March-April for MBA groups starting next September.

It is most profitable to submit a package of documents in the first round:

1. At this time, the admissions committee receives the least number of applications, while there are many free places.
2. There is a chance to get into a group of students of different nationalities and backgrounds.
3. The candidate has a lot of time to prepare for the interview, to resolve financial and visa issues. The main point is that the application must have good relevance: high GMAT, TOEFL, GPA scores, thoughtful essays and letters of recommendation.

In the second round, the selection committees receive the most applications, respectively, the competition increases. It is believed that in the second round students with good scores are submitted, but not as strong as in the first round.

It is more difficult to enter the MBA in the third round due to the limited number of vacancies. Admissions committees consider candidates' applications more strictly, pay close attention to minor errors and inaccuracies.

Passing the interview

The interview takes place with those whose application has been pre-approved by the admissions committee. Members of the selection committee, teachers or MBA graduates talk with the candidate. Interviews are personal or via Skype, on the university campus or in the country of the candidate - this must be clarified in advance.

The questions are mainly about personal experience the applicant, his career goals, expectations from the MBA and the business school. Clarifying questions may be asked regarding the submitted documents or, conversely, blind interviews are conducted when, apart from information from the CV, the interviewer does not know anything about the candidate.

For example, the IMD school conducts group sessions with candidates on the day of the interview. This is a joint solution of a business case and its discussion together with school representatives. Here the ability to work in a team, to argue a point of view and to hear teammates is assessed.

Successful interviewing almost certainly means admission to the MBA program. The best candidates receive offers of admission - mostly in electronic form. Consideration of the application together with the interview lasts 2-3 months.

Pre-MBA: preparation for MBA

Given the high requirements for admission to the MBA, many decide to take additional courses preparation for MBA. These can be either specialized courses from GMAT or TOEFL, or Pre-MBA programs at universities and business schools. There are such programs at Harvard Business School and Yale School of Management. Representatives of business schools argue that the Pre-MBA will not only increase the chances of admission, but also make it easier to study in the MBA program itself.