Thinking about an M.B.A.? Here’s Your Step-By-Step Guide to Success
Investing in yourself with an M.B.A. is a decision you won’t regret. To have the best possible experience as a graduate business student, here are a few key tips for each stage from application to career advancement.
How to Prepare for an M.B.A. Program
The application process for an M.B.A. program may vary from school to school. Before beginning your application, it’s important to
- Review the requirements for your program and determine your eligibility—Generally, applicants must possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution or the international equivalent prior to enrollment. Some specialized M.B.A.s have additional requirements.
- Consider taking the GMAT—While applicants to The Peter J. Tobin College of Business graduate programs will automatically be considered for GMAT/GRE waivers, you can strengthen your application by submitting a GMAT score if your undergraduate grade point average was below a 3.25.
- Review the tuition and fees and learn about the options for financing your M.B.A.
- Consider the timing and your ability to commit to a full- or part-time courseload.
- Build your support network—While you pursue your M.B.A., it will be important to have trusted colleagues, friends, or family who can support you as you balance personal, career, and academic goals.
If you are an international student, review the international student requirements, which include submission of an official test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), Duolingo or PTE.
What are the Steps in the M.B.A. Application Process?
The M.B.A. application process for St. John’s University requires candidates to submit
- Graduate admission application and nonrefundable $70 application fee;
- A statement of professional goals and résumé, which can be uploaded as part of the application for admission;
- Official transcripts from all undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools attended or a course-by-course academic transcript evaluation with GPA calculation from a National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)-approved provider for students with international credits only;
- One letter of recommendation, obtained from professional or academic references;
- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores are required for applicants whose native language is not English.
What are the M.B.A. Application Deadlines?
The Peter J. Tobin College of Business uses a rolling admission policy for the M.B.A. program. Applications are acted upon once they are complete.
How Does Work Experience Help M.B.A. Applicants?
While work experience is not a requirement for entering most M.B.A. programs, it can be beneficial for students in the classroom, allowing them to relate to the coursework in a meaningful way.
An M.B.A. is a graduate degree designed to focus on practical application. Faculty will often use real-world case studies or invite students to share their experiences from the workplace to enhance class discussions.
On average, full-time students in St. John’s M.B.A. program have two years of full-time work experience, while part-time students average four years of full-time work experience.
Managing an M.B.A. Courseload
When enrolling in an M.B.A. program, be sure to select the program that best fits your life and learning style. Whether you enroll as a full-time or a part-time student, time management will be an important skill to exercise.
The 36-credit M.B.A. structure includes
- Eight Core Courses (24 credits)
- One Required Capstone Course (3 credits)
- Three Concentration Field Courses (9 credits)
When planning your courseload:
- Review course descriptions to get an understanding of expectations and workload before signing up for courses each semester.
- Talk with your adviser about the best way to map out your courses. Consider the timing of your courses and how that will work with your personal or career obligations.
- Be realistic about what else you can take on while enrolled in graduate school and how much time you will need to set aside each week for study.
How Do I Create Successful Habits as an M.B.A. Student?
All students learn and work differently. To be successful in your graduate business program, it’s important that you find out what works best for you.
To set yourself up for success in your M.B.A., consider
Where you work best—set up a study location!
Having a designated place or space in your home may help you get into study mode. (This may be especially important for online students!)
When/what time you work best?
Map out a schedule or create blocks in your calendar to help you commit the time each week.
Who you want to study with?
Do you work best alone? Do you prefer a study group or accountability partner?
Need help? As you move through your M.B.A. curriculum, take advantage of University resources for graduate students like the Center for Student Success and the Writing Center for additional support.
How Can I Leverage My M.B.A. to Advance My Career?
In addition to honing skills relevant for the workplace, your M.B.A. may also create opportunities to enhance your resume with meaningful experiences.
Work on Real-World Problem Solving
Hands-on learning programs, like the Executive-n-esidence Program, enrich the M.B.A. coursework. The Executive-In-Residence Program (EIRP) in The Peter J. Tobin College of Business provides graduate students opportunities to engage in real-world business consulting with actual business and nonprofit organizations. Students receive academic credits for their role in EIRP projects, which range from developing strategic plans to launching new products or business locations to hiring and retention solutions. EIRP partners include companies like Ernst & Young LLP, Sony Corporation, Goodwill Industries, JPMorgan Chase & Co., New York Stock Exchange, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, and more.
Expand Your Worldview
Broaden your understanding of global business practices and diverse perspectives through study abroad opportunities like the Tobin Global Destination Courses (GDC)—week-long courses that expose M.B.A. students to international business operations and cultures. GDC courses are typically offered in the spring semesters, so plan ahead!
Get Wisdom from Leading Experts
Business school speakers series, lectures, and events like the CEO Seminar Seriesoffer unique access for M.B.A. students to hear firsthand wisdom from successful business professionals and ask questions. Take advantage of these (often free) events to tap into the knowledge of current business leaders.
Tap into the University Network
Whether your intention is to stay with your current employer or look for a new role elsewhere, it’s never a bad idea to expand your professional network. The Tobin College of Business alumni network is vast and includes leaders in almost every industry. Likewise, the Tobin list of partners and employers that students will interact with and have access to contains leading national and global companies.
