March 14, 2016Student's Checklist for Choosing the Best MBA College

Choosing an MBA program is not easy and requires time and effort to make the right choice. There are a number of factors to consider such as your professional goals, financial resources, and work-life balance needs. If you have sought the advice of friends, family and coworkers, then you already know that everyone has an opinion of what’s best for you.

That’s why we’ve created this checklist – to help you make the decision the way an MBA graduate would address a real-world business dilemma.

Some students have found it useful to rank MBA programs using the questions below on a 3 point scale: 1 – Below average, 2 – Acceptable and 3 – Exceptional. Scoring a 1 in a single category should not automatically disqualify a program. The total scores will make it obvious as to which schools should be pursued and which should be dropped from consideration.

The final call on the MBA program will most likely be made based on your intuition and gut instincts. Before you get there, answering the questions below should help narrow the field and shed light on the best candidates for you.

The questions are not presented in any particular order of importance. Feel free to rearrange them according to your specific situation and priorities.

1. What type of program is best for me?

The true value of the MBA lies in its ability to prepare the next generation of business leaders. Every business leader needs a solid understanding of the foundational business skills: Accounting, Marketing, Finance, Economics, Data Analytics, Operations Management, and Strategic Planning.

Are you looking for a program that offers a broad business curriculum or one that allows for specializations? Many schools offer specializations or concentrations in entrepreneurship, finance, management, marketing and supply chain management. The decision to specialize or pursue the more general route is ultimately yours to make and may impact how future employers evaluate your credentials. Before deciding, consider the following:

• If your desired profession or industry has a strong outlook and offers plenty of avenues for long-term growth, then a specialized MBA may be the right choice.
• If you are seeking a career with greater flexibility, select a program with a broad-based curriculum.
• If you are looking to combine the best of both options, choose a general MBA program with elective tracks, such as one that offers the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

With an increasing number of options to choose from, finding the right MBA program that meets your goals and learning style is entirely possible.

2. How would you rank the quality of the faculty?

Choose a program where the faculty have practical business experience as well as academic expertise. What percentage of the faculty has terminal degrees in their respective fields? Ask how many courses, if any, are taught by Teaching Assistants or Adjunct Professors. Adjuncts can bring a wealth of relevant experience to the classroom or can be a sign of faculty turnover.

Are professors available for assistance outside the classroom? Does the program have a faculty mentor program? Ideally, you’re looking for a balance of solid teachers with good business experience who have the time and interest to help you succeed.

3. Is the size of the program a good fit?

In general, a smaller program may allow for more individualized time and attention while the larger ones leave you with a wider alumni network. Class sizes can vary greatly so before your decide, know what kind of classroom experience is best suited to your learning style.

During your search you may come across programs that utilize a cohort model. A cohort is comprised of a group of students who take all the same courses in the same sequence. The size of cohort MBA programs is typically on the smaller scale, and can range anywhere from 15 to 35 students. The benefits of this type program include:

• A shared learning experience with enriching discussions of real-world business issues among a diverse group of professionals.
• Development of collaboration, leadership and teamwork skills, necessary for success in today’s workplace.
• Experiential learning that enables students to think independently and develop their own conclusions and ideas.
• A professional and personal network that may continue long after the degree has been awarded.
• A clearly-defined timeline and format allowing working professionals to complete their an MBA on time.

Ultimately, you’ll need to decide if you’re more likely to succeed in a small intimate setting or one with dozens of students in a class. Depending on your professional needs and personal goals, this may be one of the most important factors in selecting the right program.

4. What kind of accreditation does the school have?

Accreditation is the hallmark of excellence for colleges and universities. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is recognized as the premier business school accreditation institution in the world. Less than 6% of the world’s 13,000 business programs are able to meet the strict guidelines for AACSB International accreditation. On average, it takes 5-7 years to satisfy AACSB’s accreditation standards. Once earned, AACSB conducts a review of the program every five years. Choosing an AACSB school will insure you of a quality education.

5. Does the school provide a global perspective?

Let’s face it; the global marketplace is a lot smaller today than it was just 5-10 years ago. Today, even newly minted startups begin life with an international footprint, either sourcing materials and/or selling products overseas thanks to the internet. It is increasingly likely that at some point in your business career you will spend some time overseas. Having knowledge of the cultural differences and the know-how to manage across geographies is invaluable to today’s business professional.

Programs that attract international students are able to add a degree of diversity of thought that would otherwise be absent from the classroom. Many programs include an international immersion trip as part of their curriculum because nothing beats a first-hand learning experience.

6. What are the total costs, including opportunity costs?

One of the most frequently asked questions by MBA applicants is, What’s the return on my investment (ROI)? The answer can’t be found by simply analyzing first-year salaries after graduation. The best measure of value is judging over time how much your career has been impacted by your MBA.

Programs with active involvement from corporate partners, particularly those located near a metropolitan center, provide both off-campus learning opportunities as well as an avenue for future employment.

Many MBA graduates believe the cost of their MBA is worth it in the long run. Choose a school that is going to help you develop the skills and capabilities you need to succeed in the long run, not just the day after the graduation ceremony.

Take your time, review all your options and make the best decision for your future.

The MBA Program at Ramapo College

Mahwah, New Jersey, just an hour drive northwest of New York City, is home to Ramapo College’s 20-Month Accelerated MBA Program.

The college is accredited as one of the top AACSB business schools in the area, with a program focused on leadership skills, critical thinking, and international management. Students spend two nights a week on campus where two-thirds of the curriculum is delivered and the rest is completed online. In the fall of the second year, students spend a week in China and the final term working in small teams as consultants for one of our corporate partners.

Graduates emerge with a better understanding of the business world and with the kind of leadership skills needed to succeed in today’s fast paced marketplace. Along the way, you won’t have to quit your day job.

Categories: MBA

---

March 9, 2016Can I Get an MBA Without a Business Degree?

We’ll get straight to the point – you don’t need to have a business degree to earn your MBA, so there is no reason to hold back on pursuing this goal. Whether you have a degree in Music, Medicine, Law, Psychology, Political Science, Engineering or any Liberal Arts discipline, a Master of Business Administration degree can help you achieve your career goals.

In fact, many business schools look favorably upon non-business-degree students because it increases the diversity of the classroom discussions.

However, many students who are interested in pursuing an MBA without a business degree have concerns regarding their preparation and ability to exceed. In this article, we address some of the most common concerns among applicants, and we provide some advice for overcoming these so-called obstacles.

What skills do I need to succeed?

Other than your commitment to succeed, there are few prerequisites for a Master of Business Administration. Many programs require two or more years of work experience and some basic knowledge of accounting, statistics and finance.

If you weren’t blessed with a natural aptitude for math, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many programs offer MBA prep courses designed for students with little or no exposure to statistics, accounting or finance. In addition, accepted students can often satisfy prerequisites by completing an undergraduate course – online or in the classroom – with at least a B grade. There is no shortage of ways to shake off the cobwebs and prepare for the start of your MBA.

Some programs accept students right out of college and credit them towards the work requirement if they’ve completed a co-op or internship as an undergraduate. There are even programs designed specifically for new college graduates without work experience.

Get in touch with an admissions officer to find out how your skills match up with the demands of the program. An MBA Adviser can tell you the likelihood of needing to complete pre-MBA prep courses and provide you more details to help you make your decision.

Will I be out of place as a non-business major?

According to a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, Master of Business Administration programs have more diverse student populations than any other graduate program. This makes sense given the wide range of business disciplines and subspecialties that span the world of for-profit and nonprofit businesses.

In fact, more than half of all the accepted MBA students don’t have an undergraduate business degree. Some of them majored in scientific or technical subjects, such as engineering, while others hold liberal arts degrees. The common thread that makes them viable candidates is a passion for business and a willingness to commit to a period of rigorous study. Rarely does someone enter an MBA program with the skillset to excel in every area; a technical degree provides its holders with a foundation in calculus and statistics, whereas a liberal arts major might have greater insight into domestic and global cultural issues, which is vital to companies operating in a global economy.

Pursuing an MBA without an undergraduate business degree is not unusual. You won’t be out of place if you come from a non-business background. In fact, you’re likely to find that many of your classmates are starting from the same place.

Will I be disadvantaged if I don’t have a business degree?

No. But finding the right program is key. Programs that emphasize leadership, critical thinking and ethics tend to appeal more to non-business majors. In those programs it is not uncommon for an accounting major to seek out the liberal arts major when being assigned to a team project. On the other hand, the accounting major can return the favor in the Managerial Accounting class.

Over the course of the entire program, non-business majors add just as much to the classroom experience as business majors; they bring a unique perspective and tend to look at problems from a different vantage point.

By choosing a school that has a diverse student body, you benefit from the experiences of your classmates. The best way to tell if the program is right for you is to experience a classroom discussion first-hand. Many programs allow applicants to attend class as a guest. See if you can identify the English or Finance majors while attending a class visit.

What are the benefits of an MBA?

You may be wondering, “Do I really need an MBA?” While some people do succeed in business without an advanced degree, the statistics show a clear advantage to having an MBA.

According to the latest Graduate Admissions Council survey, applications to MBA programs grew at 57% of the schools worldwide offering full-time, two-year programs – and for good reason.

Having an MBA can help you land a better job or promotion, or equip you with the skills you need to be successful throughout your career or to start your own company.

Conclusion

Don’t let a non-business undergraduate degree discourage you from applying to an MBA program. Preparatory modules will quickly bring you up to speed with your business major classmates, while your own background will enrich the learning experience for everyone.

The MBA Program at Ramapo College

If you’re looking for an MBA program that welcomes non-business graduates and could help to advance your career, the MBA program at Ramapo College could be the right choice for you. Experienced faculty members guide a diversified cohort of working professionals, who are looking to make a difference. The program offers individualized career coaching to ensure you go on to achieve your goals. It is a 20-month accelerated program that requires you to commit two evenings per week on the New Jersey campus, coupled with some online coursework. In less than two years, you could be graduating with your MBA, opening up great opportunities for your future career.

Categories: MBA

---

March 4, 2016Finding the Right MBA Program: Accelerated, Part-Time or Full-Time

Once you have decided to pursue an MBA, you will quickly discover that there are a number of program options to choose from. One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is finding a program that satisfies your professional objectives as well as your busy schedule. Historically, MBA degrees were available to either full-time or part-time students.

However, in the last ten years there’s been proliferation in the number of program options, each designed to meet the needs of today’s working professionals: Accelerated, Online and Hybrid programs. Which type of program is best for you? Understanding the options will help you make that decision.

Accelerated MBA

While accelerated MBA programs have long been the preferred format in the rest of the world, they are relatively new to the U.S. Accelerated programs provide the same essential management education in a condensed timeline, typically less than two years. The shorter time period allows graduates to begin earning a return on their investment sooner and the programs tend to be less costly.

Degree credit requirements differ widely among accelerated programs but usually range between 35 and 45 total credits. Coursework is completed over terms that last 6-10 weeks vs the traditional 15-week semester. The major difference between accelerated and traditional programs is the number of elective classes. As a general rule, accelerated programs require fewer elective classes.

Accelerated curriculums are completed on a part-time basis and appeal to working professionals who can commit to a rigorous schedule without too much disruption to their personal or professional lives. To facilitate the condensed timetable many accelerated programs make use of a hybrid delivery model where some portion of the curriculum is delivered online.

The admission requirements vary somewhat depending on the program but generally require, two years or more of work experience, a GPA of 3.0 or better from an accredited undergraduate institution, and strong performance on the GMAT (some programs waive the GMAT requirement). You will also need letters of reference and an essay that specifies how the program will help you achieve your goals. In some cases, an interview may also be required.

In short, if your goal is to improve your career options without disrupting your life, the accelerated MBA will give you more flexibility and enable you to finish your degree in a shorter amount of time.

Full-Time MBA

Going back to school as a full-time graduate student can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. Immersing yourself in the world of business academia is a luxury for those who can afford the time and added expenses of a full-time program. Applicants to full-time programs make a 24-month commitment and are quite often looking to change careers.

Students attend classes during the day, evening, and on weekends. The credit requirements are much higher – typically 60 credits are required over four terms or two years. The first-year courses include many of the core foundational courses and don’t typically vary from program to program. The added credits are completed as electives in the second year. It’s the added electives that allow many full-time programs to offer degree concentrations in specific business disciplines, such as finance, marketing, healthcare, etc.

Part-Time MBA

Those who can’t afford to go back to school full-time and who need more flexibility than offered by an accelerated program should consider a part-time MBA program. Part-time curriculums are similar to full-time programs except that student decides how quickly he/she wants to complete the program. For some, the go-at-your-own-pace option is a significant attraction, but for others it may lack the structure they need to stay motivated.

Many colleges and universities require students to complete their degree within five years of starting; those enrolled in a part-time MBA program usually complete them in 3.5-4.5 years.

Degree credit requirements can vary, but are more akin to full-time rather than accelerated programs. Depending on the program, students attend daytime or evening classes and often mix with full-time students.

Part-time programs appeal to individuals who can’t meet the time commitment required in either an accelerated or full-time program due to personal or work-related issues.

Which MBA Is Right for Me?

The answer to which program is right for you depends on many factors, most notably the time commitment, financial resources, and personal flexibility.

Immersing yourself in a full-time MBA program is a luxury, but it will take you out of the job market for two years with no assurance regarding your reentry. Accelerated programs condense nearly the same amount of material into a shorter timeframe but may be too demanding for someone with little formal business education. The go-at-your-own-pace part-time program provides added flexibility but the extended timetable delays the return on your investment.When choosing a program it’s also important to consider your academic experience and the circumstances under which you do your best work. For some, the demands of an accelerated format may be ideal; for others, it might be counter-productive.

The MBA Program at Ramapo College

Working professionals enrolled in Ramapo College’s accelerated MBA Program develop a foundation in business leadership, critical thinking and international management. Located in Mahwah, NJ and surrounded by world-class corporations, the Anisfield School of Business at Ramapo College is accredited by AACSB, a recognition earned by only 6% of the business schools worldwide.

Over the course of 20 months, students complete 14 courses, spend a week in China and consult for a local business as part of their capstone course. Students attend evening classes twice a week at the Mahwah campus. Those choosing the project management track are prepared to take the Project Management Professional (PMP) exam. Many graduates find that having the PMP designation along with their new MBA makes an indelible impression on potential employers.

Categories: MBA

---

March 2, 2016MBA Admission Without GMAT: 2016 Guide

Not too long ago, taking the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) was the first step toward getting an MBA. Today, many of the top business schools accept applicants for admission without requiring GMAT scores. While admissions requirements vary quite a bit based on individual achievements and credentials, the GMAT remains an important indicator of an applicant’s interest and the likelihood of success.

What is the GMAT and why does it matter?

For over 60 years, the GMAT has served as a standardized way for Admissions Directors to assess the readiness of candidates applying for graduate level business programs. It began when nine Admission Officers collaborated to find a better way to evaluate a growing number of applicants, particularly in terms of their quantitative skills. The original group included Columbia, Harvard, Northwestern, Rutgers, Seton Hall, University of Chicago, University of Michigan, University of Pennsylvania and Washington University in St. Louis. Today, the GMAT is relied upon by hundreds of admissions officers around the world.

Known for its critical thinking and quantitative orientation, the GMAT remains the gold standard among MBA programs. However, the growth in graduate business programs over the last ten years has increased the number of options for applicants and, in some cases, eliminated the GMAT requirement altogether. Ironically, many of the original nine schools no longer require GMAT scores for candidates with proven business records.

In an effort to broaden its appeal to admissions officers, the Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC), replaced one of the GMAT’s two writing sections with an integrated reasoning section in 2012. In that year, the dominant test provider for all non-business and science programs, Graduate Record Examination (GRE), added a second quantitative section to broaden its potential use by business schools. Today, it is not uncommon for business programs to accept either GRE or GMAT scores. However, the GRE exam is preferred for admission to most non-business graduate programs.

How important is the GMAT score?

For MBA applicants with undergraduate GPAs below 3.0 and little work experience, a strong test score can be the difference between an acceptance and rejection. This is true even if you are applying to a program that does not require submission of a GMAT score.

According to research by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the scores of those who do well in the GMAT are fairly accurate in predicting who will excel at MBA coursework. Candidates who are applying for scholarships should be aware that many programs use GMAT scores in evaluating applicants. In addition, programs are often ranked on criteria that include average GMAT scores.

Test scores also send a powerful message about an applicant’s interest. In the last 10 years, GMAT test score have averaged between 530-550.

Investing the amount time and effort to do well – many test takers say it requires at least 50 hours of preparation – speaks volumes about a candidate’s commitment to graduate learning. Even a disappointing test score can be overlooked if the rest of the candidate’s accomplishments are stellar. Furthermore, the test score provides a candidate with a powerful benchmark regarding what is required to compete.

Most Admissions Directors take a holistic approach when reviewing each applicant and may be swayed by strong letters of recommendation, a candidate’s overall aptitude, levels of maturity, communication and collaboration skills – the soft skills that are so vital for success in today’s marketplace. This is especially true for applicants with a meaningful level of work experience. An otherwise strong candidate with a poor GMAT score may be just as likely to gain acceptance as those with strong test scores.

Who qualifies for a GMAT waiver?

Most every MBA program has a GMAT waiver policy. GMAT scores are typically not required for candidates with an existing PhD, JD, MA, or Master’s degree. Waivers are generally granted for applicants with significant work experience and levels of responsibility, and/or strong academic performance in quantitative subjects, e.g., statistics, calculus and finance.

Waivers are generally made on a case-by-case basis and, in some instances, an interview or separate form may be required.

The waiver policy is typically found alongside the application requirements. If you are unsure about your qualifications, make sure you speak with an Admissions Counselor.

GMAT Requirements at Ramapo College

GMAT scores are not required as part of the MBA application requirement. However, upon review of a completed application, the Admissions Committee may request the submission of a GMAT or GRE score for applicants not meeting the requirements outlined on our website.

Categories: MBA

---

February 29, 2016Should I Have Work Experience Before Pursuing an MBA?

If you’ve recently completed your undergraduate degree, or will be graduating soon, you may be considering continuing your education with a master’s degree or Master of Business Administration (MBA). Before you start your search and begin the application process, you may want to consider the benefits of being in the workforce for some time before pursuing a graduate degree.

There are many benefits to having quality work experience before pursuing an MBA, the most important one is the positive benefit to your graduate learning experience; it will also increase your chances of getting into the business school program of your choosing.

Read on to discover why adding work experience to your application before pursuing an MBA program is beneficial.

1. Real-world experience is advantageous to MBA coursework.

Most MBA programs require applicants to have work experience because of the nature of graduate learning, especially programs relying on case studies and classroom participation. Work experience allows you to connect business theory and insights with a practical application that you have been involved with professionally. Moreover, you also benefit from the practical experiences of your classmates. It’s this combination of business theory and real-world experience that makes graduate learning so valuable and different than your undergraduate experience.

Today, it is not uncommon for undergraduates to spend a significant amount of time working in an internship or co-op program before graduation. Quite often prospective students underestimate the value of this experience and may not realize that an internship or co-op may satisfy the minimum graduate school work requirement. “Students often self-select themselves out of consideration without realizing the value of their undergraduate work experience,“ says Tim Landers, Director of Ramapo’s MBA Program.

2. Increase your chances of being accepted to the MBA program of your choice.

Alongside your academic accomplishments, GMAT score, outside activities, and personal accomplishments, prior work experience is an important variable to improve your chances of being accepted to an MBA program. Without it, your academic accomplishments and level of maturity will receive greater scrutiny. While it is not always necessary, having work experience provides an additional avenue to demonstrate levels of responsibility, business knowledge and advancement, all of which enhances your chances of acceptance.

If your undergraduate GPA is not a true reflection of your abilities, having professional experience can help boost your application score. It also affords you the opportunity to submit a recommendation letter from a colleague or manager who can address your business acumen.

Some schools provide GMAT waivers for applicants based on their years of work experience. Not having to submit a GMAT score could save you hundreds of dollars in time and money. More than half of GMAT test takers spent just about 51 hours studying for the exam, and the more time devoted to studying correlated with higher scores, according to the Graduate Management Admissions Council.

3. More clearly defined career path.

If you decide to pursue your MBA immediately after completing your undergraduate degree, you may only have a general idea of what you want out of your career. Many graduates start working in their field of choice only to find that it wasn’t what they expected. And it is not uncommon for young professionals to discover their passion after one or two jobs. The first few years in the “real-world” provide valuable lessons and often leads to a whole new career direction.

4. Definitive goals for what you want to get out of your MBA degree.

Many professionals apply to an MBA program after recognizing the need for additional knowledge and skills to advance their careers. MBA programs offer “an opportunity to realign their education with their goals or even re-boot their career,” says Professor Meyer, director of graduate studies at the Oxford Internet Institute.

Working as a financial analyst, sales person or IT manager provides a wealth of insight into solving real-world business problems. Transferring these insights and problem-solving skills to your coursework and enhancing them with the knowledge from an MBA degree, will give you the skills to advance your career and become a business leader.

5. Greater appreciation for the overall experience.

MBA programs are typically much more intensive and competitive than the average undergrad program. Those that do not have the proper motivation may find that they simply are not up to the challenge of MBA coursework in their early 20’s. Spending a year working may make the transition to a master’s less daunting. “It made me appreciate learning more than when I was an undergraduate,” said Sarah Spickernell, 26, who studied at Oxford University.

How much work experience should you have before applying?

Deciding how much professional work experience you should have before getting your MBA is a personal decision and involves many factors. Most programs require a minimum of two years but often make exceptions for applicants who have grown up working in a family business or who have completed internships, co-ops or started their own business.

There is no magic number of years of field experience that will guarantee a spot in an MBA program. Look at the demographic statistics of the programs you are considering to get an idea of how much work experience is required. According to Business Insider, the typical MBA student has an average of four years of work experience. However, it might be more valuable to investigate the range of “years of work” so that you don’t jump to the wrong conclusion about your chances of acceptance.

Do Your Research

Work experience can be the difference between acceptance and being deferred. But there are many programs that don’t have a work requirement. These programs tend to attract a younger applicant so, before you get too excited, make sure the program satisfies the learning goals that you are after.

The average age of an MBA student is approaching thirty, suggesting that there is no right time to get an MBA. It also demonstrates that the value of an MBA is not diminished with age or time.

Categories: MBA

---

February 24, 2016The Pros & Cons of a General MBA

The business landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade. Three years ago, few executives understood or could explain the benefits of hybrid cloud computing; five years ago, Uber was a fledgling idea and driverless cars were the stuff of science fiction; ten years ago, BlackBerry & Nokia dominated the world of mobile devices and “app store” was a spelling error. How can you rise to a leadership position within your organization if you’re still catching up with the latest industry trends?

Getting an MBA can open up new career options by helping you stay ahead of new technology and market trends that impact business. But, should you pursue a degree with the breadth of a general MBA, or the depth of a specialized MBA? Below you’ll find the pros and cons of both options.

Pros of a General MBA

Whether you intend to climb the corporate ladder or strike out on your own, a general MBA provides business executives with a solid foundation from which to grow. MBA graduates emerge with proficiency in subjects ranging from accounting to finance, marketing to strategic management, and leadership to analytics. A master’s degree in business administration provides the holder with a comprehensive set of skills that are necessary for success in today’s competitive job market.

The business landscape, as it exists now, is characterized by ever-shorter life cycles, the proliferation of global competition, and the onslaught of disruptive technology, all of which tends to favor professionals with the most agile and flexible skill set. Those with a general MBA degree are likely to see beyond the corporate silos that can stymie the best laid career plans. Professionals with broad business knowledge may be better able to see the big picture and can quickly shift gears to take advantage of the next opportunity. Those able to reframe conventional wisdom using comparisons to past product or market cycles will be the most valuable leaders of tomorrow. The broad-based MBA prepares professionals for success in any job function, in any industry, and at any time in their career.

Cons of a General MBA

Critics of the general MBA contend that it lacks the depth of knowledge that is needed in increasingly complex areas such as finance, data analytics and digital marketing. In addition, holders of a general MBA might be disadvantaged, at least initially, when applying for positions where depth of knowledge is required. Finally, applicants seeking to concentrate often question the utility of taking business courses that are of little interest and limited value to them.

Is a General MBA Right for Me?

Whether you choose a degree offering a broad-based curriculum or one with concentrations, business executives are likely to find it necessary to continue their education throughout their careers. The marketplace is just too demanding and dynamic. Further complicating your selection, many general MBA programs have expanded their curriculum, minimizing the differences with programs offering concentrations or specializations.

Depending on your educational background and your goals, a general MBA may be the right path for you to pursue. Consider the following when making your choice:

• If you are planning to change industries or job function, a general MBA will diversify your skill set, making your more attractive to potential employers.
• If your goal is to become a manager at the highest levels, you will most likely need to be conversant in a broad range of business subjects.
• If you wish to improve your soft skills, e.g., leadership, critical thinking, collaboration, etc., a general MBA is a good choice.
• If you hold a nonbusiness undergraduate degree, a broad-based MBA curriculum will provide you with essential skills that you’ll need no matter what position you hold.
• If you’ve been pigeonholed by a finite skill set and need to breakout, a broad-based MBA will raise your stature and bring greater recognition to your work.

If you need more personalized advice, schedule a one-on-one meeting with an MBA Adviser to discuss what makes the most sense for your goals and career aspirations.

The MBA Program at Ramapo College

Many professionals looking for a general MBA program have turned to the 20-month Accelerated MBA Program at Ramapo College. This unique part-time curriculum was custom-built to fit into the busy lives of today’s professionals. It is a cohort-based model that emphasizes leadership, critical thinking and international management. This fall, Ramapo will add a second elective to its popular project management offering so that students can graduate with their MBA and qualify for the certification exams offered by the Project Management Institute (CAPM, PMP).

Ramapo College’s Anisfield School of Business is accredited as one of the top AACSB business schools in New Jersey. Surrounded by world-class corporations in northern NJ, students gain a broad and practical based education in less time without giving up their day job. Graduates point to the capstone-consulting project with area businesses, the China immersion trip and the network of friends they’ve created as being among the program’s highlights.

By spending just two evenings each week on campus in Mahwah, New Jersey, and three hours per week online, students earn a degree in less than two years. And they come away with the confidence and the skills to face any challenge in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Categories: MBA

---

February 3, 2016Best MBA Program Model: Online, In-Class, Accelerated or Hybrid

In today’s competitive job market, having a bachelor’s degree may not be enough for a successful career in business. Instead of relying solely on on-the-job training to propel you up the career ladder, many post-grads are finding that going to graduate school is no longer optional. In order to keep up with a highly dynamic marketplace, business professionals are now looking for alternative ways to earn a graduate degrees, without giving up their day job.

Many colleges and universities recognize the need to tailor programs to meet the needs and schedules of busy professionals, and now offer a range of options including online, in-class, accelerated and hybrid MBA programs.

Not sure which one is the right fit for your work-life balance? Understanding the key differences between program types can help you identify the option that is best for you.

Online MBA Programs

Many accredited colleges and universities offer fully online versions of their traditional graduate programs.Their flexibility is a key selling point for busy professionals with little free time and an inability to commit to a weekly classroom schedule. However, online programs are not for everyone. They usually appeal to those who are disciplined and who like to work independently. For many, the lack of face-to-face interaction with classmates and the professor diminishes their attractiveness.

The initial popularity of online programs caused many to question whether they required the same level of rigor as in-class programs. Their continued success combined with the proliferation of offerings from prestigious schools across the country has silenced the critics. As long as you select an online program from an accredited university or college, there should be no issue with the quality of the education you receive.

In-Class MBA Programs

Those who prefer the support of colleagues and value teamwork, may be better suited for a traditional in-class or hybrid (partially online and partially in-class) program. Although they do not offer quite the same amount of flexibility as online programs, the human and professional interaction in a live setting can be a more rewarding experience for some learners.

For working professionals whose undergraduate experience is a distant memory or one to forget altogether, the idea of getting back into “study mode” can be quite daunting. Some students prefer the comfort offered by classroom instruction, group work, peer teaching, etc., along with the excuse to unplug from their hectic weekly routines. Furthermore, the traditional classroom model has been “flipped” to reflect the latest thinking in learning styles. The stand-and-deliver lecture, that until recently dominated the classroom experience, has been scaled back significantly and/or been relegated to online viewing. The rich back-and-forth discussions that occurred in study groups and college coffee shops, now take place inside the classroom under the guidance of the professor. The “flipped” classroom is a much more lively and dynamic graduate learning environment that is difficult to fully replicate online.

The advent of accelerated programs chipped away at some of the scheduling advantages of online programs, by reducing the amount of classroom time to eight or ten weeks per term from fifteen. Students choosing the in-class model report that they look forward to their classroom interactions – many say they learn as much from discussions with their classmates as they do from the professor. In the best circumstances, the classroom is transformed into a business laboratory for learning, testing ideas, and forging new friendships. The experience not only prepares students for the real world but it affords them an opportunity to create a professional network that may last throughout their career.

Hybrid MBA Programs

Professionals in search of the scheduling flexibility of an online program combined with the benefits of classroom teaching, may prefer hybrid MBA programs. Hybrid programs split the content delivery between online and the classroom and usually require students to attend class one or two nights per week or on an alternating schedule. This option has great appeal and seems to be the model of choice for a working professionals. Hybrid programs are most often paired with accelerated programs for the greatest balance of convenience and support.

20-Month MBA at Ramapo College

At Ramapo College of New Jersey, our hybrid accelerated MBA program is completed in just 20 months. Students come to campus twice per week for three hours of instruction and complete the remaining one-third of the curriculum online. In just 20 months, students complete 14 courses, including their choice of two electives, spend a week in China and, as part of their capstone course, consult for one of our world class corporate neighbors. This program offers our students the flexibility, social interaction, discipline and experience they need to succeed in the real world.

Want to know if Ramapo College’s accelerated MBA program is the right fit for you? Request more information about our program today or, better yet, take the first step towards a graduate degree and meet with an MBA Advisor.

Categories: MBA

---

February 3, 2016General MBA vs Specialized MBA

The Graduate Management Admission Council (the organization that administers the GMAT exam) released a 2015 Year-End Poll of Employers showing that there will be an increasing demand for Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) graduates in the coming years. Dan LeClair, executive vice president and chief knowledge officer at AACSB International says “It’s becoming harder to get a great job with just a bachelor’s degree.” ¹

If you’ve been considering pursuing an MBA degree, now may be the right time.

But with an increasing number of options to choose from, finding the right MBA program that meets your goals and learning style, may take some extra work. Across the country, professionals interested in pursuing an MBA often start with a fundamental question: Whether to choose a program offering a broad-based curriculum or one that permits specialization or concentrations.

Employers hold both options in high regard so your selection should be based on your career plans and the type of learning experience that fits your needs. It’s important to know more about each before you can determine which one is right for you.

Specialized MBA: Pros & Cons

After completing the first-year core foundational courses, MBA programs with concentrations permit second-year students to focus their elective coursework in a specific business discipline. Students completing 3-4 courses in a single discipline receive a degree noting their area of concentration. Specialized programs offer in-depth preparation and knowledge for someone who is committed to a particular industry or specialty throughout their career. Some of the more popular concentrations include:

• Entrepreneurship – This specialization places an emphasis on developing the entrepreneurial skills needed to start, fund, and manage your own business, as well as overcoming the inevitable setbacks that derail new businesses ventures.
• Finance – An MBA with a specialization in Finance provide skills to students interested in financial analysis, financial strategy, capital budgeting, mergers and acquisitions, and investment banking.
• Management – A Management specialization focuses on all aspects of business management, including strategic management, human resources management, leadership, and organizational behavior.
• Marketing – This specialization offers insights into consumer behavior, brand and product management, marketing strategies and tactics, digital marketing, etc.
• Accounting – An MBA with a concentration in Accounting prepares students to become leaders of accounting and control functions.

This may seem like a great option for those who know exactly what discipline or profession they want to work in, but the viability of specialized MBAs may have lost some of its luster. Critics of concentrations cite the need for long-term flexibility in order to respond to a dynamic global marketplace where a broad skillset may be more valuable. In addition to your interests, alignment of your education with current industry trends and market opportunities is an important factor to consider when making a selection.

With a specialized MBA, you send an important message to recruiters about your interests, which might lead to success early in your career but may one day impede your ability to pursue other areas of interest. Because of that, it is critical to look at both your short and long-term career aspirations and insure that no matter what decision you make, there is room to grow and succeed. The last thing you want to do is place all your chips on a profession or career that becomes stagnant or is displaced by technological advances.

It is also important to remember that in many professions, specialization occurs through on-the- job training. In certain industries, e.g., Health Care Management and Financial Management, it may be necessary to acquire a specific license and/or certification in order to advance.

General MBA: Pros & Cons

The traditional MBA provides a broad skillset that prepares business professionals for success in any industry or job function at any time in their career. Recipients of a general curriculum build a foundation of knowledge by completing a set of core courses in year one and then in year two choose a wider selection of electives. This broader knowledge lays the groundwork for someone looking to assume more responsibility with their current employer or to seek a new position with a different company or industry. Many choose the general MBA to differentiate themselves in a crowded field or to breakout from a timeworn perception that may be limiting their upside, e.g., “You’re just an IT person.” For those with a non-business undergraduate degree, the general MBA is an ideal way to advance your business knowledge.

General MBA programs offer a wide selection of electives in year two, from supply chain management to digital marketing. The latest innovation to emerge is the addition of “mini-concentrations” that permit students to earn professional certifications along with their MBA, without giving up the broader knowledge from a generalized program. Today, one of the most sought after skillsets by employers and recruiters is a certificate in project management offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

This formula of combining foundational courses with a wide selection of electives creates a skillset that is more easily transferred across job functions, time and career paths.

The obvious drawback of a general MBA is that while you’ll acquire a wider knowledge base, you may not have the depth required for a particular position. However, many students prefer the wider range of career opportunities that become available to them upon completing their degree.

General MBA vs. Specialized MBA: Which is Right for Me?

Applicants debating the merits of a general MBA vs. a specialized MBA are sure to find plenty of arguments for and against each curriculum. Further complicating the decision is the fact that curriculum additions are blurring the differences between the two. If your desired profession or industry has a strong outlook and offers plenty of avenues for growth, then a specialized MBA may be the right fit for you. On the other hand, a general MBA may be better suited for those already established in a career and seeking greater flexibility. If you are looking to combine the best of both options, consider a general MBA with elective tracks offering certifications or a curriculum style that meet your needs.

The decision is ultimately yours to make, but don’t make it without seeking advice from a mentor or your colleagues. Once you have narrowed your decision, make an appointment with the MBA Program Director; they’ve advised countless professionals and can help direct you onto the right path. Rest assured that no matter what decision you make, an MBA degree will place you in good standing.

The MBA Program at Ramapo College

The Ramapo College of New Jersey’s MBA program is one of the top-quality AACSB-accredited business schools in New Jersey. Geared for today’s working professional, Ramapo’s part-time twenty month program is comprised of four key pillars: Leadership, Critical Thinking, International Immersion and Experiential Learning. Highly experienced faculty use real-world case studies to blend theory and practical experience. The curriculum is delivered through a cohort model that is as demanding as it is supportive.

The Ramapo MBA curriculum is designed with today’s real world challenges in mind. The program provides professionals looking to become senior leaders in for-profit or non-profit enterprises with broad based training across a range of business disciplines. Students choose electives that provide marketable skills to help them make immediate and meaningful contributions to their current employers. In year two, students spend a week in China meeting with government officials and executives of private businesses. In their final term, small groups of students spend the entire term working as consultants for one of our world-class corporate partners.

Sources:
1 Bisoux, T. (2015, September/October). Mastering the mix. BizEd Magazine. Retrieved from http://www.bizedmagazine.com/archives/2015/5/features/focus-on-specialized-programs-mastering-the-mix?utm_source=HighRoads%20Solutions&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=HighRoads%20All%20Emails

Categories: MBA

---

February 3, 2016A Cohort MBA Program: What Is It and What Are the Benefits?

If you’ve been doing your research on MBA programs, then you have most likely come across some of these terms:

“Cohort model.” “Cohort-based learning.” “Cohort structure.”

While it doesn’t take much to grasp the general concept of a cohort program, it’s worth taking a moment to understand how they can impact your experience as a graduate student. Graduate cohort models can vary in terms of the number of students and the amount of diversity, but the overall structure is generally the same no matter where they are utilized. If you are seriously considering returning to school to earn your MBA, it’s important to consider all of your options and fully understand the structure of the programs that are under consideration.

What is a Cohort Model?

Learning cohorts are a team, group, or community of people with shared interests and goals who progress through an educational experience together. Their benefit is based upon certain educational theories of how people learn and the desire for support, teamwork, and shared resources. One of the key factors to emerge over the years is the value of learning from your classmates as well as from your professor. Based on the success of the cohort experience, more programs are adopting this platform.

Simply stated, an academic cohort consists of a group of students working together in the same program, progressing through the same academic curriculum and finishing their degree together. In a traditional graduate program, students select courses independently of their classmates and each semester may end up with a different group of students. Depending on the school and program, cohorts typically range anywhere from 15 to 35 students.

Benefits of a Cohort MBA Program

The goal of a cohort is to build an environment that emphasizes collaboration and team building over competition; a valuable asset in today’s workplace. Compared to a proceed-at-your-own-pace model, cohort programs invite student participation, foster creativity, build leadership skills, generate a sense of community, and proceed at a predetermined pace. The model offers many benefits including:

• A shared learning experience that features enriching discussions of real-world business issues among a diverse group of professionals.
• Collaboration, leadership and teamwork skills, necessary for success in today’s workplace.
• Interactive learning that enables students to think independently and develop their own conclusions and ideas.
• Cultivation of professional and personal networks that may continue long after the degree has been awarded.
• A clearly-defined timeline and format allowing working professionals to pursue an MBA without giving up their day job.

Is a Cohort MBA Program Right For Me?

In addition to their popularity, studies have shown that cohorts in higher education offer additional benefits that many professionals are looking for1. Answering the following questions will help you decide if a cohort MBA program is the ideal learning environment for you.

Do you work well in a team or group environment?

As you were working towards your undergraduate degree, you most likely attended a school offering hundreds of courses and classes filled with students pursuing different majors. It’s unlikely that any two students would follow the same exact schedule of classes, especially for the entirety of their degree program. It is not uncommon for a student to feel somewhat lost in the shuffle in this type of learning environment. If you coordinated your class schedule with some of your classmates in the same major that you worked well with, then you, in essence, created a cohort to support each other through the coursework.

The cohort model provides a community experience with a much greater focus on a shared learning experience throughout the entire program. Students motivated by a group setting and a collaborative learning environment are likely to be drawn to the cohort model for their graduate education.

Do you show initiative?

The cohort model shows great promise for highly-organized and motivated students actively seeking to be invested in their education and to take charge of their learning. It works well when all members are doing their equal share of work and contributing to the discussion.

Are you a critical thinker?

The cohort model helps students to develop their own voice, think critically, and move beyond passive learning to produce engaged professionals armed with innovative approaches to problem-solving.

Are you concerned about returning to school after being in the workforce for a while?

The cohort model is particularly beneficial for students re-entering a higher education setting after some time in the professional world. The ability to build relationships in cohort courses makes re-entering academia less stressful and provides the support many feel they need.

Are you concerned about balancing workload with life responsibilities?

This is a common concern among many working professionals as they pursue their MBA, whether or not they are part of a cohort model. However, with cohort models especially, there are unrivaled levels of academic advisement and support from peers and faculty. The members of your cohort will likely share similar work-life challenges and will benefit from working through them together in order to successfully complete the program.

Ramapo College’s Cohort MBA Program

Ramapo College of New Jersey offers an accelerated 20-month MBA program for working professionals. The program is built on the cohort model combined with a hybrid delivery plan where ⅓ of coursework is completed online and ⅔ is completed in-class. Each cohort is comprised of 30-33 students who move through the program in tandem.

Each cohort advances through the curriculum together and collaborates closely on projects, leading to a strong network of supportive peers and colleagues. Our graduates can attest to the lifelong personal and professional relationships that they developed at Ramapo College.

Sources:
1Maher, M. A. (2005). The evolving meaning and influence of cohort membership. Innovative Higher Education, 30(3), 195-211.

Categories: MBA

---

September 12, 2015When Leadership Fails

The recent revelation of VW’s emissions test scandal, GM’s criminal wrongdoing in the ignition-switch defect and the conviction of a former peanut executive for the cover-up of a salmonella outbreak, are just the latest reminders of the need to teach corporate ethics and social responsibility in MBA programs. The financial consequences of these corporate failures are measured in billions of dollars but the more consequential impact is measured by the death toll that resulted from these corporate cover-ups and inaction and the loss of faith in free market capitalism.

Business executives are not the only ones being called out for their ethical and moral lapses. The recent fine and suspension of the Rutgers Football Coach for intervening on an academic matter regarding one of his players, pales in significance but provides evidence that human frailties are not just reserved for corporate executives. And the near simultaneous suspension of five Rutgers football players for a range of criminal misdeeds, speaks to a larger cultural issue regarding respect for law and order.

Every successful endeavor, from raising a family, running your own business or being a corporate executive of a Fortune 500 company, requires leadership of some kind. Regardless of one’s status in life, we are all regularly confronted with moral and ethical dilemmas – many of which never rise to the level of front-page news. But it is in these small, seemingly inconsequential moments, that one’s true character is defined and refined.

Overtime, behavior becomes second nature so that by the time you reach a position of responsibility, you no longer stop to weigh the consequences of your actions. Instead, we plow ahead as if on automatic pilot, foregoing the critical thinking steps that are key to good decision making. The process has come to be known as the Bernie Madoff effect, a reference to the largest Ponzi scheme of all time, which may have started with a seemingly innocent decision to alter a single monthly statement instead of delivering bad news. The end result was a loss of billions in investor savings and a number of suicides, including Madoff’s son.

Rarely is one born with all the requisite skills to be a successful leader. Instead, we learn by doing; we learn from observing others and from the outcomes of the countless decisions that we make each day. Take a moment to reflect on the recent rash of corporate wrongdoing and on the critical thinking steps that would have kept you from making the same mistakes.

Categories: MBA

---