Reading Time: 3 minutesKeith Roberts, Associate Dean of the University of Redlands School of Business, joins us today to discuss the School’s Online MBA program.
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Can you tell us about the online MBA program offered at the University of Redlands?
The University of Redlands, a premier, private non-profit liberal arts and professional university in southern California with a 110-year history, offers an Online MBA that links theory and practical application of 21st century business skills to produce business leaders who positively impact business and society. We offer a 48-credit program (12 courses) for students without an undergraduate degree in business and a 36-credit program (9 courses) for students who have earned an undergraduate degree in business within the last 7 years. Currently, we offer three concentrations in General Business, Finance, and Marketing, but will be adding a fourth concentration in Spatial Business very soon.
Is the GMAT & GRE required for acceptance into the program? Do international students have the same requirement?
The GMAT and GRE are not admission requirements. The School of Business perceives the admission process holistically, recognizing that individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences can benefit from a graduate business education. Students entering graduate study must demonstrate both the motivation and the capability to manage effectively. International students have the same requirement and must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
How long does a typical online MBA program take at the University of Redlands? What is the maximum and minimum time of completion?
Each course is 4 credits and is completed in 8 weeks. The 48-credit program is typically completed in 24 months and the 36-credit program in 18 months.
What do you think makes the University of Redlands online MBA program stand out from other online MBA programs offered by similar schools?
Our business program is focused on the 21st Century Business Skills that are needed for success in contemporary business. When business students graduate they need to be integrative, analytical, spatial, ethical, collaborative, persuasive, entrepreneurial, societal, environmental and global. Students with these skills position themselves as professionals who are capable of meeting the new demands of the business world.
How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online MBA program?
Accreditation is critically important for online MBA programs. The University of Redlands School of Business Online MBA has earned ACBSP accreditation. The accreditation certifies that the teaching and learning processes within the University’s School of Business meet the rigorous educational standards established by ACBSP and gives the faculty and staff a tremendous sense of confidence in terms of how they can positively impact the success and careers of our business students.
What are the advantages to earning an online MBA degree in general and where are you seeing employer demand for this degree?
The online program provides needed flexibility for those who cannot attend in a classroom environment. Employers from many industries and governmental organizations are seeking MBAs for their employees. Our online MBA meets the same stringent ACBSP accreditation standards as our on-ground MBA, and that is very important to both employers and students.
Does the University of Redlands offer job placement for students who graduate with an online MBA degree?
The vast majority of our students are already employed, and many are sponsored by their employers. Professional Development (career) services are available to all of our students, but we do not offer job placement.
What type of financial aid packages are available for students in business? Are there any fellowships, grants and scholarships available?
Eligible students may apply for federal aid and loans.
Do you have any advice for students enrolling in an online MBA program for the first time?
Time management is very important in a graduate degree program, but especially in an online learning environment. Students must be focused, organized, and disciplined to be successful. They are evaluated in a myriad of ways, including teamwork and oral and written exams.
What do you enjoy most about your position at the University of Redlands?
The ability to impact the lives of our students. I work with faculty and staff to provide the best services possible to our students. We are successful if our students are successful, and that’s why I am here.
For more information on the online MBA program offered at the University of Redlands, visit them online.
Thank you Keith, for sharing and participating in this piece.
That concludes our interview!
