Business Administration (Professional), M.B.A.

Specific Objectives

• All programs use integrated learning methodology that parallels business practice for: preparation in the core functions of business including accountancy, economics, finance, marketing, business regulation and legal environment, information systems, and production and operations management.
• Development of certain analytical and quantitative skills applicable to effective business decision-making.
• Formation of thought about current and future challenges facing business leaders with emphasis on communications, teamwork, organizational change, information technology, total quality, the international dimension of business, technological innovation, social responsibility and ethics.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants seeking admission to the Professional MBA program are required to choose one of the following specializations:

• General Business
• Business Analytics
• Cybersecurity
• Entrepreneurship & Business Development
• Finance
• Healthcare Management
• Human Resource Management
• Information Systems
• International Business
• Marketing
• Supply Chain Management

They are also required to submit the following to the Graduate School:

• An application for graduate admission.
• Official transcripts of all college work (undergraduate and graduate).
• Two online recommendations including one from an employer or supervisor who can comment on the applicant’s work experience and potential for successful completion of a master’s program.
• Applicant’s resume and cover letter.
• Two years of professional work experience is required. 
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better in undergraduate work. Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 must demonstrate professional experience/advancement that shows progression since graduation and indicates how they will contribute to the program.
• A GMAT score above 500 or an equivalent GRE, which is waived for one or more of the following:
  • Five or more years of progressive managerial or military work experience 
  • An undergraduate GPA of 3.2 or higher
  • Completion of an advanced degree (graduate level or above) involving some quantitative coursework
• A minimum score of 79 on the internet-based TOEFL iBT test or 6.5 on IELTS test is required for non-native English speakers only, unless applicant earned their baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited US institution. Scores are good for two years from the date the test is administered.
• Application and supplemental documents must be submitted by the published deadline.

Degree Requirements:

• Forty-two credit hours of approved graduate credit must be satisfactorily completed for the degree. Classes begin six times per year and continue throughout the year (with appropriate breaks) until completion 21 months later.
• Each student must successfully complete an integrative written analysis project in MBA 558 - Strategic Management.
• Each student must complete the approved course of study within five years of the date of first registration for graduate study.
• Courses requested for transfer are evaluated on a case by case basis. Generally, no more than 3 credits from non-AACSB accredited universities will be accepted, and no more than 9 credits from AACSB accredited universities will be accepted. The Graduate Associate Dean determines how the courses, if any, will be transferred and will request recommendations from the faculty who teach within the disciplines being requested.
• After admittance, students who wish to complete a course offered by another graduate program at UNCW must have the course approved by the MBA Director before enrolling

Course Requirements (42 Credit Hours):

All Professional MBA students will be required to take the following courses: