3 Ways to Choose an MBA Program

Beyond prestige and rankings, several factors can influence the outcome of your MBA experience. Among these, choosing a B-school with the right fit is crucial.

Susan Cera, Director of MBA Admissions Counseling at Stratus Admissions Counseling, recently offered tips to finding the best business school to help achieve your goals.

MAP OUT YOUR CAREER

Before even looking at rankings or compiling a list of top business schools, first consider what your career goals are.

“What position(s) do you see yourself taking after you complete an MBA program? Your response should include industry, function, and geography as well as a short list of two or three target companies,” Cera says.

While your career goals should be personal, it can also be helpful to talk to current MBA students and alumni to gain insight into what potential paths look like.

“If possible, talk to MBA students and ask them about their school selection process, about what went well and what proved difficult or problematic,” Cindy Tokumitsu, an admissions consultant at Accepted, says. “Also ask what they would do differently.”

CONSIDER REACH, TARGET, AND SAFETY SCHOOLS

Understanding the competitive landscape of MBA admissions is critical. Experts say applicants should have a strategized list of schools that include reach, target, and safety options. That list should include three to four “stretch” schools, three to four “target” schools, and two to three “likely” schools.

“The M7 (or ‘Magnificent 7’) business schools are a ‘stretch’ for just about everyone,” Cera says. “If your test score and GPA (if it is on a 4.0 scale) are around a program’s averages, then it might be a ‘target’ for you. A business school could be considered ‘likely’ if you are solidly above its averages.”

RESEARCH COURSE OFFERINGS

While most B-schools have a similar general management curriculum, course offerings may differ depending on your focus area.

“Keep your previous experience and career goals in mind as you research course offerings,” Cera says. “Many programs offer a general management degree, while some allow students to focus on specific areas through majors, concentrations, certificates, or pathways. For example, if your goals are in health care, be on the lookout for health care–specific course offerings.”

Additionally, consider what type of teaching style best fits the way you learn.

“Some programs use primarily the case method, while others offer a mix of teaching styles such as lectures, cases, and experiential learning,” Cera says.

Sources: Stratus Admissions Counseling, Accepted