Full-Time MBA versus Professional MBA
What is the difference between the full time and professional RU MBA students?
What is the difference between the scheduling of the full time and professional MBA program?
What is the timeline for applying?
How will my application be evaluated?
What is a “foundation knowledge areas?”
What are the foundation knowledge areas for the RU MBA program?
Can I apply for the MBA program before finishing the foundation knowledge areas for the RU MBA program?
Does the reputation/history or my undergraduate institution or company affect my chances of being accepted?
Where do I send my application?
What if I want to schedule an appointment to talk to someone about the RU MBA?
Applications - Work Experience
What is the desired length of work experience you wish to see in candidates?
What constitutes relevant work experience?
Are there specific types of work experience that will make me a more attractive candidate?
Applications - Recommendations
Who should recommendations come from?
What is the process for recommenders?
Is the recommendation deadline the same as the application deadline?
Applications - Application Follow-up
Who should I contact if I have a question regarding my application status?
When and how can I expect to hear back from RU?
Will RU provide feedback for students who have been rejected?
How long can I defer my acceptance?
What is the latest date test scores will be accepted?
Is there a minimum GMAT required to apply?
Can I send only my best GMAT score?
Where can I get more information about the GMAT?
Will you accept a GRE score instead of the GMAT?
International Students: Are their admission different requirements?
How should I submit my transcripts?
Is there a minimum GPA requirement to apply?
What is the average GPA of accepted students?
What is the estimated cost for one year at RU?
What are some options for financing my RU education?
Should I expect a more collaborative or competitive environment?
Is it possible to cross register with other universities?
How is the curriculum structured?
How long will it take for me to complete my RU MBA Degree?
What are the extracurricular activities available?
What are my transportation options?
Events and Networking Opportunities
What social opportunities does Radford offer?
How can I sign up for a campus tour?
How can I sign up for a classroom visit and is there a limit to how many I can attend?
What events are held for accepted students?
As a student, will I have the opportunity to network with alumni through organized events?
Full-Time MBA versus Professional MBA
What is the difference between the full time and professional RU MBA students?
RU MBA full-time students typically have less than five years work experience and are about to embark on their careers, and they see an RU MBA as a valuable part of their toolkit for their future. They are a relatively diverse group of younger people with a variety of backgrounds, nationalities, and career aspirations.
Professional part time students typically have 6+ years of work experience and come to us for a wide variety of reasons. However, it is frequently mentioned that the convenience, value and the flexibility of the RU MBA PPT program is appealing because of their ability to strike an effective work-life balance. Additionally, they develop a network of diverse, professional peers and faculty.
What is the difference between the scheduling of the full time and professional MBA program?
Full time students typically take four classes a semester for 3 semesters. These courses are primarily offered during the day on Radford’s campus. During the intervening summer, the full-time student is expected to find ways to experience business through opportunities such as studies abroad, internships, applied projects, etc.
Professional part time students take classes that fit around their work schedule. Student can choose to take classes at Radford University or the Roanoke Higher Education Center. These classes are in the evenings, and each class meets once/week in fall & spring, and twice/week in the summer sessions.
Application - General
What is the timeline for applying?
Radford University’s MBA Program has year-round, rolling admissions. We can accept qualified candidates up to the day classes begin so long as there is still room in the program.
How will my application be evaluated?
All applications are evaluated using a portfolio approach of all application materials. The balance of the materials will be evaluated against the criteria for their MBA program. For more information, please go to application requirements.
What is a “foundation knowledge areas?”
A foundation knowledge area is a content area necessary for a prospective MBA to have prior to beginning the RU MBA program. A student must have demonstrated evidence of knowledge in each foundation knowledge area prior to enrolling in his/her first MBA course. By having this “foundation,” a student is adequately prepared to succeed in the RU MBA program.
What are the foundation knowledge areas for the RU MBA program?
The foundation knowledge requirements are the same for the full-time and professional MBA programs. Prior to enrolling in your first MBA course, all students must demonstrate evidence (or proof) of knowledge in four content areas:
· Economics
· Accounting
· Finance
· Statistics
These prerequisites may be met through equivalent coursework from an accredited university; successful completion of pre-approved preparation courses, passing an RU administered competency exam, and/or sufficient demonstration of knowledge through work experience. A student may submit a request for foundation review to meet the standard of proof with the application (INSERT LINK TO FORM HERE). For questions about course options to meet this standard, please contact the RU MBA office.
Can I apply for the MBA program before finishing the foundation knowledge areas for the RU MBA program?
Yes. Many students are admitted conditionally and are given one semester to complete their foundation knowledge requirements prior to beginning their RU MBA coursework.
Does the reputation/history or my undergraduate institution or company affect my chances of being accepted?
All unique factors are considered in reviewing a student’s application including the undergraduate institution. It is important that your undergraduate degree comes from an accredited institution.
Where do I send my application?
You will apply to the MBA program at the College for Graduate and Professional Studies website: http://gradcollege.asp.radford.edu. All application materials will be handled by the graduate college. If you have any questions about the receipts of your application materials (e.g., your recommendations, transcripts, GMAT scores, letter of intent, etc.), please contact the graduate college directly.
What if I want to schedule an appointment to talk to someone about the RU MBA?
The Director and Program Coordinator of the RU MBA program are always available to set up appointments to speak to prospective and current students in Roanoke or Radford. Please call or e-mail the RU MBA office to schedule an appointment in the location convenient for you.
Applications - Work Experience
What is the desired length of work experience you wish to see in candidates?
This answer varies depending upon which MBA program to which you are applying. Please see the most recent MBA Dashboard to get a sense of the work experience of this year’s MBA students in each program.
What constitutes relevant work experience?
We are particularly looking for work experience that exposed the student to increased responsibility, decision-making, strategic thinking, management of people, projects, and/or budgets. For example, volunteer work on a Board of Directors for a non-profit would be considered as contributing to relevant work experience.
Are there specific types of work experience that will make me a more attractive candidate?
See the answer above. Essentially, we are particularly interested in those work experiences where a student understands how his/her responsibilities impact organizational success.
Applications - Recommendations
Who should recommendations come from?
For a full-time student, one recommendation should come from a professor who can speak to your potential success as a graduate student. The other letter can come from either another professor, or someone who can attest to your successful job performance.
For the professional MBA student, at least one of the letters of recommendation should come from a current or former employer who can speak to the quality of your work experience and organizational impact. This is particularly critical if you are requesting a review for a GMAT waiver. The other letter can come from another professional contact or a former professor who can also speak to your potential success as an MBA student.
What is the process for recommenders?
An online recommendation form is generated and sent to your references during the application process. This information can be found on the Graduate College website.
Is the recommendation deadline the same as the application deadline?
Yes. Your application will not be reviewed for decision until all materials are received by the Graduate College.
Applications - Application Follow-up
Who should I contact if I have a question regarding my application status?
First, use the MyRU application portal to check the status of your materials. This is the website you used to submit your application. The graduate college can assist with any additional questions regarding the application process.
When and how can I expect to hear back from RU?
You will receive notification from the Graduate College regarding the final decision of your acceptance. This generally takes from 2-4 weeks after submission of your final materials, though times vary throughout the year. Please feel free to contact the RU MBA office and/or the Graduate College if you have specific concerns about turnaround time for your application.
Will RU provide feedback for students who have been rejected?
You will receive feedback in the letter you receive. For additional information, you may contact the RU MBA office.
How long can I defer my acceptance?
1 year provided you notify the Graduate College.
GMAT, GRE & TOEFL
What is the latest date test scores will be accepted?
We can accept scores anytime up the beginning of the semester provided there is sufficient time to review and respond to the application.
Is there a minimum GMAT required to apply?
Minimum GMAT score is 400 (or equivalent GRE score). The full application package will be considered and an occasional exception may be made for candidates who are exceptionally strong in all other areas.
Please see the application requirements for more information.
Can I send only my best GMAT or GRE score?
Yes.
Where can I get more information about the GMAT?
Your best source is through the GMAC website.
Overall information about the GMAT: http://www.gmac.com/gmac
Taking the GMAT in Roanoke: Pearson Professional Centers-Roanoke VA
Will you accept a GRE score instead of the GMAT?
The GMAT is the generally accepted test for MBA programs. However, we will accept GRE equivalent scores. Please contact the RU MBA office to discuss your specific circumstance.
International Students: Are their admission different requirements?
Yes. Applicants from outside the U.S. must also submit an official TOEFL score of 79-80 or higher. The TOEFL requirement may be waived for applicants whose previous degree is from a university at which English is the primary language of instruction. International students are also responsible for obtaining a certified letter of sponsorship and a bank statement proving finance for the first year.
Supplemental form for International Students:
http://gradcollege.asp.radford.edu/Apply_Documents/SUPPLEMENTALappform-SEVISinfo.pdf
An international student must be prepared to allow for additional time for processing any Visa requirements. Please allow at least 8-10 weeks for international applications to be processed.
Transcripts
How should I submit my transcripts?
You must contact all your previous institutions and have all official transcripts sent directly to the Graduate College. If you were an RU undergraduate, this will be accessed internally, and you do not have to request it from the registrar.
Is there a minimum GPA requirement to apply?
We prefer a 2.75 or above. There are many factors that we consider for admission into the RU MBA Program and all application materials are reviewed to determine admission. There are situations in which a strong application package could offset a cumulative GPA that is slightly below the required 2.75. Exceptions will be handled on a case by case basis. Please see the Application Requirements for more details.
What is the average GPA of accepted students?
Please see this year’s MBA dashboard for this and more detailed information about this year’s students.
Financing your MBA
What is the estimated cost for one year at RU?
Please see financial aid website:
http://finaid.asp.radford.edu/grfs99.html
What are some options for financing my RU education?
Please see financial aid website: http://finaid.asp.radford.edu/grprog.html
Cost, Financial Aid, Scholarships and Graduate Assistantships:
http://stuacct.asp.radford.edu/acad_fees/costs.aspx
http://www.giveto.radford.edu/textsite/scholarstxt.html
http://gradcollege.asp.radford.edu/assistantships.html
Academic Environment:
Should I expect a more collaborative or competitive environment?
A more collaborative environment. Our curriculum is designed to encourage teamwork and opportunities to develop individual and group skills, as well as cultivating relationships between students and graduate faculty.
Is it possible to cross register with other universities?
No. We prefer to have course work completed through Radford University. However, it is possible to transfer up to 12 approved credits into the RU MBA program from another institution.
How is the curriculum structured?
Both RU MBA programs are 36 credit hours and offer an international focus through our elective offerings. However, we also encourage our students to use their 12 elective credits to tailor their MBA to their individual career interests. Please see tailoring the mba for more information.
How long will it take for me to complete my MBA Degree?
All students have six years from the date of their first course to complete their graduate degree at RU.
Full-time students can expect to complete their degree in as few as 16 months. Full-time MBA students generally enroll 12 credits per semester, though some full-time students do only enroll in nine credit hours/semester.
· Professional MBA students who take two classes a semester can complete their degree in two years taking classes all year-round (six credits each in fall, spring and summer for two years). Working professionals generally take 1 or 2 courses a semester. The RU PMBA program strives to work with each PMBA student and their individual schedule needs. Please contact the RU MBA office to design a Program of Study that is right for you.
Student Life
What are the extracurricular activities available?
Radford University’s MBA program offers a professional development brown bag series on Fridays throughout the year, relevant speakers series’, and an MBA Student Association. Students are also invited to join in the numerous groups on campus. Additionally, we welcome and support individuals who are interested in bringing new ideas and activities to our MBA students in either location.
What are my transportation options?
Tartan Transit (RU Bus), car. Most students who do not live within walking distance choose to drive. Parking permit are available http://parking.asp.radford.edu/Information/Permits.htm.
Events and Networking Opportunities
What social opportunities does Radford offer?
MBASA offers a variety of events and networking, including but not limited to monthly socials, an annual golf tournament, and community service. The RU MBA program also provides Brown Bag lunches that offer valuable information. Additionally, the College of Business will bring in speakers throughout the year to both Roanoke and Radford locations.
How can I sign up for a campus tour?
Please contact the graduate college for setting up a tour.
How can I sign up for a classroom visit and is there a limit to how many I can attend?
Contact the MBA office at rumba@radford.edu or 831-6905, and we will work with you and the faculty to find an available class.
What events are held for accepted students?
An RU MBA orientation program is provided in August just prior to the beginning of the Fall semester. Contact the RU MBA office for this year’s dates.
As a student, will I have the opportunity to network with alumni through organized events?
Yes. Each year, we are building stronger connections with our alumni community and developing new opportunities for on-going interaction.
