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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When can I start the MBA program?
Students typically start in August and January, but it is possible to begin at terms starting in October, March and June.
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How long does it take to complete the degree?
The MBA program can be completed in two years. To do so, you must take two courses in at least two terms, or take advantage of intersession courses. Some students complete the program in less than two years by taking two courses per term, whenever possible.
However, the average students takes about 2.3 years to complete the program.
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How often are courses offered?
Generally, required courses are offered at least twice a year and sometimes more often,
but schedules should be planned carefully. At least one elective is offered per term
with three or four generally offered during the summer term.
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How long before starting the program do I need to apply?
It is recommended that you start the process 4-6 weeks prior to the start of the semester.
Generally the most time intensive part of the application process is receiving transcripts from all colleges or universities you attended.
Please allow up to three weeks for USM to receive the transcripts from the time you submit your request. You must also fill out an application form, and schedule an interview with the program coordinator. Additionally, if you need financial aid, allow 2-4 weeks for that process to be completed. You also need to order your book on line, and complete the pre-assignment before the first night of
It is recommended that you start the process 4-6 weeks prior to the start of the semester.
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If I didn't allow 4-6 weeks to complete the application process, can I still start the program?
It depends. It is possible to be conditionally admitted or to get you enrolled in the next term, but such status does not allow you to qualify for financial aid. If you are paying the tuition yourself or if you receive tuition reimbursement from your employer and they have no restrictions about your "student status" (verify their policy with them), then you get in the class. Otherwise, we recommend that
you talk to us to see if there is another way to meet the transcript requirement temporarily, until the certified transcript arrives.
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It has been more than 10 years since I last went to school. Do you think that I can still do the work?
If you could do it then, we would expect that you can still do it now. However, it is possible that your study skills may have deteriorated a bit since you were last in college. So, at least in the beginning, it might be necessary for you to devote more time than you used to for class preparation, projects and homework. While the last minute is frequently a strong motivator, the depth and complexity of graduate level assignments and the nature of group work reduces the effectiveness of undergraduate procrastination.
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My GPA from college was not very good.
Can I still be admitted to this program?
If your GPA is 2.75 or higher, you are eligible to be admitted as a regular student.
If your GPA is a 2.0 through 2.74, then you may be admitted as a student on probation status.
Consultation with your program coordinator and the approval of the graduate dean is required.
Removal of the probationary status requires that you receive at least a
B in your first two 3-hour classes.
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I understand the cost per credit hour,
but how do I get my books and how much are they going to cost?
Generally, books cost $75-$100/term. The University has arranged for you to order your books through the MBS Direct website.
You go to their website and under the school category of "U" find University of Saint Mary. You can then proceed to check your class electronically (make sure that the letters after the course number are exact matches) and
proceed to the checkout. Students say that it generally takes two or three days to receive the books. MBS Direct will buy back most testbooks at the end of the semester and provide a return shipping label to send the books back.
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Once I have been accepted, what do I need to do next?
First, call and arrange to meet with the program coordinator or advisor to select appropriate classes. Second, visit the
Overland Park Campus to complete an enrollment form and financial arrangements (if necessary, check with your coordinator).
Third, order your books from MBS Direct. Fourth, obtain your pre-assignment from the website.
Finally, come to class on the appropriate night.
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What is a pre-assignment?
Since most classes are delivered on an accelerated 8-week basis,
it is necessary to come to the first class prepared to participate in the discussion,
having read the designated chapters, problems or other assignments.
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"The balance between theory and  real business experience is excellent."
- Nadine Schmaglowski
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"At the USM MBA program, the professors bring  real-world experiences to classroom discussions and I've been able to immediately apply what I've learned to my current job."
- Brian Wiedower
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"I appreciate the willingness of the MBA  professors at USM to be flexible and open to my experiences and the application of course material to my own life. We are learning from people that are working in the topic we are studying, which is refreshing."
- Misty Heinen
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