MBA Frequently Asked Questions
For further information, contact the Graduate Business Programs office at (317)788-3340.
What type of programs do you offer?
We offer a self-paced evening program on our campus. Each class meets one night per week. This program is from 36 to 45 credit hours in length depending on how many foundation courses can be waived. Course waivers are based on previous coursework and are given at the discretion of the MBA director. Optional concentrations are offered in Finance, Global Supply Chain Management, Organizational Leadership, Technology Management, and Marketing.
We offer a Saturday Accelerated Executive MBA. This cohort program starts once or twice a year. By taking two classes each term, the program can be completed in less than two years. Concentrations are not available in this program but can be obtained by taking additional classes after graduation.
We offer several evening off-campus cohort groups in areas such as Carmel and Fishers. Additional sites are also available. Call for information on specific locations.
We can offer a customized program at your place of employment. Call for details.
What time are classes held?
Evening classes meet one night each week from 5:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Monday to Thursday.
Executive MBA classes meet from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
How long will it take to get my MBA?
The part-time on campus evening program will take from two to five years to complete, depending on the number of courses required and the number of classes taken each term. Full-time students can finish more quickly.
The Saturday Executive program will take less than two years to complete. Off-campus cohorts will take approximately 26 months to complete.
How much does tuition cost?
Tuition for the evening program and all off-campus cohort programs is $440 per credit hour (as of August 2009). This rate increases slightly each fall. There are no lab fees, student fees, or parking fees.
Tuition for the Saturday Executive program is $25,480 (as of August 2008), which includes books and meals. Tuition payments are usually made in four equal installments over the length of the program. This rate increases slightly in the fall of each year.
How do I apply?
You can apply online by visiting the "Application Page" or fill out a paper application. You do not need to submit all of the application documentation in order to start the application process.
What are the application deadlines?
There are no application deadlines. The UIndy MBA program operates on rolling admissions. This means applications are accepted throughout the year. Admission is based on program vacancies at the time of application.
When can I enter the program?
The on-campus evening program runs on a regular semester schedule, with classes starting in August, January, or May.
The Saturday Executive program usually starts in the fall; sometimes another group starts in the spring.
Call for details about start dates for off-campus cohort programs.
Where are you located?
Our main campus is located less than 10 minutes south of downtown and less than 30 minutes from most of the metro area. A map can be viewed at at our Maps and Directions page.
What is the difference between ACBSP and AACSB accreditation?
The ACBSP (Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs) accredits institutions whose primary focus is teaching. The AACSB accredits institutions with a research focus. Both are recognized worldwide. We are accredited by ACBSP and a member of AACSB.
Do I have to take the GMAT?
Our ACBSP accreditation requires a GMAT from each applicant. (If you are considering a number of programs, you can usually tell which are accredited by whether or not they require a GMAT.) However, if you already have a graduate degree or admissions, we may be able to waive the GMAT requirement.
Who should write the letters of recommendation?
Letters of recommendation do not have to be written on the forms provided. They may originate from your supervisors, colleagues, peers, or former college professors.
What are the requirements for international students?
In addition to the normal application documentation, international students attending on a student visa must have all transcripts evaluated by a service such as WES for equivalency determination. International students must demonstrate English proficiency by passing the TOEFL with a 550 written, 213 computer-based, or 80 Internet-based test score. To apply for the student visa, a Statement of Financial Support and a photocopy of the student's passport are required. Students here on a visa must take nine credit hours each term to fulfill the full time requirement.
What happens if I have to miss a class?
Our programs are designed for working adults. Our instructors understand that most of their students have outside work and family responsibilities. If you need to miss a class, inform your instructor as early as possible to plan for makeup assignments. If you travel a lot in your job, you may find that our Saturday Executive program works best for you.
How is the program ranked?
Rankings are almost always done for schools with full-time residential MBA programs. Most ranking claims you see are based on a full-time program offered within a school's campus system. The University of Indianapolis has been rated “Top Tier in its class” by U.S. News & World Report. We were also the first MBA program in the country recognized under the Baldrige Quality Standard. Our MBA was the first offered in Indianapolis, and our Saturday Executive MBA was the first offered in the state of Indiana. We revise the curriculum each year to reflect those skills most in demand by local businesses.
How does this program compare to those of other schools?
Every school's focus is different. You should look for the school that best fits your needs. First, be sure the school is accredited by either the ACBSP or the AACSB. Some things to consider when selecting a school: Are the class times and location convenient? Are the classes large or small? Is most of the work done individually or in groups? At the University of Indianapolis, we believe our niche is in applying classroom theory to real-world applications. Grading is based primarily on individual effort. Our normal average class size is approximately 18 students.
Do you have career placement services?
We have a Career Services office. Since most of our students are already working full time, we find that classmates and faculty usually provide the best networking when a student is looking for employment. Job openings often are received by the school and distributed to students.
My undergraduate degree is not in business. Can I still attend?
Fewer than 35 percent of our students have an undergraduate degree in Business. Our foundation courses are designed to bring everyone up to the same level of preparation for the core and elective courses. Some of our best graduates come from a liberal arts background.
What is the average age of people in the program?
An average does not really paint the entire picture. The range of ages in our program is from the early 20s to the early 60s. There are many mid-career students. The age distribution of our students has a peak around 30 and another around 40.
How long has your program been in existence?
The University of Indianapolis MBA program and Executive MBA program have been in existence since 1973.
For further information, contact the Graduate Business Programs office at (317)788-3340.