SMSU Offering New Accelerated MBA Programs

Published Friday, December 27, 2024

Dr. Heather Rickgarn, right, congratulates a student at commencement. She is one of the faculty members teaching in the Accelerated MBA Programs

Southwest Minnesota State University is offering an exciting opportunity for ambitious students through its Accelerated MBA Program and the innovative Accelerated BS to MBA (B2MBA) Program in the North Star Mutual School of Business. Designed for those looking to fast-track their careers, these programs are tailored to provide a high-quality business education in an accelerated time frame, allowing students to achieve their MBA goals more quickly than traditional pathways.

SMSU Accelerated MBA Program

The Accelerated MBA Program at SMSU is a high-intensity graduate program that allows students to earn their Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in just one year. With this program, students can achieve the same qualifications as the traditional two-year MBA but at an accelerated pace. The program is comprised of 36 credits over an academic year with 15 credits in fall, 15 credits in spring, and 6 credits over the summer term. Twenty-four credits make up the MBA core to provide students with a strong business foundation, with 12 credits dedicated to an emphasis area in general management, human resources, healthcare administration, marketing, or organizational leadership.

SMSU Accelerated BS to MBA Program (B2MBA)

For high-achieving undergraduate students, SMSU also offers the B2MBA Program, which allows students to earn both their Bachelor’s degree and MBA in as little as four years. This program is perfect for students who are determined to accelerate their academic journey and enter the workforce with a competitive edge.

Students will follow a rigorous yet rewarding academic schedule, with the majority of their coursework in the first three years focused on traditional undergraduate coursework. In addition to the traditional undergraduate coursework, B2MBA students will take courses that count toward both their undergraduate and graduate degrees, streamlining the path to a Master of Business Administration. The curriculum is designed to ensure students are equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for leadership roles in business.

Why Choose SMSU’s Accelerated MBA Programs?

Speed to Market: Completing the MBA in one year (Accelerated MBA) or in just four years (B2MBA) puts graduates ahead of the competition in the fast-paced business world.
Quality Curriculum: The North Star Mutual School of Business offers a robust and comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the demands of modern business leadership. With flexible emphasis areas, students can tailor the program to match their career aspirations.
Industry-Relevant Skills: Whether it’s leadership, marketing, healthcare, or human resources, SMSU’s MBA program prepares students with the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s business environment.
Supportive Faculty & Resources: Students benefit from the expertise of a dedicated faculty and the extensive resources available at SMSU, including career services, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.
Affordable & Flexible: With financial aid options and the ability to complete the MBA faster than traditional programs, SMSU’s accelerated pathways are designed to provide both a high-quality and flexible education.

“Both the Accelerated MBA and the B2MBA programs are highly selective, which means that the students who choose these paths are typically very driven and passionate about their education. As faculty, we have the opportunity to work closely with these motivated individuals, helping them refine their business acumen and leadership potential,” said Dr. Heather Rickgarn, Associate Professor of Management. “I believe these programs position our students for long-term career success and are a great way to gain a competitive edge in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.”

SMSU’s Accelerated MBA Program and Accelerated BS to MBA Program (B2MBA) represent a fantastic opportunity for students interested in a Master of Business Administration. The programs provide an efficient and affordable path to academic and professional success. For more information, visit the North Star Mutual School of Business at www.SMSU.edu/go/business !