By TYLER ELLYSON
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney is modifying its Master of Business Administration program to provide more flexibility for students and create an expedited path to graduation.
Beginning in fall 2021, all core courses and many electives will be offered in an eight-week format, instead of the traditional 16-week schedule.
This change allows students to focus on fewer classes at a time, while still earning the same number of credit hours each semester. For instance, someone who normally takes two simultaneous courses over 16 weeks will now be able to complete those classes during separate eight-week sessions.
“We want to provide as much flexibility as we can for students, especially in a program where many of them are part-time,” said College of Business and Technology Dean Tim Jares. “Our MBA students are often juggling busy careers and family lives that require significant time and attention, so it’s important to offer classes that suit their schedules.”
About two-thirds of the 50 students currently pursuing an MBA are working professionals, according to program director Dustin Favinger.
The switch to condensed courses also gives ambitious MBA students an opportunity to complete the program in a shorter time frame.
“If a student is motivated and has the time to dedicate, the option to accelerate their graduation is there for them,” Favinger said.
Favinger believes the new class format will boost student retention and graduation rates, as well as increase enrollment in the MBA program, which has grown by 25% over the past five years. Because most courses will only last eight weeks, students can join the program mid-semester.
“By creating an additional starting point each semester, we can add new application deadlines and get students into the program earlier,” Favinger said.
Upcoming application deadlines are April 10 for summer courses and July 10 for fall courses.
UNK’s MBA degree is designed as a blended program. Courses are offered in-person and through synchronous instruction via Zoom, along with content delivered entirely online.
The program, which is accredited by AACSB International, includes accounting, generalist, human resources and marketing tracks. Students complete six core courses (18 credit hours) and 15 hours of electives.
“It really doesn’t matter what profession you’re in. Our MBA degree is perfect for both the entrepreneur and the intrapreneur – anyone looking to gain the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage an organization or business,” Favinger said.
For more information on UNK’s MBA program, contact Favinger at 308-865-8066 or favingerdd@unk.edu.
