FAQ

Do I get the same MBA degree as in the Full-Time MBA Program?
Yes. Upon completion of the program you will be awarded a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Georgia, the same degree received by graduates of the full-time program.

How much time is required to maintain progress through the program?
The workload varies considerably, both across students and over time. A good estimate of the amount of time you need to dedicate to coursework outside of class is approximately 15 hours per week.

How does the distance learning portion of the program work?
Fully half of the content covered in the program is delivered using Internet-based teaching tools. These tools provide structure for independent learning while facilitating interaction between participants and faculty. Distance learning activities include electronic presentations, threaded group discussions, and synchronous chats.

What is the purpose of the international residency?
The international residency is meant to expose participants to the business challenges and opportunities in selected countries. The program incorporates economic, political, social, cultural, and organization issues through a mix of lectures, guest speakers, site visits, and cultural excursions.

How are the destinations for the trip determined?
Input is solicited from the group about attractive destinations to include in the trip. A final decision is made according to many factors, including logistical complexity, access to local commercial and academic resources, and availability of cultural amenities.

What is the role of the personal leadership coach?
At the beginning of the program, your personal leadership coach will help you gain insight into your current leadership strengths and weaknesses by helping you interpret your 360 degree feedback and assessment. You and your coach will then develop an action plan for progressing towards your leadership goals. Many participants interacts with their coaches regularly to, e.g., discuss issues and challenges they face at work. Additional coaching sessions are scheduled for the second Athens residency (Module 5), where you and your coach will evaluate the progress you've made in implementing your action plan, and determine what modifications to the plan are required given the current situation.

How much group work is there in the program?
Group work varies course by course, but on average constitutes approximately 50% of the work.

How are study groups formed?
Participants are assigned to study groups by the program administration. The objective is to create diversity of backgrounds, skills, perspectives and interests within each group, while simultaneously making the potential of all of the groups equally high.

Do you keep the same groups throughout the program?
No. The program administration will create new study groups or teams at various intervals during the program, typically a total of two to three unique group creations.

How are admissions decisions made?
Admission to the Terry Executive MBA program is highly selective. In general, a bachelor's degree in any discipline from an accredited institution of higher learning and the GMAT are required. GMAT waivers may be considered on a case-by-case basis. A minimum of five years of relevant, full-time work experience and an admissions interview are also required.

In addition, several general issues are considered in evaluating your qualifications.

• Do you have the perspective, the intellectual capacity, and the drive and discipline to successfully complete all program requirements?
• Will the program content add significant value, given your current position in the organization and your potential for future growth?
• Will your experience and expertise add to the educational experience of other participants in the program, and are you motivated to share these strengths with others?

As such, your qualifications for the programs are determined by a combination of your academic and professional accomplishments, and by an assessment of both how the program will contribute to your professional development, and how you will contribute to the group with whom you share the program.

Early application is encouraged, as space in the program is limited. Applications will be processed in the order received, and the program will typically advise you of an admissions decision within four weeks of receiving all of the participants' application material. The application deadline is June 30.

How are GMAT waivers granted?
Applicants should contact the Admissions Director with requests for GMAT waivers. Applicants who request an evaluation for a GMAT waiver must meet specific criteria established by the UGA Graduate School. Applicants meeting any one of the criteria are not guaranteed a waiver to the GMAT requirement, but rather qualify for consideration for the waiver. In general, consideration for waivers is based on professional accomplishments and previous academic achievement. For more information regarding the GMAT waiver policy, please contact our office directly.

Must I have an undergraduate degree to qualify for the program?
The program is able to accept a maximum of two candidates per entry class who do not possess an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, provided that the candidates are especially qualified. The GMAT is required and a waiver is not an option for candidates who do not possess an undergraduate degree.

Is financial aid available?
More than two-thirds of Executive MBA students take advantage of federal and/or private loan programs. The University of Georgia Office of Student Financial Aid is equipped to provide up-to-date information on financial assistance available to Executive MBA students via federal loan programs. Please visit the department website or call 706-542-6147. In addition to UGA's Office of Student Financial Aid, the Official GMAT Web Site features an array of information regarding financing your MBA.

The first step to apply for federal loans is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) form, available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. You may complete this form as soon as you apply to the program, but eligibility will be determined only after you have been accepted by the University of Georgia Graduate School. Please note that federal loans are available to U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents only.

Are scholarships available?
The Executive MBA Program offers a limited number of scholarship awards for select candidates. The number of awards, scholarship funding and criteria may vary from year to year, and may include awards for candidates employed in the non-profit or government sector, merit based (career accomplishments and academic achievements) and awards based on need. Individuals interested in need-based awards must complete the FASFA form. A complete application is required for candidates to be eligible for award consideration. Awards selection is competitive and preference will be given to early applicants. For award application requirements, please contact our office.