Business Administration, MBA

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a professional graduate degree for individuals who aspire to positions of significant managerial and leadership responsibilities in organizations. The goals of the degree are 1) to introduce students to contemporary managerial theory and practice, 2) to strengthen analysis, problem solving, and leadership skills, and 3) to provide a basis for lifelong growth and development as professional managers.

Consistent with the career aspirations of our students, the MBA curriculum focuses on four objectives. Students shall:

1. Understand key concepts and contemporary management theory and practice in the functional areas of business, including accounting, finance, information systems, marketing, operations management, organizational behavior, and research methods.
2. Understand the importance and demonstrate the use of cross-functional approaches to solving organizational problems.
3. Demonstrate disciplined managerial skills, including analysis, planning, and implementation, while considering the impacts of technology, globalization, emerging markets, and diversity in organizations.
4. Strengthen leadership potential, including, for example critical thinking, decision-making, teamwork, and communication skills.

In addition to completing the UIS application for graduate study, applicants are expected to submit official transcripts from every college or university attended, a resume, a goals essay, and three references using the reference form available below. Applicants must also qualify with a GMAT or substantial managerial experience.

• Download the Reference Form

The goals essay should be a single-spaced essay of no more than two pages, outlining the applicant’s reasons for considering the degree, how the M.B.A. degree fits in with his/her personal objectives, and short- and long-term goals, as well as any other information that demonstrates the applicant’s potential for successful completion of the degree.

Submit supplementary application materials (resume, goals essay, and three references) to:

MBA Admissions Committee
University Hall, Room 4049
University of Illinois at Springfield
One University Plaza - MS 4049
Springfield, Illinois 62703-5407

To be eligible for full admission to the master of business administration program applicants must have earned a baccalaureate degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.50 on a 4.00 scale.

See the MBA Program website for additional information.