Why should I choose UALR’s MBA program?
Our program is one of the most contemporary MBA programs in the country. The program is based on extensive research on what business leaders say they want in an MBA graduate. We help students develop not only the knowledge and skills need to be successful, but also the behavioral competencies desired of today’s business professionals.
How do I apply?
All applications for admission are submitted online. You must request official copies of all your college/university transcripts be sent to:
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Ottenheimer Library, Ste 501
2801 South University Avenue
Little Rock, Arkansas 72204-1099
Your GMAT or GRE score and TOEFL or IELTS score (international students only) must also be submitted.
In compliance with Arkansas state law, UALR requires all students born after January 1, 1957 to provide proof of two (2) MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella) vaccines. These vaccines must have been administered after the first birthday and after January 1, 1968. Proof of the vaccines will be accepted as compliant to the immunization requirements and 2 MMRs will not be required. More information and the required forms can be found https://ualr.edu/health/index.php/home/services/immunizations/.
Where can I get information on the GMAT?
mba.com is the complete source for the GMAT exam where you can learn more about the exam, find a test location, register, take practices tests, and find study materials.
Where can I get information on the GRE?
What if I have a prior Master’s degree?
The MBA program coordinator may waive the GMAT requirement for applicants who hold a graduate degree or who are currently enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program with equivalent standards. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis. Evidence of entry requirements for prior graduate program may be required. Evidence of ability to perform successfully in quantitatively-based courses will be a deciding factor.
Is there an application fee?
Yes; the application fee is $40.
Are letters of recommendation required?
No.
Are there a limited number of students you accept in a semester?
There is no limit to the number of students we accept into our evening MBA program. The Weekend MBA program is limited to 25 each semester.
When will I know if my application was accepted or denied?
It varies, but usually one to two weeks. When the Graduate School has received all requested credentials, they will forward the application to the College of Business for admission decision; the Graduate School will send a courtesy email of the decision followed by a letter.
How long will it take me to complete the program?
For the evening program, you may choose to pursue your MBA full-time or part-time so the time to completion varies by student. Carrying a full-time load will allow you to complete the program in 18-24 months. Pursuing the program part-time will take 2½ to 6 years. (The program must be completed within six years of your admission date.)
The weekend program takes approximately 2½ years to complete.
Do I need to be advised every semester?
Yes. The newly designed program makes advising more important than ever. Failure to take the courses your adviser recommends may result in slower progress through the program. Students cannot register for courses in any given semester until they have been advised and their advising hold lifted. Getting advised early will help ensure that you get the classes you need when your need them.
How much will the MBA program cost me?
You can get an estimate of tuition and fees by using the online tuition estimator. Select graduate school estimated costs and use the drop down box for Business when entering credit hours. The total number of credit hours cannot all be entered at the same time. Enter the maximum hours allowed, write down the total and then enter the remaining hours. Add the two figures to get the program’s total estimated cost. This amount will vary depending whether you choose to take the three one-hour foundation courses and whether you are required or choose to take the one-hour career management course. Total hours range from 32 to 36. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
The Weekend MBA is $25,000 all-inclusive.
My degree is not in business, will my application still be competitive?
UALR welcomes and encourages applicants with undergraduate degrees from all majors. We look for students with diverse educational backgrounds and work experience.
When and where do classes meet?
For the evening program, each class meets one night per week, Monday through Thursday, 6:00 – 8:40 pm. All class meetings are held on campus in the Reynolds building at the corner of S. University Ave. and 28th Street.
Weekend MBA classes meet on campus in the Reynolds one Saturday a month.
Can I take classes online?
Currently, our MBA program is primarily face-to-face. However, we do offer a limited number of courses, especially electives, online.
Does the MBA program accept transfer credit?
Students may transfer a maximum of 6 credit hours. These courses must have been completed with a B or better within 5 years prior to enrollment at UALR as part of a graduate degree-seeking program from an AACSB-accredited university. Credit hours earned as part of a completed graduate degree are not eligible for use as transfer credits. Transfer credit is not part of the admissions process and requests for consideration of transfer credit will be reviewed by the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies after a student has been admitted to the program.
Can I take MBA electives outside the COB?
Yes, courses may be taken outside the COB. However, approval from your adviser is required.
When does the MBA program enroll? When should I apply?
The evening MBA program enrolls in the fall, spring, and summer. The weekend program enrolls fall only.
Am I required to submit the TOEFL or IELTS?
For applicants whose native language is not English, we require the TOEFL or the IELTS. The minimum acceptable score on the exams are 79 for the TOEFL or 6.5 for the IELTS. Students who have studied full-time for two or more years at a college or university where English is the language of instruction located in a country where English is the native language may be exempt from the TOEFL or the IELTS.
Is financial aid available?
Yes; loans are available. Students should contact the office and Financial Aid and Scholarships directly to learn about the financial aid process. A limited number of graduate assistantships are also available.
What is the process for applying to be a graduate assistant?
To apply for a position in the College of Business, submit a résumé and cover letter to mbaadvising@ualr.edu. For positions outside the College of Business, contact the Graduate School.
Are there any scholarships available?
Yes, there are scholarships available to MBA students although none are targeted specifically to MBA students. The College of Business accepts and awards available scholarships every spring. Additional scholarships may be available through the Financial Aid and Scholarships office. International students may be eligible for a waiver of the out-of-state portion of tuition. More information can be found on the International Services web page.
What career services are offered to UALR MBA students?
The College of Business Center for Student and Career Services partners with MBA students to build lifelong foundational skills for establishing and managing career objectives. Further, all MBA students are offered a one-hour course entitled Managing Your Career which empowers students with the knowledge and tools to effectively prepare for the job search process and manage their own careers. The Center and the course together offer career development and placement support. Students are also afforded networking opportunities through special events.
Do I have to take classes each semester?
Evening students do not have to take classes every semester. However, if you plan to take a semester off, please notify your advisor. Just note, the program must be completed within six years of admission.
The weekend program is a cohort-based, lock-step program. Once you start, you will progress through the program on a pre-determined schedule with the same cohort of students.
Can I take MBA classes without be admitted to the program?
Only students admitted to a graduate business program are allowed to take MBA courses. This may include other graduate degree or certificate programs in addition to the MBA program.
