FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
I’m not sure an MBA is right for me. How can I find out?
The MBA program at Rockford University is the only program in the area to offer students the option of taking up to four graduate classes and ALL prerequisite courses before formally enrolling in the program. Take a class and see if you like it! Note: To be eligible for financial aid you must be admitted.
Is earning an MBA at Rockford University more expensive than other institutions?
The cost is surprisingly cost competitive with other MBA programs, both locally and nationally. Public and not-for-profit employees serving the Rock River Valley receive a significant discount on tuition because most not-for-profits are unable to offer the same advantage of tuition reimbursement. Part-time student grants are available for students who are paying tuition out of their own pocket. In addition, Rockford University offers deferred payment for students whose employers are reimbursing them for classes.
How can an MBA from Rockford University help me in my career?
The benefits of earning an MBA are numerous. Rockford University MBA graduates often earn promotions and pay raises faster than if they hadn’t.
I wasn’t a business major in college. Do I need to take any classes before enrolling?
There are 3 prerequisite courses that may need to be taken if they were not needed for your bachelor’s degree. If you need to take any of these courses, it is advised that you take them early in the program. Prerequisites needed are: accounting, finance, and economics. These courses can be taken at Rockford University within the MBA program, but do not count towards your 36 MBA credit hours and must be taken prior to graduating. You may take a proficiency exam if you feel you have gained the knowledge of a particular prerequisite. The cost is $50 per exam. Contact the Office of Adult & Graduate Admission at 815-226-4040 for a transcript evaluation and for information on the proficiency exam.
I have a busy schedule. How often do MBA classes meet?
The MBA program is designed for the working adult. Classes are set up around normal daytime business hours. Classes are offered evenings once a week, online, and Saturday mornings.
Can I just take a few courses that interest me and not get the MBA degree?
Yes you can. You can take up to four courses to gain needed knowledge. Keep in mind you will not be eligible for financial aid without being admitted to the MBA program. Our Graduate Certificate Program may be right for you. It is comprised of five of our core MBA courses. Each class is designed to build and improve upon your basic business skills.
You can also seek a certificates in Healthcare Administration, Finance, and Project Management.
How do I know if my undergraduate work meets the prerequisites for the classes?
Have a copy of your undergraduate transcript sent to the Office of Admission for an evaluation. Generally speaking, if you had one undergraduate accounting course from an accredited institution, you have met that prerequisite. One undergraduate finance course usually satisfies the finance prerequisite. One undergraduate economics course usually satisfies the economics prerequisite.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program can be completed as quickly as 1 year and as long as five years.
What are my next steps?
Apply to the program! It’s simple, start working on the admission requirements.
What are courses like?
Most courses are a combination of lecture, individual and group presentations. Group projects and papers which are applied to the course material and work world.
How soon can I start?
We have a rolling admission and courses are 8 weeks long. This allows new students to enter the MBA program at the start of each 8 week session.
Is the Rockford University MBA program accredited?
Yes. Rockford University is accredited both by the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities (NCA) and the International Association of Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).
The Higher Learning Commission
North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 North LaSalle St., Ste. 2400
Chicago IL 60602-2504
Phone: 800-621-7440
https://www.hlcommission.org/
International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education
P.O. Box 25217
Overland Park, KS 66225
Phone: 913-631-3009
E-mail: iacbe@grapevine.net
www.iacbe.org
I’ve heard that some MBA programs are VERY theoretical and others are all application without much theory. Where does the Rockford University fit?
Rockford University joins the theoretical with the applied. Our philosophy is to provide practical education with the foundation of theory so that students know how to handle current situations, but also have the tools to think and reason out new situations they will encounter throughout their careers.
Office of Admission
Johnson Center
5050 E. State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
815-226-4050
Admissions@rockford.eduHours:
Mon-Fri - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
After hour appointments available by request
REGISTER NOW
Register now and take up to four classes before officially applying to one of our graduate programs.