SBA Graduate Programs FAQs
General
Post Master's Certificate
General
What time are the classes?
Classes are held during the week Monday through Thursday starting at 6:30 p.m. and ending at 9:20 p.m. Some classes may also be held on Saturday morning.
How long are the semesters?
The Fall and Winter semesters are 15 weeks long (class would meet one night a week).
How many classes am I required to take each semester?
There is no set number of classes required for each semester.
Can I find out what my program would look like before applying to OU?
If you would like to know what your program would look like before applying, a tentative Plan of Work (POW) can be prepared for you. You can fax or mail a copy of your transcripts from all institutions of higher learning to the Office of Graduate Business Programs with a cover memo, which should include the following information:
- The Program of Interest
- Where you would like to take any prerequisite work that may be required (for OU or local institutions we usually can provide course numbers)
- How you want the POW returned to you (fax or mail)
- Your phone number (in case of questions and also we will call before faxing)
- Your fax number or mailing address as appropriate
How long do I have to complete a masters program?
Students are required to complete master's degree requirements within 6 years.
Should I take a prep course for the GMAT?
Preparation for the GMAT is essential. Either a prep course or personal, at-home preparation is strongly recommended.
When should I take the GMAT?
The GMAT should be taken at least one month before the application deadline as it takes 10 working days for the scores to reach the university after taking the test.
Can I take a graduate class prior to taking the GMAT?
If a student has exceptional credentials and permission from the Coordinator of Graduate Business Programs he/she may be allowed to have special graduate status and take graduate classes for ONE semester only. This status does not imply or preclude admission to the program. The student will still be required to complete the whole application process including submission of GMAT scores for full admission into the program.
As a graduate student, what financial aid might I be qualified to receive?
If you show eligibility for need-based assistance, based on your FAFSA application, you may receive need-based loans or college work-study. If you do not have need-based eligibility, you may apply for non-need-based loans or regular student employment. Other financial assistance may be available through graduate assistantships. Graduate assistantships are offered through the academic departments. Contact your department chair for more information.
Are graduate assistantship positions available?
The School of Business Administration awards graduate assistantships each academic year, on a competitive basis, to full-time students. Assistantships include an academic year stipend and an award of 18 credits of tuition and accompanying fees. In return, graduate assistants work 20 hours per week assisting one or more faculty members in their research efforts. Use the SBA Graduate Assistantship application form to apply for a graduate assistantship.
Post Master's Certificate
Do I need to take the GMAT to apply for the Post Master Certificate Program?
The GMAT is not required for PMC students.
What are the admission requirements?
*Post-Master Certificates in a Specialized Area of Business:
Must hold an MBA or the equivalent of an MBA. Applicants who do not hold an MBA degree may have their degrees evaluated by the Office of Graduate Business Programs to determine eligibility for admission. The applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in their graduate business degree.
*Post-Master Certificate in General Management:
Must hold a non-business masters degree. Applicants should have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better in their Master's degree. The applicant must also have completed a college course in calculus and a college course in statistics to be eligible for the program.
Can I earn more than one certificate?
You may earn as many certificates as you want. However, if you would like your first certificate granted to you before completing your second, you will need to file the application for degree with the Registrar indicating your certificate completed. Then you will need to reapply to the program through the Office of Graduate Study, as once a student received a certificate their file becomes inactive.