MBA
Full-Time MBA Program: Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know which Katz MBA program is best for me?
The one-year full-time MBA program:
The one-year MBA format is designed for self-directed individuals who want to maximize ROI by minimizing time out of the workplace. Students in the one-year program generally know what they want to study, do not feel that they necessarily need an internship, and have clear professional reasons for pursuing an MBA.
The two-year full-time MBA program:
The two-year MBA program is designed for students who want to develop their professional focus; who require space and time to explore finance, information systems, marketing, or operations; and who want a corresponding internship to confirm and advance their focus. In short, the two-year framework gives students time to digest academic choices. In addition, the individualized coaching and mentoring component supports professional growth and development.
2. How does the competency-based coaching component work?
For the full-time MBA program, our goal is to enhance Katz MBA students’ managerial competencies through assessment and workshops, and by partnering each student with an executive coach. The fundamental component of this program is a systematic and deliberate approach to hone students' “soft” skills within a management context. A key characteristic of this program is an intensive 360-degree evaluation process—the creation of an individualized developmental plan based on this evaluation designed to produce a measurable outcome through skill-building workshops and regular individual coaching sessions. The ultimate goal is to improve critical skills and attributes for each participating student.
The competency-based coaching component includes feedback from a student’s pre-program job experiences, feedback from fellow students during first-year courses, faculty input, reports from the student’s internship experience, and any relevant extracurricular activities. Additionally, students will participate in an assessment center that provides a comprehensive evaluation of specified managerial competencies. Prior to the development feedback session with the student, the executive coach will analyze all relevant data for each student. Together, the executive coach and student will discuss and further analyze these inputs and translate them into an action plan for the second year. The plan identifies activities and interactions to improve critical skills and attributes identified in the first-year process.
3. How can I find out more about joining or starting a club at the Katz School?
The Katz School has a wide range of student clubs. Each club holds an organizational meeting during the first term of study. All students interested in joining a club or running for office should attend this meeting. In order to start a new club, matriculating students should contact Cathy Vargo, assistant dean, MBA programs. Learn more about student clubs and organizations.
4. How does the Katz School support its students who aspire to be entrepreneurs?
Many of our full-time faculty are very interested in the entrepreneurial endeavors of our students and are eager to support related projects and activities, including a student club called the Entrepreneur’s Society. In addition, the University of Pittsburgh is home to several professional organizations that foster small business and entrepreneurial interests.
5. Are there special activities for international students and/or their spouses?
Each year, the Katz School hosts a two-day orientation program for incoming international students. Spouses are invited to attend several social activities as part of this orientation program. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Council for International Visitors, part of the University of Pittsburgh, helps spouses of international students network with each other and hosts a wide range of activities in and outside the Pittsburgh area.
6. What is the difference between the one-year MBA and the two-year MBA with regard to elective choices?
The Katz School offers more than 80 elective courses in accounting, finance, information systems, marketing, operations, organizational behavior/human resources management, and strategy. One-year students can take up to 21 elective credits as part of the 48 credits required to complete the MBA degree. Two-year students can take up to 30 elective credits as part of the 57 credits required to complete the MBA degree.
7. How will I register for classes?
The Student Services Office, located at 301 Mervis Hall, schedules registration. Prior to registration students receive materials regarding course offerings and the registration process. All students are encouraged to meet with their graduate advisor prior to registration to review their course schedule.
8. What are some options available to full-time students with regard to healthcare insurance?
Students can purchase health insurance through the following private vendors:
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
1-800-876-7639
Please call or visit the Web site for current rates.
University Health Plans
15 Broad Street
Boston, MA 02109
1-800-437-6448, ext. 14 (contact: Steve Grabowski)
Fax: 617-723-2120
info@univhealthplans.com
9. What are the recommended methods for transportation?
With a valid University of Pittsburgh identification card (issued to every incoming Katz student), students can travel the Port Authority of Allegheny County bus and light-rail system for free—all day, every day. Additionally, the University has a shuttle bus system which transports students around the campus.
10. What is the Katz School process regarding teams?
You’ll find team-based projects infused throughout the Katz MBA curriculum. Our teams go beyond a small group working together informally. These self-governing, self-regulating teams of five or six MBA students function like management consulting groups. From the beginning of your time here, you’ll be part of a team, taking part in community-building and team-building activities and friendship-building social events.