Tag: part-time mba (page 1 of 3)

Executive MBA vs Part Time MBA: Which Program Is Right for You?

Your choice of MBA program can redefine your career path, expand your influence, and accelerate your growth. Selecting the right fit isn’t just about earning a degree — it’s about unlocking the leadership potential that propels you forward.

Executive MBA and Part-Time MBA programs both empower working professionals, yet they serve distinct audiences with unique goals. Our Executive MBA program caters to mid- to aspiring senior-level leaders ready to refine strategic vision and elevate into C-suite roles. Part-Time MBAs — sometimes called Working Professional MBAs — support early- to mid-career talent looking to strengthen business administration fundamentals, pivot industries, or advance into management while maintaining full-time work.

At Texas McCombs, you don’t have to choose between career momentum and a Hildebrand MBA. Our Part-Time MBA options — Evening MBA, Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth and Weekend MBA at Houston — are purpose-built for ambitious professionals. Each program has the opportunity to leverage our innovative ecosystem, world-class faculty, and a community that’s driven to make a global impact.

What Is an Executive MBA?

An Executive MBA is built for accomplished professionals — typically with seven to 10 years of experience — who are ready to elevate from managing teams to steering organizations. You’re already influencing strategy; now you want a program that sharpens your decision-making, deepens your global perspective, and positions you for senior-level impact.

In the Texas McCombs Executive MBA, every course centers on strategic leadership. Faculty guide you through high-level analytics, innovation frameworks, and boardroom-level financial insights that translate immediately to your workplace. Because the cohort is composed of mid- and senior-level leaders from diverse industries, class discussions mirror the complexity of real business challenges, expanding your problem-solving lens beyond your own sector.

Leadership growth here goes beyond academics. You’ll gain access to executive coaching, targeted career resources, and a robust alumni network that opens doors to global opportunities. Graduates often step into C-suite roles, launch entrepreneurial ventures, or champion transformational initiatives within their organizations — proof that an Executive MBA is more than a credential; it’s a catalyst for senior-level influence.

Program Format and Immersions

Texas McCombs’ Executive MBA cohort meets one intensive weekend per month at Rowling Hall in Austin — an efficient schedule that respects your demanding calendar while immersing you in a tight-knit learning community. Yet the real signature of our EMBA program is six immersive experiences that weave together coursework, leadership practice, and global insight.

Each immersion aligns tightly with semester coursework, ensuring concepts move from the classroom to real-world context immediately. You’ll collaborate with classmates on consulting projects, meet high-level executives, and cultivate relationships that last well beyond graduation — an invaluable return on interaction that distinguishes our Executive MBA from other EMBA programs.

As a program option that blends rigorous academics, experiential learning, and global business exposure, the Texas McCombs Executive MBA empowers you to lead confidently in any boardroom.

What Is a Part-Time MBA?

A Part-Time — or Working Professional — MBA is crafted for early- to mid-career talent with typically two to eight years of experience and who prefer not to pause their career momentum for graduate studies. You’re juggling deadlines, leading projects, and eyeing your next promotion; this program lets you cultivate advanced business acumen without stepping away from the office.

The McCombs working professional coursework grounds you in core disciplines — finance, statistics, economics, marketing, operations — while layering leadership development and strategic management. What you learn in the classroom gets applied in the workplace right away, allowing you to show immediate value and accelerate your growth.

Team-based projects and hands-on simulations connect you with classmates from technology, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, consulting, and more. This range of professional backgrounds broadens your perspective and builds a supportive network that stretches across Texas and beyond. Many graduates secure managerial roles, pivot industries, or even launch startups.

Program Flexibility and Scheduling

Texas McCombs offers three scheduling paths designed for working professionals:

Evening MBA in Austin: Meets weekly on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 6–9 p.m., ideal if you prefer a consistent weekday routine and want to keep weekends free for family, travel, or passion projects. Located in the heart of Austin’s innovation hub, the program frequently features guest lectures from local founders and tech leaders who want to pass on business skills and proficiencies.
Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth: Held on alternating weekends, with classes offered in Uptown Dallas on Friday evenings and all day Saturday. This format is perfect for professionals across North Texas who prefer immersive, condensed learning that minimizes weekday disruptions while still providing space to learn in-person from Austin-based professors. Proximity to major corporate headquarters in the DFW metroplex enhances coursework through company presentations and real-world case studies.
Weekend MBA at Houston: Following the same alternating weekend schedule, with Friday-Saturday coursework designed to let you focus fully on business learning with peers before returning to work energized to apply new insights. Positioned in a key global business hub, the program offers unparalleled access to leaders in various industries. For example, sectors like energy, healthcare, aerospace, real estate, manufacturing, and consulting.

All three formats require full-time employment, ensuring classroom discussions mirror real-time business challenges. Faculty leverage this dynamic, encouraging you to apply frameworks immediately, gather feedback, and refine strategies before the next class session. Whether you prefer weeknight consistency or biweekly weekend sessions at our Dallas or Houston campuses, McCombs meets you where you are — without forcing you to compromise career progress.

Key Differences Between Executive MBA and Part-Time MBA

Both programs empower working professionals, yet the experience you’ll have — and the outcomes you can expect — vary in meaningful ways:

Experience Level

Executive MBA: Most EMBA students bring eight+ years of professional experience, often managing departments or divisions before entering the program.
Part-Time MBA: Candidates on average have two–eight years of experience and are preparing to move into their first managerial or senior specialist roles. It’s also common for candidates to have more than eight years of experience from a non-business field and want to gain the skills and knowledge to have a seat in the boardroom.

Career Trajectory

Executive MBA: Designed for leadership acceleration — think VP, C-suite, or entrepreneurial founder.
Part-Time MBA: Focuses on career growth, functional mastery, and optional pivots across industries or roles.

Program Intensity and Duration

Both tracks span roughly two years, but the EMBA’s once-per-month weekend format compresses coursework into high-impact sessions and immersive residencies.
Part-Time MBA spreads learning across weekly evening or biweekly weekend classes, delivering steady progress without overwhelming your calendar.

Investment

Executive MBA: Typically requires a higher financial commitment, reflecting the exclusive immersions, executive coaching, and senior-level networking.
Part-Time MBA: Tuition is lower, offering a strong return on investment for professionals who anticipate salary growth or role changes during the program.

Networking Ecosystem

Executive MBA: Intake classes average 65 students — each a seasoned leader — creating intimate, high-level peer connections that often translate into board appointments or joint ventures.
Part-Time MBA: Entering classes across Austin, Dallas, and Houston average 250 students, giving you a broader network of professionals across Texas and access to multi-program networking in electives and international trips.

Learning and Curriculum

Executive MBA: Centers on strategic leadership, corporate governance, and enterprise-level analytics. Courses emphasize case studies that mirror boardroom dilemmas, preparing you to influence vision and organizational culture. Executive coaches and leadership diagnostics personalize your growth plan, sharpening decision-making under pressure.
Part-Time MBA: Builds a solid foundation in finance, marketing, operations, and data analytics through lectures by expert professors and application of case studies, then layers leadership development through electives and experiential modules. Real-time application lets you apply learnings at work and return to class with fresh insights, enriching discussions for everyone.

The Hildebrand Leadership Fellows program immerses high-impact Part-Time, Executive, and Full-Time MBA students in advanced leadership workshops, industry treks, and executive mentorship, adding depth to your managerial toolkit.

Shared Strengths

Regardless of track, you access world-class faculty, hands-on projects, and the powerful Texas McCombs alumni network. Yet the balance of strategy versus fundamentals — and the caliber of your peer group — differs, guiding you toward the program that aligns best with your current role and future vision. Plus, all programs have a fall start date and walk together for graduation when wrapping up the MBA program, so you’ll start and end at the same time among your fellow students.

Ready to pinpoint your fit? Let’s explore how to evaluate personal factors like experience, goals, and time commitment before making your decision.

Determining Which MBA Program Is Right for You

Start by taking an honest inventory of where you stand today and where you intend to go next. Your level of experience, career ambitions, and life commitments all shape whether an Executive MBA or Part-Time MBA will serve you best.

Look At Your Work Experience and Career Stage

If you already lead teams, manage P&L, or influence corporate strategy, the Executive MBA’s executive-level peer group will match your pace and perspective, assuming you meet the minimum eight years of work experience. If you’re climbing toward your first management role or seeking a strategic skill set to pivot industries or functions, the Part-Time MBA delivers the business fundamentals and leadership coaching to get you there.

Have Your Desired Program Format and Time Commitment in Mind

The Executive MBA’s once-per-month weekend classes and six immersive residencies suit professionals who can carve out concentrated blocks of time, plus the potential commute. Either the Evening or Weekend MBA option disperses class time across weeknights or alternating weekends in your area, a rhythm that accommodates continuous full-time work and family obligations.

Think About Your Long-Term Goals

Aspiring C-suite leaders benefit from the EMBA’s focus on high-level strategy, global business, and peer-executive networking. Professionals planning a functional pivot or mid-career leap gain versatility through the Part-Time MBA’s broad curriculum and immediate, on-the-job application.

Experience McCombs Culture Firsthand

Sit in on a class, connect with current MBA students, or attend an admissions event to test-drive each program’s environment. Engage with admissions consulting resources or review tuition overviews to ensure the investment aligns with your personal and financial plan.

Explore Texas McCombs MBA Programs: Making Your Academics Work for You

Executive MBA or Part-Time MBA — each Hildebrand MBA path at Texas McCombs empowers working professionals to lead with vision and agility. The Executive MBA delivers an immersive, strategy-focused journey alongside seasoned executives. The Part-Time MBA offers flexible evening and weekend classes that let you master business fundamentals while advancing your career. Both share world-class faculty, a collaborative community, and access to Austin’s innovative economy. Additionally, all programs start with an orientation and coursework kick-off in Austin and end with an MBA graduation together.

No matter your career stage, you’ll find a program engineered for growth. Our Hildebrand MBA initiatives, leadership fellows’ experiences, and global immersions ensure every McCombs student develops the insight and confidence to drive meaningful change.

Ready to discover your perfect MBA program fit? Explore the Executive MBA, Evening MBA, and Weekend MBA options in Dallas and Houston today, and see how a Texas McCombs School of Business degree propels you toward your next leadership milestone.

Part-Time vs Full-Time MBA: Which Option Is Right for You?

August 2, 2025 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Picture this: two equally powerful paths leading to the same Hildebrand MBA degree — one with weekday classes for full immersion, the other with evening or alternating weekend options so you can continue working. That’s the reality of the Part-Time vs Full-Time MBA decision at Texas McCombs

At our school, both the Full-Time MBA and the Part-Time MBA programs deliver rigorous academics, dynamic networking, and robust career services. Yet each format is intentionally designed for distinct student needs — whether you’re ready to pause your full-time job for an intensive experience or prefer to keep your career momentum while you take classes in the evenings or on weekends.

Choosing the right MBA program influences everything from your career goals and work-life balance to your financial strategy and lifestyle. The better the fit, the faster you can activate new skills, expand your network, and accelerate your career path.

No matter which format you choose, you’ll earn the same respected McCombs MBA degree from the same accomplished faculty. Our professors travel from Austin to teach the Weekend MBA cohorts in Dallas and Houston, and every student gains access to career resources designed for their specific path. The real question is timing, format, and fit.

This blog will walk you through the essentials of each format, the factors you should weigh, and the questions you’ll want to ask yourself before applying. By the end, you’ll have a clear, confident sense of which Texas McCombs MBA journey aligns with your professional ambitions and personal commitments.

Understanding Full-Time MBA Programs

Curious how Part-Time vs Full-Time MBA programs compare? If you’re ready to press pause on your career for an all-in, two-year adventure, the Texas McCombs Full-Time MBA delivers an immersive experience that accelerates transformation.

Program Duration and Structure

Over 21 months, you’ll move through a rigorous core, choose from 20+ concentrations, and complete a mandatory summer internship that tests your new skills in real-world settings. The format demands a full commitment — classes, study teams, case competitions, and leadership labs consume most weekdays, and many evenings, too.

Learning Opportunities

Elective freedom is a hallmark of our Full-Time MBA program. You’ll start self-selecting coursework in your first semester and begin taking open electives as early as the spring of year one. International students can pursue one of two STEM-designated paths — Financial Mathematics or Management Science/Quantitative Methods — while still exploring the full range of electives. Specialized tracks in areas like entrepreneurship, marketing, health care, or analytics let you tailor your degree to precise career goals from the start.

From MBA consulting projects to Board Fellows and Venture Fellows, you’ll tackle high-stakes challenges alongside top employers. Executive coaches provide personalized feedback, sharpening your leadership presence and decision-making skills.

Career Development

Whether you aim to switch industries, functions, or geographies, our Career Management & Corporate Relations team equips you with one-on-one coaching, recruiting prep, and access to more than 820 corporate partners. That support, combined with Austin’s booming business ecosystem, makes bold career moves possible.

Paid Internship Experience

A hallmark of the Full-Time MBA at Texas McCombs is the required paid internship, a cornerstone of the program that sets it apart from the Part-Time MBA options. This internship bridges classroom learning with real-world impact, allowing you to test your new skills, explore potential career pivots, and often secure full-time job offers before graduation. For many, it’s a career-defining experience that delivers both practical insight and financial benefit during the program’s 21-month journey.

Admissions Snapshot

The full-time program attracts a diverse, global cohort — more than 2,000 applicants each cycle — fostering a vibrant classroom dynamic and an expansive international network.

Here’s how the full-time path typically stacks up:

Pros: Immersive learning, deeper peer bonds, stronger on-campus recruiting, robust scholarship opportunities, and the quickest route to a major career switch.
Cons: Requires stepping away from your career and salary for two years, though scholarships and summer internship income can offset some of that gap; demands intense time investment

For a detailed look at funding options, explore the financial impact of a Texas McCombs MBA, or dive into program specifics on our Full-Time MBA page.

Understanding Part-Time MBA Programs

Ready to keep your full-time job while earning a world-class MBA? The Texas McCombs Part-Time MBA formats — Evenings in Austin and Weekend cohorts in Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston — let you advance your education without pausing your paycheck.

Program Duration and Structure

Each part-time program spans two years, meeting on weekday evenings or alternating weekends. You’ll tackle the same rigorous core courses as Full-Time MBA students, but on a schedule built for working professionals.

Because you remain employed, you can apply new frameworks, analytics tools, and leadership tactics at work the very next day. Many Part-Time MBA students report promotions, raises, or strategic job changes before graduation — proof of instant ROI.

Curriculum Designed for Working Professionals

Our Working Professional & Executive (WPE) curriculum dedicates additional credit hours to technology, leadership, and global business. You’ll complete:

Two flexible core electives on technology and global management,
Three curated general electives in core business topics, ranging from Investment Theory and Strategic Branding to Venture Finance and Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility.

Outside of the classroom, you can opt for co-curricular opportunities through McCombs+ projects, where you’ll consult for real business issues for companies, sharpen presentation skills, and expand your professional network — without leaving your daytime role.

Career Impact

The career outcomes are compelling. Graduates consistently report substantial salary increases and strong upward mobility, with a significant portion moving into senior or executive roles after completing the program. Many receive promotions directly after earning their MBA.

The majority of graduates successfully pivot careers, whether changing industries, functions, or roles entirely. The program attracts employers across financial services, technology, consulting, manufacturing, healthcare, and energy — reflecting Texas’s business ecosystem. And because you’re still working while you study, you can test-drive career changes more strategically, applying for internal transfers or exploring entrepreneurial ventures with less risk than you’d face leaving a job entirely.

Peer Networking

Your cohort becomes your professional community. You’ll study alongside working professionals from various industries across the metro area — from tech founders in Austin to energy executives in Houston to financial services leaders in Dallas/Fort Worth. These aren’t just classmates; they’re colleagues who understand the challenge of balancing work, school, and life.

But your network doesn’t stop at city limits. The alumni network stays active through regional events, employer networking sessions, and career fairs across all three Texas hubs. You’ll also share courses and activities with other McCombs MBA formats, creating mentorship opportunities and connections across career stages.

Evaluating the Pros and Cons

Consider how the part-time path measures up:

Pros: Maintain a full-time job and salary, potential employer tuition support, immediate learning application, reduced opportunity cost, and a strong peer network of working professionals in your region.
Cons: Juggle work, classes, and family duties; no traditional internship options; scholarships are more limited; progress toward degree milestones is paced over evenings and weekends.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Part-Time and Full-Time

Your decision isn’t just about scheduling — it’s about aligning the program with your ambitions, resources, and lifestyle so you can maximize the value of a Texas McCombs MBA. Here are the main items to think about:

Career Direction and Mobility

If you’re eyeing a major industry or functional switch — say, from engineering to consulting — both programs offer strong pathways. Full-time students leverage summer internships to test new industries before committing. Part-time students have flexibility: you can make a strategic job change mid-program or take advantage of on-campus recruiting alongside full-time students. Staying in your current field but aiming for bigger leadership roles? A part-time program lets you demonstrate new competencies at work while you study, bolstering your credibility in real time.

Industry Expectations

Industry hiring practices vary by company and role. Some employers prioritize Full-Time MBA candidates with internship experience, while others value the hands-on application that students bring from working throughout their Part-Time MBA program. Research your target industry’s hiring norms before choosing your path. Either way, McCombs connects you to UT Austin’s extensive alumni base, including over 100,000 McCombs alumni.

Personal and Professional Commitments

A full-time student typically relocates to Austin and pauses full-time employment for two years. Part-time students preserve their full-time jobs, often balancing coursework with family responsibilities and community commitments, while staying in their local metro area or commuting nearby. Plus, you can receive a top-ranked MBA education at your doorstep and in your specific market. Think through the support systems you’ll need to excel in either environment.

Financial Considerations

Full-time candidates forgo a salary for up to 24 months, though scholarships, the internship, and part-time employment can offset that gap. Part-Time MBA students continue earning and may access employer sponsorship, spreading tuition payments across semesters and minimizing debt. Use our guide to calculate the true value of securing an MBA.

Is a Texas McCombs MBA worth it? Whether full-time or part-time, our MBA degree delivers powerful returns: higher earning potential, an expansive alumni network, and executive education-level leadership training. The right format amplifies those benefits by matching your current reality and future vision.

Work-Life Balance

Both tracks are demanding. Full-time immersion compresses the workload into weekdays, freeing weekends for social events, case prep, and recruiting. Part-time students juggle working during the weekdays, while taking classes on weekday evenings or alternating weekends alongside class assignments, requiring disciplined time management and clear communication with employers and family.

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Deciding

A clear-eyed self-assessment turns general advice into a tailored action plan. Before applying, pause and consider how each format aligns with your vision for the next five, ten, or even twenty years.

Use the following prompts to guide an honest conversation with yourself — and with the people who’ll support you during the journey:

What specific career goals do you want this MBA to unlock, and which format best supports that trajectory?
Where do you stand in your professional timeline — early career, mid-level manager, or seasoned leader — and how quickly do you need a change?
Does your employer offer tuition reimbursement, schedule flexibility, or project opportunities that favor one program over the other?
How will your family or support network adjust to the time and financial investment you’re about to make?
After weighing all factors, which program naturally excites you more — full-time immersion or part-time flexibility?

Keep these answers close; they’ll serve as your compass as you move into the practical next steps of choosing the right Texas McCombs MBA path.

Making the Right Decision: Practical Steps to Choose Your McCombs MBA Program

Now that you’ve matched your aspirations with the strengths of each format, turn insight into decisive action:

Research Target Roles and Industries

Review job descriptions, salary data, and hiring timelines. Identify whether recruiters in your field prioritize internships, working experience, or both.

Talk to Our Community

Schedule coffee chats or phone calls with current students and alumni from both formats. Their lived experiences — course rigor, faculty access, student life — offer an invaluable perspective.

Evaluate Financial Aid and Employer Sponsorship

Compare fellowship packages, merit-based scholarships, and corporate tuition benefits. Factor in the continued income for part-time students versus full-time immersion’s opportunity cost.

Consider Applying to Both Programs

If you see advantages on each side, submit applications to both. Just keep in mind that admission to one Texas McCombs Hildebrand MBA program doesn’t guarantee admission to another, so present a clear case for fit in every application.

Leverage McCombs Career Support

Regardless of format, you’ll gain access to career coaches, global alumni, and more than 820 employer partners eager to recruit McCombs talent. Ready to chart your future? Explore our Part-Time and Full-Time MBA program options:

Full-Time MBA
Evening MBA
Weekend MBA (Dallas/Fort Worth)
Weekend MBA (Houston)

Your next chapter starts when you decide which program elevates your goals — and Texas McCombs is ready to lead the way.

Texas McCombs MBA Application Open for Fall 2025 Entry: Your Path to Business Leadership Starts Here

August 5, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Are you ready to take the next bold step in your journey? The McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin is excited to announce that the MBA application for Fall 2025 entry is now open. Whether you’re considering Full-Time, Working Professional, or Executive MBA programs, Texas McCombs offers a transformative learning experience that will prepare you to lead in the dynamic global business landscape.

PROGRAMS TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS

Full-Time MBA: The Full-Time MBA experience allows you to immerse yourself in learning, exploring, and developing meaningful relationships with classmates. You’ll take classes at Rowling Hall on The University of Texas at Austin campus, and the flexible curriculum allows you to specialize in one of 20+ concentrations, 14 of which are STEM-certified.

Working Professional MBA: Our Working Professional MBA programs in Austin (Evening), Dallas/Fort Worth (Weekend), and Houston (Weekend) allow students to earn their MBA without career interruption. The cohort-based curriculum enhances your understanding of core business principles, with electives focused on leadership, technology, and global business coursework.

Executive MBA: The Executive MBA program is offered in-person one weekend each month in Austin, along with three EMBA immersions in major U.S. markets outside of Austin and one week-long Global immersion. The cohort-based, executive-focused curriculum with electives places an emphasis on leadership, strategy, and analytics.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS

Our application is designed to give us a comprehensive view of your academic background, professional experience, and personal qualities. Here’s what you’ll need to submit:

Test Scores: We accept GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA) scores. We also offer a merit-based test waiver for exceptional candidates.
English Proficiency Test: International applicants must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores unless eligible for a waiver.
Academic Transcripts: Official undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
Resume: A detailed account of your professional experience and achievements.
One Professional Recommendation: Preferably from someone who can speak to your professional capabilities and leadership potential. We have a whole blog post on how to select the right recommender for your application!
Three Essay Prompts: New for this year, these essays give you the chance to share your story, goals, and fit with Texas McCombs.
Video Assessment: An opportunity to showcase your communication skills and personality through recorded responses.
MBA Interview: The interview process varies depending on the program you’re applying to. For Full-Time MBA applicants, we offer an optional interview whereas every Working Professional & Executive MBA candidate is required to complete an interview with a member of the admissions committee.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

We offer multiple rounds to accommodate various schedules and preferences. Remember, applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM Central Time on the deadline date for each round.

Full-Time MBA Deadlines:

Round 1: October 15, 2024

Round 2: January 15, 2025

Round 3: April 1, 2025 (Final deadline for international applicants)

Round 4: May 15, 2025

Working Professional & Executive MBA Deadlines:

Round 1: October 15, 2024

Round 2: January 15, 2025

Round 3: April 1, 2025

Round 4: May 30, 2025

WHY TEXAS McCOMBS?

Choosing Texas McCombs means joining a community known for:

Academic Excellence: Our rigorous curriculum is designed to challenge and transform you into a strategic business leader.
Expansive Network: Connect with a diverse, talented cohort and join our vast alumni network spanning the globe.
Texas Innovation Powerhouse: Benefit from Texas’ dynamic business landscape across three key markets:
- Austin: Experience the capital city’s thriving tech scene and entrepreneurial spirit.
- Dallas/Fort Worth: Immerse yourself in a major commercial and culture hub, home to numerous Fortune 500 companies and a diverse range of industries.
- Houston: Engage with a global center for energy, healthcare, and international business, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and innovation.
Career Support: Our dedicated career services team will help you navigate your career transition or advancement.
Global Perspective: Through international study, experiential learning opportunities, and a unique student body, you’ll develop a global mindset essential for today’s business world.

Whether you’re in our Full-Time, Evening, or Executive programs in Austin, or our Weekend MBA programs in Dallas and Houston, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation with immediate opportunities to apply your learning in some of the nation’s most vibrant markets.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

Our admissions committee takes a holistic approach to evaluating MBA applications, considering academic aptitude, work experience, leadership potential, and your motivations for choosing our program. We’re seeking candidates who are not only academically prepared for our rigorous curriculum but also embody the McCombs spirit: brave and pioneering, innovative and enterprising, dynamic and resilient, open-minded and collaborative, and down-to-earth yet optimistic. Beyond your test scores and GPA, we want to understand your unique journey, your leadership experiences (regardless of title), and your thoughtful, introspective reasons for pursuing an MBA at Texas McCombs. These elements come together to form the “secret sauce” that makes a truly compelling application.

READY TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY?

The application for Fall 2025 entry is now open, and we can’t wait to learn more about you. Whether you’re looking to pivot your career, accelerate your professional growth, or prepare for executive leadership, Texas McCombs has a program to help you achieve your goals.

Visit our website to start your application, explore our programs in-depth, or connect with our admissions team. We’re here to support you every step of the way! Hook ‘em

Photo of Emi FitzGerald, Executive MBA '23 with text that reads "Unlocking the Power of Community: The Executive MBA Experience"

Unlocking the Power of Community: The Texas McCombs Executive MBA Experience

April 26, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Pursuing an MBA is more than just gaining a degree; it’s about the relationships you build, the experiences you share, and the community you become a part of. At Texas McCombs, our Executive MBA program offers not only top-tier education but also a supportive and collaborative culture. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or an up-and-coming leader, you’ll find yourself surrounded by individuals who are not only eager to share their knowledge but also genuinely invested in your success. Here, competition takes a back seat to cooperation as students come together to tackle real-world challenges and opportunities.

Collaborative Culture

One of the defining characteristics of our Executive MBA program is its collaborative nature, unlike traditional MBA programs that may foster competition. Our students come from diverse professional backgrounds and industries, and they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Instead of competing against one another, our students work together, leveraging each other’s strengths to achieve mutual success. Whether it’s tackling group projects, participating in case studies, or engaging in classroom discussions, our students thrive in an environment where collaboration is not only encouraged but celebrated.

Emiko FitzGerald, Executive MBA Class of 2023, made strong connections while at McCombs. Recognized as one of Poets & Quants’ Best & Brightest in 2023, Emi actively contributed to the graduate community as the Communications Chair for Graduate Women in Business, while also serving on the McCombs Ambassador Committee. Additionally, she excelled as a McCombs+ Leadership Fellow and engaged in a high-impact Go-To-Market Consulting Project with Stripe. Emi’s dedication extended beyond campus as she served as a mentor in the Global Sports Mentoring Program.

“One of the main reasons I chose the McCombs Executive MBA program was for the diverse cohort in geography, backgrounds and networking. It is as advertised and my professional network is exponentially stronger because of it. In the Executive MBA program, students come from different backgrounds and different strengths.Those stronger in finance helped those who didn’t have as much experience in finance classes (like me). But when it came time for marketing classes, I could tap into my strengths and experiences to help students with less familiarity in the subject. Everyone helped each other become stronger in the subject matter rather than compete.”

Supportive Environment

Another key aspect of the Texas McCombs Executive MBA experience is the unwavering support provided by our faculty, staff, and fellow students. From day one, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community of individuals who are invested in your success. Whether it’s offering mentorship, providing resources, or simply lending an empathetic ear, our community is here to support you every step of the way. No matter the challenges you may face, you can count on your Texas McCombs family to have your back.

Emi and her Executive MBA classmates for the Executive MBA Women’s Empowerment Summit.

Emi (center) and her classmates and co-organizers of the first Women’s Empowerment Summit for Executive MBA.

A group of women in my cohort wanted to do more for our Graduate Women in Business chapter and celebration of International Women’s Day. The program staff worked alongside us to create a GWiB Women’s Empowerment Summit by helping us secure rooms, drum up publicity, bring speakers to campus and partner with other McCombs departments. They recognized the important role of women in business and were creative in their resources and time to support us. It was a defining moment for me in my McCombs journey!

Lifelong Friendships

Perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of the Executive MBA journey is the lifelong friendships you’ll forge along the way. As you navigate through the program together, sharing triumphs and overcoming obstacles, you’ll develop bonds that extend far beyond the classroom. These connections aren’t just limited to your time in the program; they continue to grow and flourish long after graduation. Whether you’re celebrating career milestones, seeking advice, or simply catching up over coffee, your Texas McCombs classmates will always be there, ready to support and uplift you.

In the year since graduation, I’ve kept up with a number of colleagues through family meet ups, rounds of golf, discussions about new business ideas and phone calls. One colleague was recently promoted and building out his marketing department, so another marketing-focused classmate and I have been a sounding board for him. We are cheering each other on from various corners of society.

Emi and some of her classmates from the Executive MBA Class of 2023 and 2024.

An Added Bonus

While pursuing your Executive MBA at Texas McCombs, you’re not just investing in your education and career advancement; you’re also gaining access to a vibrant and supportive community that will enrich your life in countless ways. From collaborative projects to lifelong friendships, the value of our community extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. So if you’re considering taking the next step in your career, why not choose a program that not only offers academic excellence but also fosters a culture of collaboration, support, and lifelong connections? Join us at Texas McCombs, where your success is our top priority, and where the power of community is truly transformative.

Visit Texas McCombs MBA to learn more about our programs and upcoming events or take a peek into student life on Instagram. For any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to the MBA Admissions Team. We look forward to connecting with you on your journey to success.

Hook ‘Em!

Student Spotlight: Marion Krueger, Evening MBA ’25

April 16, 2024 / noahgraham / 2 Comments

This post is written by Noah Graham.

The pursuit of higher education can often present a challenge when balancing work, life, and school. However, for working professionals seeking to advance their careers, the Texas McCombs Working Professional programs provide students the opportunity to elevate their expertise while maintaining momentum in their careers.

Marion Krueger is an ambitious entrepreneur enhancing her career through the Texas McCombs Evening MBA program. Marion, or “MK,” is in the early stages of founding a new beverage company in Austin–Early Bird Hard Lemonade, a bold venture in the beverage industry.

Marion Krueger, Evening MBA '25 poses in front of colorful houses lining a lake.

MK chose to seek a part-time program primarily because of the flexibility of the program. She had about five years of work experience when she realized she wanted to pursue her MBA to gain leadership skills and grow in her career.

“Being five years out of college when I started the program, I found myself at an important developmental point in my career, and I didn’t want to take two full years off and sacrifice the professional growth that could have been achieved in that time. A part-time program allows students to simultaneously advance our careers while furthering our education, setting us up for even greater success after graduating.”

Marion describes her schedule as a weekly game of Tetris as she juggles her time between the Evening MBA program, her company, her life outside of work and school, and herself. She leans on her husband, a first-year law student at the University of Texas, for support. As grad students, they not only attend football games together but can empathize with each other’s experiences and provide valuable encouragement.

At McCombs, MK also found a close-knit support system through her study group and overall cohort. When the program starts students are placed into study groups, each of whom brings different backgrounds and strengths to the group. This collaborative environment enhances the learning experience and expands personal and professional networks.

“My favorite thing about the study groups is the ability to get to know a small group of classmates very well. I made two of my closest friends in the program through my first study group and then after about six months, we switched to new groups of four or five. I have been so impressed by the diversity of my classmates’ strengths and skillsets, as well as the extent to which we can lean on and trust one another for support.”

Despite the whirlwind of commitments, Marion is also involved with numerous organizations on campus including – Graduate Women in Business, McCombs Ambassador Committee, CleanTech Group, Graduate Marketing Network, and plays in the UT intermural pickleball league.

“I heard one of my classmates articulate this best, and it really stuck with me. Everyone is juggling a lot of commitments at the same time, whether it’s work, school, family, volunteering, personal wellness, or a number of other things, but when you’re spending time on something, give that activity, whatever it may be, 100%.”

MK emphasizes the importance of being present and focused while managing different responsibilities.

“If you’re in class, be paying attention – don’t be simultaneously trying to answer work emails, shop for someone’s wedding gift, or be on social media. If you’re spending time with friends, don’t constantly feel bad that you’re not studying or doing homework.

Balancing work, school, and life in general is not an easy feat, but this mindset of giving 100% of your mental energy to the task at hand has really helped me use my time more effectively and be happier as a result.”

Marion said the best thing about the Evening MBA program is being able to integrate learnings from the classroom into the workplace. She has the opportunity to explore new fields as well as a deeper dive into familiar ones.

“My favorite class so far has been Marketing Management. In part, because my pre-MBA background was in marketing, so I already had an interest in the subject. I also really enjoyed the way our professor juxtaposed quantitative and qualitative approaches to marketing topics.

For example, we discussed the concept of customer lifetime value, explored it in a case study, and learned how to calculate it mathematically. This resulted in a very well-rounded understanding of marketing fundamentals.”

To anyone who is thinking about applying to Texas McCombs, MK’s advice to any applicant is – “Don’t wait!”

Life has a funny way of throwing wrenches in people’s plans – sometimes for the worse and sometimes for the better. You’re likely thinking about applying or have already applied. If you get the chance to begin pursuing your MBA, take it!”

Hook ‘Em!

Mastering the Employer Support Conversation - As Told by Texas McCombs MBAs

Mastering the Employer Support Conversation,
As Told by Current MBAs

March 14, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Pursuing an MBA while working full-time allows you to immediately apply new skills and knowledge to drive your career forward. For those considering an MBA program, seeking employer tuition support can supplement your financial planning and make a top-ranked program more accessible. The Texas McCombs School of Business offers Evening and Executive MBA options in Austin, and Weekend MBA programs in Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston, all catered to working professionals, giving you the the ability to complete your advanced studies without career disruption. As you consider Texas McCombs and determine how to fund this investment, here’s how to have an effective conversation about receiving tuition support from your company.

First, employer tuition support refers to companies funding all or part of an employee’s graduate school costs. This usually includes tuition reimbursement up to a set amount per year. It may also cover textbook purchases, travel for residencies, and time off to study and attend classes.

Securing MBA employer support can be advantageous for both employees pursuing further education, as well as for companies supporting their staff. Some key advantages include:

Benefits for Employees	Benefits for Employers
Reduce out-of-pocket education expenses	Improve talent retention
Position yourself for a promotion	Encourage professional development
Gain skills to help you advance	Gain employees with upgraded skills

Initiating the Support Conversation

When looking to secure employer support for an MBA program, it is strategic to lay the groundwork with your manager early on. A current Dallas MBA student said, “My biggest piece of advice is to start the conversation with your manager about your MBA early on. Once I started doing research, I sought out my manager’s advice. We discussed my decision criteria, whether it was the right time to go, etc. This way, when it came time to talk about employer support it was 1 – not a surprise and 2 – came from a place of furthering my career, which is beneficial for both parties.”

When the time comes to formally request financial backing, prepare specifics on your program of interest and anticipated costs. Antonio Hung (MBA at Houston) took this approach by first getting organized and gathering all the information possible.

“First, I made sure to understand our company’s sponsorship policies, then I set up a face-to-face meeting on a Friday afternoon with my manager to talk about my career goals and how pursuing an MBA could benefit both me and the organization. I was honest and transparent about my ambitions and how the program could contribute to our mutual success.”

The most compelling case ties your development to benefits for your employer. As Michael De Lucia (Evening MBA) did, “I explained that I thought getting my MBA would help me to be a more effective leader and build more core competencies that would directly benefit our team.” He connected his request to previous career path discussions showing how the MBA aligned with his roadmap, and highlighted how bringing back knowledge could aid his team.

Tips for an Effective Discussion

Having an organized, compelling case for tuition assistance is key to securing employer support and sponsorship. Useful strategies include:

Looking at our curriculum to find specific classes/opportunities that McCombs provides that would benefit your company’s objectives and help you improve or advance in your role
Highlight the access to expert faculty and a wide range of other business professionals to learn from and to help you spark new ideas
Emphasize the strength of the Longhorn Network of students and alumni. This can come in handy should your company have openings they need to fill
Quantify the anticipated return on investment and performance benefits
Align your goals to your manager’s career plans for you
Start the conversation early while applying, when your reasons for pursuing an MBA are fresh

“In my case, the areas I wanted to develop through the MBA were roughly the same developmental areas that I knew were going to get me on a better trajectory inside my current company, so I leveraged some of the same talking points from my application and my essays to talk to my manager about it,” said Giuliano Seguro (Evening MBA). “I also anchored on the example of peers and other people at the company that also had done an MBA and how it affected their trajectory within the company. One thing that really helped was introducing my manager to the managers of these other peers that had gone through the MBA so that my manager could understand from someone in their position what was like for them to have someone on their team that had gone through a similar program.”

Addressing Challenges &
Managing Expectations

Your manager may be hesitant for reasons like budget restrictions or concerns about work disruptions. Be ready to make a case by highlighting your past performance. Offer reasonable accommodations like using vacation time to attend residencies or making up hours spent in classes.

“One of the more significant challenges I encountered during my MBA was a change of reporting lines,” said Kelly Benda (MBA at Houston). “With the managerial change, I needed to be sure that my new manager was not only aware of the sponsorship agreement, but also supportive of the associated time commitment. To make sure each transition went smoothly, I initiated the discussion early.Every manager is different, but transparency was always the priority. I outlined the time commitments and potential impacts to my schedule and work. In some of my roles, my job included some weekend operational support, so I was constantly communicating with my manager when I was concerned about any conflicts with the weekend class schedule.”

Once support is secured, it’s vital to proactively manage expectations. Schedule regular check-ins with your manager to discuss program updates, workload changes, and potential flexibility needed for exams or course commitments. Come prepared with clear talking points and be transparent about any struggles so you can collaboratively problem-solve.

Seguro emphasized overcommunication: “I made sure that nothing came as a surprise to my manager at any time during the program. I had to get out of my comfort zone and learn to ask for help when needed. My manager knew what was going on with my MBA at all times and whenever I needed to re-balance priorities at work to fit the MBA and vice-versa, we were always able to find a solution together.”

Share what you learn in the classroom with your manager and team. Not only does this benefit your team with the latest research on a topic, but it also demonstrates the value your employer is gaining by sponsoring you in the program. Often you will have the opportunity to use a team project assignment in class to solve an issue for your company. Look for these opportunities to showcase the benefits your employer is gaining through your experience and connections.

“I had a frank conversation with my manager on what I thought I would be able to reasonably take on while pursuing my MBA and they were candid in their expectations towards me. I detailed out the structure of the program (e.g. class Monday & Tuesday) and how I would be unavailable during those times but offered that I would be able to make up for that later in the week should it be needed,” DeLucia said. “My manager set the expectation that I prioritize and get my work done on time and that if there were things that I was struggling with bandwidth-wise that I would communicate and be upfront about it.”

How Sponsorship Shapes Your
Career Trajectory

Securing employer assistance for MBA tuition not only eases financial barriers but influences career growth in meaningful ways. By backing educational investment in their people, companies open up expanded advancement routes and signal retention priorities.

As Hung shared, it “gave me the confidence to pursue a working professional MBA without compromising my career trajectory. It reinforced my commitment to personal and professional growth while strengthening my alignment with the organization’s goals.” When companies invest in tuition assistance, it signals retention plans and advancement potential.

For DeLucia, getting employer support approval “solidified that I would be able to successfully pursue the degree financially” and served as a catalyst. By easing the monetary constraints, he could accelerate his timeline and optimize his learning.

The fresh knowledge gained also opens up new trajectories internally. As Seguro experienced, support enabled realizing “there was still runway for me to grow inside the company in areas I didn’t think possible before the MBA.” New business perspectives connected opportunities to pivot roles.

As Matt Bowen (Evening MBA) summarized, sponsorship facilitates “this great synergy where what you learn on Monday, you can apply on Tuesday and what is learned on Tuesday gets applied on Wednesday, and so on.” When companies sponsor tuition, they reap the benefits of elevated employee skills and can quickly apply emerging lessons at work. The outcome is growth and mobility for both sponsored professionals and their supportive employers alike.

Pursuing an MBA while maintaining your career is a challenging yet rewarding path that leads to immense personal and professional growth. By securing employer tuition support, financial barriers are reduced and unique opportunities are unlocked. With transparent communication, shared vision, and ongoing collaboration, employees and companies together reap the multitude of benefits from this valuable investment. The outcome is strategically aligned career progression, optimized talent development, and synergistic gains on both sides. Now equipped with tips for securing sponsorship, you can confidently initiate the conversation and put plans in motion to propel yourself toward your next-level goals.

Hook ‘Em!

banner that reads Working Professional MBA Class of 2022 Career Outcomes

Texas McCombs Working Professional MBA Class of 2022 Career Outcomes

January 24, 2024 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

The Texas McCombs Working Professional MBA offers a leading pathway to career advancement or transition without career interruption, according to Class of 2022 employment data. Embarking on a transformative journey, students in the Evening MBA, Weekend MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth, and Weekend MBA at Houston, have not only weathered the challenges of the business landscape during the pandemic but emerged with career outcomes that underscore the program’s commitment to excellence.

Impressive Salary Outcomes

The financial rewards of a McCombs MBA are evident in the Class of 2022’s salary average, which falls between $140,000 – $149,000. This figure not only reflects the competitive edge our graduates hold in the job market but also reinforces the program’s return on investment.

Graduates experienced an average base salary increase of +45%, not including bonuses, a testament to the program’s commitment to advancing the professional and financial goals of its students.

Elevating Job Roles

Beyond financial gains, the shift in job roles is equally remarkable. The percentage of graduates in senior or executive-level positions increased from 51% before school to 66% post-graduation. McCombs MBA alumni are not just climbing the corporate ladder; they are reshaping its summit, assuming leadership roles that drive innovation and impact.

Top Industries of Employment

The variation of interests within the Class of 2022 is reflected in their industry choices. Among the 140 students who reported their career outcomes, technology emerges as a dominant industry with 29%, followed closely by consulting at 24%. Manufacturing, energy, and financial services also play significant roles, comprising 10%, 10%, and 8% of outcomes, respectively. These results underscore the adaptability and applicability of a Texas McCombs MBA across various industries.

Behind these outcomes stands the unwavering support of our dedicated career management team, a force recognized by our #1 ranking in Poets&Quants’ Best Career Centers (Poets&Quants, 2019). Committed to guiding each student through their unique career journey, our team employs a tailored approach that encompasses:

Career Advising: Each student receives one-on-one guidance, ensuring their career strategy aligns with their aspirations.
Employer Connections: Building meaningful connections is integral to success. The team facilitates networking events, career fairs, and industry-specific meetups to enhance students’ professional networks.
Specialty Coaching: As part of the Texas McCombs+  program, students have access to communication and specialty coaches – seasoned experts who are ready to work with them one-on-one to refine skills in communication, leadership, strategy, organizational culture, and much more.
Education & Training: Students learn how to successfully transition into a new career or accelerate their current one through our career education courses. Taught by knowledgeable professionals, and with a curriculum custom-built for working professionals, these classes cover a variety of career-related topics—from networking to interviewing to negotiating.
Alumni Network: Following graduation, students join a powerful network of Longhorn alumni that expands throughout Texas and around the world.

“Our Working Professional MBA Career Education and Coaching team provides our students with an elite and comprehensive journey to explore, prepare and connect with career opportunities that align with their goals. This experience, combined with an interactive and engaging teaching style, includes practical application and allows our students to create their own customized success upon graduation and beyond,” said Stefani Sereboff, Senior Assistant Dean, Career Management & Corporate Relations. “We are committed to creating a McCombs exceptional student experience and supporting careers for life.”

As we celebrate the achievements of the Working Professional MBA Class of 2022, we look forward to witnessing the continued impact of the McCombs MBA on future cohorts. Their success is a testament to the collaborative effort of our outstanding faculty, accessible alumni, dedicated staff, and of course, the incredible students who make the Texas McCombs MBA experience truly exceptional.

If you have any questions about Texas McCombs, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2025: Celebrating Growth, Unique Voices, and Accessibility

November 14, 2023 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

(Austin, TX) – Here, at the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business, “You Are What’s Next.” The Class of 2025 exemplifies this spirit, embodying our unwavering commitment to excellence, diversity, and innovation. Their achievements are more than just stories; they form the very fabric of our vibrant Texas McCombs MBA community. These very accomplishments mold our MBA program, which includes students from the Full-Time, Working Professional, and Executive MBA programs across our campuses in Austin, Dallas, and Houston, and cement our position as a top-ranked business school.

With this context, three pivotal highlights define the Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2025 profile:

🏆 Increasing Demand and Growth in Class Size:

The Class of 2025 at Texas McCombs reflects the growing enthusiasm for our programs in Austin, Dallas, and Houston. Applications across the MBA portfolio surged compared to last year, reaching a total exceeding 2,300 applications, and affirming the popularity of our dynamic community and unique learning environments.

Additionally, our class size has expanded by an impressive 9%, now with 509 incoming students. This growth not only underscores our status as a top choice for business education but also confirms the thriving demand for our programs across multiple campuses.

🏆 Unique Voices and Professional Excellence:

The incoming class celebrates a significant milestone: 25% of the class (as a % of U.S. Citizens & Permanent Residents) is composed of underrepresented minority (URM) students, marking a 7%-point increase. This achievement demonstrates our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, a commitment that extends across all our Texas McCombs MBA programs.

This growth isn’t limited to URM representation alone. Women in the class have also seen a substantial increase, rising to 33% (up 4% points), while the proportion of military veterans has grown to 15% (up 3% points) of the class.The importance of these developments cannot be overstated. The unique voices brought by our students enrich our learning environment and strengthen our academic and professional community. As we continue to grow, these perspectives collectively contribute to the excellence that defines the Texas McCombs MBA experience.

🏆 Cultivating Accessibility and Impact:

Texas McCombs actively contributes to the vision of propelling the University of Texas at Austin toward becoming the world’s highest-impact public university. This year, we welcomed more first-generation students, rising to 20% of the class (up 7% points). This increase spans all five of our MBA programs, demonstrating our commitment to providing accessible and impactful education, particularly to aspiring business leaders who are the first in their families to attend college.

It’s essential to recognize the importance of cultivating accessibility to make an MBA from a prestigious school attainable for first-generation college students. This reflects our dedication to fostering a welcoming community while nurturing the future leaders of business, regardless of their background.

Full-Time MBA Class Profile

Applications to the Full-Time MBA program increased, attracting over 1,800 applicants for a class of 241 students. This class brings with them a blend of experiences, with an average age of 29 and a strong average GPA of 3.46. Furthermore, 35% of students identify as female, 8% as LGBTQIA+, and 26% come from international backgrounds, representing 31 countries.

In addition, the class demonstrates strong diversity within the United States, with 35% identifying as U.S. minorities and 18% as URM. Additionally, 14% of students have U.S. military service backgrounds. This year, we welcomed 37 Consortium members, 60 Forte Fellows, and 15 dual-degree students, further enriching the diversity and breadth of experiences within our class.

Working Professional MBA Class Profile

Though unique on their own (see class profiles below), the Working Professional MBA programs at Texas McCombs boast a set of compelling features that collectively define their excellence. With an average age of 31 and a middle 80% range spanning 26 to 37, these programs attract a unique cohort of students, each bringing with them a wealth of professional experience. On average, these students come with 8 years of experience. Impressively, 15% of the cohort possesses military experience, enriching the class with a unique perspective.

Academically, our working professional students maintain a high level of excellence with an average GPA of 3.36. Working Professional and Executive MBA candidates have several options when considering how to complete the standardized test requirement as we accept GMAT, GMAT Focus, GRE, Executive Assessment (EA) score, or a test waiver. The incoming class brings an average GMAT score of 654 and an average GRE at 312.

Executive MBA Class Profile

The Executive MBA program at Texas McCombs comprises 63 accomplished individuals, with 29% female representation. The class includes people of various backgrounds, with 42% identifying as U.S. minorities and 25% as URM, while 21% have backgrounds in U.S. military services. This experienced group boasts an average of 15 years in the workforce. Although standardized test scores aren’t required, the program values various factors, including leadership experience and personal impact, evident through their average 8.5 years of management experience.

Notably, 27% of the class consists of first-generation students, offering unique perspectives. The class represents 21 cities in Texas and 9 states, with a strong presence from technology, healthcare, and energy sectors, enriching the Texas McCombs MBA experience.

The Future of Business Leadership

The Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2025 is not merely a reflection of our program’s excellence, but an embodiment of our vision for the future. The increase in applications and class size, coupled with the growth in underrepresented minorities, women, and military veterans, showcases the program’s appeal and its role as a leader in the ever-competitive MBA landscape. At the same time, we’re proud to note that standardized test scores and GPAs remained strong, ensuring that academic excellence is a hallmark of our program. Additionally, the rise in first-generation students underscores the university’s commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all. With this class, Texas McCombs continues its journey towards becoming the world’s highest-impact public business school. It’s an exciting step toward the future where you, as a vibrant part of our community, will be what’s next in business and beyond. Your journey to excellence begins here.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

Working Professional MBA Student Spotlight Military MBAs

Celebrating Our Military MBAs This Veterans Day

November 10, 2023 / Texas MBA Admissions / 1 Comment

This post is written by Lauren Logan.

This Veterans Day we are celebrating and honoring all of our active and former military MBA students.

Here at Texas McCombs, we understand that navigating the transition between military life and graduate education can be difficult – and we are here to help! All veterans and active military applicants qualify for an application fee waiver to any of our five MBA programs. Applicants also have the option of petitioning for a test waiver to waive the test score requirement.

Military applicants are also encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to connect with other veterans on campus and through virtual chats with members of the Texas Veterans in Business (TViB) student organization. TViB serves as the primary student organization for veterans pursuing an MBA. The organization offers plenty of opportunities to get to know other military students and to form a community with students who share a similar background. In addition, the Student Veterans Association regularly assists students with their relocation to Austin and offers programs to support military students’ success on campus.

Working Professional MBA Spotlights

Patrick Guide II
MBA at Houston ’25

Patrick served 6 years as a Marine Corps Engineer Officer and is a first-year student in our Weekend MBA at Houston program. Patrick attributes the success he has had in the program to the leadership and adaptability skills he learned throughout his time in the military and believes that his time at McCombs will further reinforce these skills and will prepare him well for an executive career post-MBA.

“I take pride in being a servant leader who is passionate about solving problems and serving people. I chose the McCombs MBA program because I believe this experience will position me for roles of greater impact. My desire is to play a role in creating a better tomorrow and McCombs is a crucial part of that pursuit.”

“The MBA program is a challenging adjustment, especially being years removed from school, but learning to adapt is a key skill I believe most veterans possess. Naturally, the discipline gained through military experience is also very beneficial. I came in understanding that networking is very important but I’ve never been exposed to as many opportunities and connections as with the McCombs program. There are many opportunities to mentor and to be mentored as well. Being comfortable working with very diverse groups of people is critical to being successful in the MBA environment.”

“Because my final years of service were in the reserves, I have experienced balancing multiple obligations at once. As a working professional in the MBA at Houston program, that skill set is definitely beneficial and being developed even further. Relearning how to be a student has been a tough but rewarding process. My experience in the program has already given me a more holistic perspective of business and society as a whole. I’ve learned leadership lessons that I know will be very applicable to solving future problems and I’ve been able to leverage my experience to contribute to thoughtful conversations considering a diverse range of perspectives.”

Patrick plans to pursue an executive career post-MBA, continuing on his path as a servant leader while combining skills from both his time in the military and his engineering background.

Eric Kasper
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Eric Kasper is a 4th generation service member who served as a 1st Lieutenant Infantry Officer in the Army. His great-grandfather served in the Army and his grandfather and both parents served in the Air Force. Eric was stationed in Fort Benning for three years before serving on the General Staff supporting operations during the pandemic. He also served on the Commanding General of Fort Benning Staff. Eric says his shared military and MBA experience has enhanced his understanding of being an empathetic but impactful leader.

“I was medically retired from the Army after multiple surgeries for a knee injury. After three years of physical therapy, the medical staff made the decision to medically retire me from service. It was very challenging to know what career path to take after the decision to leave the military takes place. Thankfully I made strong connections with support staff in the VA benefits department, which allowed me to pursue a Master of Science in Economics. That master’s program propelled me to my first job at Texas Instruments which then led me to pursue an MBA.”

“I chose the Working Professional MBA at Dallas program because it provided me the ability to keep working while gaining further business acumen. As a military officer, you need to be able to lead from the front and display both the ability to learn and adapt as well as make decisions and move forward. In business school, especially in group case studies, the problem statement solutions are not readily known or easily identifiable. It takes the ability to learn from others and make decisive steps toward a shared goal to uncover the best solutions.”

“Being in the military is a humbling experience where leadership is rooted in practical experience and the reliance on your team or squad to provide their expertise and background. My MBA experience has enhanced my understanding of being an empathetic but impactful leader. McCombs has provided me the ability to understand macro-level business strategy through an analytical lens. The leadership experience I gained in the military allowed me to perform well under tight timelines and high-pressure situations. My military background proved to me that the right person in the right position can dramatically influence positive change for enterprise-level organizations.”

“My advice to anyone looking to apply is to talk with your VA representative as you go through out processing to verify your GI Bill and other benefits – have them physically print out documents to verify your eligibility.”

Brett Sheneman
MBA at Houston ’24

Brett Shenamen was a Captain in the U.S. Marine Corps who served as a Judge Advocate and Lead Prosecutor while stationed in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Before joining the military, he received his law degree from Michigan State University and is currently a Litigation Lawyer at ExxonMobil. His time in the military taught him how to work well with diverse groups of people and gave him the opportunity to positively impact his community.

“McCombs has both reinforced and changed my outlook on leadership. The curriculum is built around a business leader’s understanding of key fundamental components, including finance, statistics, marketing, and various management courses. In that sense, it changed my viewpoint. I always knew leaders needed to be competent; but a better, more well-rounded viewpoint and skillset is always valuable, especially when you surround yourself with truly qualified people. An MBA, especially at McCombs, is such a well-rounded program that will instill an analytical skill set sure to distinguish you from your peers.”

“I chose McCombs because it is a leaders’ program with outstanding faculty and an excellent reputation. Primarily, I wanted to augment my legal skills with a robust business management understanding. The biggest takeaway is the pure quality of human beings at McCombs. The professors, staff, and students are just top-notch. That likemindedness inevitably leads to high-functioning collegiality.”

“I was lucky enough to begin my ‘dream job’ as an in-house lawyer at Exxon Mobil Corporation and plan to remain there after graduation, hopefully until retirement. My military background played a key role in eventually serving an organization with multiple stakeholders and a storied dedication to local communities throughout the nation.”

Brett believes that his time at McCombs has reinforced important lessons he learned while serving in the military–most especially, “strength through diversity of people and thought.”

Ross Desoto
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Ross Desoto began his military experience serving in the Marine Corps. During his time, he has served as the Battalion Supply Officer for 2 WESTPAC deployments to Okinawa, Japan where he participated in numerous multinational exercises in various countries around INDOPACOM. He also led 275 Marines in Sailors in day-to-day supply and maintenance operations supporting all Marines on the west coast. During his time there, he had the pleasure of deploying with 100+ Marines aboard the USNS Lewis & Clark where they supported operations in the Middle East.

“As I planned to exit the Marine Corps, I knew that I wanted to move back to Dallas to be closer to family. Going to grad school was always a goal of mine and I began exploring MBA programs in Dallas. After doing my research and attending a few different school’s class visits I knew McCombs was the right fit for me. The Working Professional MBA at Dallas program fits my work schedule, and the caliber of fellow students and professors far exceeded every other program in Dallas. I knew it was the best program for me.”

“The culture in the Marine Corps and the culture at McCombs are vastly different and yet still the same. Within McCombs and the Marine Corps, there is a strong sense of personal accountability and a culture where ‘you are your brother’s keeper.’ I’ve found that I can rely on my study group and friends here at McCombs just like I relied on my Marines. We take care of one another and ensure we are all successful.”

“The most important lesson that I’ve learned while at McCombs is that just because you are a veteran and have done really hard things, you don’t have a market share on hard work. Regardless of background, everyone at McCombs has an impressive resume and has worked really hard to get where they are. It was humbling for me to look around during our first Austin Intensive and see the caliber of person that I was now classmates with and be so impressed with every student. From that point forward I was able to learn from everyone’s different experiences and value what everyone brings to the table.”

“Post-MBA I’m hoping to stay in finance and eventually pivot into private equity, with the hopes of eventually being a partner at a private equity firm. The military taught me to take information, analyze it, and make decisions effectively. Those skills translate directly to running a business and coupling those skills with what I learned at McCombs will hopefully lead to success.”

“The best advice I would give is to believe in yourself and go for it. A lot of veterans are hesitant about if they are capable of getting an MBA or are scared of the GMAT. It is hard to go back to grad school but it is not that hard and you have done harder things in the military. Study hard for the GMAT and tie your experience into your application because once you get your MBA you will continue to lead and make a difference anywhere you land.”

Jeffrey Caslen
MBA at Houston ’25

Jeffrey Caslen was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer in 2009 after graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point. After his Officer Basic Course, he met his Platoon mid-deployment in Baghdad, Iraq. After returning from Iraq, He moved to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where he changed his Branch to Public Affairs (PAO). As a PAO, he served in many roles, including Brigade Public Affairs Officer, Command Team Speechwriter, and Observer Coach/Trainer at the National Training Center, in Fort Irwin, California. Jeffrey transitioned out of Active Duty in 2020 and is currently a Major in the Individual Ready Reserve.

“The military prides itself on its diversity and having an organization that reflects the American population. While in the Army, I learned how to lead teams of motivated people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets to achieve a common goal. In the Business world, many leadership challenges seem to have a ‘no-win’ scenario. There are many variables involved that I did not need to worry about as a military leader. By maintaining my ethical leadership style I developed in the Army, I know I can hold my head high regardless of my decisions when I become a business leader.”

“I have noticed a few similarities between the Army and the McCombs culture. One is that we bond through hardship, and become extremely close, building a lifetime bond. Additionally, the focus on team vs individuality is similar between the Army and McCombs. Although this is my MBA, It is unachievable without relying on my peers’ strengths to help me through the program. Texas McCombs is amazingly diverse, and leaning on my classmates’ incredible skill sets for projects and collaboration is a skill I learned as an Army Officer.”

“Everyone has a unique and valuable experience. Although my experience in the Army is valuable to me, all of my classmates have impactful experiences that allow me to grow through their storytelling and mentorship. Seeing how great and accomplished my classmates are really humbles and motivates me to become the best version of myself so I can live up to their expectations.”

For those looking to apply to McCombs, Jeffrey offers some advice. “Take your time and find a program that best fits your end goals and your family. Each university has a helpful Veteran’s Department to help you with your VA applications and help quell any concerns. UT’s Veteran’s Department answered all my questions and helped me feel confident that I would be taken care of during my time as an MBA student.”

Applicants have a range of resources to utilize as they are applying to Texas McCombs. Follow Texas Veterans in Business on Instagram to connect with current students.

If you have any questions during the application process, we’re here to help. Please visit our website for details on applying to each program and follow us on Instagram for an inside look into the Texas McCombs MBA.

Good luck and Hook ’em!

banner Redesigned Evening MBA Curriculum - Reduced Program Duration, New Electives, and Expanded Networking Opportunities

Discover the Redesigned Evening MBA Program at Texas McCombs

June 15, 2023 / Texas MBA Admissions / Comments Off

Reduced Program Duration, New Electives, and Expanded Networking Opportunities

The redesigned Evening MBA program ranked No. 6 in the country (U.S. News & World Report, 2023) has been streamlined and now provides a flexible pathway to your MBA, with a reduced program duration, new elective offerings, and expanded networking opportunities. These valuable enhancements, detailed below, will take effect for our next incoming class of Evening MBA students, who will start the program in August 2024. Applications will open in August 2023.

Reduced Program Duration

The Evening MBA program is streamlining the program duration from 28 to 21 months to allow for greater flexibility and efficiency for busy professionals. Now, you can earn your MBA faster with the high-quality education that Texas McCombs is known for. It’s an accelerated path to achieving your career goals, without compromising on educational excellence.

Tailor Your Degree with New Electives

Evening MBA students experience a comprehensive cohort-based curriculum designed to enhance their understanding of core business principles. The new curriculum will have five electives, allowing students to dive deeper in areas of interest, which is especially important in today’s dynamic business landscape. The entire program and its elective courses will all be offered in-person, in Austin.

The new curriculum dedicates more credit hours dedicated to technology, leadership, and international business.
Two flexible core electives on technology and global management. Three general electives of your choice will be offered from a curated selection of courses.
Examples of electives include Investment Theory, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Product Management, Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility, Advocacy, Art and Science of Negotiations. Elective topics are subject to change.

More Opportunities to Network and Build Your MBA Community

We understand the value of building a strong professional network. That’s why you will have more chances to connect and collaborate with other Working Professional MBA students in our Dallas and Houston programs through shared electives, traveling on the global trip together, and participating in Academic Intensives. These interactions will not only enrich your learning experience but also provide valuable connections that will benefit you throughout your career. At Texas McCombs, we believe that networking is a vital component of your MBA journey, and we are committed to fostering a supportive community.

Exceptional Faculty and Engaging Learning Environment

Among the great things staying the same include our world-class, Texas McCombs faculty. Our professors are passionate about teaching and providing you with a transformative educational experience in a dynamic and collaborative learning environment. Also staying the same are business foundations offered through the core curriculum and capstone, McCombs+ Experiential Learning and Leadership Fellows, award-winning career management support for life, and Academic Intensives – all of which will be delivered in our new 21-month, Monday and Tuesday evening format. Here, you will have opportunities to engage in real-world projects, case studies, and interactive discussions, and you can apply your knowledge immediately to your work the next day.

What’s Next?

At Texas McCombs, we are committed to providing a human-centered, future-focused business education that equips you with the skills, knowledge, and network to thrive in today’s competitive business world. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role, switch careers, or start your entrepreneurial journey, our program is designed to empower you to achieve your goals. We are excited about the possibilities this redesign brings and look forward to supporting you on your journey to success.

Sign up to receive Evening MBA news, and register for an admissions event to meet program staff, current students, and alumni. Applications for the Evening MBA will open in August 2023. Questions about the Evening MBA? Contact: TexasEveningMBA@mccombs.utexas.edu

Tag: part-time mba (page 1 of 3)

What Is an Executive MBA?

Program Format and Immersions

What Is a Part-Time MBA?

Program Flexibility and Scheduling

Key Differences Between Executive MBA and Part-Time MBA

Experience Level

Career Trajectory

Program Intensity and Duration

Investment

Networking Ecosystem

Learning and Curriculum

Shared Strengths

Determining Which MBA Program Is Right for You

Look At Your Work Experience and Career Stage

Have Your Desired Program Format and Time Commitment in Mind

Think About Your Long-Term Goals

Experience McCombs Culture Firsthand

Explore Texas McCombs MBA Programs: Making Your Academics Work for You

Understanding Full-Time MBA Programs

Program Duration and Structure

Learning Opportunities

Career Development

Paid Internship Experience

Admissions Snapshot

Understanding Part-Time MBA Programs

Program Duration and Structure

Curriculum Designed for Working Professionals

Career Impact

Peer Networking

Evaluating the Pros and Cons

Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Part-Time and Full-Time

Career Direction and Mobility

Industry Expectations

Personal and Professional Commitments

Financial Considerations

Work-Life Balance

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Deciding

Making the Right Decision: Practical Steps to Choose Your McCombs MBA Program

Research Target Roles and Industries

Talk to Our Community

Evaluate Financial Aid and Employer Sponsorship

Consider Applying to Both Programs

Leverage McCombs Career Support

PROGRAMS TAILORED TO YOUR NEEDS

APPLICATION COMPONENTS

APPLICATION DEADLINES

WHY TEXAS McCOMBS?

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

READY TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY?

Collaborative Culture

Supportive Environment

Lifelong Friendships

An Added Bonus

Initiating the Support Conversation

Tips for an Effective Discussion

Addressing Challenges & Managing Expectations

How Sponsorship Shapes Your Career Trajectory

Impressive Salary Outcomes

Elevating Job Roles

Top Industries of Employment

🏆 Increasing Demand and Growth in Class Size:

🏆 Unique Voices and Professional Excellence:

🏆 Cultivating Accessibility and Impact:

Full-Time MBA Class Profile

Working Professional MBA Class Profile

Executive MBA Class Profile

The Future of Business Leadership

Working Professional MBA Spotlights

Patrick Guide II MBA at Houston ’25

Eric Kasper MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Brett Sheneman MBA at Houston ’24

Ross Desoto MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Jeffrey Caslen MBA at Houston ’25

Reduced Program Duration, New Electives, and Expanded Networking Opportunities

Reduced Program Duration

Tailor Your Degree with New Electives

More Opportunities to Network and Build Your MBA Community

Exceptional Faculty and Engaging Learning Environment

What’s Next?

Addressing Challenges &
Managing Expectations

How Sponsorship Shapes Your
Career Trajectory

Patrick Guide II
MBA at Houston ’25

Eric Kasper
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Brett Sheneman
MBA at Houston ’24

Ross Desoto
MBA at Dallas/Fort Worth ’24

Jeffrey Caslen
MBA at Houston ’25