Ball State University

Programme overview

The MBA provides a comprehensive foundation in core business disciplines—finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and organizational behaviour—while emphasising applied decision-making and leadership. Delivery formats commonly include flexible options to accommodate working students, such as evening, online, and hybrid courses, allowing learners to balance studies with employment.

What you'll study

Students study a mix of core courses that develop quantitative and strategic competencies and elective courses that allow for functional focus. Typical topical areas include:

• Core business fundamentals—accounting, finance, managerial economics, and statistics for management;
• Leadership and strategy—organizational behaviour, strategic management, and ethics;
• Functional electives—marketing management, operations and supply chain, data analytics for managers, and entrepreneurship;
• Capstone or applied project—an integrative experience that applies classroom learning to a real organisational problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider undergraduate GPA, professional experience, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and any additional materials the department requests. Some applicants may be required to demonstrate quantitative readiness or complete prerequisite coursework if their undergraduate background lacks business fundamentals.

Career prospects

An MBA supports progression into management and leadership roles across sectors. Graduates commonly move into positions such as product or project manager, operations manager, business consultant, financial analyst, or roles in marketing and strategy. The degree is particularly useful for professionals aiming to accelerate promotion into cross-functional leadership or transition into new industries.

Scholarships & funding angle

Graduate students should explore institutional assistantships, merit-based awards, and department scholarships administered by the business school, as well as graduate loans and employer tuition assistance. Prospective students can also pursue external scholarships from foundations and professional associations relevant to business and management; planning ahead and preparing a strong application for awards improves competitiveness.