Frequently Asked Questions

 


How is the Biola MBA different from other MBA programs?
The Biola MBA is focused on the mix of an entrepreneurial spirit and the corporate culture. The program emphasizes innovation, creativity and vision, and prepares students to be agents of change in the marketplace. It is designed for the student who seeks to deepen his or her walk with Christ as well as an advanced business education. The MBA incorporates foundational courses in theology alongside the constant application of biblical principles for decision making, and diligent commitment to family and community.

We have four distinctives to offer you:

  • Our commitment to biblical integration
  • Our focus on the entrepreneurial spirit within the corporate culture
  • Our unique mentor program
  • Our part-time format for fully employed professionals

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What is the MBA Mentor Program?
Students will be involved in a one-on-one mentoring relationship with a Christian businessperson over the course of the program. Mentors are currently engaged in the corporate sector and, in addition to their successes in the business world, exhibit a strong commitment to the Lord.

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Is the MBA program accredited?
MBA accreditation with ACBSP was received in July 2007. The MBA is designed to meet the high standards of this professional accreditation, with special attention given to curriculum content and faculty qualifications. In addition to Biola's regional accreditation by WASC, the Crowell School of Business undergraduate program is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

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When does the program begin?
The incoming MBA class is formed each fall.

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When are the classes held?
There are three 14-week trimesters (fall, spring and summer) per year, with breaks in between. Classes are held in the evenings, two nights per week. Classes meet Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. The Intensive Weekend course is held Thursday-Sunday in late August.

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What is the Intensive Weekend?
We begin each new incoming class with our Intensive Weekend. The Intensive Weekend: Group Dynamics is a combination orientation and academic class, held Thursday night through Sunday noon. One academic unit is earned through this course.

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How many units do I have to take?
The MBA program is comprised of 36 units. Up to 15 additional units of prerequisite courses are required for students without an undergraduate degree in business.

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Can I take more or less than 6 units per trimester?
The MBA program is designed for 6 units per trimester. Registering for less than the standard course load of 6 units may affect financial aid, student loan deferment and other certifications. Students desiring deferment of student loans should be aware that federal guidelines require a minimum of 5 units to be considered "half-time" for classification purposes. Enrolling in 4 units or less is considered "less than half-time" and the student would not be eligible for loan deferment for the trimester in which he or she is registered for 4 units or less.

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When will I graduate?
The MBA program is designed to take two years to complete, with an additional year for prerequisite courses.

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How much theology will I take?
Fully 25 percent of the core courses for the MBA degree qualify as Bible courses and are taught or co-taught by Talbot School of Theology faculty. The curriculum includes two 3-unit foundational theology courses, and one 3-unit business ethics course.

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How many courses can I transfer?
Students transferring from a regionally accredited graduate program may transfer a maximum of six (6) units. The courses transferred must be equivalent, have direct applicability to the student's program, and be approved by the program director. Only courses with a grade of "B" (3.0) or higher will be considered for transfer toward the MBA degree. Units considered for transfer must have been taken within five years prior to the date of admission.

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Are there areas of specialization available in the MBA program?
No, the Biola MBA is designed with a broad-based curriculum, with learning focused on traditional MBA disciplines of accounting, finance, marketing, operations, strategy and project management. An entrepreneurial spirit in a corporate culture characterizes the focus of our MBA.

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When is the admissions deadline?
Priority deadline for applications is April 30. Applications are evaluated on a rolling admission basis and class size is limited. Early submission of your complete application is encouraged. Applications are accepted after April 30 as space is available.

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Will MBA applicants be interviewed?
Yes, interviews are conducted as a part of the application process, usually within two weeks of your application becoming complete. We will contact you to set up a convenient time to meet.

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What is my cost?
Approximate cost of the program is $24,000. For those requiring prerequisites, the approximate cost is $29,000. Estimated costs listed include tuition and fees, but not textbooks. Price subject to change.

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Is financial aid available?
Yes, students are eligible to apply for student loans and grants. A limited amount of graduate grant money is available, as well as small scholarships such as the Church Matching Scholarship. Students must take at least 5 units per trimester to be eligible for financial aid.

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Are international students eligible for the MBA?
The MBA program is designed for the fully employed professional. A typical course load is 6 units per trimester, which does not allow international students (who must have a minimum of 9 units) to be admitted to the program.

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How do I apply?
Call or e-mail for an application packet or download the application form and references here at www.biola.edu/mba.

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How can I get further information?
Call Bob Harriman at (562) 777-4015, or send an e-mail to mba@biola.edu. The Crowell School of Business is located in the business building at the main Biola Avenue entrance to the Biola campus.

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