How long?
The MBA programme lasts for two academic years, beginning in August and ending in May, followed by a summer internship in the first year. Students cover the core subjects during their first year, with a more flexible approach to courses in the second year.
Entry qualifications
This is one of the top business schools in the US and applicants need to work hard to secure a place. As well as a degree, a ‘demonstrated record of achievement’ and considerable work experience, applicants will be asked to deliver a couple of essays with their application.
Modules
The core courses include: managing and leading in organisations, financial accounting, microeconomics for management, statistics for management, managerial finance, and marketing management. Students can then choose from 80 electives in their second year. Additional programmes are also offered, including a leadership skills programme, with trainers from organisations such as General Electric. Students can also choose to study through Cornell’s School of Industrial and Labour Relations.
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Career opportunities
Cornell’s strength is its range of resources. Students can opt to take a graduate-level course to count as one-quarter of their MBA requirement, or they can take a ‘dual’ degree from options including HR. Classes are small and Cornell’s approach to ‘immersion learning’ – where students solve real problems under intense time pressure – helps to hone professional skills, and is popular with employers.
