Admissions Advice: Wisconsin MBA

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Betsy Kacizak
University of Wisconsin-Madison

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bpcoker: I wasn't a business major as an undergrad. I'm curious, what are the prerequisite courses for the real estate program?

BetsyWisconsin: We don't have any required pre-MBA courses. However, if a student has not taken stats or econ, we will suggest those two classes. We offer a math review over the summer before the program starts and also during the Wisconsin Experience (orientation program) just before school starts.

bpcoker: Your Web site states that you are consistently ranked among the top three real estate programs in the country. If you don't mind me asking, what are the other two programs?

BetsyWisconsin: You will need to do your own research on other top real estate programs. There are several other programs that will offer real estate but may not be an MBA program. As for MBA programs in real estate, Wisconsin is able to deliver the necessary skills required in a general management program, but gives the students a high level of knowledge in the functional area of real estate.

Devyani: What different specialization areas are available in the part-time program?

BetsyWisconsin: The part-time program is a general management program. The career specializations are only offered in the full-time MBA program.

NathanWenk: What support is there from the school to get internships during the summer?

BenWisconsin: Career Services provides a lot of support for students in the internship search process, but the centers (Supply Chain, Brand & Product Management, etc.) do as well. Both are helpful in crafting your message and helping you through the process.

neelaabh: Is SMILES admission separate from usual MBA entry, and does it prepare students for jobs in the biotechnology sector?

BetsyWisconsin: No, the SMILES admission is part of the MBA program. When you apply to the Wisconsin MBA, you will select a career specialization. The admission process is the same and not treated as a separate process. Students in SMILES are preparing for careers in biotech, pharma, and R&D. They are looking to marry their science background with business.

NathanWenk: Are there any restrictions/recommendations regarding working during the school year?

BenWisconsin: My recommendation would be to balance work with school. I work in the school about 13 hours per week and have friends who do as well. Others choose not to have a job and keep themselves quite busy with clubs and other B-school-related activities in addition to the workload from classes.

Carlos_Flor: Would already having a master's degree (MSEE) positively or negatively influence my application?

BetsyWisconsin: Either positive or negative. The MSEE can benefit you if you are selecting a career where this degree would also be a benefit to you. However, if you are a career switcher the degree probably won't help as much in admission. We understand that some candidates have advanced degrees because at that time the degree may have been needed to advance your career. When you apply, share with us your story about why you have made the career choices you have made and how the MBA will benefit you now.

khouck: I am looking to take over my family business, not necessarily start my own company. Would the entrepreneurial management specialization still be a good one for me?

BetsyWisconsin: Yes, e-ship would be great option for you. In this program about one-third are looking to start a business, one-third are looking to return to their own or a family business, and one-third are looking to enter industry in a consulting or functional role that will use their entrepreneurial spirit.

elda: Is it necessary to have the GMAT for admission to arts administration?

BenWisconsin: Yes, the GMAT is required for arts administration. But that should not discourage you from studying hard and taking the test.