Business Administration, M.B.A.

NA On Campus Masters Program

University of Oklahoma

Program Overview

The Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the University of Oklahoma is designed to prepare students for leadership roles by combining broad business knowledge with practical management skills. Offered through the Michael F. Price College of Business, the full-time MBA helps students understand how different business functions work together, make informed decisions, and develop strategies for organizations operating in competitive markets. The program combines core business courses, professional development, experiential learning, and electives that allow students to tailor their studies to their career goals.

Curriculum Structure

The full-time MBA requires 48 credit hours according to the university's academic catalog. The curriculum includes core courses in economics, quantitative analysis, accounting, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, information systems, business ethics, and professional development. Students also complete experiential courses, electives, and a strategic management capstone.

Initial Stage: Business Foundations and Analytical Skills

Students establish a strong business foundation through B AD 5102 – Managerial Economics, B AD 5122 – Quantitative Analysis I, ACCT 5202 – Financial Accounting, FIN 5102 – Financial Management, and MKT 5402 – Marketing Management. These courses develop their understanding of economic decision-making, statistical analysis, financial reporting, investment decisions, and marketing strategy. Students also study MGT 5702 – Organizational Behavior and MIT 5602 – Management Information Systems to understand how people, technology, and organizational structures contribute to business performance.

Middle Stage: Professional Development and Applied Business Experience

Students strengthen their professional and practical skills through B AD 5101 – MBA - Professional Development and B AD 5201 – MBA - Professional Development II. These courses address career planning, job searches, interviewing, negotiation, and professional growth. Experiential courses include B AD 5812 – Global Business Experience, B AD 5822 – Business Consulting Practicum, and B AD 5832 – Applied Field Project, which allow students to explore international business environments, work on business consulting challenges, and apply classroom concepts to practical projects.

Advanced Stage: Specialization and Strategic Management

Students personalize their MBA through 18 credit hours of electives, with no more than 16 elective hours coming from the same division within the Price College of Business. Depending on their interests and course availability, they can explore areas such as entrepreneurship, investments, managerial accounting, business analytics, marketing, finance, and management information systems. The program concludes with B AD 5902 – Strategic Management, an integrative capstone that develops students' ability to formulate, implement, and evaluate organizational strategies in changing business environments.

Focus Areas

The MBA combines core management knowledge with opportunities to explore specialized business interests. Key focus areas include:

Finance and Accounting: Understanding financial management, financial reporting, investments, and managerial accounting to support effective business decisions.
Marketing Management: Developing knowledge of marketing strategy, customer behavior, and approaches to building competitive advantage.
Organizational Leadership: Examining organizational behavior, leadership, team dynamics, and employee management.
Business Analytics and Quantitative Analysis: Using statistical techniques, quantitative models, and data analysis to evaluate business problems and support decisions.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Exploring business development, innovation, and opportunities to create or expand ventures.
Global Business: Understanding international business environments, cultural differences, and the challenges organizations face in global markets.
Strategic Management: Integrating knowledge across business functions to evaluate organizational performance and develop long-term strategies.
Business Ethics and Legal Responsibilities: Examining ethical decision-making and the legal considerations that influence business operations.

These areas help students develop a comprehensive understanding of business while allowing them to select electives aligned with their professional interests.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to analyze business problems, interpret financial and quantitative information, evaluate market opportunities, and make informed managerial decisions. They learn to assess organizational behavior, understand the role of technology in business operations, and develop strategies that connect finance, marketing, operations, and management. Through professional development and experiential coursework, students also strengthen their communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The strategic management capstone helps them integrate these competencies to evaluate business challenges and formulate practical organizational strategies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MBA is offered through the University of Oklahoma's Michael F. Price College of Business. The university's catalog states that the MBA program has continued to meet business-school accreditation standards since its original accreditation in 1963 by the American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business, the organization now known as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). For current accreditation status, students should consult the university's latest official accreditation information.

The program combines graduate-level business education with professional development and applied learning. This structure is relevant to students preparing for management positions, pursuing career advancement, or seeking to move into new business functions. The MBA itself does not guarantee a particular job title or promotion.

Reputation and Employability

The University of Oklahoma's Price College of Business offers an MBA curriculum that combines foundational business education, career preparation, and practical learning experiences. The Global Business Experience, Business Consulting Practicum, and Applied Field Project give students opportunities to connect academic concepts with real-world business situations. The university also provides professional development coursework focused on career planning, interviewing, negotiation, and the job search process.

Potential career pathways for graduates include:

Business development manager
Financial analyst or finance manager
Marketing manager
Management consultant
Operations manager
Project manager
Strategy analyst
Entrepreneur or business owner
General management professional

Career opportunities depend on a student's previous experience, chosen electives, professional network, and employer requirements. The official program information does not establish a current program-specific employability ranking, so no numerical ranking is claimed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Oklahoma, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including group projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Students engage in real-world problem-solving and collaborate with peers and industry professionals, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the business world.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MBA program at OU:

- Capstone Projects: Students work on real business challenges through capstone projects, collaborating with local companies to develop actionable solutions.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships, allowing students to gain valuable work experience and network with industry leaders.
- Business Simulation Labs: The use of advanced business simulation software helps students practice decision-making in a risk-free environment.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects foster teamwork and communication skills, essential for success in any business setting.
- Field Trips: Students have the chance to visit local businesses and organizations, providing insights into various industries and operational practices.
- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research labs and resources supports students in conducting in-depth analyses and studies.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive libraries and databases provide students with the tools needed for comprehensive research and learning.
- Networking Events: Regular events with alumni and industry professionals help students build connections and gain insights into career paths.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to enhance your MBA experience and prepare you for a successful career in business.

Consider applying to the MBA program at the University of Oklahoma to take advantage of these unique learning experiences!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Oklahoma opens doors to a wealth of opportunities and career advancement. Graduates from this program often find themselves in influential roles such as Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, and Operations Director. The skills and knowledge gained through the MBA program equip students to excel in various industries, making them highly sought after by employers.

Here’s how the University of Oklahoma supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Approximately 90% of MBA graduates secure employment within three months of graduation, with an average starting salary of around $85,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Oklahoma has established strong connections with leading companies such as Devon Energy and Chesapeake Energy, providing students with networking opportunities and internships.
- Accreditation: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have reported significant career advancement, with many moving into senior management positions within just a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MBA, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. in a specialized area of business. This can lead to opportunities in academia, research, or high-level consultancy roles, allowing you to deepen your expertise and expand your professional network even further.

The University of Oklahoma is committed to your success, and an MBA from this esteemed institution can be the catalyst for a rewarding career.