Business Administration Major, Full-Time, MBA

16 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Tennessee

Program Overview

The Full-Time MBA at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is designed to develop the business knowledge, strategic thinking and leadership skills needed to succeed in today's competitive business environment. Delivered through an intensive 16-month programme, it combines a strong business foundation with practical, team-based learning, a required summer internship and the opportunity to specialise in an area aligned with students' career goals.

Curriculum Structure

The programme begins with a broad business foundation and progresses towards specialised study and practical application. Students learn through an intensive schedule of short academic sessions, collaborative projects and professional development activities.

First Year – Building Core Business Knowledge: During the first fall semester, students study subjects such as Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Supply Chain Management I, Operations Management, Demand Management I and Financial Management I. They also develop professional capabilities through Business Skills Development I and II. The winter mini-term includes a Global Business Seminar and travel experience, introducing them to the cultural, economic and administrative challenges of international business.

First Year – Developing Strategic and Analytical Skills: In the spring semester, students explore advanced business topics through courses such as Leading Complex Organizations, Financial Statement Analysis, Competitive Strategy, Economics of Strategy, Supply Chain Models, Supply Chain Management II, Market Forces in the Global Environment, Financial Management II and Quantitative Methods. Business Skills Development III further strengthens their communication, teamwork and professional skills. Students also complete a required summer internship to apply their learning in a professional setting.

Final Stage – Concentration and Strategic Application: In the final semester, students complete a Corporate Strategy Capstone, three courses within their selected concentration and one MBA elective. They can choose from Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Supply Chain Management, Finance or Consulting. This stage allows students to deepen their expertise and connect their business knowledge with their intended career direction.

Focus Areas

Business analytics, entrepreneurship and innovation, supply chain management, finance, consulting, accounting, operations management, marketing, strategic management, organisational leadership and global business.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop a strong understanding of core business functions and learn to evaluate complex organisational challenges from financial, operational and strategic perspectives. They strengthen their analytical, decision-making, communication and leadership abilities while gaining experience working in teams. The programme also prepares students to apply business concepts in professional environments, manage organisational change and develop strategies that support long-term business performance.

Experiential Learning

Practical experience is an important part of the Full-Time MBA. Students participate in internal case competitions that address current business issues, while selected teams may compete in external competitions such as the National Black MBA, SEC and IDEAcorps events. The required summer internship provides an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge, gain professional experience and build industry connections. Students also take part in a Global Business Seminar and travel experience during the winter mini-term, gaining exposure to international business practices and different economic environments.

Professional Alignment

The programme is offered by the Haslam College of Business, which holds AACSB accreditation. Its curriculum combines core business education, professional skills development, practical projects and concentration-based study. This structure supports the development of management, analytical and leadership capabilities relevant to a wide range of business careers.

Reputation and Career Opportunities

The Haslam Full-Time MBA has received recognition in national business school rankings. In Fortune Education's 2025 Best MBA Programs rankings, the programme was ranked among the top 15 nationally and among the top public-institution programmes. It was also ranked No. 28 among public institutions by Poets&Quants in 2025 and by U.S. News and World Report in 2024. In July 2026, The Princeton Review ranked the programme No. 3 for Best Administered MBA Program, No. 6 for Best MBA for Operations and No. 9 for Most Family Friendly MBA Program.

Graduates can pursue roles such as Business Consultant, Business Analyst, Financial Analyst, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Marketing Manager, Product Manager, Project Manager, Strategy Manager and Business Development Manager.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Tennessee, the Business Administration Major, Full-Time, MBA program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through a combination of innovative coursework, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students develop the practical skills necessary to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, which is crucial for building confidence and competence in their chosen fields.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Business Administration Major, Full-Time, MBA program:

- Capstone Projects: Engage in real-world consulting projects with local businesses, allowing you to apply your skills to solve actual business challenges.
- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with leading companies, enhancing your resume and professional network.
- Collaborative Learning: Participate in group projects that foster teamwork and leadership skills, essential for success in any business environment.
- Business Simulations: Utilize advanced software tools for business simulations that mimic real-world scenarios, helping you make strategic decisions in a risk-free setting.
- Field Trips: Experience firsthand the operations of successful companies through organized field trips, providing insights into various industries.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research labs and resources, including the Haslam Business Library, which offers a wealth of information and tools for your studies.
- Networking Events: Attend workshops and networking events with industry leaders, giving you the chance to connect with professionals and alumni.
- Entrepreneurship Institute: Engage with the Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, which provides resources and support for aspiring entrepreneurs.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you not only learn the theory but also gain the practical skills that employers are looking for. By immersing yourself in these experiences, you will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the business world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Business Administration Major, Full-Time, MBA at the University of Tennessee opens doors to a wealth of opportunities and career advancement. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand 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 competitive candidates in the job market.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Management Center offers personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events to connect students with potential employers. Additionally, the university hosts job fairs and provides access to an extensive alumni network.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of MBA graduates from the University of Tennessee secure employment within three months of graduation, with an average starting salary of around $85,000.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The university has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as FedEx, Deloitte, and Nissan, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by only 5% of business schools worldwide, ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve leadership positions in various sectors, demonstrating the effectiveness of the curriculum in preparing students for successful careers.

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 advanced leadership roles in organizations. The University of Tennessee also offers various certificate programs that can enhance your expertise in specific fields, allowing you to tailor your education to your career goals.

By choosing the MBA program at the University of Tennessee, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re investing in your future and setting yourself up for success in the dynamic world of business.