Welcome

As you consider whether to pursue an MBA, you face an economic landscape characterized by considerable uncertainty. When people ask me whether this is a good time to earn an MBA, I usually respond (as teachers tend to do) with a question of my own:

Is intense preparation more of a difference-maker when times are relatively easy or when times are clearly difficult?

If you’re among those who believe that difficult times require more rigorous preparation, the next question you face is which MBA program is the best fit for you. We’ve tailored our signature action-based learning approach to both our Evening and Weekend formats so that you can choose how best to integrate a Ross MBA with your other commitments and responsibilities.

The Ross MBA is a credential recognized and respected around the world. It opens up opportunities wherever your life and career may take you. But the Ross experience is more than the credential. We have pioneered an approach that is significantly different from those of other business schools. The Ross difference is action-based learning. We go beyond studying cases. We build a foundation of the most rigorous analytical tools and quantitative skills with world-class instruction. Then we provide challenging opportunities for you to apply those skills and develop new ones in team-based multidisciplinary projects. Ross MBA students work with peers and faculty in real time for real stakes for real companies.  

So what is the value of action-based learning? What will you have at the end of your time at Ross that you didn’t have when you arrived? If we all do our jobs well as teachers and learners, you will be better equipped to deal with uncertainty and will have more resilience. You will be more likely to be among those with the insight to ask the right questions, identify the real challenges, and solve the important problems.

I hope that, after learning about our part-time options and paying us a visit, you'll have a clear sense of the Ross difference.

Sincerely,

Robert J. Dolan
Edward J. Frey Dean of Business
Stephen M. Ross School of Business
University of Michigan