Admissions
Our program does not require you to take the GMAT exam, but you will need to be proficient in business math skills (including higher algebra, but not calculus). If you're worried about your math skills, we can help you assess your abilities and, if necessary, suggest courses to sharpen your skills.
In addition to the standard CCA admissions requirements for graduate programs, students applying for the MBA in Design Strategy should supply the following materials:
Applicants who have a design background
A personal essay of 1,000 to 1,500 words describing your relevant design and business experience and how it has shaped your current educational and career goals. Please explain what you seek to learn and achieve through this graduate program. In addition, please address the following questions:
- What examples can you give that will illustrate that you have the ability to create imaginative yet practical solutions to real business problems?
- What issues do you think a business leader should be curious about and how would you explore these issues?
- What changes are you making in your life to prepare for this program?
- Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
- How are you making change today?
An optional digital portfolio (CD-ROM, DVD, website) of your professional work. All projects should clearly describe elements of the stated problem, the design process, the finished solution, and applicable outcomes. Due to the volume of submissions received, we are unable to return portfolios. Applicants, therefore, should not submit their only copies of files, artwork, or writing.
Applicants who have a more traditional business background
A personal essay of 1,000 to 1,500 words describing your business experience and how it has shaped your current educational and career goals. In addition, please address the following questions:
- What examples can you give that will illustrate that you have the ability to create imaginative yet practical solutions to real business problems?
- What issues do you think a business leader should be curious about and how would you explore these issues?
- What changes are you making in your life to prepare for this program?
- Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
- How are you making change today?
An optional expanded resume, detailing specific responsibilities, achievements, and learning experiences resulting from the positions you've held and the projects you've worked on.
Applicants who have experience in the nonprofit and NGO worlds
A personal essay of 1,000 to 1,500 words describing your relevant work experience and how it has shaped your current educational and career goals. In addition, please address the following questions:
- What examples can you give that will illustrate that you have the ability to create imaginative yet practical solutions to real business problems?
- What issues do you think a business leader should be curious about and how would you explore these issues?
- What changes are you making in your life to prepare for this program?
- Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
- How are you making change today?"
An optional expanded resume, detailing specific responsibilities, achievements, and learning experiences resulting from the positions you've held and the projects you've worked on.
Visit Graduate Admissions for general admissions procedures and requirements.