University of Nebraska-Lincoln MBA & Rankings

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), founded in 1869, is a prominent public academic and research institution located in Lincoln, Nebraska. As the flagship university in the state, UNL is committed to providing a high-quality education while advancing knowledge through cutting-edge research. Known for its diverse and inclusive community, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a notable emphasis on business education.

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UNL is designed to equip students with the critical skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s complex and fast-paced business environment. The program aims to foster leaders who are not only adept in qualitative and quantitative analysis but also skilled in strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and ethical leadership. The UNL MBA program stands out as one of the most well-regarded business programs in the country, with options for specialization in areas such as accounting, agribusiness, international business, and more. It is ideal for students who seek to deepen their business acumen and advance their careers in a competitive global market.

This comprehensive MBA program offers students a blend of rigorous academic training and practical business experiences, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in any sector. Whether students choose to study on-campus or pursue the online format, UNL’s MBA program provides a flexible learning environment that is responsive to the needs of working professionals.

The MBA Program Structure

Core Curriculum and Specializations

The MBA program at UNL is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in essential business concepts while allowing them the flexibility to specialize in areas that align with their career goals. The program incorporates both quantitative and qualitative approaches to business education, ensuring that graduates possess the critical thinking, analytical, and leadership skills required for today’s fast-paced, globalized business world.

The core curriculum focuses on key areas such as management, finance, accounting, marketing, strategy, economics, and organizational behavior. These core courses are carefully designed to build a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape, providing students with the essential tools to succeed in leadership roles across a wide range of industries.

In addition to the core courses, students can choose from a variety of specializations based on their career interests. These specializations allow students to tailor their education and focus on specific areas of business, providing them with deeper expertise in their chosen field.

Specialization Areas

Accounting: The accounting specialization offers students advanced knowledge of financial reporting, auditing, and corporate accounting. It prepares students for leadership roles in financial management, accounting firms, and other related sectors.

Agribusiness: Students who specialize in agribusiness gain a unique perspective on the business side of agriculture. This specialization prepares graduates to take on leadership roles in agribusinesses, agricultural policy, and rural development.

International Business: The international business specialization equips students with the skills to navigate global markets, manage cross-cultural teams, and understand international trade dynamics. This is ideal for students interested in pursuing global business opportunities or working in multinational corporations.

Other Specializations: UNL offers additional specialized tracks, including finance, marketing, management, and more. These concentrations allow students to focus on particular areas of business that are most relevant to their career goals.

Online and Part-Time Options

UNL understands that many students are working professionals who require a flexible learning schedule. To accommodate these students, the MBA program is offered both on-campus and online, allowing individuals to choose the format that best suits their needs. The online MBA program at UNL is particularly well-suited for students who prefer the flexibility of learning from anywhere in the world without sacrificing the quality of education.

The part-time MBA option is another flexible alternative for students who wish to continue working while earning their degree. Courses for part-time students are typically offered in the evening, allowing students to balance their academic responsibilities with their professional careers. This part-time format also enables students to complete the program at their own pace, typically within two to three years.

Accelerated MBA Program

For students who wish to complete their MBA at an accelerated pace, UNL offers a full-time, accelerated MBA track that can be completed in as little as one year. This track is ideal for recent graduates or individuals who can commit to studying full-time and want to quickly enter or advance in the workforce.

Rankings and Recognition

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s MBA program has consistently been ranked highly by prominent publications such as U.S. News & World Report and BusinessWeek. These rankings reflect the quality of the program, its faculty, and the success of its graduates.

• U.S. News & World Report ranked UNL’s part-time MBA program 28th in the nation in its 2013 Best Graduate Schools rankings. The ranking is based on several factors, including peer assessments, GMAT scores, undergraduate GPAs, work experience, and the percentage of part-time students enrolled. This ranking is a testament to the high quality of education and the value of the program.
• UNL’s online MBA program was ranked 2nd in the Big Ten according to U.S. News & World Report (2013). This ranking highlights the program’s strength in delivering a quality education to students across the country and beyond.
• The UNL distance MBA program was recognized as one of the best by U.S. News & World Report in their 2012 graduate school rankings, affirming the university’s commitment to providing top-tier education in flexible formats.
• In BusinessWeek’s 2009 rankings, UNL was placed 4th nationally and 1st in the Midwest among part-time MBA programs. This distinction underscores the program's competitiveness and the high caliber of its curriculum.
• The UNL distance MBA program has also been recognized as a “Best Buy” among AACSB-accredited online MBA programs by GetEducated.com, which evaluates programs based on affordability and quality.

These rankings reinforce the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s MBA program as a highly respected and competitive offering in the world of business education.

Accreditation: A Mark of Excellence

The MBA program at UNL is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a prestigious accreditation that is considered the gold standard for business schools worldwide. Fewer than 5% of business schools globally hold AACSB accreditation, making it a highly sought-after distinction.

AACSB accreditation ensures that the UNL MBA program meets rigorous standards of excellence in teaching, research, and curriculum design. It also guarantees that the program provides students with a high-quality education that is recognized and respected by employers and business leaders around the world.

Accreditation from AACSB signifies that the UNL MBA program is committed to continuous improvement and that it is equipped to meet the evolving needs of the business world. The faculty, curriculum, and resources available to students are consistently evaluated to ensure that they meet the highest standards of business education.

Career Services and Alumni Network

One of the key advantages of pursuing an MBA at UNL is the university’s strong support for career development and the vast network of successful alumni. The College of Business Administration provides comprehensive career services that include job placement assistance, internship opportunities, resume building, and interview coaching.

Additionally, the UNL MBA program has a wide-reaching alumni network that spans across various industries and regions. This network provides valuable connections for students, helping them access job opportunities and gain mentorship from experienced professionals in their field. The success of UNL alumni in various sectors reflects the quality and reputation of the program.

Conclusion

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s MBA program is a top-tier program that prepares students to excel in today’s complex and dynamic business environment. Whether students choose to specialize in accounting, agribusiness, international business, or other fields, the program provides them with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to succeed in leadership roles across various industries.

With its flexible learning formats, including online and part-time options, and its accredited curriculum, UNL’s MBA program offers a highly competitive education that meets the needs of working professionals. The program’s outstanding rankings and AACSB accreditation ensure that graduates are equipped with the tools necessary to thrive in the global marketplace.

For individuals seeking to advance their careers, develop leadership capabilities, and gain a comprehensive understanding of business, the MBA program at UNL offers a pathway to success and a bright future in the world of business.