Additional Program Information
Pedagogy
The MBA Program at APU is comprehensive, rigorous, and experiential. Most courses are taught using real-life cases and simulations where students take the decision-maker’s seat and use their creativity and MBA toolkit to make sound recommendations. Through repeated use of MBA-level cases and simulations, students internalize important problem and opportunity archetypes and learn to apply the appropriate mix of concepts, frameworks, and personal ingenuity to make the most of each situation.
Field Experience
In the summer term, students complete either a domestic or international two-unit field experience. This experience exposes students to the inner workings of several different organizations, research and development, and manufacturing facilities. The commonalities and differences students observe stimulates their thinking with regard to what matters and what works. Students may complete the field experience in Southern California or on an international trip. The Southern California field experience is a five-day, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., intensive program. The international field experience is generally a two-week trip that includes time for cultural visits. International trips vary each year, depending in part on student interest, but includes destinations such as Asia, Europe, and South America.
Independent StudIes
Independent studies are exclusively for subjects considered to be of merit that are not addressed in the required courses. They are intended to allow students to become more versed in their area of interest. At APU, independent studies consist of electives and concentration courses.
Independent studies require a written proposal of study prepared by the student and signed by the faculty member. This proposal includes an outline of study, classification as an elective or concentration, proposed credits, timeline, and meeting times with faculty. The proposal is presented to the MBA chair and requires his/her written approval.
Summer Courses
The only summer course offering is the Field Experience. The summer term is also a time to complete elective and concentration courses as independent studies.
Course Attendance and Schedule
Learning is a collaborative process. APU MBA students are admitted in part because of the experiences they bring to the learning community and what they can add to class discussions. As such, attendance is an important aspect of the APU MBA commitment. Absences are only appropriate in cases of emergency.
Students should make note of the start and end of the term as they determine their travel plans. Given our accelerated nine-week terms, students generally cannot miss more than two classes without retaking a course. Students should notify instructors of planned absences as soon as possible, as well as make arrangements with other students to get notes/assignments. As every instructor considers participation in grading, absences and tardiness may significantly affect final grades.
Transfer of Credit for Required MBA Coursework
Students who have completed coursework at an AACSB accredited graduate management or business program are eligible to receive credit toward the MBA degree for up to a total of two courses. Transfer courses must have been completed with a grade of B or higher, may not have been used toward completion of another degree, and must be similar in content to those offered in APU’s MBA Program. Transfer credit is not included in the cumulative grade-point average. Application for transfer of credit must be submitted as early as possible and must include an official copy of the transcript, catalog description, and course syllabus.
