Frequently Asked Questions
MBA and MPA Degree Programs
Executive Certificate
MBA and MPA Degree Program Questions
What are the application due dates?
What are the steps to apply to the MBA and MPA programs?
How are the degree programs structured?
How do class schedules typically work?
Where are MBA and MPA classes held?
Do you offer a dual degree? Is there a different process for this application?
Is it possible to work and attend MBA or MPA classes at the same time?
How much do the degree programs cost?
What types of scholarships and financial aid are available for the degree programs?
What does the MBA and MPA student body look like?
What is the best way for me to learn more about the MBA and MPA Programs?
What are the application due dates?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Due dates for Fall 2013 are March 15, 2013 and May 15, 2013.
What are the steps to apply to the MBA and MPA programs?
The first step in the admissions process is to submit your application. Candidates should submit application materials directly to Presidio Graduate School for review. Detailed instructions and application requirements can be found in the Application Instructions.
How are the degree programs structured?
The MBA and MPA are both composed of a 60-credit curriculum with 15 required courses and 1 elective. The programs combine the effectiveness of face-to-face learning with the flexibility of interactive distance-learning opportunities. Students have as much classroom time as a traditional MBA or MPA program. However, Presidio brings an additional level of value through a robust online component that develops essential management skills and facilitates virtual collaboration among students.
What is the difference between the full-time and part-time degree programs? How long does it take to finish?
Full and part-time students take the same core courses. Full-time students are enrolled in four classes (15 credits) each semester, and complete the program in two years. Part-time students take two classes (alternating between seven or eight credits) each semester, and normally finish the program in four years.
How do class schedules typically work?
Students meet for eight-hour days during residency weekends, which occur just once a month. Classes are held Thursday – Sunday for full-time students and Saturday – Sunday for part-time students. One class is held per day and runs for a full day, each day.
In addition, every residency students and faculty are invited to a short program and community event hosted by the school.
Where are MBA and MPA classes held?
Classes are held at 835 Market Street in downtown San Francisco. The space provides students a state of the art learning environment in a location easily accessible by public transportation. It is fitting with Presidio's mission to reuse existing space and resources.
Do you offer a dual degree? Is there a different process for this application?
Presidio Graduate School offers students the ability to earn a dual MBA/MPA degree in sustainable management in both business and public administration.
The dual degree is a 90-credit program of study. Candidates for this program apply first to the MBA or MPA program, and in their second year of study apply for the dual-degree option. The application process remains the same.
Is it possible to work and attend MBA or MPA classes at the same time?
You can, and most of our students do work in some capacity, though the choice is an individual one. For students in the full-time MBA or MPA two-year program, we recommend working on a part-time basis. It is not recommended for full-time students to also work full-time, although some students are able to manage both. For students enrolled in the four-year, part-time program, working full-time is manageable.
How much do the degree programs cost?
For incoming, newly enrolled students, tuition is $980 per unit. Full-time students pay $29,400 per year (30 credits.) Part-time students can expect to pay $14,700 per year (15 credits). This does not include books or administrative fees.
What types of scholarships and financial aid are available for the degree programs?
Among the scholarships available are the Richard M. Gray Scholarship Fund and merit-based scholarships. In addition, federal financial aid is available through the school's affiliation with Alliant International University.
What does the MBA and MPA student body look like?
Students come from a wide variety of professional backgrounds, including Fortune 500 corporations, small and medium-sized businesses, nonprofits and governmental agencies. While our students come from diverse experiences, they all share the values of sustainability and the desire to create meaningful work.
What is the best way for me to learn more about the MBA and MPA Programs?
Attending an information session and/or going on a class visit gives prospective students the opportunity to experience firsthand our thriving educational community.
Executive Certificate Questions
What is the structure of the Executive Certificate program? How long is the program?
How many hours per week can I expect to spend on class work?
What professional experience do Executive Certificate program participants typically have?
What types of roles do Executive Certificate program participants and graduates hold?
Do I need to know the project or action plan I will focus on prior to starting the program?
What is the structure of the Executive Certificate program? How long is the program?
The Executive Certificate program participants meet Friday and Saturday once a month, for two full days of class. Class time includes lecture, group work, project labs and student presentations. During the rest of the month, participants interact and continue learning through our highly customized online platform. The Executive Certificate program takes place over five months.
How many hours per week can I expect to spend on class work?
The program is designed for busy professionals; most of them work full time. We suggest you set aside roughly 5-10 hours per week.
What professional experience do Executive Certificate program participants typically have?
The majority of participants in the Executive Certificate program come from the private sector, with an average of 17 years of professional experience.
Executive Student Profile
Average Age is 45
60% Female
90% Work Full-time
45% Have a Graduate Degree
What is the difference between the MBA or MPA in Sustainable Management and the Executive Certificate program?
The Executive Certificate program provides an intensive exploration of the principles of sustainable management for mid- to senior-level professionals, who through coursework or professional experience already have business acumen. Participants receive a Certificate in Sustainable Practices. The MBA and MPA are two-year, full-time degree programs that cover the foundations of business and policy through the lens of sustainability.
What types of roles do Executive Certificate program participants and graduates hold?
Executive Certificate program participants and graduates have diverse roles including: directors at Fortune 500 companies, leaders of nonprofit institutions, appointees in state government and entrepreneurs.
Do I need to know the project or action plan I will focus on prior to starting the program?
No, however it is recommended that you have an idea for one or more projects you would like to explore. In the first weekend of class, faculty will help you select your project or action plan.
How much does the Executive Certificate program cost? Are there scholarships and financial aid available?
For the current Executive Certificate program tuition is $12,500, including all residencies, materials and meals. We offer a tuition payment plan.
For more information on any of our programs, please email: admissions@presidioedu.org