College of Business Administration and Economics

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics History

California State University/Northridge, founded in 1959, is a public, coeducational institution. The 350-acre campus is located in a suburban area 20 miles northwest of Los Angeles.

The basic educational approach is a combination of the theoretical and case method approaches that encourages students to connect these methods with their own experiences. It is an interdisciplinary program with an international focus designed to develop students’ analytical and communication abilities, teamwork, sensitivity to ethical issues, and leadership skills.

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics Academics

The College offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Thirty-three total credits are required to complete the MBA, including 9 elective credits. Required courses include:

• Computer-Based Management Information Systems
• Seminar in Economic Topics
• Seminar in Financial Theory and Policy
• Marketing Management
• Seminar in Strategic Management
• Organizational Behavior
• Seminar in Internationally Competitive Operations Management
• Analysis of Contemporary Organizations

Students may eliminate or substitute requirements.

The maximum time permitted to complete the master’s degree program attending part time is 5 years.

Faculty salaries are rated well above average for Category IIA institutions, based on the AAUP rating system. Average business class size is 20.

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics Unique Programs

Library

The university’s main library houses a collection of more than 900,000 volumes, and subscribes to 4000 periodicals. Students have access to such databases and networks as Lexis/Nexis, ERIC, and CARL. Other opportunities for research consist of Internet capability, e-mail accounts (ability to access library databases), a market research laboratory, an accounting/tax research laboratory, and an instructional techniques center.

Computers

Graduate business students need not have their own PCs. The business school has its own computer facilities, consisting of 200 computer workstations for student use.

Career and Job Placement

Placement services are limited, since most students are already employed full time. Placement is available through the university placement office.

International Students

International students must take the TOEFL. International students must score 550 on the Paper-Based TOEFL (PBT) or 79 on the Internet-Based (iBT) version. They also must submit a translation of their transcripts and proof of adequate funds to cover the duration of the student’s education. The application deadline for fall entry is January 31.

Calendar

The school operates on a traditional semester basis. Semesters are 15 weeks long; summer sessions, 6 weeks. Graduate programs are offered during the evening only.

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics Admissions

A bachelor’s degree is required, along with a GPA of 3.0. The formula for using the GPA and GMAT scores is (200 x GPA) + GMAT. Most important admissions factors are GMAT results, academic accomplishments and ability, and work experience. A strong mathematics background is required.

The number of applicants for the 2006-2007 class was 282; 58 were accepted; 50 enrolled. The average GPA was 3.2; average GMAT score was 570. Transfers are accepted.

Students may begin the MBA program in the fall and spring. To apply, students must submit an application form, 2 transcripts, GMAT scores, a nonrefundable application fee of $55, a resume, and preferably 2 letters of recommendation. The application deadlines are May 1 for fall entry; October 1, spring. The latest acceptable test date for fall entry is May. Once accepted, students may defer admission for 1 semester.

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics Financial Aid

The FAFSA is required. Check with the school for current application deadlines.

Residents pay no tuition. Nonresidents pay $339 per credit. On-campus room and board costs approximately $6100; books and supplies, $700; personal expenses, $2500; and other fees, $2082 Graduate student housing consists of some on-campus housing and nearby off-campus apartments. There is a referral service to help procure off-campus housing.

California State University-Northridge, College of Business Administration and Economics Students

Ninety-five percent of the current graduate business school class have had an average of 5 years of full-time work experience prior to entering graduate school, a factor preferred by the school. Five percent enter directly from undergraduate school.