The M.S. in Commerce at the University of Virginia is now in its 11th year with nearly 1,000 alumni across the globe. Here are 13 reasons why I recommend the program to anyone exploring graduate business school:
Earn a Master’s in Business in 1 Year
The M.S. in Commerce is an accelerated program, and students earn a master’s degree in just 10 months. It’s both cost and time efficient. Since it’s a one-year program, I can stay motivated and focused.
Master a Specialty
Today, it’s all about specialization. The M.S. in Commerce offers three tracks for students to choose from: Business Analytics, Finance, and Marketing & Management. In the fall, all students take the same courses to build a foundation of business knowledge while in the spring, we break out into track-specific courses to dig deeper into a particular area of business.
Experience Global Business Firsthand
The icing on the M.S. in Commerce cake is the built-in Global Immersion Experience that takes place at the end of the Program. Students choose from one of six regions around the globe and spend three weeks immersing themselves in the business culture and economic complexities of that region. I’m excited to experience global business first-hand, get a behind-the-scenes look at 20+ companies, and expand my network.
Join the Ranks of a Top-Tier Program and University
The M.S. in Commerce was ranked #2 “Master’s in Management” in the world by The Economist in 2017 (and #1 in the U.S.). The McIntire School of Commerce was recently named “B-School of the Year” by Poets & Quants, and the University of Virginia consistently ranks in the top three public universities in the country.
Study with World-Renowned Faculty
McIntire professors are top-notch and highly regarded by their students and peers. They come from many different backgrounds and areas of expertise, but all have one thing in common: They are committed to teaching and supporting students. Meet Ira Harris, Program Director of the M.S. in Commerce.
Get the Best Career Support EVER
Commerce Career Services (CCS) is second-to-none. They are a tremendous resource for students with resume review, cover letters, mock behavioral and case interviews, career fair prep, networking skills, negotiating offers, and connecting you with alumni. 300+ companies recruit at McIntire each year in person so it feels as if the employers are coming to you. The program boasts 94-99% placement for the past six classes, and we even have our own dedicated career adviser.
Grow Your Professional Network
Graduate school is an opportunity to tap into a new network. The University of Virginia and McIntire School of Commerce alumni networks span the globe with 45+ international alumni clubs. Students can connect with alumni directly through HoosOnline and can request an M.S. in Commerce alumni mentor as well.
Upon Your Honor
The University of Virginia is known for many “firsts”, including the first student-run honor system in the country. The Honor Code creates a community of trust for all students, encouraging us to be ethical citizen leaders. “On my honor as a student, I have neither given nor received aid on this assignment/exam.”
Study at a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Did you know the University of Virginia’s historic Academical Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? UVA is a history lover’s dream school. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful college campuses in America.
Enjoy Your Study Breaks
Charlottesville is the quintessential college town and a great place to spend a year. There’s the Downtown Mall, Charlottesville’s eight-block pedestrian mall, offering a variety of shopping, theater, restaurants, and a concert pavilion offering free concerts in the summer and early fall. Charlottesville also has probably more restaurants per capita than any town of its size—foodie heaven.
Virginia Is For Lovers
Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is surrounded by beautiful vistas, hiking trails, national parks, and so much more. Spend the weekend watching a polo game, hiking Humpback Rock to watch the sunrise, or indulging in a tasting at one of the 35+ wineries and breweries just outside the city.
Be At the Center of Innovation
Charlottesville was named #4 for “50 Best Cities for Entrepreneurs” by Entrepreneur Magazine. McIntire is also proud to have produced many entrepreneurs who have founded their own businesses—Roots, Stick, Austin Data Solutions, Okko Brand, Athena Club, Poké, and Two Blind Brothers—just to name a few!
Build Lifelong Friendships
Last, but certainly not least, the M.S. in Commerce attracts a highly diverse group of students from many different backgrounds and interests. The one thing we have in common is a curiosity to learn and an openness to new ideas. I know that the relationships I have with my classmates are now friendships that I will cherish long after we graduate.
