The first step to getting a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in operations usually is to complete a bachelor's program in a related major, such as business, marketing, economics or financial accounting. During the senior year of undergraduate studies, a student can start filing applications for master's programs that offer an MBA in operations degree. Requirements for programs may vary by school, but typically include letters of recommendations from undergraduate professors, entrance exam test scores and copies of transcripts from all schools the student has attended. Once accepted into an MBA in operations program, a student can expect to spend anywhere from one to two years studying, depending on the program chosen.
Earning a bachelor's degree is typically the first step toward getting an MBA in operations. Graduate schools generally accept a wide range of undergraduate degrees, including accounting, marketing, economics and, of course, business. Regardless of which undergraduate degree path a student chooses, including classes in accounting, statistics and finance may offer a better foundation for graduate studies. Competition for MBA in operations programs may be fierce, especially at the top schools, so earning a high grade point average and developing working relationships with professors is a good idea. Students may also do well to secure an undergraduate internship. Many graduate programs look favorably upon solid work experience when considering potential program candidates.
While studying for an MBA in operations, a student can expect to take classes that will build his or her knowledge of the business world, from local to global. In addition to business management classes, students typically take classes in such as areas as cost accounting, finance management, marketing and global economics. Many programs also require students to study ethics and business law. Some MBA programs include an internship program as well. Students who took advantage of an undergraduate internship may have an edge in this area and be able to either continue their internship with the same company or have an "in" for a second internship. For students without internship backgrounds, the programs typically have contacts with a variety of companies looking for business interns.
MBA in operations degrees typically are offered in traditional classroom formats as well as online. Time frames for degree completion as well as the structure of the MBA program can range from accelerated or executive programs, which may take a year or 18 months, to 2-year, full-time programs. Some programs may be completed while working and are geared toward students who work while completing their studies.
