Campuses:

• Twin Cities
• Crookston
• Duluth
• Morris
• Rochester
• Other Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do the MOT and MBA curricula compare? Why would I choose the MOT?

  Like an MBA, the MOT includes general business, management, and leadership topics. However, MOT students are on a tech-based leadership track, and the reason that they choose the program is the MOT's unique, technology- and future-focused topics that teach students how to leverage technological leadership and innovation to drive business. That is, MOT graduates can assess and implement marketing and cost savings but they have the following unique leadership skills: Strategic technology analysis and management; new technology product development and commercialization; mapping, tracking, and forecasting technologies and tech-based business development.

  Students also benefit from the program's distinctive learning environment, which includes: Interactive classes orchestrated by senior, interdisciplinary faculty and a cohort of 30 to 35 high-potential professionals, who have an average of 12 years of tech-based work experience. Students immediately apply their new skills at work, and the work-based MOT Capstone Project delivers extraordinary value to students and their companies.

• What college grants the degree?

  The MOT is a master of science (in management) from the University's Graduate School and College of Science and Engineering.

• Is the MOT an M. S. in information systems management/MIS program?

  No. In the MOT program, technology is considered any pragmatic application of science. The program emphasis is on the strategic management of technology via sound business, management, and leadership practices.

• What is the program cost? Does it cost more than other graduate management programs? Is there financial aid?

  The MOT is very competitively priced with other graduate management programs. The fall 2011 – spring 2013 comprehensive* cost was $70,500 or $17,625 per semester (tuition for fall 2012 will be available by April 2012). The MOT comprehensive cost includes tuition, fees, and books; the international class round-trip airfare and lodging; class-day food, beverages, and parking. As you compare costs, be sure to factor in other programs’ additional fees, average yearly cost increases, and time to completion (e.g., an average of four to six years versus the four-semester MOT schedule). In addition, the value generated by each student’s work-based MOT Capstone Project often exceeds the program cost. Contact us to discuss promoting manager and company awareness and support, cost and ROI analysis, financial aid, and other financing strategies.

• How do MOT students work full time and complete this program in only four semesters?

  Class is scheduled one Friday or one Saturday per week, from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The program's structure including formal study groups, small class size, and low student-to-faculty ratio, helps students succeed. The MOT graduation rates (~100%) and career impact confirm that the program delivers the leadership development that our students and their companies demand.

• Why is five or more years of work experience required, and why tech-based?

  The program curriculum is designed to meet the career development needs of seasoned technical professionals who can use their MOT knowledge at work. Also, MOT students expect to learn both from the program and from one another. Alumni confirm that a significant portion of learning came from interacting with their classmates. The work experience must be tech-based because the MOT program is for those who want to increase their business, managerial, and leadership skills while remaining in a tech-intensive sector of industry.

• How is the length of work experience calculated?

  The MOT admission committee starts counting the work experience at the point where you started your first full-time, tech-based position after receiving an undergraduate degree. You meet the basic eligibility after five full-time years working in a technology-intensive field. Eligibility is also based on leadership/managerial experience or demonstrated potential.

• What if I do not have five years of work experience?

  If you think the MOT program matches your career objectives, it's not too early to research the program. Since the MOT is completed in only four semesters, future applicants can strengthen their MOT application by concentrating on their careers in the meantime.  Contact us to discuss whether the MOT will accelerate your career path.

• How much time per week do students spend studying outside of class?

  Depending on the courses, assignments, and each student's area of expertise, it varies from week to week. The typical range of study time outside of class is 15-30 hours per week.

• Are the GRE or GMAT required?

  Because of MOT applicants' extensive work experience and high motivational level and the rigorous selection process, it is rare that GRE or GMAT scores are required.

• Can I transfer credits from another graduate management program?

  For a number of reasons - the lockstep course schedule, the cohort nature of the learning experience, and the study group structure - the MOT program cannot accept transfer credits. MOT credits may transfer to another program; however, you will need to check with the specific program to clarify their transfer credit policies.

• What do alumni say about the program?

  In a 2009 survey, MOT alumni reported: (1) significant career impact and increased job satisfaction as a result of the MOT, (2) that the MOT program prepared them for critical areas of current jobs and will be even more important to career paths, and (3) that they are highly satisfied with the MOT program and (highly) recommend it to others.

• Is this program right for me? Can I apply for this fall?

  You are the best person to answer the first question! For more information about the program or when and how to apply, RSVP for an upcoming MOT information session.

• How can I contact someone about the MOT program?

  Contact Amy via phone at 612.624.8826 or e-mail mot@umn.edu.