Affluence with Value- The University of Tampa

I opted for this University due to its affluent reputation in the area and history of success. The admissions process was simple, and allowed either GRE or GMAT scores, and required 2 letters of recommendation. I wanted to go to a university with a strong reputation as I was transitioning from an undergraduate degree in biology to the MBA program and UT has a history of strong matching with courses and coaches that can relate to your career paths. Additionally, the University of Tampa is a top-ten best value MBA program and consistently ranked within the best MBA programs.

The course curriculum is tough. UT is set up where all MBA students must take the program seriously, with grading on a +/- system, and a low tolerance for poor grades. Any student receiving more than two C level grades are dismissed from the program with no grade forgiveness. That being said, the curriculum is also impressive, with courses partnered with outstanding individuals, including career coaches boasting multiple authors, Emmy winners, CEOs, founders, and more. The courses are designed to have a real-life impact and are often partnered with local companies to gain experience. I am consistently pushing myself and learning constantly.

I opted for this program due to the University of Tampa's incredible reputation. My MBA cohort is relatively small, numbering just 49 in my class, allowing for systematic opportunities. UT also has incredible partnerships with local major companies, such as Raymond James, Tampa General Hospital, and the Florida Aquarium. Requirements for this program include GRE/or GMAT, and 2 strong letters of recommendation, as well as a comprehensive application and cover letter.

Job opportunities are plentiful. The average UT MBA program graduate makes $70,000 annually after graduation, and the university has constant opportunities to meet with companies. Weekly luncheons are held with different companies, such as Raymond James Financial, symposiums are held with CEOs, such as the President of the Florida Aquarium, and companies actively recruit from the UT campus at job fairs.

Yes, located within a major city, Tampa, the University of Tampa offers countless internships. Pay for these internships range, but can be $20+ an hour depending on the program. Meanwhile, UT also hosts a multitude of graduate assistantship programs, paying your semester's tuition, and a semester stipend of $1,500.

The University of Tampa actively celebrates it's heritage, with buildings and historical relevance 100+ years old. UT hosts beautiful ceremonies celebrating its traditions and museums hosted on campus.

UT charges about $650 a credit hour with fees, an average full-time semester will cost between $7000-$8500. Loans are available through varying sources, my student loan is currently through Great Lakes. Scholarships can be awarded based on test scores, but the information is not readily available regarding awards.

Exams are often given twice a semester for each course. These are usually worth large percentages of your grades, and designed to be tough.

The faculty within the business college are incredibly intelligent and well-connected. They boast resumes of international experience, CEO pasts, and high-level positions from multi-billion dollar companies. Courses are small, averaging 20 students to each professor, and are interactive. The faculty are also readily invitational and kind and will meet with you whenever possible.

Tampa is a large city, and costs are higher for that reason. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tampa around the university is $1500+ if you would like to live in a decent area. Most graduate students live off-campus in the surrounding hot-spot neighborhoods: Channelside, SoHo, and Hyde Park. These neighborhoods are full of nightlife and things to do.