Illinois Institute of Technology Stuart Graduate School of Business

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Students Say - Academics
The Stuart Graduate School of Business at Chicago's Illinois Institute of Technology recognizes the diverse needs of its student body and works hard to accommodate them all. Those looking to expedite their MBAs, for example, can enroll in the school's full-time program; about one-third of the students here do just that. Those who want to pursue their degrees contemporaneously with their careers have a number of part-time options, including the "customizable world-class MBA." Classes are scheduled during weekdays, evenings, and weekends for the convenience of all of Stuart's constituencies. All MBA programs consist of a minimum of 16 classes. IIT is a world-class research institution, and, not surprisingly, Stuart MBAs benefit from the presence of the high-powered academics here. Three research centersâ€"the Center for Financial Markets, the Center for Strategic Competitiveness, and the Center for Sustainable Enterpriseâ€"offer unique options to adventurous MBAs. There is even an optional specialization in sustainable enterprise that trains students "to identify, develop, communicate, and help implement practical and equitable business strategies that advance the ecological sustainability of the Chicago area while fostering current and future economic viability." Stuart was recently ranked among the world's leaders in incorporating environmental management. Many here, however, prefer more traditional fare. Stuart MBAs laud the school's entrepreneurship program as well as offerings in finance and marketing. Quite a few fulltimers take advantage of dual-degree programs in law, design, or public administration. Throughout the curriculum, students praise "the use of technology and real-life examples, and the application of business problems." Stuart professors "are always willing to help and provide out-of-the-classroom tutorials and further explanations," plus "their experience and techniques are outstanding." Similarly, administrators "are extremely helpful and go out of their way to get to know each student personally and help anyone." With IIT's small cohorts, "there is no crowding in the libraries, computer labs, etc. And, we get to learn a lot from group discussions." For many, though, "the school's greatest strength is its strategic location. It is because of its location that we are able to get internships and other opportunities to work." About the only weakness here, students tell us, is that "the school's image needs to be improved. The rankings need improvement and people need to know about IIT a lot more."

Students Say - Admissions
The IIT Stuart Graduate School of Business requires applicants to submit GMAT scores, official undergraduate transcripts for all schools attended, two letters of recommendation from people "who can attest to your academic or professional qualifications," two required essays (personal statement and career goals) with the option to submit additional essays (describe a difficult challenge you have faced, describe your ideal company), and a resume. International students must also submit TOEFL scores no more than two years old. Undergraduate transcripts in languages other than English must be accompanied by an English translation.

Students Say - Campus Life
IIT's main MBA programs are located "in a separate building in downtown Chicago. That building houses law and business school students only, so there isn't much activity there really, just serious-looking students walking to and fro. The main campus has more life, and there is a free shuttle to transport you between campuses. I appreciate the peace and quiet of our building, though. It's very easy to find a nook to study in without constant interference," remarks one student. MBAs participate in "lots of study groups. We also have socials every Wednesday, and students often go out into town in small groups." Despite these opportunities, many here feel that they "need more organizations, activities, a bigger career center, and more seminars and activities with others outside the school (i.e. businesses, other universities, etc.)." The student body includes many who have considerable work experience, as well as "a lot of diversity in terms of nationality and occupation." One student observes, "The diverse population aids in creating a learning experience unlike any other. Students learn as much (if not more) outside the classroom than in the classroom, just by interacting with everyone around them." When they can find the time, students love to take advantage of "the world's biggest financial city," which also offers plenty in the way of culture, entertainment, fine dining, and nightlife. Again, it comes back to location. "Stuart is located near the Chicago loop in the midst of big-name business companies, allowing for excellent networking and job opportunities. It's also very close to public transportation."

Students Say - Careers
The Office of Career Services at the Stuart MBA program provides students with one-onone career counseling, workshops in interviewing and resume preparation, and research on companies and opportunities appropriate to each student's goals. A self-assessment, conducted as students enter the program, helps the office tailor its services to the individual needs of each MBA. The university at large conducts career fairs through its Career Development Center. Employers who most frequently hire Stuart MBAs include Bank One, Northern Trust, Bank of America, ABN-Amro, Lucent Technologies, JPMorgan, Navistar, Johnson & Johnson, Capitol One, Vankampen, US EPA, Reuters, Cantor Fitzgerald, McLagan Partners, Motorola, Inc., and Akamal Trading. About half of all Stuart MBAs remain in the Midwest after graduation; most of the rest head to one of the two coasts.

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