Kennesaw State University The Michael J. Coles College of Business

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Students Say - Academics
Great teaching is a trademark of the Coles College of Business, which offers flexible degree programs for working professionals in a friendly, student-oriented atmosphere. The school's talented professors are "supportive and enthusiastic to teach, and show an amazing sense of sympathy to their students. They are also very knowledgeable in their fields and are prepared to teach above and beyond what is required." Academics have a practical focus, and professors make a point of incorporating their professional experience into classroom discussions. In fact, "most of the professors are practicing professionals or have had many years of experience in their fields. The research and articles written by these professors is impressive." A current student writes, "Many of the classes have directly overlapped with functions performed in my current role at work and have enabled me to immediately add value to my company." Kennesaw offers an MAcc degree and several MBA options, of which the most popular is the Coles MBA. This flexible, part-time degree is offered at the school's Kennesaw campus, at Cobb Galleria, and in Dalton, as well as online. Designed for working adults, the Coles MBA offers courses once a week or on the weekends, as well as "mini-mesters" three times a year. The program can be completed in just 18 months, though this remarkably flexible school allows students up to six years to complete their degree. Students appreciate the "great class scheduling for full-time workers;" however, they also note that class availability isn't consistent. While "all classes are offered at least once a year," "some semesters the elective course offerings are a little thin." Exhibiting a genuine interest in teaching, "professors are available and genuinely care about the success of their students." Likewise, when it comes to the school's staff and directors, "the administration is very helpful and accessible all the way up to the dean of the business school." In fact, "MBA students are treated like customers of the university" and the administrative staff "arrive[s] at work everyday with the intent to serve the students." In this and other ways, students at Coles are given the respect, support, and service a professional adult would expect from their business school. A current student explains, "The greatest strength of my school is the independent yet supportive atmosphere. Students get to make their own decisions but can receive help in any way they need it."

Students Say - Admissions
Admissions to Coles is based on a student's undergraduate performance, standardized test scores, and professional experience. In addition to undergraduate transcripts, GMAT scores, and a resume, students may choose to send letters of recommendation for consideration, though they are not required.

Students Say - Campus Life
Kennesaw State's campus has a laid-back, collegiate feel, with great facilities and plenty of resources for both undergraduate and graduate students. At the business school and the larger university, "student life around campus during the warmer months is very upbeat and you can find students lounging outside in the warm weather all of the time." A current student adds, "There are innumerable resources for students: the library, computer labs, special tutoring labs, clubs, groups, free extracurricular classes. The campus is secure, beautiful and very student-friendly." For those who live on campus, "housing is awesome and the gym facilities make you want to work out." An added advantage is the surrounding community, which "is very nice and is one of the safest in the country." In addition, "Atlanta is close enough to take advantage of the big city activities but far enough to avoid the big city problems." Despite the appealing atmosphere at Kennesaw, most graduate students don't get too involved in the school community. A current student explains, "The undergraduate life seems very active from what I can tell, and the graduate students interact a great deal. However, because it is a commuter school, graduate activities are not as well-attended. Additionally, many events take place during the daytime when those who work cannot attend." While it doesn't foster a strong campus atmosphere, the diverse locations and flexible schedule of the graduate business programs attract "students of all ages, with families and without. I believe the youngest I have met was 24 and the oldest around [their] 50s." In addition, "KSU seems to have a very large international student body. I have met students from all over the world, and it seems that nearly 50 percent of my classmates have foreign accents."

Students Say - Careers
Coles is the "largest business school in Georgia," which gives it a commanding presence in the region, as well as an extensive alumni network. In addition, the school works hard to maintain a "connection with the local business community," which helps serve students while they are pursuing their degree and afterwards. Students in the business school are served by the "great career services team" at KSU's Career Services Center, which offers interview prep, cover letter and resume review, oneon- one counseling, and access to several online job boards. The center also organizes campus career expos and career fairs throughout the year. A current student shares, "I would like to stress how much KSU tries to get employers on campus. They have career fairs in both spring and fall. They even have a separate event just for the accounting firms."

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