The University of Notre Dame has launched an MBA deferred admissions program for undergraduates and early-career professionals that invites them to take advantage of school resources while they gain work experience before enrolling.
The program gives prospective master’s in business administration students with little or no work experience the chance to secure admission before they reach the recommended three years of work experience to enroll.
The university said in a news release that the candidates will have access to fall check-ins with a dedicated admissions contact, a professional development portal and invitations to campus events.
“The Notre Dame MBA Deferral Program is about more than securing a seat in a future MBA class. It’s about starting a relationship with Notre Dame that will grow throughout a student’s career,” Gianna Bern, associate dean for the Notre Dame MBA, said in the release. “By providing a clear path and strong support network, we’re helping future leaders not only prepare for professional success but also carry forward our mission to ‘grow the good in business.’”
Under the program, candidates submit their applications during their final undergraduate year or up to two years after graduating. Once they have gained three to five years of work experience, they may receive their deferred admission offer.
Notre Dame views the program as a way for candidates to make the most of their work experience during the deferred years while staying engaged with the university.
“The Deferred Admission Program prepares students for success in the program and their careers,” said Claire Fitzgibbon, senior director of graduate enrollment at Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business. “They gain peace of mind by mapping out their future and can focus on building the career experience that employers value. At the same time, they are building their support network here at Notre Dame through engagement with our staff and opportunities to attend events.”