Research and Comps

Research Component

All MBA students must complete a research component as part of their requirements for graduation. A research paper, at a minimum, is a paper that surveys the literature on a particular topic. In such papers, students should demonstrate that they understand various arguments, hypotheses or theories put forward in the literature, can compare and contrast such, and draw appropriate conclusions therefrom. Term papers meeting these specifications can qualify as research papers. Research papers can be written either individually or as a team as directed by the academic program. The student’s advisor must approve the research paper and file the Research Component Form with the Graduate Office.

Comprehensive Examination - ETS^® MBA-MFT

Students must pass the ETS^® MBA-MFT comprehensive exam in order to complete the MBA program. Students who wish to take the ETS exam must submit their application to take the comprehensive examination and an application to graduate to the Graduate Office no later than the end of the first week of the term in which they wish to sit for the exam.

The ETS^® Major Field Test for MBA is available on campus in Maryville and remotely in the United States. 

• On-campus testing will be scheduled each semester and students who are in their last and had applied for the comprehensive exam will be notified of the date and location.
• Remote testing must be arranged with the Assessment Office and the test must be completed two weeks prior to the scheduled date for on-campus testing.

Alternate Exam for International Students

An alternate comprehensive exam is available to students who live outside of the United States upon the approval of the MBA Program Director. Students must identify a proctor for the exam and submit the proctor’s name, telephone number and e-mail address to the MBA Program Director.