North Georgia College and State University - MBA

Message from President Jacobs Regarding Consolidation

2012-01-23T08:27:00.001-05:00

Last week North Georgia's President, Dr. Bonita Jacobs, shared a message with the campus community and alumni regarding the school's consolidation with Gainesville State College. The message is reprinted below:

I appreciate your input over the past week regarding the University System of Georgia’s recommendation to consolidate North Georgia College & State University with Gainesville State College. The Board of Regents voted unanimously on Tuesday to approve the recommendation. The news release about the action may be found here: http://www.usg.edu/news/release/regents_approve_campus_consolidation_plan. Additionally, the University System of Georgia has developed a website (http://www.usg.edu/consolidation/) on which they will post all information about the consolidation efforts.

North Georgia and Gainesville State are individually very strong institutions and successful in their distinct missions. I am confident that together, building a long and healthy relationship, we will now be in an even stronger position to support the students of this region.

An implementation committee with representation from North Georgia and Gainesville State will be named very soon to begin work on a deliberate 12- to 18-month process to address the details of the consolidation. I am certain there will be opportunities for broad participation in this process once this committee begins its work.

Rest assured, we will maintain the excellence of our Corps of Cadets, our high academic standards, our commitment to student services, and our exceptional residential life opportunities. We will always uphold the quality of our university experience and the value of our graduates’ degrees, and we will continue to advance the image and reputation of our university.

Now, we will work with Gainesville State to fulfill our responsibilities as members of the University System of Georgia to ensure high-quality academic opportunities in higher education and producing more college graduates.

Toward that end, I have decided to postpone the inauguration planned for March 23. An inauguration is about more than the president. It is a celebration of the institution, and it seems like we would be leaving out a significant portion of our constituents by continuing with plans to hold the inauguration this spring. We will develop plans for an event in the early fall to celebrate our future together as a consolidated entity.

This is an exciting time in our history, and I look forward to our work together to ensure this consolidation is successful. If you have questions or ideas, please e-mail me at president@northgeorgia.edu.

Dr. Bonita Jacobs

North Georgia Makes Kiplinger's Top 100 List

2012-01-09T08:21:00.001-05:00

View the full report on Kiplinger.com

Kiplinger Magazine recently released a report on this year's best values in public colleges and North Georgia made the list!

Noted for low in-state tuition and low student debt at graduation, Kiplinger ranked North Georgia #88 out of public colleges and universities across the nation. "North Georgia College and State University (number 88), for instance, runs less than $14,000 a year for in-state students and keeps average debt at graduation to $10,021," says the magazine.

Two other Georgia schools also made the list of Top 100 Values in Public Colleges for 2012: University of Georgia and Georgia Institute of Technology.

NGCSU Presents Career Boot Camp

2012-01-04T12:41:00.001-05:00

Does your career need a change this year? Take yourself to boot camp!

The Career Services office at North Georgia is presenting a series of classes designed to whip your career into shape so you can achieve your goals in 2012. Here's the schedule:

Career Boot Camp #1: Resume Workshop
Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Career Boot Camp #2: Job Search 101 Workshop
Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Career Boot Camp #3: Interviewing Workshop
Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Career Boot Camp #4: Career Fair Workshop
Tuesday, February 28, 2012

All Career Boot Camp Sessions will be held in room 332 of Stewart Center on the main campus from 12:45pm to 1:45pm.

NGCSU Career Fair

When you've completed boot camp, take your shiny new resume to our Career Fair on Tuesday, March 6, 2012. The Career Fair will be held in the Rec Center on the main campus from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.

Look for Info on Career Workshops in Cumming
Be on the lookout for information regarding career workshops specifically for MBA students in our Cumming Graduate Center. Dora Ditchfield, Director of Career Services at North Georgia, will be presenting a workshop on how to market your new skills both within your current company and to prospective employers. Details to be announced soon!

How to Ask Your Boss to Pay Your MBA Tuition

2011-12-28T15:55:00.000-05:00

You want to advance your career. You want to earn an MBA. You don't want to spend a fortune doing it.

It's your hard-earned money and you want to make the most of it. Completely understandable. So why are you paying your own tuition?

Many companies - even smaller ones, surprisingly - offer tuition reimbursement programs. Yes, it's perfectly acceptable to ask your boss to pay your tuition. Here's how:

Do Your Research

Does your company already have an established tuition reimbursement program? Start by checking your employee handbook. Information on such programs is usually included in the section about benefits. You might also want to check with your HR department if the details of the program are unclear.

If your company does have a program, check out the requirements. Must you attend an accredited school? Are there restrictions on the kind of degree you can earn or the field of study you can choose? If you accept tuition assistance from your employer, are you obligated to continue working for them for a certain period? If you leave the company or are laid off, must you return the tuition money?

Have a Plan

If your company doesn't have a formal program in place, propose one and offer to be the first to try it out.

Create your own proposal and talk it over with your boss. You might even want to outline your thoughts in a brief proposal to leave with your boss after the discussion.

To draft your plan, talk with colleagues at other companies in your area or industry to learn about their tuition reimbursement programs. Based on what you know about your company, its culture and financial position, you can draft a plan that is likely to be considered seriously and possibly accepted.

If you've already started the application process with the school of your choice, you might also want to include information about the costs of the program, how much you plan to personally contribute, and how the additional education and experience will ultimately benefit your company.

Ask for Help

Proposing a tuition reimbursement program may not be enough to get the program started. You might need help from the school you want to attend. Don't be afraid to ask program directors or admissions committees to write letters of support on your behalf.

Our MBA Director, Kelli Crickey, has written several letters for students entering North Georgia's MBA program in support of their request for tuition assistance. If you'd like to talk with Kelli about how to approach your employer about financially supporting your MBA studies, please attend an upcoming MBA Information Session or call (770) 205-5448.

Your MBA FAQs Answered

2011-12-22T15:42:00.000-05:00

We've been hosting Information Sessions regularly this fall and we've noticed that many of the prospective MBA students that come to learn about North Georgia's MBA program have the same questions.

If you've been thinking about earning your MBA but haven't taken the time yet to find answers to your own questions, we've listed the answers right here for you. And, when you're ready to start the application process or take the GMAT, we invite you to attend an upcoming Information Session.

Is North Georgia accredited?

Yes. North Georgia College and State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The Mike Cottrell School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Less than 10% of the world's business schools receive this elite designation, so your MBA will be valued across the globe.

Where can I take the GMAT or GRE?

There are several testing centers in the metro Atlanta area. Tests are also given periodically on North Georgia's main campus. For more information, please visit mba.com for information on the GMAT and takethegre.com for information on the GRE.

What’s a cohort?

In this context, a cohort is a group of students who go through the MBA program simultaneously. They begin together, progress through the courses together and graduate together.

The cohort model makes it possible for the University to provide rich, comprehensive, high-quality academic experiences for specialized programs with small enrollments. Most important, it enhances the educational experience, as students form strong relationships, share professional challenges and bring diverse talents and strengths to the group.

Why does this program focus on team-based learning?

Businesses rely on employee teams to create solutions and accomplish goals, so our MBA program focuses on preparing employees to succeed in team environments.

Teamwork and team projects are integral to the curriculum, especially for the intensive Capstone Leadership Experience that begins about half-way through the degree program. The team components of the program are facilitated by in-person meetings and structured team-building sessions, as well as various communication technologies such as web conferencing, wikis, and blogs.

How long is the program?

The program is designed to be completed in 5 semesters, or 20 months. However, you have the flexibility to take fewer courses (or none at all) during the first summer. If you choose that option, you will complete the program in 6 semesters.

What does North Georgia’s MBA program cost?

Our program is quite affordable for working professionals. Depending on the courses you take and your decision to study abroad, the average cost of our 20-month program is about $20,000.

Is financial aid available for MBA students?

Yes. We offer merit-based scholarships and information on other options for funding your graduate education is available through the Office of Financial Aid.
Still have questions?
Register to attend an MBA Information Session and talk with our MBA Director, Kelli Crickey, about your career and education goals.

Buck Jacobs Visits MBA Students

2011-12-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

Last month, North Georgia's 2013 cohort of MBA students were visited by Buck Jacobs, Founder and Chairman of The C12 Group, LLC.

Jacobs spoke as part of the Coaching from a Different Perspective integration event at the Graduate Center in Cumming. Integration events are a key part of North Georgia's MBA curriculum and offer students an opportunity to interact with and learn from senior executives from mid-size firms, as well as global companies.

Jacobs founded The C12 Group as a Christian leadership development organization. He's also authored several books and articles on the art of leadership, drawing on his experiences as Managing Director of Sta-Power Italia, a supplier of automotive aftermarket chemicals in Rome, Italy, as CEO of The Executive Development Institute, and as CEO of R.G. Haskins/N.A. Strand Corp., a manufacturer of specialty machine tools.

For more information on North Georgia's MBA program, curriculum or integration events, please visit NorthGeorgia.edu/mba.

Start on Your Resolution Now

2011-12-06T10:42:00.001-05:00

If your New Year's resolution is to earn a promotion, find a better job or advance your education, NOW is the time to take action.

Earn Your MBA in 20 Months

Yes, it's possible. You can start classes in the fall 2012 and have your graduate degree in hand by the spring of 2014.

But not if you wait until January 1 to start working on your application.

Here are 5 steps to put yourself on the fast-track to the success and MBA can bring:

Step 1: Submit Application & Attend Information Session

Apply online (or complete the paper form) so that a graduate advisor at North Georgia can begin to help you through the process of preparing for business school.

You should also register to attend an Information Session in January so you can meet other MBA students, our professors and graduate advisors. You can also tour our Cumming Graduate Center and learn about our new Cumming campus opening in 2012.

Step 2: Prepare for the GMAT or GRE

GMAT or GRE test scores must be sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions directly by the responsible testing agency and can be no more than six years old.

Indicate Institutional Code #5497 when taking the GMAT/GRE or see the GMAT website or the GRE website for instructions on ordering additional official score reports. Unofficial scores and student copies are not considered official.

Click here to see the closest GMAT testing center locations. Click here for the official GRE website.

Step 3: Submit Official Transcripts

Most colleges and universities allow you to request transcripts through their website or over the phone. Please request transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended.

Step 4: Submit Resume & References

Your resume gives our graduate admissions committee an overview of your work experience and readiness for graduate studies. Your references also help us better understand your professional experience. Please submit a current resume and three references to teammba@northgeorgia.edu.

Step 5: Register for Foundation Courses, if needed

Students with non-business undergraduate degrees often need Foundation Courses before they begin an MBA program. We begin offering courses in January and advise all students to take courses early to avoid delays in final admission to the program. Learn more about foundation courses.

Questions?

Our advisors are available to help you learn more about North Georgia and preparing to attend graduate school. We welcome your call at (770) 205-5448 or your visit to the Cumming Graduate Center at any time. You may also want to subscribe to periodic email updates on application tips, deadline reminders and career advice.

Registration Now Open for Foundation Classes

2011-11-30T10:33:00.003-05:00

Students with non-business undergraduate degrees often need Foundation Courses before they begin our MBA program in the fall.

Register Early to Avoid Admission Delays

Registration is now open for Foundation Courses starting in January 2012. We advise students to begin foundation courses early to avoid any delays in admission to the MBA program. Our advisors can review your application and transcripts to determine if you need to register for any courses.

For further information on course dates, locations and times, please visit NorthGeorgia.edu/mba.

Traditional & Online Courses

North Georgia offers seven Foundation Courses, three of which are self-paced online courses in management, marketing and finance. Courses in economics, accounting, calculus and statistics are offered in the Cumming Graduate Center.

Students that need additional options for completing Foundation coursework may also elect to enroll in undergraduate courses on our Dahlonega or Gainesville campuses.

Former BB&T CEO Visits MBA Students

2011-11-22T15:40:00.000-05:00

Retired Chairman and former CEO of BB&T John Allison visited MBA and undergraduate students as part of the Mike Cottrell Business Speaker Series this year.

During the “Dinner & Dialogue” presentation, hosted for the MBA students on Wednesday, Sept. 21, Allison discussed leadership and the current financial crisis, followed by a brief Q&A session.

Best Business Blogs: Part 3

2011-07-09T06:39:00.001-04:00

Continuing our list of business blogs you should be reading to stay up-to-date on trends and best practices, this week we’re talking about HR.

We know, we know, HR is not your favorite department in your company. HR might not even be a subject area you’d like to study. But there are good reasons why you should make an effort to understand this business function:

Understanding how HR works can help you land the job you want.
Knowing HR lingo can help you negotiate the salary and benefits you’re worth.
Being aware of the rules and regulations for hiring and employment can keep your company out of legal trouble.
Recognizing the challenges your HR staff faces can help you be a better leader for them.

So, with that little lecture off our chest, let’s check out a few blogs that breathe life into HR…

Evil HR Lady

Looking for a lighthearted approach to some very serious topics in workforce management? Evil HR Lady answers such pressing questions as “Does your title matter?”, “What if you knew everyone’s salary?” and “Should you dispute a performance appraisal?”. Check out this video to watch Evil HR Lady explain why companies set crazy rules about raises and often don’t want to tell you the salary for a job you’ve applied to.

the hr capitalist

A careful blend of policy discussions, leadership vignettes, book reviews and a healthy dose of snark, the hr capitalist focuses on practical solutions to talent and staffing problems. Author Kris Dunn uses real-life examples, stories and videos to spark discussions on terminable offenses, getting employees to read the handbook, and why you should hire great writers even for mostly non-writing positions.

Society for Human Resource Management – Atlanta

Yes, SHRM has a blog at the national level. But we find the local Atlanta blog to be more interesting for HR and business professionals in the north Georgia area. For one, the Atlanta blog shares the love by listing other great blogs and resources for HR information. For another, this blog frequently discusses ways HR can become a partner to corporate leadership to help the whole company achieve its goals.

If you’re working in HR, what resources would you add to this list? Where do you find ideas and advice? Leave a comment and let us know!

Experience China with TeamMBA Graduate Janet Williams

2011-07-07T06:23:00.000-04:00

Janet Williams, Class of 2011, capped off her MBA studies with a trip to China for a course in international business.

The course is offered in partnership with Clemson University's MBA program and includes independent study of Chinese history and business practices, as well as case studies of American and other international businesses operating in China. After submitting papers and taking online exams, the course culminates in a tour of several Chinese cities, such as Shanghai, Suzhou, Wuxi, Nanjing and Beijing.Students visit several Chinese companies, talk with their leaders and tour their facilities. The trip also includes many opportunities to sample traditional regional foods and to bargain for pearls and other items.

Follow along with Janet in this photo diary of her experience:

For more information on China, international business or the TeamMBA program at North Georgia College & State University, please contact us.

Take a break from studying with events in Dahlonega and Cumming

2011-07-02T10:00:00.001-04:00

No one can focus on school all the time, so whether you’re currently enrolled in MBA classes or beginning to study for the GMAT, we invite you to take a break for the Independence Day holiday.

If you’re not studying, what else is there to do?

Check out the events below happening in and around our campus in Dahlonega and the Graduate Center in Cumming.

Dahlonega

Family Fourth of July
Historic square, Dahlonega
Monday, July 4, 9:00am – 10:00pm

This traditional celebration includes a patriotic ceremony on the lawn of the Gold Museum, a reading of the U.S. Constitution on the courthouse steps, a Boy Scout watermelon cutting, and live music. The Independence Day Parade will pass through the historic square at 5:00pm, then a fireworks show will take place on the drill field at North Georgia College & State University.

Cumming

City of Cumming 4th of July Celebration
Sunday, July 3, 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Cumming Fairgrounds

Parking and admission are free. The event includes food vendors, inflatables for kids, live music and dance contest and a fireworks extravaganza.

City of Cumming Steam Engine Parade
Monday, July 4, 10:00am
Courthouse square, Cumming

The parade will include steam engines, antique tractors, antique cars and many other floats decorated in the spirit of the holiday.

Have a safe and happy Independence Day!

Best Business Blogs: Part 2

2011-06-30T11:16:00.000-04:00

Image: lumaxart

In this second post of our series on the best business blogs, we’re listing blogs that discuss the concepts and practices behind being a good leader.

Whether or not you find yourself in an “official” leadership role in your career right now, you can use the information presented by these authors to become a leader among your peers. These same concepts also apply to team situations at work and to volunteer opportunities in your community.

So, even if you don’t have the words Manager, Director or Chief in your job title, read up and you just might get the skills to advance yourself as a leader.

The Purposeful Leader

This blog is part of the bNet network and is authored by John Baldoni, an executive coach, speaker and Harvard Business Review blogger. One of Baldoni’s nine published books is Lead Your Boss, in which he helps middle managers find ways to get noticed by senior management and get their ideas heard. At The Purposeful Leader, he blogs on such topics as handling crises and scandals, being a supportive teammate, and inspiring loyalty a goal.

thoughtLEADERS, LLC

CEO Mike Figliuolo blogs for his company and is also the author of the forthcoming leadership book One Piece of Paper. Mike’s posts often have a humourous bent and they’re easy to read if you only have a few minutes. Some of our favorites include 10 Reasons Your Team Hates You, Respect: It’s Time to Get Dirty, and How to Lead Like a Little Old Lady.

Trust Matters Blog

This blog is also for a corporate consultancy, but includes posts from several authors. CEO Charles H. Green finds leadership lessons and lessons about knowing and managing one’s own actions with posts like How I Quit Smoking. Other authors talk about the importance of trust in teams and between leaders and their teams. This blog also frequently reviews books on leadership and business.

SmartBrief on Leadership

If your inbox doesn’t have the capacity to accept a subscription to all the blogs we’ve recommended so far, then just subscribe to SmartBrief on Leadership. You’ll get a daily email with links to leadership articles, videos and webinars from sources all across the web, plus a post or two from SmartBrief’s own editors.

And a few more bonus blogs that we’re sure you already know about, but just in case….

•    Women’s Leadership Exchange
•    Michael Hyatt: Intentional Leadership
•    Terry Starbucker
•    John Maxwell on Leadership

Got a favorite leadership blog that we didn’t list? Leave us a comment and let us know!

Best Business Blogs: Part 1

2011-06-24T07:38:00.001-04:00

Here in the Graduate Center, we’re always keeping an eye out for business news to share with our students and MBA alumni community. We’ve found some really great resources, particularly blogs, in several areas of business practice and we’re sharing the best of the best with you in a series of blog posts.

This week we list four of our favorite blogs on marketing. This field changes in the blink of an eye, so it’s important for professionals to keep up with the latest trends and techniques to reach and retain customers.

Copyblogger
Consumers are savvy. They want to know and trust you before they hand over their hard-earned cash for your products or services. One way to earn their trust is by developing content that answers their questions and gives them confidence is your organization. Copyblogger is the authority for online content marketing.

Check it out: copyblogger.com

Duct Tape Marketing
John Jantsch is the author of several books and a thought-leader on marketing for small businesses. Lots of MBAs find themselves in global corporations, but for those that are dedicated to local businesses or those that become entrepreneurs, here’s a piece of advice: always keep some Duct Tape in your desk.

Get Duct Tape: ducttapemarketing.com/blog

Social Media Examiner
This blog is your “Guide to the Social Media Jungle”. Indeed, if you want to stay on top of trends and techniques in social media marketing, this is the place to go. Posts frequently include case studies, how-to guides and reports that help you benchmark your company’s social marketing efforts against your peers.

Explore the Jungle: socialmediaexaminer.com

Church of the Customer
If you read no other blog on this list, read this one. If you don’t earn and keep customers, you’ll be out of business and have no use for the rest of this list. Posts are generally short, so you can get nuggets of wisdom quickly, along with a constant reminder to value your customers and they will become your best salespeople.

Go to services: churchofthecustomer.com

What are your favorite blogs on marketing? Leave us a note in the comments below.

Then, stay tuned next week when we reveal our favorite blogs on leadership.

NGCSU + MBA = Career Success

2011-06-17T07:38:00.000-04:00

If you've been in the working world for any span of time, you know there is no magic formula that will give you instant career success.

But, earning an MBA - particularly one from North Georgia - can give you the skills and tools you need to achieve the success you want in your professional life.

How?

Proven Leadership Training
North Georgia has a history of developing outstanding leaders. We're the Military College of Georgia and a state-designated leadership institution. If you want to take advantage of more leadership opportunities in your career, you don't have to go to Atlanta, or even to Dahlonega. You can learn from proven citizen and military professors right here at the Cumming Graduate Center, close to home.

Integrated Teamwork
You don't work by yourself. In fact, you probably serve on several teams in your current work. North Georgia's MBA program takes a team-based approach so that you develop the skills you need to be an effective part of a team. You'll move through the program with a cohort of students and have opportunities to work in groups for all classes, including the Capstone project. Our purpose in integrating so many team-based projects is to help you develop interpersonal skills and practice leadership techniques that will help your teams work more productively.

Global Learning Opportunities
We are part of a global economy. Your MBA education would be incomplete without a focus on global business. North Georgia's MBA program enhances your global perspective by including global topics in each of your classes, not just those in international management. We also offer International Experience courses, so you can spend time outside the U.S. learning business practices from leaders in international companies, as well as picking up a bit of language and culture.

Career Support Services
You had a career goal in mind when you applied to business school. Talk with North Georgia's Career Services office and create a plan to make that goal a reality. Career Services will help you with self-assessment, career preparation and coach you through making decisions about your career.

North Georgia also offers a wealth of networking opportunities. Our alumni are scattered far and wide across the globe in both military and civilian professions. Networking with our alumni is a great way to learn from their experience and plan for your own professional success. Our MBA program also hosts several information sessions and events that allow you to meet our current MBA students and our recent MBA graduates, so you can ask questions about the program and begin networking before you ever take the first class!

Ready for Career Success?
If you're ready to earn an MBA and start achieving your professional goals, we'd be happy to talk with you about opportunities at North Georgia. Contact us at (770) 205-5448.

Photo courtesy of trindade.joao

TeamAdvance gets makeover for 2013 cohort

2011-06-10T12:06:00.000-04:00

Summer's here and we're getting close to launching our next cohort with a TeamAdvance weekend in Dahlonega, but we're changing things up a bit from our first few years.

TeamAdvance is Shorter
Rather than working the whole weekend, TeamAdvance has been shortened to just Friday night and Saturday. As the cohort moves through the program, additional team-building and leadership events will reinforce lessons learned during TeamAdvance weekend.

Faculty Leadership
Dr. Russell Teasley and Dr. Mark Jordan, faculty leaders in the TeamMBA program, will be on-site during TeamAdvance. They will focus on the three tenets of the program: teamwork, leadership and developing a global perspective.

More Involvement for Families
This year spouses, or another key person in the student's support system, will be invited to attend the dinner on Saturday night. We understand how important it is for our MBA students to have the support they need to do their best work, both in the classroom and at home. Meeting the other members of the cohort is a great first step.

Expectations for MBA Students
Earning an MBA requires a new set of skills. This year's TeamAdvance will include a session on how to be successful in an MBA program. Students will also learn what's expected of MBA graduates in the professional world from the perspective of executives.

Work Fast & You Could be at TeamAdvance, too
If you don't yet have an MBA and this sounds like a wonderful learning opportunity for you, you may still be able to apply for classes starting this fall. Please start the application process and then call Kelli Crickey at (770) 205-5448.

How to Choose the Right MBA

2011-06-02T06:27:00.001-04:00

So, you’ve decided that you’re ready to earn an MBA. Now how do you choose the right program for your needs, goals, budget and lifestyle?

Here are 8 points of comparison that you can use to evaluate business schools and MBA programs:

1. Check accreditation

Accreditation is important because it ensures certain standards are met in the curriculum, faculty and campus life at your chosen school. In the U.S. there are six regional accrediting agencies. Check this list for the accrediting body in your area and make sure any school you consider – public or private - is accredited. You can also use the AACSB website to review a list of accredited business schools.

At the very least, any school you consider should be regionally accredited. Put schools with AACSB accreditation at the top of your list. Less than 10% of the world’s schools receive this designation, so you can be confident that your MBA will be respected around the world. You can also use the AACSB website to review a list of AACSB-accredited business schools.

2. Check the curriculum

Most MBA programs offer a generalists degree, meaning that you’ll study all the major areas of business – finance, accounting, marketing and management. If you have a special interest in an area, make sure there are opportunities to take elective courses in those areas to shore up your knowledge and experience. You should also inquire about international travel and learning opportunities. Do the programs you’re evaluating offer courses in international management, operations or marketing?

While you’re considering classes, think about how you prefer to take those courses. Do you travel so much for your work that only online classes will fit into your schedule? Can you afford to take 2-3 years away from work to be a full-time MBA student? Or, like most MBA candidates, do you find that a part-time schedule of evening classes will best fit your lifestyle and needs?

Do you prefer to meet people in person and work in teams to complete assignments and projects? Then a cohort-based program in which an entire class of students completes the program in lockstep might be better.

3. Faculty

No matter how you decide to take MBA classes – online or off – you’re going to want to learn from great professors. When you evaluate a program, speak with the professors to learn about their teaching styles, the research and writing they do, and to better understand their professional experience both in the classroom and in the field.

4. Location

If you’re planning to work all day and take classes in the evenings or on weekends, you don’t want a killer commute. Choose a school that is reasonably convenient to your home or office. You want to be studying, not sitting in traffic. If you’re not sure about drive times, test the route out on the days and times you’d be making the commute.

You should also attend and information session and tour the campus so you’ll know where all the classrooms are and how to get to the technology labs and library, without wasting time driving around lost or looking for a place to park.

5. Cost

Don’t think all MBA programs are expensive. Regional universities offer a wide range of programs that are priced lower than prestigious schools, so you can find creative ways to fit an MBA into your budget without breaking the bank.

Compare tuition, fees, books and other expenses (like gas for your commute!), then investigate funding options. Does your employer offer some sort of tuition assistance? Ask HR for details. Do the schools you’re interested in offer scholarships? Some, like NGCSU, will offer a scholarship for an excellent GMAT score or outstanding academic performance. You can also inquire about financial aid and student loans.

6. Admissions process

Do you have all the necessary documentation to apply? Meet with an admissions counselor and ask for an admissions checklist. Compare to the other schools you’re considering and see if there’s any overlap. You’ll also want to check the application deadlines and the start date for classes to make sure you can get through the process and start classes when you’re ready.

7. Reputation

Sure, Ivy League schools have a fabulous reputation. But if you can’t afford one, you can still look for a regional school with a great reputation. Ask your colleagues or executives you admire about the schools you’re considering. What have they heard? What are their perceptions?

You can learn a lot, especially in small towns, just by talking to people. For example, NGCSU has a strong reputation for leadership stemming from the college’s military programs, as any north Georgia resident can tell you.

8. Networking & career assistance

Building your network is the best way to meet people that can help you achieve your goals (and you can help them, too). Does your school offer networking events and mixers where you can meet alumni, as well as current students and potential students that may become your classmates?

And, when you earn your degree, will the school support you in your efforts to advance your career? Do they have a career counseling center? Do they offer workshops to help you polish your networking, resume writing and interview skills? Do they work with area companies to place interns or post jobs?

Make the Right Choice

Spending time to make sure you select the MBA program that best fits your goals, budget and lifestyle is important. After all, your success won’t be determined by the piece of paper you receive at graduation, but by the knowledge you gain and the experiences you shared with your classmates. Earning an MBA requires commitment, so be sure you choose a program that makes the sacrifice worthwhile.

For more information about the AACSB-accredited program at North Georgia College & State University, visit NorthGeorgiaMBA.com.

Create Your Own GMAT Study Plan

2011-05-19T22:17:00.000-04:00

The best way to prepare for any test is to practice. You don't need expensive classes or fancy software. You just need a calendar and a pencil.

Schedule Your Practice Time

Look at your calendar. Circle the date that you're scheduled to take the test. Estimate the number of hours you'll need to study and practice to get the score you want.

Then divide those hours over the weeks (or days, if you're a procrastinator) between now and your test date. You'll feel less stressed if you plan to study 30 minutes to 2 hours every day or every other day, depending on your schedule. Don't try do marathon study sessions - you'll burn yourself out on studying and you won't retain many of the test-taking strategies you learn.

Gather Your Resources

Now that you've got a schedule, it's time to gather the tools you'll need to review the subject matter and learn strategies for taking the test. You can go to the bookstore and pick up a GMAT prep book, or you can save yourself $40 and go check one out from your local public or university library.

There are also plenty of online resources that will help you understand how the test is structured, how to prepare for the verbal and math portions, and even some sites that will allow you to take several practice tests for free. Check out these resources for study materials:

Need More than a DIY Study Plan?

Some test takers need a more structured program to prepare for the GMAT. If that sounds like you, there are several on-line and on-site study programs available, such as:

Several universities, including North Georgia, often schedule free or low-cost test prep classes. Contact North Georgia, or the school to which you're applying, to inquire about upcoming classes.

Have a Question About the GMAT?

Contact the Graduate Center at North Georgia College & State University. We can help you understand the differences between the GMAT and the GRE, find a GMAT test location, and guide you to test preparation resources that suit your needs.

North Georgia Awards MBAs to 2011 Cohort

2011-05-16T16:32:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, April 30, 2011 several candidates from the 2011 TeamMBA cohort received their diplomas in a ceremony in the Memorial Hall Gymnasium on the campus of North Georgia College & State University.

Diplomas were presented to MBA students, as well as undergraduate students in the Mike Cottrell School of Business, during the ceremony. President David Potter, who is retiring, spoke during the commencement.

North Georgia's TeamMBA program has now graduated cohorts in 2010 and 2011 and the graduate programs at the University continue to grow. The school also awarded its first Doctorate in Physical Therapy degrees this year.

For more information on TeamMBA, please visit NorthGeorgiaMBA.com. For information on other graduate-level programs, please visit NorthGeorgia.edu.

Dr. Bonita Jacobs named president of North Georgia College & State University

2011-05-11T15:13:00.000-04:00

We're pleased to welcome Dr. Bonita Jacobs to the North Georgia family!

Preparation for the transition is already in progress and Dr. Jacobs will officially assume her duties as President of the school on July 1, 2011.

“I am very excited to have been selected as the next president of North Georgia College & State University. The university has so many outstanding characteristics, including its senior military college status, that it’s no surprise it’s a state-designated leadership institution. I look forward to building on the university’s extraordinarily rich heritage, and I am quite eager to transition to the beautiful North Georgia mountains,” said Jacobs in a NGCSU University Relations press release.

About Dr. Jacobs

Jacobs will be the first woman to serve as president at North Georgia.In addition to her role with the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, Jacobs is a tenured professor in counseling and higher education. From 1998 to 2009, she served as vice president for student development at the University of North Texas, which is located in Denton, Texas, and is the state’s fourth-largest institution.

Jacobs currently serves as an executive board member on the Commission on International Programs for the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. She previously served as interim vice chancellor for student development and dean of students at Western Carolina University and in numerous positions at Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas.

Continuing Our Leadership Legacy

Regent Richard L. Tucker, chair of the Special Regents’ Committee for the presidential search, says “Dr. Jacobs’ focus on helping students adjust to the college experience and preparation for the future is a perfect fit for North Georgia, which specializes in leadership training and producing leaders.”

For more information, please visit NorthGeorgia.edu.

Apply to TeamMBA by May 30, 2011

2011-05-01T11:08:00.000-04:00

If you're thinking about an MBA, stop.

Stop thinking. Start doing.

Application Deadline: May 30

You've got 30 days left to apply to the Fall 2011 cohort of the TeamMBA program at North Georgia.

Want in? Here's how:

Complete the online application, or print the form and fax it.
Submit the $40 application fee by check or money order.
Request official transcripts from all colleges you've attended and have them sent directly to North Georgia College & State University.
Submit a Certificate of Immunization.
Take the GMAT or GRE and have scores sent directly to North Georgia (Institutional Code #5497)
Send a current resume and three references to teammba@northgeorgia.edu.

Talk to TeamMBA

We're here to help. If you have questions about the program, call the TeamMBA Cumming Graduate Center at 770-205-5448.

Our graduate admissions team can share resources to help you:

Prepare for the GMAT or GRE
Determine if you need foundation courses before beginning MBA studies, particularly if your undergraduate degree is not in Business
Create a plan for financing your investment in your MBA education
Connect with other TeamMBA students and alumni to understand the impact earning an MBA from North Georgia can have on your career and your life

Learn More

TeamMBA classes are conducted in the Graduate Center at 100 Main Street, 4th Floor, Cumming, GA. Learn more about the program and classes at NorthGeorgiaMBA.com, or contact TeamMBA Associate Director, Kelli Crickey.

Gov. Deal praises university, broadband project in campus visit

2011-03-18T08:24:00.000-04:00

Gov. Deal praises university, broadband project in campus visit
3/16/2011 5:10:53 PM
by University Relations (March 16, 2011)

More than 200 people attended today's 2011 Economic Development Summit, sponsored by North Georgia College & State University's Mike Cottrell School of Business, the North Georgia Network and others. Gov. Nathan Deal provided the keynote address at lunch and spoke about the economic impetus that broadband connectivity will bring to rural and underserved areas of northeast Georgia.

"I think it will be the kind of instrument that will provide local communities the broadband network that they need to be able to compete in this global economy that we're all engaged in," Deal, pictured below, said. "Infrastructure of this sort certainly is one of those critical tools that we have to have and I commend those who have been a part of this process from the beginning to have the inspiration, the idea to put it in place and those who have participated in making it work."

The $42 million North Georgia Network project is funded with $33 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and $9 million in matching funds from the OneGeorgia Authority and other private and public entities. The university will be a hub on the network, a 260-mile regional fiber optic network connecting 12 counties. The network, which begins construction next week, will help bring jobs to the region, Deal said.

"I think all of you know that job creation is truly the greatest need that we have in our state and it doesn't matter where you are in the state of Georgia, that is truly the most important thing that is on our plate, both at the state level and at the local government level," Deal said. "What you're hearing today and what you're participating in as a part of this process is one of those additional tools that I think is important for us to be able to attract new industry and to be able to expand additional ones that are already here."

Wednesday's summit, "Technology for Business and Economic Growth," featured speakers who talked about how technology can be used to fuel business growth and economic development.

The first phase of the network, which will install a main fiber optic "trunk line" on utility poles throughout the 12-county region, is expected to be completed by the end of the year. That phase has been designed to connect hospitals, schools, government and public safety facilities, and universities like North Georgia to a broadband network that will be among the fastest in the world.

"This will be a tremendous, tremendous tool for all of north Georgia. I want you to think about the opportunity that we have," Nancy Cobb, executive director of the One Georgia Authority, told the government officials, business owners and economic development officials at Wednesday's summit.

Cobb believes the North Georgia Network will bring the same kind of excitement to local businesses that consumers often have over the latest electronic gadgets.

"We have the same opportunities here in north Georgia to build that kind of excitement and to bring those kinds of technologies and those kind of brainy people here to create a robust, 21st-century, knowledge-based economy," she said. "I just want you to think about where you can take this region of the state if you're willing to invest in it and to support the technology that the state, federal and local governments are bringing to the state."

In his lunchtime address, Deal also talked about the changes to the HOPE program that he signed into law earlier this week, and the need for additional training in STEM subjects -- science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Added to the HOPE program was a low-interest loan program open to all majors, which includes an incentive for students to choose STEM subjects. One year of loan payments will be excused for each year a student teaches a STEM subject in a Georgia school, Deal explained.

He closed his lunchtime speech with praise for North Georgia.

"Let me thank those here at North Georgia College & State University for the great job they continue to do. This is one of the premiere institutions in our entire educational network. We're proud of what you do here, we're proud of the young men and women that you produce and we're proud of the fact that so many of them remain in our state."

Below, a helicopter carrying Gov. Nathan Deal, state Sen. Steve Gooch and others lands on campus prior to the governor's lunchtime speech.

Study Abroad Scholarships Recipients

2011-02-21T16:38:00.000-05:00

TeamMBA is delighted to announce the awarding of study abroad scholarships to Janet Williams, 2011 Cohort, and Aminata Beale, 2012 Cohort.

This academic year a number of scholarships were made available to TeamMBA students who wished to study abroad with an AACSB accredited university. All students in good standing were eligible.

Janet and Aminata will travel to China with our partner, Clemson University, during the first two weeks in May. They will take a Clemson graduate course in international operations and study and travel with Clemson MBAs throughout China. Their travels will take them to Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing, and Beijing. In addition to visiting companies to study their business operations, they will visit many important historical and cultural locations, including the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square , the Ming Tombs and Sacred Way, the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Summer Palace, the Shanghai Museum and the Yu Gardens .

Congratulations to Janet and Aminata!!

2011 Econonic Development Summit

2011-02-16T13:10:00.000-05:00

The 2011 Economic Development Summit – “Technology for Business and Economic Growth” is scheduled for March 16th from 8:00 am until 5:00pm. It will be held on the North Georgia College & State University campus on the top floor of the Library Technology Center. Key features of this exciting and very important event include:

1) Presenters from Intel, Microsoft, Apple, NSPI and infinera who will talk and demonstrate the technology that is driving growth.
2) Governor Nathan Deal will talk at lunch about technology and the state.
3) Representatives from other areas of the nation that have experienced the addition of high-speed broadband in their area will discuss how they prepared for the growth and the success they have enjoyed.
4) Professionals from the economic development field will present opportunities to leverage technology to recruit and grow technology-based businesses.
5) Technology demonstrations will be presented at a networking event later in the day.
6) Participants will have opportunities to meet and talk with others in the field that share their interests and learn what is happening in the region and state.

The summit is designed to inform and enlighten all who have an interest in growing their businesses and the economic base of north Georgia including:

1) Economic development professionals
2) Small and large businesses
3) Chambers of Commerce members and staff
4) Policy makers and government officials
5) Information technology professionals
6) Educational professionals
7) Others interested in growing the economy and jobs locally, regionally and within the state.

Attached is a more detailed schedule and description of the event. Register today at
www.northgeorgia.edu/summit.

North Georgia College & State University presents Great Decisions

2011-02-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

North Georgia presents Great Decisions lecture series
1/7/2011 12:38:36 AM
by University Relations
Download/print schedule

North Georgia College & State University invites community members interested in international affairs to participate in Great Decisions, an annual discussion program produced by the Foreign Policy Association.

North Georgia is presenting the Great Decisions discussion series, beginning Feb. 15 through April 7 in Hall County and Forsyth County.The series offers participants the opportunity to explore global issues impacting our economy and world politics with the university's expert faculty members.

All sessions will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Participation is free and open to the public. In Hall County, the series will be held at the Gainesville Civic Center, located at 830 Green Street in Gainesville. The series will be held in Forsyth County at the Sharon Forks Library at 2820 Old Atlanta Road in Cumming.

The Foreign Policy Association publishes briefing books with articles about each of the topics for Great Decisions. These are not required for participation, but, for those who would like a copy, they will be available at the presentations for $20. The books may also be ordered online through the Foreign Policy Association.

For more information, call 706-864-1547.

Rebuilding Haiti
Dr. Tamara Spike , Associate Professor of History
Feb. 15, Cumming
Feb. 17, Gainesville

U.S. National Security
Dr. Chris Jespersen , Dean of the School of Arts & Letters
Feb. 22, Cumming
Feb. 24, Gainesville

Horn of Africa
Dr. Tim May, Head of the Department of History & Philosophy
March 1, Cumming
March 3, Gainesville

Responding to the Financial Crisis
Dr. Dlynn Armstrong-Williams, Director of the Center for Global Engagement
March 8, Cumming
March 10, Gainesville

Germany Ascendant
Dr. Richard Byers , Associate Professor of History
March 14, Cumming
March 17, Gainesville

Sanctions and Nonproliferation
Dr. J.T. Kwon, Assistant Professor of Political Science
March 22, Cumming
March 24, Gainesville

The Caucasus
Dr. John Miner, Assistant Professor of Political Science
March 29, Cumming
March 31, Gainesville

Global Governance
Dr. Cristian Harris, Associate Professor of Political Science
April 5, Cumming
April 7, Gainesville

Choosing the Right Graduate School

2011-02-15T08:50:00.000-05:00

Choosing the right graduate program and school is extremely important to the success of earning your MBA. North Georgia College & State University’s TeamMBA is confident that you will like what you see. We hope that you will shop other MBA programs and conclude that the TeamMBA has much to offer. As you begin to research different graduate programs, please keep the following in mind:

Online Versus In Class

Online MBA programs are appealing to business executives who travel for work as they offer self paced programming allowing you to determine the completion of your degree based on your ability and time. If you are self disciplined and do not need the interaction of classmates, this may be a type of programming you need to explore. Here at TeamMBA, your class schedule is chosen for you. The only flexibility you will have is your summer electives. This type of graduate programming is good for the student who needs to know when they will be earning their MBA. We do offer the ability for students to access the three hour lecture online, but emphasize the importance of class attendance. This technology is to be used only an occasion, not regularly.

How important is Accreditation?
There are many different types of college accreditations, and for the consumer this can be confusing. If you are looking at attending a business school, AACSB accreditation in a must. Less than 10% of business schools nationwide have met the requirements to be AASCB accredited. If you are looking to teach or continue your education, it is extremely important that you attend a college with the above accreditation. In layman’s terms, it is the best and most rigorous accreditation that can be earned. Please take the time to visit www.aacsb.org and find out for yourself the standards they require. North College & State University holds SACS accreditation and the Mike Cottrell School of Business holds AACSB accreditation.

I want to attend a school that waives the GMAT/GRE
The number one obstacle I see for potential students is taking the GMAT or GRE. Yes, the thought of taking a standardized test is scary. I always joke that the GMAT should be remained FEAR. Seriously though, it is just a test. Here at North Georgia College & State University we look at three different components of an application for admission. These include the applicants overall GPA, the applicants GMAT or GRE score and, lastly, work experience. The GMAT or GRE allows us to scale your overall proficiency in basic concepts. We want to make sure you will be successful in your quest to earn your MBA. My best advice is check out a GMAT or GRE book. Study and attend one of NGCSU TeamMBA free GMAT/GRE strategy session, breath, then go take the exam. Just by doing these steps you will allow yourself to be successful. As far as having your GMAT or GRE waived, if you currently hold a master’s degree, TeamMBA will waive the exam.

Timing is Everything
Timing in the business world sometimes is the difference between success and failure. This is true for most things. I will tell you, timing will never be 100% perfect for graduate school. We all don’t know what our future holds. Dedicating two nights a week for 20 months is frightening. I will tell you the advice my Mother always gave me….invest in your education. If you have a desire to learn, improve your knowledge in the work place or looking for a better career, education is an excellent way to pave a bright future for yourself. If you are willing to dedicate two nights a week of class time and after hours for study, we will deliver a Master’s degree worth earning. Our program will cover law, ethics, marketing, finace, accounting, management and leadership, allowing you to achieve your goals. Areas of business where you make be weak, we will strengthen. Areas where you are strong, we will enhance. Our team based learning concept will allow you to learn individually as well as from other classmates. At graduation you will be saying, “TeamMBA was right for me”.

North Georgia, Gainesville State to open instructional facility in Cumming

2011-02-11T10:36:00.000-05:00

2/9/2011 2:42:53 PM
by University Relations
(Feb. 9, 2011) Today, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia approved a request by North Georgia College & State University and Gainesville State College to develop an instructional site in Forsyth County.

The Regents also approved a new major in Chinese Language and Literature at North Georgia and changes to the master's-level physical education degree.

North Georgia and Gainesville State plan to jointly open an instructional site on property near Ga. 400 at Pilgrim Mill Road in Cumming by 2012, eventually offering a range of two- and four-year undergraduate programs and graduate programs.

While the Forsyth site won't be residential, it is expected to alleviate some of the capacity pressure at both schools. With nearly 6,000 students, North Georgia is nearing capacity at its Dahlonega campus and Gainesville State's capacity has exceeded 100 percent on the Oakwood campus since 2000. In fall 2010, more than 1,400 students from Forsyth County were enrolled at both schools -- 654 at North Georgia and 801 at Gainesville State.

"As outlined in the university’s strategic plan, enrollment at North Georgia’s Dahlonega campus is based on the capacity of the local infrastructure and a desire to emphasize a traditional residential college experience there," said Dr. David Potter, president. "We are very pleased that we are able to move forward with this partnership to develop a satellite campus in Forsyth County to meet the region’s growing needs for higher education opportunities."

The University System of Georgia has identified the Cumming and Forsyth County area as an "underserved region" of the state for higher education.

"We know that the demand for higher education is in place in Forsyth County. We look forward to the opportunity to serve the students in a location that will be both convenient and will allow us to offer both day and evening classes," said Dr. Martha T. Nesbitt, president of Gainesville State College.

The project builds on the 27-year partnership between North Georgia and Gainesville State and the presence each has in the region.

Cumming officials have been seeking to expand higher education for years and H. Ford Gravitt, mayor of Cumming since 1970, said the community and businesses welcome the project with open arms.

"A community is not complete without higher education and it's something very much needed here," Gravitt said.

Gravitt said boosting higher education in the area also will help recruiting efforts to bring more industries -- and more jobs -- to Forsyth County.

The Regents also approved a new major in Chinese Language and Literature at North Georgia, reflective of the increased interest in the language since undergraduate Chinese courses were added in 2006. North Georgia began offering a Chinese minor in 2008 and by fall 2010, more than 100 students had enrolled in the courses. The change is effective immediately.

Ryan Cooke of Duluth, who earned a Gilman scholarship to study overseas in China this semester, is considering a dual major in International Affairs and Chinese. The freshman student currently is pursuing a minor in Chinese and took Chinese during the Strategic Language Intensive Program in 2010." I know I want to travel, and I know want to help people," Cooke said. "I figured Chinese was the best bet. It's an up and coming country and a difficult language, but I know I can do it."

The addition means North Georgia's Department of Modern Languages now offers both majors and minors in French, Spanish and Chinese and a minor in German.

In addition to Chinese, in recent years North Georgia has added courses in the strategic languages of Arabic, Korean and Russian. This past fall, the first students started in the university's new Strategic Language Intensive Program, studying either Arabic or Chinese. In the program, students take two semesters of only intensive foreign language courses and have spend one semester in a study abroad experience.

North Georgia recently has been awarded federal funds totaling nearly $2 million to support its foreign language programs, including a $1.2 million federal contract to establish a strategic languages training center on the university's Dahlonega campus.

The Regents also approved changes to North Georgia's master's degree in physical education. Moving from a Master of Education to a Master of Science will provide opportunities for graduates from North Georgia's exercise science, athletic training and non-certification physical education programs to continue their educational pursuits. The Master of Science also extends the knowledge of physical education for school-based educators seeking an advanced degree. The change is effective May 2011.

The rise and fall of a foreclosure king | ajc.com

2011-02-06T16:31:00.000-05:00

The rise and fall of a foreclosure king ajc.com

Free Business Ebooks

2011-01-25T19:48:00.000-05:00

These Kindle Ebooks can be read on the Kindle, but also you can read Kindle ebooks on on your Personal Computer, Mac, IPhone, Android, Blackberry, iPad, Windows 7 Phone, etc. with the FREE Kindle Application Here.

• FREE Middleshift by Vince Thompson

• FREE Business and Competitive Analysis Methods

• FREE How to Make Money Marketing Your Business on LinkedIn

Regional Economic Forecast... Healthcare Sector Growing FAST!

2011-01-21T09:14:00.000-05:00

North Georgia business class participates in regional economic forecast 1/20/2011 11:24:22 PM
by University Relations

(Jan. 20, 2011) – Healthcare has overtaken poultry as the region’s top industry, according to research by students in the Mike Cottrell School of Business at North Georgia College & State University. The students’ research was presented as part of the 2011 Norton Native Intelligence economic forecast presented to a crowd of hundreds at the Georgia Mountains Center on Thursday night.

Frank Norton Jr., president of The Norton Agency, a regional insurance and real estate firm based in Gainesville, presented the 24th edition of the Native Intelligence forecast, and told the audience that the region will evolve, not recover from the economic downturn that has impacted the entire country.

Norton's annual Native Intelligence forecast features information about the region's economy, leadership and trends to watch. This year’s report featured work conducted by a special studies class in the Mike Cottrell School of Business.

The students’ work was presented as part of Norton’s 10 trends that bear watching. The class, led by Dr. John Scott and Norton, reported that healthcare revenue for the North Georgia region increased from $2.24 billion in 2002 to $3.78 billion in 2007 – a rate of 11 percent annually.

“Poultry is still strong in North Georgia, but healthcare is growing at a faster rate,” Norton said. “The North Georgia area is positioned for incredible opportunities to grow and thrive, but should focus on taking the necessary steps to lay the groundwork for the healthcare service that the population will demand.”

The annual forecast is attended by politicians, business leaders, and civic leaders throughout the region. The Norton Agency collects and interprets wealth of regional data to identify risks and opportunities for North Georgia’s communities.

Regarding the state of the region’s economy and growth, Norton said, “The market is getting better…it is in a state of recovery but the future will be vastly different.”

The 2011 forecast is available online at www.nortoncommercial.com/intelligence.html.

The GMAT Versus The GRE...which test should I take?

2011-01-10T15:19:00.000-05:00

GMAT vs. GRE – Which One Should You Take?
Lee Burrell, Owner GMAT Coach
North Georgia TeamMBA Alumni

Recently, some business schools have decided to accept either the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) or the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) score as a part of an MBA applicant’s application.

Historically, the GMAT is taken by students applying to business school, while those who want to pursue a non-business graduate degree take the GRE.

While the GMAT is still the most widely accepted standardized test for aspiring b-school students, a few business school programs have chosen to start accepting the GRE score as a means to widen their applicant pool by encouraging increased applications from those with various educational and experience backgrounds, and those who have difficulty getting to a GMAT test facility.

Here are some other interesting facts about why business schools are starting to accept the GRE:

Price: The GRE is less expensive than the the GMAT. The GRE costs $140 to take, while the GMAT costs $250). The higher GMAT test fee could limit the amount of students who apply for business school programs, especially when you consider the cost of multiple re-takes and separate preparation programs/books

Streamlining Applications: The GRE is taken by students applying to diverse graduate programs, which means students won’t have to study, pay, and take another standardized test in order to apply for business school.

Testing Centers: The GRE is given in more locations around the world than the GMAT. Schools are always looks for more diverse candidates, and accepting the GRE could lead to more applicants from around the world who might not have the finances or time to be able to travel to a GMAT testing center.

Though the number of MBA programs now accepting the GRE in addition to the GMAT is increasing, the number is still extremely limited when compared to the vast array of MBA programs across the world.

Although the GRE and the GMAT are somewhat similar, the differences between the two exams are most apparent in an analysis of their scoring, average scores, and verbal and quantitative sections.

Total Score:
GRE - Like the SAT, the GRE consists of verbal and quantitative sections, which each can earn you between 200-800 points. The writing section can garner you anywhere from a 0-6. For admittance, most universities don’t consider the writing GRE score as much as the verbal and quantitative scores. Keep in mind that GRE scores are taken into consideration along with your undergraduate GPA, admissions interview, extracurricular activities, etc. The average GRE score across the board is 1050, while the average GRE score for a Harvard student is 1330.

The GMAT is scored from 200 – 800 and has verbal and quantitative sessions, while the writing section is scored separately, with scores ranging from 0 and 6. The average GMAT score is around a 500, while top-ten business school students average a 720.

Writing Section: Both the GRE’s and GMAT’s writing sections are similar, consisting of two essay questions, one asking you to analyze an argument and the other asking you to analyze an issue.

Verbal Section: the verbal section of the GRE consists of analogies, antonyms, sentence completion, and reading comprehensions passages. And unlike the GMAT, the GRE tests vocabulary knowledge out of context. The GRE is typically considered to have a harder verbal section than the GMAT. The GMAT’s verbal section consists of reading comprehension, critical reasoning, and sentence correction questions. Both tests are administered in English. If you are a non-native English speaker, I recommend taking the GMAT as its verbal section is easier to prepare for.

Quantitative Section: The Quantitative section of the GRE is largely recognized as less challenging than the quantitative section of the GMAT. Unlike the GMAT Math section, the GRE currently does not have a Data Sufficiency section and overall, requires a lower level of math proficiency. However, the makers of the GRE, the ETS (Educational Testing Service), announced that it is adding more data interpretation questions to its test and increasing the overall difficulty level of the GRE.

In general, top business schools are looking for fairly high percentile scores on the GRE and GMAT, especially on the Quantitative Section. Some schools require at least a 50th percentile score on the quantitative section of either test to be admitted to their program.

When making a decision about whether to take the GMAT or the GRE, you should consider whether the schools you apply to accept the GRE in place of the GMAT. If they do, then look at your academic strength and weaknesses. In general, if you have excellent quantitative skills, look more into the GMAT. If you have outstanding writing and verbal skills with less stellar quantitative skills, consider taking the GRE. Remember, both tests are difficult and will require a significant amount of studying, no matter which test you choose. Make sure you prepare with a great GMAT Prep or GRE Prep program.

About The Gmat Coach: The Gmat Coach offers students expert advice and test prep help as they navigate their graduate school application process. Specializing in Home-Study Courses, The Gmat Coach offers top quality GMAT Preparation and GRE Preparation at extremely affordable prices, with average student score increases of over 80 points. To find out more, visit their website at http://www.thegmatcoach.com/

New Year’s Resolution, Earn Your MBA!

2011-01-06T09:55:00.000-05:00

I recently completed my MBA at North Georgia and am very happy that I decided to pursue and complete my degree. I had contemplated for years about going back to school and finally made the decision in early 2008 (New Year’s Resolution) to get serious and start the process. The NGCSU Team MBA program in Cumming was the perfect fit to make this happen, primarily due to the location, cost, logistics and, most importantly, the team concept.

There were many things that made this program a success for me. First, the week night classes were preferred over spending my weekend days in class. We did have some weekend work but the weekly schedules allowed for me to balance my work and personal life during the program. Second, the team concept provided the opportunity to work with a group during the entire program. Groups were assigned based on each of our strengths, weaknesses and personalities so we all had the opportunity to blend these differences into a successful and productive team as the program progressed. In addition, the curriculum was balanced with all aspects of business and provided an emphasis on the global market. For me personally, this was very important as I aspire to run a company someday and needed to have a solid base in accounting, finance, operations, leadership, economics and marketing as well as a perspective of all from the global view.

This experience was very rewarding for me and has helped me to move into a leadership role with a new company. This role will allow for me to participate in the senior leadership of the company and could lead to more responsibilities in the future. The experiences and education that I completed in the Team MBA program were a large part of this new opportunity and will help me to be successful in my new role at this new company.

Raymond Joyner
Director of Sales
Grayling Industries,Inc.
1008 Branch Drive
Alpharetta, GA 30004
(678) 808-3103
raymond.joyner@graylingmail.com
www.graylingindustries.com

Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday and Happy New Year!

2010-12-26T17:51:00.001-05:00

Wishing all a Happy Holiday. See you in 2011!

TeamMBA OPEN HOUSE THIS TUESDAY!

2010-12-11T08:05:00.000-05:00

North Georgia College & State University's TeamMBA program will be having an Open House Tuesday December 14th, 2010 between 5:00pm and 6:30pm at the Cumming Graduate Center located at 100 Main Street Cumming Ga 30040. Learn more about the TeamMBA program as your tour the Graduate Center. Please bring your resume' for review.

To RSVP please email kajoyner@northgeorgia.edu or call 770-205-5448

Paula Glover, TeamMBA Alumni

2010-12-01T17:48:00.000-05:00

University launches regional branding campaign

2010-11-16T07:37:00.000-05:00

11/15/2010 4:35:19 PM
by University Relations
(Nov. 15, 2010)

For years, alumni and faculty have considered North Georgia College & State University as the state's "best kept secret." However, research conducted as part of a new institutional marketing campaign indicates that the university has greater "top-of-mind" awareness than the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech, the state's flagship institutions, in three nearby counties.

A phone survey of 500 people was conducted in mid-October, with 39 percent of those surveyed living in Forsyth County, 55 percent in Hall County and 6 percent in Dawson County. The sample sizes were determined by the population size of each county.

In the survey, when asked to name colleges and universities in the region, 47 percent of the respondents mentioned North Georgia, as compared to 40 percent for the University of Georgia, and 31 percent each for Gainesville State College and Georgia Tech. Additionally, 67 percent of those questioned had a favorable opinion of North Georgia and 64 percent believed the university had a strong or moderate impact on their communities.

These positive numbers came from a group who included very few alumni -- only 10 percent of the 500 people surveyed had attended North Georgia.

While people in neighboring counties are aware of North Georgia, their knowledge of the school seems to be just general. A little more than half of those surveyed -- 51 percent -- could not name any programs at the university. Of those who could identify programs, 27 percent mentioned ROTC or military and 13 percent said pre-med or nursing -- the only programs at the school with double-digit response.

"Respondents had a high awareness level and favorable opinions about North Georgia, but only a small percentage felt very familiar with its programs," said Kate Maine, director of university relations. "As we try to generate external support and financial resources for the university's mission, it's important that we build familiarity with and affinity for the university."

The marketing campaign, sponsored by the NGCSU Foundation, is being conducted throughout Northeast Georgia to help individuals and organizations throughout the region understand the impact and the value of the university and its alumni in their communities. The advertisements are unified by the university's seven core values of loyalty, integrity, courage, service, wisdom, truth and respect.

"This initiative highlights the university's strategic vision of education for life and leadership in a global community by featuring alumni who demonstrate the university's core values in their daily lives," Maine said.

The university has undertaken several initiatives in the past two years to enhance communication with alumni and increase its visibility in the region. Included in these efforts are new print and electronic publications, a Facebook Fan Page, and a new website – http://www.northgeorgia.edu/.

"We have retired ngcsu.edu and adopted a domain name that better identifies the university as it is known by its constituents and the community," Maine said. "Additionally, a similar virtual community for alumni and donors has been established at www.northgeorgia.org."

The phone survey was conducted Oct. 18-22 by Market Research Insight to determine awareness and opinion concerning North Georgia College & State University.

Congratulations Dr. Mark Jordan, Named 2010 Distinguished Professor of Teaching and Learning

2010-11-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

University presents annual faculty, staff awards
11/2/2010 5:12:41 PM
by University Relations

Several members of the faculty and staff at North Georgia College & State University were recognized for their efforts to serve students yesterday at the annual University Awards Ceremony in the Hoag Student Center Auditorium.

President David Potter thanked all those in attendance for their dedication and heralded the achievements of those being honored.

Dr. Mark Jordan, professor in the Mike Cottrell School of Business, was named the 2010 Distinguished Professor of Teaching and Learning for his strides in academic innovation and online course development.

“Student-focused teaching and learning are hallmarks of the student experience at North Georgia College & State University and set our institution apart from many of our peers,” Potter said in presenting the award. “One of the challenges to maintaining excellence in this area is being innovative and attuned to how students learn best. We believe so strongly in this that being a leader in innovative teaching and learning is a component of the university’s strategic plan.”

A Successful Networking Night at Results Realty

2010-11-07T10:21:00.000-05:00

The first TeamMBA Networking Night was held last month at Results Realty Services. Attendees included representatives from the event’s sponsors, Results Realty Services and Callaway Homes, as well as several members of the TeamMBA Classes of 2010, 2011 and 2012 and a few new recruits for the TeamMBA program.

Terry Swanson, co-owner of Results Realty Services, spoke during the event. Terry first offered a bit of entrepreneurial wisdom by sharing the story of how his business got started. He left a stable corporate position and opened Results Realty on April Fools Day. Then, the Results office burned down twice, but Terry and his team stayed positive and re-opened in the same location near the intersection of Sharon and Old Atlanta Roads. Even in the face of such challenges, Terry’s team has become among the most successful in the area.

Terry also spoke regarding the housing market in metro Atlanta and Forsyth County. He shared statistics on the current housing inventory in Forsyth, Gwinnett and North Fulton, average home prices and where the residential market is headed. He also spoke about the commercial real estate market in the area. For more information on commercial or residential real estate in Forsyth County, please visit the Results Realty office or check out Terry’s blog.

Special thanks are due to Results Realty Services and Callaway Homes for hosting our first Networking Night. We hope you’ll attend the next Networking Night – stay tuned for details!

TeamMBA Open House Scheduled November 9, 2010

2010-11-06T08:27:00.000-04:00

North Georgia College & State University's TeamMBA program will be having an Open House November 9th, 2010 between 5:00pm and 7:00pm at the Cumming Graduate Center located at 100 Main Street Cumming Ga 30040. Learn more about the TeamMBA program as your tour the Graduate Center. Please bring your resume' for review.

Please RSVP to John Douglas at 770-205-5446 or jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu

Free Ticket to Get Motivated Seminar!!!!

2010-10-27T18:28:00.000-04:00

The TeamMBA program has purchased tickets to get motivated seminar on Monday, November 1, 2010. We would like for you to take advantage of this free ticket! If you would like for me to reserve one for you please call 770-205-5448 or jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu

You can go to www.getmotivated.com for more information on all of the guest speakers they will be hosting. Hope to see you there!

It’s Time To Start Taking On Some Calculated Risk.

2010-10-26T12:09:00.000-04:00

published in Forsyth County News. Story by Jennifer Sami

That was the message offered by Jeffery Humphreys, chief economist at the University of Georgia Terry School of Business, during the Rotary Club of South Forsyth’s meeting Wednesday.

“People are still playing it way too safe for this stage in an economic recovery,” he said. “People are saving more, they’re not getting loans and they’re staying, in some cases, in jobs that they really hate. And they’re staying in those jobs for the security that they offer.

“This is the time to take on some risk if you want to benefit fully from this recovery.”

Humphreys’ stop at the Rotary meeting was part of the TeamMBA 2010 Lecture Series, offered by the North Georgia College & State University Mike Cottrell School of Business.

The school’s dean, Max Burns, said the lecture series features a variety of guest speakers, including business executives from Coca-Cola and Home Depot, as well as Humphreys.

“We’re all part of the same system,” Burns said of reaching out to another university. “He [gave] a total state of Georgia economic forecast as opposed to a regional forecast.

“He is nationally known and I think he did a very credible job with this.”

Humphreys gave a preview of the Selig Center for Economic Growth’s economic outlook.

He said a back-to-back recession doesn’t look like it’s in the cards. For investors, it is a good time to invest in the housing market, as it’s not likely to dip much further.

That was a point with which Rotarian Henry Lins agreed. The investor said the market is “getting to where housing is selling below replacement costs.”

“You sell a house, it goes on the market for $200,000, yet it cost $250,000 to build that same house,” Lin said. ‘He thinks real estate has really seen its worse and ... I’m real optimistic.

“I liked what he had to say.”

Humphreys said he’s not looking for tremendous job growth next year, though the odds of finding a job likely will improve.

Job growth may increase 1 percent, he said, but it will be the first time seeing that growth on an annual basis since 2007.

The unemployment rate could drop about a half a percentage point from 10.3 to 9.8 percent. Also, he said, wages could increase about 1.5 percent after adjusting for inflation.

The gross domestic product is going to grow faster than productivity, which Humphreys said “means that to meet that rising demand, companies are actually going to have to hire more people rather than just squeeze more of their existing workers or by investing more in capital equipment.”

The current situation, when things are just slowly starting to grow, is the time to start taking some risks, Humphreys said.

“It’s time to stop running with the herd. I think the herd right now has got it wrong. They’re too risk-averse,” he said. “Maybe dump those pricey treasuries and buy some equities. That’s what I’ve been doing.

“I’m putting my money where my mouth is. It’s been a winning strategy and I think it’s not just for this year but for the future as well.”

My China Experience

2010-10-20T10:44:00.000-04:00

My China Experience
By John-David Rusk

From the outset of my MBA journey I wanted to participate in an international experience as part of the MBA program. While my initial desires were to go to Europe for an MBA class, I eventually, and apprehensively, decided on a two-week trip to China for the class “International Perspectives in Industrial Management.” I felt apprehensive because thoughts of China conjured up worries of communism, human rights violations, and other negative aspects so often presented in news segments of this distant land. My worries were allayed instantly upon arrival in China when we were greeted by pleasant, smiling, happy Chinese people who were truly excited and pleased to see and meet Americans.

While Americans in general are popular in China I had never witnessed the true sensation of celebrity until I traveled to China with my blonde wife and joined up with the rest of the group that included several other blondes. It soon became a common occurrence to have Chinese men, women, teenagers and children suddenly and unexpectedly grab the arm of someone in the group, usually one of the blondes, then turn to their accomplice and smile for an impromptu photo opportunity. The first time this happened it shocked and scared the members of our group but this soon became a regular, accepted experience. Once, when a young Chinese lady approached my wife and asked, in perfect English, “Are you American?” we thought she wanted to ask a question. When my wife replied that she was American, we were genuinely shocked when the young lady simply turned around, jumped in the air and hollered “YES!” then walked away. No additional questions. No conversation. No photograph. She was simply thrilled to have met an American.

While the language difference created a slight communication difficulty at times, it was not the problem I thought it would be. As it turns out, there are more English speaking people in China than there are in the United States. In China, the English language is now taught as a mandatory subject beginning in primary school. Navigation was not a problem either, as most business signs and street signs are in both Chinese and English. Since nearly every Chinese person wanted us to help them practice their English skills, we nearly had to make them teach us a few Chinese words.

The biggest differences were the cultural differences that influence the very foundations of human interaction. Unlike English, the Chinese written language characters represent words not letters. The absence of individual letters precludes the use of a dictionary, because to lookup a Chinese word one would have to already know the unique character. Without a common dictionary to define a widely accepted meaning of each word the Chinese culture could not develop the use of written contracts as each person could interpret each word to have a different meaning. Without enforceable contracts, business dealings were largely limited to close personal contacts where mutual trust was built over time through increasingly larger deals. This concept representing the individual personal investment put into each business transaction is what the Chinese call “guanxi.”

Exposure to such a different environment is part of what makes the experience of this trip to China unique. The opportunity to visit a culture thousands of years in the making, to see ancient Shang-dynasty oracle bone writings over 3,000 years old, to view beautiful breath-taking vistas from the Great Wall, all while earning college credit was a thrilling and unparalleled educational experience. If you are planning to step outside of your comfort with an international study abroad class don’t just tiptoe outside your comfort zone with a trip to a foreign country largely similar to the US, take a big step to the other side of the planet and experience a wonderful culture vastly different from your normal routine. I am so incredibly glad I had the opportunity to visit China. It proved to be a real "once in a lifetime experience!

Networking Night to Connect TeamMBA Students and Alumni

2010-10-07T19:44:00.000-04:00

Networking Night to Connect TeamMBA Students and Alumni

Alumni, current students and prospective students of NGCSU's TeamMBA program are invited to join the Friends of TeamMBA for a Networking Night on Friday, October 22 from 6:00 to 8:00pm at the Results Realty Services office in south Forsyth.

Connections & Cocktails
Bring your business cards (or your digital business cards) to Results Realty Services at 2209 Sharon Road in Cumming for the first of a series of Networking Nights. The event will give alumni and current students an opportunity to get to know one another and make business connections. Those who are applying to the TeamMBA program can use the opportunity to network with TeamMBA alumni and talk with students about the program. Light hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine will be served, courtesy of Results Realty Services.

Get the Latest Info on the Local Housing Market
Terry Swanson, co-owner of Results Realty Services, will speak briefly at the event regarding the housing market in metro Atlanta and Forsyth County. Terry is a native of Atlanta and has over 18 years of real estate experience. His team at Results Realty Services has won several awards, including:

FOUR Rookie of the Year awards from the 400 North Board of Realtors
THREE Top Producing Awards from the 400 North Board of Realtors
The Number One Dollar Volume sold for Forsyth County
Number 22 out of Dollar Volume sold for Atlanta (out of 1,000 plus companies!)

Get Connected
Spouses and guests are welcome at Networking Night and there is no charge to attend. Simply RSVP to the event on LinkedIn. If you have questions about Networking Night, please contact alumni hosts Paula Glover (pdg@pauladglover.com) and Rob Pauley (factorplayer@gmail.com), or call the TeamMBA office at 770-205-5448.

TeamMBA Kicks off it's Lecture Series with Paul Garcia CEO, Global Payments

2010-09-27T13:34:00.000-04:00

TeamMBA and Lanier Rotary Club kicked off it's TeamMBA lecture series with speaker Paul Gracia CEO of Global Payment.Global Payments Inc. (NYSE: GPN) is a leading provider of electronic processing services, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Global Payments process billions of payment card, check, and eCommerce transactions annually for over one million merchant locations worldwide.

Global Payments is focused on expanding market share by investing in its direct sales organizations, strengthening its ISO sales channel, offering leading-edge products and “best-in-class” customer service, and gaining further operating leverage. In addition, the company is also focused on domestic and international expansion through its acquisition strategy.

Global Payments’ experience spans over more than four decades, when its former parent company, National Data Corporation, pioneered electronic payment processing. Global Payments spun in February 2001 and is listed on the NYSE as GPN.

TeamMBA Lecture Series begins this Tuesday!

2010-09-17T22:33:00.000-04:00

Reminder...This Tuesday, TeamMBA and Rotary Club of Lanier are happy to announce Paul Garcia, CEO of Global Payments will be speaking at TeamMBA Lecture Series on: Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at 7:30am

Northside Hospital 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive 1400 Building,
Bennett Education Center
Breakfast $10

RSVP 770-205-5448 pr wmwalter@northgeorgia.edu

Mike Cottrell School of Business announces 2010 speaker series

2010-09-15T08:45:00.000-04:00

Mike Cottrell School of Business announces 2010 speaker series
9/14/2010 5:35:13 PM
by University Relations
(Sept. 15, 2010) Senior executives from some of the nation's top companies will be part of a free, six-part speaker series that begins Sept. 23 at North Georgia College & State University.

The series will highlight marketing strategies and companies represented are the Atlanta Falcons, Coca-Cola Co., Home Depot, McDonald's, PepsiCo Foodservice, and solar cell maker Suniva.

Each session of the Mike Cottrell School of Business and Library Technology Center Speaker Series will be held from 12:45-1:45 p.m. and no registration is required. All sessions will be held in the Special Collections Room located on the third floor of the Library Technology Center.

The public is invited to the free lecture series.

The schedule for the speakers is:

• Sept. 23: Jim Smith, chief marketing officer, Atlanta Falcons
• Sept. 30: Stan Sthanunathan, vice president, marketing strategy and insights, the Coca-Cola Co.
• Oct. 7: John Baumstark, chairman and chief executive officer, Suniva
• Oct. 26: Debbie Stroud, vice president, quality, service and cleanliness, McDonald's
• Nov. 9: John Buckles, vice president and general manager, PepsiCo Foodservice
• Nov. 18: Frank Bifulco, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Home Depot

The series is in its second year, started by North Georgia marketing instructor Dick McNeil. Plans already are underway for next year's series.

Visit the university's website for more information about the Mike Cottrell School of Business or the Library Technology Center.

MBA Podcaster - Your Guide To The MBA Admission's Process for Business School

2010-09-14T10:25:00.000-04:00

MBA Podcaster - Your Guide To The MBA Admission's Process for Business School

Capstone Leadership Experience

2010-09-02T11:41:00.000-04:00

The Capstone Leadership Experience begins for 2011 TeamMBA students.

Students will intergrate all the courses in the TeamMBA program. Student teams work with mentors to define and research an organizational or community issue, develop a report, and present the findings to a committee composed of business faculty, business council members and students’ clients during the last 5 weeks of their program.

Welcome Dr Michael Crino!

2010-08-26T15:01:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Michael Crino has been appointed Interim MBA Director. He will begin his duties immediately and will serve on a part-time, limited term basis through Spring, 2011.

Michael will be responsible for all aspects of our MBA program. Mr. John Douglas will continue in his role as MBA Marketing Director and Dr. Mark Jordan will continue in his role as Chairman of the Graduate Committee. Both John and Mark will work closely with Michael to move our program forward.

Michael is no stranger to the Cottrell School and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our graduate program. He has a PhD in Management from the University of Florida, served on the faculties of Texas Tech, LSU and Clemson. Most recently, Dr. Crino was Alumni Distinguished Professor of Management at Clemson University.

Please join me in welcoming Michael!

Max Burns

Dean

Mike Cottrell School of Business

North Georgia College & State University

North Georgia ranks #20 among public universities in the South

2010-08-18T08:29:00.000-04:00

(8/17/2010 9:39:12 AM
by University Relations

August 17, 2010) - North Georgia College & State University earned the #20 spot among the South’s public regional universities in the 2011 edition of Best Colleges by U.S. News Media Group.

The rankings, which include evaluations of more than 1,400 schools nationwide, are available today at www.usnews.com/colleges, and will also be published in the September issue of U.S.News & World Report, on newsstands starting August 31.

"North Georgia has a strong history of developing professional, civic and military leaders who have a positive impact in their communities," said President David L. Potter. "Our consistent inclusion in this list points to the strength of our university and the outstanding educational experience we provide."

This marks the seventh consecutive year that North Georgia has placed in the top 25 public universities in the South, and a climb from the #23 position in the 2010 report. Over the past two decades, the U.S. News college rankings, which group schools based on categories created by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, has grown to be commonly used research tool for students and parents considering higher education opportunities.

Additionally, North Georgia was the top-ranked university in the South for the least amount of debt load for the class of 2009. "With state appropriations declining for public universities, students are taking on an increased responsibility for the cost of their education through tuition and fees," said Kate Maine, director of university relations. "This report highlights the high-value experience North Georgia provides its students."

The 2011 Best Colleges issue provides an examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of up to 16 widely accepted.

North Georgia College & State University Inaugural Class Graduates TeamMBA

2010-08-16T11:10:00.000-04:00

With classes held in downtown Cumming, TeamMBA students have now become TeamMBA Alumni. For 20 months they attended classes two nights a week while working full time. These bright, ambitious students recently received their Master’s in Business Administration. North Georgia TeamMBA program is the only MBA program offered in Forsyth County. “We are proud of our inaugural class. They have set a high bar for incoming students. “states John Douglas, MBA Director. The TeamMBA program which started in 2008 is currently accepting applications for its fourth cohort. For more information on TeamMBA please contact the Cumming Graduate Center at 770-205-5446 or visit our website www.northgeorgiamba.com

North Georgia TeamMBA Alumni Scholarship Fund

2010-08-14T16:59:00.000-04:00

With the help of the NGCSU Foundation, TeamMBA Alumni has established a North Georgia TeamMBA Alumni Scholarship Fund. This fund will allow future TeamMBA students the opportunity to attend graduate school when tuition reimbursement programs are not available.

Many TeamMBA Alumni may have a matching gift program with their current employer. This allows your donation to double if not triple. Please see your HR director for more information.

To contribute to this fund please download the commitment card.

Future students will benefit for your kind support!

Team Advance

2010-08-09T14:24:00.000-04:00

Team Advance video.

Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Scholarship

2010-08-02T08:29:00.000-04:00

Stan Gault Scholarship Fund has been established to honor the memory of Judge Gault. Applications are currently being accepted and the application can be found at www.ngcf.org

The scholarship can be used for graduate studies and will be $1000. The student muse be a resident of Forsyth County.

Application will be taken until September 1, 2010

Creating an Education Plan

2010-07-06T14:09:00.001-04:00

So you are ready to earn your MBA? We are here to help. Our facility and staff are ready to help get you on the right track. Foundation classes for the 2013 co-hort will begin in May 2011 which seems like a long time but trust me time flies.

Give us a call so we can get your education plan started. Let us review your transcripts and resume' so you will be on track to begin in May.

We look forward to hearing from you.

John

Financing Your MBA

2010-06-22T12:36:00.000-04:00

So you have decided to invest in your future by earning an MBA. That's wonderful. You will have a promising future. So how are you going to finance your education? There are several options for graduate students.

1. Post 9/11 GI Bill- For veterans and active service personnel who have served on active duty for more than 90 days post 9/11. North Georgia is a yellow ribbon participate and graduate studies will be covered under this bill. With the yellow ribbon program you graduate studies will be covered. Please see your veterans office for more benefit details.

2. Employer Tuition Reimbursement Program- Many employers take part in a tuition reimbursement program as an added benefit to their workers. Please see your HR manager for more details.

3. Student Loans- Please visit studentloans.gov for information and to begin completing an application. You can find additional information on the North Georgia Financial Aide's website www.northgeorgia.edu/finaid

4. Scholarships- visit North Georgia for their scholarship list

Ideal Time to Invest in an MBA

2010-06-15T15:11:00.000-04:00

When is the best time to go back to school to pursue an MBA? My answer is when you are willing to invest in your future. Taking the time to attend classes and study is difficult when you have a full time job and family. But one thing to consider is what would be your ROI? MBA's make 30% more money than people with a bachelor's degree. When you look at the cost of the program for your education you will me netting much more. When you consider the 10 hours you will invest for 20 to 24 months, it is a fabulous return on investment.

So when you are ready to invest in your future, give me a call. John Douglas 770-205-5446

Free GMAT Prep Class

2010-06-10T14:50:00.000-04:00

North Georgia College & State University TeamMBA will be offering a

FREE GMAT Test Prep class. This class will be held on Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at the Cumming Graduate Center. To register for this class please email John Douglas at jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu or call 770-205-5448.

Cumming Campus

2010-05-26T19:02:00.000-04:00

Check out this virtual tour of the Cumming Campus.

International Experience through TeamMBA

2010-05-24T13:19:00.000-04:00

Recently, students from our TeamMBA program visited China. This optional international experience is just another value added opportunity offered at North Georgia's TeamMBA. To learn more about this opportunity please listen to our podcast featuring Paula Glover, TeamMBA Alumni. Her she discusses the international experience and how it will enhance your learning at TeamMBA.

North Georgia Students Enjoy their International Experience

2010-05-21T11:43:00.000-04:00

Current TeamMBA students enjoyed their recent trip to China. One of the many advantages of earning your MBA with North Georgia

Podcast: A Student's View

2010-05-17T14:56:00.000-04:00

Please listen to our podcast with Paula Glover, Alumni TeamMBA, as she talks about the program.

Team Approach

2010-05-13T12:03:00.000-04:00

Team approach

Work in groups a strong sell for college program
Jennifer Sami; Staff Writer

Forsyth County News (Cumming, GA) Published: February 20, 2009

Perhaps the most visible sign of success for the inaugural Team MBA program in Cumming is that all 25 students returned for a second semester. The business master's degree program, offered through North Georgia College & State University, began in August. Classes are held Tuesday and Thursday nights on the fourth floor of Cumming City Hall.

The students, who began their second semester last month, have enjoyed the experience. Kaylee Varney began the two-year program a couple months after receiving her bachelor's degree in accounting from the college's main campus in Dahlonega. Varney said once she's certified as a public accountant and finishes the master's program, she'll be "a double threat."
"If you want to move into industry or move into more of a management level, it's better to have management skills, because that's where a lot of accountants maybe lack," she said.
"We're so focused on our numbers and the work, we forget we're supposed to manage people. This helps to make you more well-rounded."

The decision to stick with North Georgia was as easy as her decision to pursue a master's. The program, she said, has been better than expected, beginning with the Team MBA weekend retreat the students attended before classes began in August.

"By the time the three days were over, we knew each other really well, and it made it so much easier to come into this atmosphere," she said. "It's just more supportive."
Students are tested individually, though Varney said a large factor in individual success is group work. With the exception of guest speakers and testing, the same groups of five students work together for the majority of class work and projects.
Group members range in age, experience and areas of expertise, said student Amy Davidson.

"We try to help each other learn, so whatever our strength is, we try to teach it to the rest of the group," she said.

Like many in the program, Davidson has been out of college for a few years.
Davidson, who works for State Farm Insurance, hopes a master's degree can help boost her into management.

"I want to be more competitive within my company," said Davidson, who has a bachelor's degree in communications from Georgia Southern University.

"I really enjoy it a lot more than I actually thought I would. I was kind of scared at first."
Student Michael Hoffman is no stranger to the work force, or to a master's degree. A quality control manager for a pharmaceutical company, Hoffman holds a master's in manufacturing management.

He said North Georgia's program is similar to his previous graduate work, and that dividing into groups is good practice for the work force.

"We work in groups and teams at work, so it lends itself to learning how to deal with that," he said. "With the things you know about, it gives the ability to take the lead and be in a leadership position when that's called upon.

"Other times it teaches you to be more receptive to other people teaching you how to learn things you don't know. We all tend to support and help each other."
John Douglas, North Georgia's director of MBA marketing and development, said enrollment has begun for the second MBA class, which begins in August. He expects it to have about 30 students.

"There are three main things we're shooting for them to have," he said. "One is to work in teams, the next is to develop leadership skills and the third is to have a global perspective on business. We are really pleased with their progress."

While the program isn't as large as those of other schools like the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University, there is no difference in the quality of the students, Douglas said.
For Varney, the program's small size was a big selling point.

"With 300 people, you're just a dot on a map," she said. But with 25, you're somebody, and the professors know you by your name and they can talk to you in a way that you can understand and you can learn better." E-mail Jennifer Sami at
jennifersami@forsythnews.com.

Photos/Jennifer Sami Upper right, Amy Davidson, left, and team member Matt Goodall review information before a presentation. Center, Kaylee Varney adds finishing touches with her team. Right, John David Rusk reviews with his group. Above, Heather Sutton reflects on a project while Vivian Chi looks over some final changes. Photo/Jennifer Sami From left, Danielle Moore, Chris Bray, Victor Parker, John David Rusk and Kaylee Varney review their project.Infobox "We try to help each other learn, so whatever our strength is, we try to teach it to the rest of the group." - Kaylee Varney, MBA student Copyright, 2009, Forsyth County News. All Rights Reserved.

Graduating Students and Employers Upbeat About a Job Market Turnaround

2010-05-11T13:08:00.000-04:00

Check out this GMAC/GMAT article.

Many Good Reasons to Earn Your MBA

2010-05-10T18:08:00.000-04:00

You’re bright. Successful. Determined. Attaining goals you’ve worked hard to reach. But now you wonder: Could I do more? Could I be more?

There’s an MBA program near you that says you can.

North Georgia College & State University and its Mike Cottrell School of Business are bringing the master of business administration degree within practical reach of Lumpkin County residents with the strategic location of its new MBA program in the heart of the Georgia 400 Corridor.

TeamMBA, a traditional, face-to-face evening program designed for working professionals, will be housed on the top floor of Cumming City Hall, convenient to those living or working along the Georgia 400 Corridor and throughout northeast Georgia. Easily accessible from Exits 14, 15 or 16 on GA 400, the program is only about a 35-minute drive from Dahlonega’s Public Square.
Applications are being accepted through May 30, 2010 for the Fall 2010 class, which launches in August. For details and contact information, visit northgeorgiamba.com or call 770-205-5446.

“So many people get settled into their careers, and then after a few years they look around and realize they could boost their success and job satisfaction—and probably their salaries, too—with an MBA degree. By then, they may have families, children and all kinds of demands and obligations on their time. The obstacles can seem insurmountable,” says Max Burns, dean of the Cottrell School of Business.

“Having an MBA program convenient to home or work, with a class schedule they can work into their busy lives makes going for that career boost a do-able option.”

Attending classes Tuesday and Thursday evenings, students can plan to earn their MBAs within just 20-24 months without ever missing a day of work. Students accepted into the program will belong to a “cohort” of 30-40 students who will progress—class by class and project-by-project—through the entire two-year program together. Smaller study groups and team projects, facilitated by the latest communication technologies, will keep students in touch and engaged between classes.

The reasons for earning an MBA are as diverse as the people who seek the degree, says John Douglas, director of MBA marketing and development. MBAs often have a competitive edge over other business professionals for the best jobs and promotions and may command substantially higher salaries. For many, earning an MBA brings newfound confidence and other personal rewards that far transcend job market issues. With core elements centered on leadership development, teamwork and a stimulating global perspective on today’s business environment, North Georgia’s TeamMBA experience offers a life-changing opportunity for people in business careers to break out from the crowd and reach their potential.

Podcast- General TeamMBA Information

2010-05-06T12:49:00.000-04:00

We have produced our first podcast. This podcast is full of general information about North Georgia's TeamMBA program

Enjoy!

NGCSU BusinessWeek

2010-05-04T09:18:00.001-04:00

Check out BusinessWeek!

Mike Cottrell School of Business Newsletter

2010-05-03T20:23:00.000-04:00

Check out the lastest e-Newsletter!

Your ROI from TeamMBA

2010-04-27T13:46:00.000-04:00

Making the commitment to going back to school is a big decision. When deciding, consider your return on investment. What would be your ROI for attending North Georgia College & State University TeamMBA program?

1. Earning an MBA will allow you to think through complex business issues in a more disciplined and confident way. Having a better understanding of basic business skills can be a great asset.

2. A recent survey completed by GMAT states that 39% of students received a new job or promotion during the program.

3. MBAs earn more money

So as you caluate the time commitment, consider your ROI. For more information about our program, please contact John Douglas at 770-205-5446

Let us Pre-Assess!

2010-04-21T15:27:00.000-04:00

Send us your resume' for a quick pre-assessment. We will contact you quickly with an answer if TeamMBA is the right choice for you. It's easy! Please send you resume' to jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu

Look for Us on GA400

2010-04-21T13:15:00.001-04:00

Look for our billboard on GA 400. If you know of someone looking for an MBA program, please let them know about us!

Post 911 GI Bill

2010-04-19T15:44:00.000-04:00

Earn your MBA using the post 911 GI Bill benefit. Please visit www.gibill.va.gov for more information on receiving this benefit. Please note that you can use this benefit a post-graduate program. In Georgia you will be awarded $433.58 per credit hour for tuition. North Georgia College & State University is participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Please visit the school's financial aid website for more information.

North Georgia College & State University TeamMBA Program

2010-04-19T12:42:00.000-04:00

Follow Us on Twitter

2010-04-17T13:00:00.000-04:00

April 15th is Here Again

2010-04-15T17:44:00.000-04:00

April 15th is here again! Tax day. Did you know that your college tuition can be tax deductible? If you are looking at going back to school to earn your MBA but are worried about how you are going to pay for it, consider these options.

1. Ask your HR manager if your current employer has a tuition reimbursement program. Most companies do and I will tell you why. Companies can deduct up to $5250 per year for tuition on their corporate taxes they reimbursed their employee.

2. Look into financial aid and scholarships. North Georgia's financial aid department can steer you in the right direction.

3. Early withdrawal, with no penalty, of SEP, IRA and 401K's can be possible if used for higher education. Before doing this please check with your accountant before accessing these funds.

10 Benefits of Earning an MBA

2010-04-14T15:56:00.000-04:00

1. Advance Your Career
An MBA not only can create current job security, it also can provide networking opportunities that can open a new door for you in a different career.

2. Increase Your Business Knowledge
At North Georgia’s TeamMBA you will enhance your knowledge of marketing, finance, strategic management in a global environment, operations management and law. Our TeamMBA program will enhance your teamwork and leadership abilities while providing you a global perspective.

3. Competitive Edge In Downward Markets
Create a competitive edge in the job marketplace. Investing in your future now will pay off in a downward market making you sustainable in tough times.

4. Leadership Abilities
At TeamMBA, you will be working in a cohort setting. This will allow you to present, create and report in teams. As a team you will bring your unique set of abilities to the table allowing you to lead your team in what you are an expert on.

5. Passport to a Successful Career
Top executives say that they look for MBA’s to recruit for top executive positions within their organizations.

6. Provides One the Opportunity for a Career Change
Looking for a career change but you lack the training? An MBA can open doors for you in a career that you will love and enjoy.

7. Earn a Higher Salary
A Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAT) study indicated that graduates of part-time MBA programs at AACSB accredited schools obtain positions with an average salary increase of 37%.

8.Networking
The 20 to 24 months you will spend with your classmates on group projects will form long term bonds that can be valuable resources for you in the future.

9. Professional Development
Investing in yourself and your education strengthens your overall knowledge. This will allow you to mentor, coach and consult with the knowledge and expertise that one should have.

10. Become a Team Player
Working as a team in today’s global society is a must. Attending North Georgia’s TeamMBA program enhances one’s ability to work as a team.

A World of Opportunity....Close to Home

2010-04-14T10:54:00.000-04:00

You're bright. Successful. Determined. Attaining goals you've worked hard to reach. But now you wonder: Could I do more?

There is an MBA program near you that says you can. North Georgia College & State University's Mike Cottrell School of Business, open a world of opportunity for your professional and personal growth. This Master of Business Administration degree will help you optimize the education, skills and experience you already have and parlay them into exciting new levels of success. North Georgia TeamMBA experience may be the life-changing opportunity you need to reach your potential.

The best part about our program is classes are offered two nights a week for 20 to 24 months at our Cumming, GA campus, located on the top floor of Cumming City Hall. For more information please contact John Douglas, Director, MBA Marketing & Development at 770-205-5446 or jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu

Open House Tuesday, April 13, 2010 5:00pm-6:30pm

2010-04-07T16:40:00.000-04:00

North Georgia College & State University is currently accepting applications for their Fall 2010 Team MBA program. This 20-24 month program is designed for the working professional by offering evening classes twice a week. Classes are held at the Cumming City Hall Building. An Open House is scheduled for Tuesday April 13, 2010 from 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm. Come join us and learn about our program and the many benefits in obtaining an MBA. Please RSVP to John Douglas at 770-205-5446, jdouglas@northgeorgia.edu.
Please visit our website at NorthGeorgiaMBA.com