Accelerated Graduate Degree Programs on the Rise for Emmanuel Students & Alumni

Last spring, the Emmanuel College office of Graduate & Professional Programs debuted two new online graduate programs in collaboration with the School of Business & Management: the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the Master of Science in Accounting (MSA).

Both programs are available to all prospective graduate students as well as members of Emmanuel’s Class of 2021, who have the option this spring to get a jumpstart in the programs by enrolling in a graduate-level course as part of their undergraduate tuition.

“These two programs really expand on Emmanuel’s strengths as an institution,” said Associate Dean for Graduate & Professional Programs Bill Boozang, EdD. “They are reflective of the College’s mission and the faculty is deeply committed to the interaction and accessibility of a traditional classroom environment.”

With a non-sequential online course model, these programs are a great opportunity for young professionals to navigate two popular graduate programs that remain on the rise. Emmanuel seniors, meanwhile, are able to enroll in either program and receive credit to get a head start in completing a master’s degree as part of their regular undergraduate course load.

“This is a great program to explore,” said Giana Cofman ‘20, a current student in the MBA program. “The classwork is straightforward, there’s plenty of time to complete assignments, and the professors and advisors are eager to help. As someone who works four days a week, I feel that I have enough time to stay on track with class and don’t feel overwhelmed.”

Both programs were designed with the understanding that recent college graduates will be looking for programs that are convenient, accelerated and affordable. Yet the programs also appeal to a wider audience, as well.

“It’s a great opportunity not just for our young alums, but all of our alums,” added Boozang. “We understand that many have been hit hard with displacement or even unemployment during the pandemic so this is the perfect opportunity to earn a quality degree at a great price point.”

Emmanuel alumni that enroll in either program will receive a 10 percent discount on their graduate tuition and can finish in as little as 14 months while working full-time.

Along with Associate Dean Pasquale, Assistant Professor of Accounting Donna Marchand was instrumental in getting these programs off the ground. Each program is already seeing an average class size of between 12-15 students.

“Students will leave these programs having acquired innovative skills that are necessary for today’s ever-changing expectations in the business world,” said Marchard.

“An MBA or MSA really helps someone distinguish themselves in the workplace,” said Boozang. “These programs offer course work that hiring managers are looking for and really set up our students for immediate success once they enter their field of choice.”