Keystone College’s new Master of Business Administration program allows students to complete coursework at their own pace while building on skills they already have.
The college will offer a competency-based online MBA program beginning in the fall semester.
The college’s traditional MBA program requires students to have 42 hours of interaction with their instructor. The competency-based MBA program allows students to move through courses in subject areas they are familiar with quickly and spend more time in areas with which they are less familiar. With flexible schedules, students can learn at their own pace, according to college officials.
There is no pass or fail in the program. Instead, students work with their assigned faculty member to become competent in a particular course before moving to the next one.
The competency-based MBA program offers the same concentrations as Keystone’s traditional MBA program — accounting, finance, health systems management, leadership, marketing and project management.
Officials estimate it will take two to three semesters to complete the program, with students required to complete one class per semester. Students also set their own schedule to complete projects and assignments.
The program, which is offered year-round, costs $5,000 per semester. Each semester lasts 16 weeks, and Keystone will work with students to accommodate employer tuition-assistance programs.
The college’s traditional MBA program is available in-person and online.
MBA Program Director Laura Little has wanted to have the program at Keystone since she arrived at the college four years ago. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the college’s accreditor, approved the program for the college in late April.
“It’s just such a wonderful concept and it saves students so much money and so much time,” she said. “It’s really flexible for working adults.”
Little said prospective students are excited about the program because it allows them to complete their degree on their own time. Some worried they couldn’t complete an MBA as they juggle a career and family.
“They’re very excited to have the flexibility that comes with it,” she said.
Little said the program is the first of its kind offered at a college like Keystone. Other colleges and universities offer the program but are typically larger online entities such as Walden University or the University of Phoenix.
In addition to getting credentials that back up their experience, she said students complete the program with additional knowledge and skills that can help them professionally.
“This is really the fastest, most cost-effective way to get that credential that can help you grow in your field,” Little said.
Those interested in applying must have at least five years of work experience, in addition to meeting the admission requirements of the college’s traditional MBA program.
The college is located in La Plume Twp. in Lackawanna County and Factoryville in Wyoming County.
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