Once we are convinced of your ability to succeed academically, we focus on the quality and duration of your experience and skill set. The ideal candidate works well with others, seeks opportunities to manage projects and lead people, and consistently exceeds expectations. Vanderbilt does not require a certain type of experience—work in all fields, military duty, volunteer service, and involvement in community and extracurricular activities prepare each student to share unique perspectives.
Full-time post-baccalaureate work experience is strongly recommended but not required. No minimum amount is specified because we believe exceptional candidates are able to assume leadership roles, inside the classroom and out. However, most incoming students find that substantial work experience enables them to understand new concepts more fully and apply them more quickly, to make relevant and meaningful contributions to the learning community, and to realize a greater return on their MBA investment with access to more and better career options. In recent years, nearly all Vanderbilt MBA students have had at least one year of significant full-time work experience, and 90% have worked three or more years before enrollment. Students with little or no experience are usually in one of the dual degree programs, especially law or medicine.
We evaluate your experience in several ways.
- The application requires a résumé that highlights your responsibilities and accomplishments in a format that you would normally present to a prospective employer.
- We also request a separate and more detailed work history so that we can fully understand the nature of the organizations in which you have worked and more accurately assess your career progression and advancement.
- Successful applicants are goal-oriented and can clearly and consistently articulate career plans in their essays and interview.
- Carefully chosen recommenders will assess your performance and potential in a professional context and provide an evaluation that complements and supports other areas of the application.
