Admissions FAQ

Admissions FAQs

Is work experience required for admission to the program? Because the MS-Tech program puts great value on work experience and the knowledge it brings to the program, two years of full-time managerial work experience is required to apply. The program will also consider a limited number of recent graduates who have degrees in engineering, science, or technology management and who are interested in moving to the management track in their organizations in the future.

Is the GMAT required? The MS-Tech Program does not require the GMAT. Because the program is designed for experienced managers, the length and nature of work experience is an important criterion for admission. If you have taken the GMAT, please submit these scores with your application for consideration in our decision.

Is the TOEFL required? An acceptable TOEFL score (550/213CBT/79iBT=current minimum) is required if your native language is not English or if you reside in a country where English as not the official language.

Is an on-campus interview required? No, but a telephone interview is often conducted. If you are able to visit the campus, it will provide an opportunity to talk with you, meet with current students, and sit in on classes.

What are the fees associated with applying for admission to the MS-Tech Program? For domestic students there is a $60 nonrefundable application fee. For international students, the nonrefundable application fee is $75. Applications received without this fee cannot be processed.

Is a admissions deposit required to apply? Applicants offered admission to the program must submit a nonrefundable admissions deposit of $1,000. This deposit is a partial payment of the fall tuition bill. Instructions on how the deposit can be paid will be included in the admission offer notification.

Is a computer required for the MS-Tech program? The MS-Tech Program requires all students own a laptop computer. Computers are an essential tool for conducting business and delivering educational material. The University and the College of Business provide an infrastructure that allows students to access electronic information from anywhere at anytime. A wireless network is available in much of the College of Business. The University provides free remote access to our network and the internet through a dial-up bank. There are access ports for laptop computers in classrooms as well as in various locations throughout campus.
The program will make a recommendation for a laptop. The Tablet PC has been recommended in the past. Once an applicant has been admitted to the University, he/she is eligible for discounts for computer equipment purchased through the University Central Stores.

Program FAQs

How is this MS Tech program different from other business administration programs? This program provides a wider range of business management techniques relating to the techology industry, as well as a broader topic base for courses, guest speakers and field trips. The technology management courses are unique to this program and merge the two key elements of the curriculum: technology and management.

What will my diploma say?“University of Illinois, Master of Science in Technology Management”, will appear on your official diploma, along with all courses taken, grades received, and GPA.

What are the tuition and fees for the MS-Tech program? Anticipated tuition, charges, and fees for the 12-month program for the 2008-2009 academic year are $40,100.  For I-20 purposes, international students must supply verification of $51,959 (includes living expenses). Program tuition and fees are set annually by the University Board of Trustees and are subject to change without notice. Tuition and university fees for study beyond this 12-month term are assessed at the normal MS-Tech program rates and can be expected to be 40%/40%/20% for fall/spring/summer.
For international students, an additional SEVIS fee of $100 must be paid before a visa will be processed. Additionally, the Office of International Student Affairs charges a one-time fee of $50.

Does the program provide financial assistance? The MS-Tech program does not provide any kind of financial assistance. Because of the high value governmental agencies, businesses and corporations place on the program, many sponsor their employees to attend. International students may wish to contact such funding sources in their home countries or other international organizations (e.g. Rotary International, Fulbright) for scholarship opportunities.

When should I arrive on campus to begin the program? You will receive notification of specific dates well in advance, however you should plan to attend all orientation, registration and pre-sessions before classes begin.

Can I specialize in a particular area while completing the MS-Tech Program? You may earn specialization in a particular area. A specialization requires three units of graduate coursework beyond the core MS-Tech program requirements. A request for specialization should be submitted to and approved by the Academic Director before registering in elective courses for your specialization. A specialization usually requires at least one additional semester of study.

Can I transfer to another program after finishing the MS-Tech Program? You may petition to transfer to any graduate program at the University of Illinois. You must get permission from the Department of Business Administration to transfer, and you must be accepted to and fulfill any additional requirements of that program.

Career and Professional Services FAQs

What types of services are provided for my career search? The University of Illinois and the College of Business are ready to assist MS Tech students as they determine their career path. Business Career Services, the Career Center and The Graduate College Career Services Office offer services and events to assist students who are in the career market. These services are provided to students as resources for those seeking employment. These are not placement services, rather professional assistance and guidance for the career-seeking process. Additionally, the MS Tech program strives to develop and maintain relationships with a variety of companies to ensure they are familiar with our students, curriculum, and activities within the program.
MS Tech students sponsored by their employer are not eligible to participate in career services unless they have written permission from their employer.

Will the MS Tech Program help me to obtain my professional goals? Students enter the MS Tech Program for a variety of reasons; however, many enter to diversify their knowledge and to grow professionally. The MS Tech Program offers students the opportunity to uniquely position themselves to advance their careers by offering an intensive and comprehensive learning experience.