Mini Program, Major Impact

Through the Mini-MBA program, the C. T. Bauer College of Business is making a major impact, giving professionals the opportunity to sharpen their skills in just a week.

Recently, the college led a session for the U.S. Army, bringing to campus a group of 60 Army Civilians, active members of the service who work in non-combat positions.

Students split into two parallel cohorts to start the week, learning the core foundations of business in accounting, marketing, finance and more. Each course is led by the same professors who teach classes in the traditional MBA programs at Bauer College.

“It was extremely interesting and really timely for our group,” 75th U.S. Army Reserve Innovation Command Executive Officer Chris Govekar said. “Most of us don't get exposed to this kind of education unless you go back to school full-time.”

The session brought together participants from across the country, allowing students to spend each day learning and connecting with each other.

“A lot of good networking and cross conversation on how to apply our skillsets to various fields happened throughout the week,” U.S. Army Chemical Materials Activity Chief Stockpile Management Office Walter Wyatt said. “Within the government, it is such a tight-knit community that there is always somebody that can help you succeed in many different areas.”

On the final days of the program, students were separated into specialization groups focused on artificial intelligence, data analytics and human resource management.

“The program is truly a transformative experience,” said Instructional Associate Professor Marina Sebastijanovic, who serves as faculty coordinator for the Mini-MBA program. “I cannot count how many times during the week I witnessed a lightbulb moment, when participants made new realizations and connections. Even during breaks, participants would eagerly discuss what they have learned in class, sharing insights and perspectives with each other.”

The Mini-MBA program is a joint effort between the college’s Graduate and Professional Programs (GPP) and the Office of Executive Development. Registration is now open for upcoming sessions in October and January 2025.