More veterans are leveraging their education benefits, especially for graduate programs. Before 2008, only 22% of graduates used these benefits. Since the Post-9/11 GI Bill passed in 2009, this number has risen significantly with over 40% of veterans now using GI Bill benefits
At the University of Utah, we deeply value the sacrifices veterans make. That’s why the David Eccles School of Business provides extensive resources to help veterans apply for and complete an MBA. Our MBA programs are offered in various formats, including day, evening, weekend, and online, to meet every student’s needs.
In this guide, you will discover five reasons for veterans to pursue an MBA. You’ll also hear from veteran alumni of the David Eccles School of Business about their motivations for pursuing an MBA, how they utilized GI Bill benefits, and how an MBA helped align their personal and career goals.
“I was in the military beforehand so an MBA was kind of the natural progression. After spending so much time in a military career, I wanted to jump start my professional career by going back to school and getting used to updated thought processes.”
Peter Tate | US Marine Corps University of Utah Full-Time MBA
Take Advantage of GI Bill Benefits 1
The Forever GI Bill offers veterans more opportunities to prepare for and pursue a graduate degree. These expanded benefits provide essential resources for an MBA, and the University of Utah ensures students can fully utilize them.
GI Bill benefits can cover many MBA-related expenses, including:
• Tuition costs
• Books and supplies
• Living expenses
• Test preparation classes
Test prep courses for the GMAT and GRE are particularly valuable.
Veterans can get support through the GI bill for prep courses offered at the University of Utah.
“Veterans can get support through the GI Bill for several GMAT and GRE class options, including prep courses offered at the University of Utah.”
Guillermo Garcia | US Army
Develop Skills to Excel in the Business World 2
MBA degrees are incredibly versatile, helping veterans build professional skills and knowledge for success in any industry. Here’s what an MBA can do for you:
• Gain the essential business acumen to excel in your chosen career, no matter which industry you pursue.
• Build a strong business foundation with core courses and customize your degree with electives, concentrations, dual and concurrent degrees, and more.
• Diversify your skill set, making you more competitive in the job market.
Our MBA graduates are well-equipped for roles in a variety of industries, and have been hired by renowned companies across the state and nation, like Adobe, Disney, Google, Intermountain Healthcare, USAA, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and more.
“I didn’t have the financial acumen I needed so I knew I was in a pretty weak position to jump into the private sector, especially in the accounting field. I am happy I took the accounting class during my MBA because I felt like I came out of that program more prepared.”
Scott Apple | US Navy University of Utah Professional MBA
See an Immediate ROI 3
Pursuing an MBA requires a serious investment of time, effort, and focus. However, our students see immediate returns on that investment as they reach their career goals and succeed in the business world.
The returns on investment for our students are evident in the career outcomes and employment statistics of MBA graduates. Each program offers numerous opportunities for students to network with employers, fellow students, and companies, particularly those with a military presence.
With their newly acquired knowledge, many students are given leadership roles, more responsibilities, and promotions to higher-level positions in their organization. The ability to immediately apply the skills learned makes an MBA valuable for both the student and their employer.
“The University of Utah absolutely has a military presence at USAA. I was drawn to that, so that’s where I did my internship. I also received a full-time job offer through that internship.”
Kyle Neumayer | US Army University of Utah Full-Time MBA
Receive Specialized Support and Services 4
The University of Utah has a specialized student services center that offers comprehensive support and services to veterans. The Veterans Support Center (VSC), staffed by veterans, provides both on- and offcampus support throughout students’ entire program, including:
• VA counseling and benefit advising
• School Certifying Officers for VA educational programs
• Free tutoring
• Peer mentoring
• Scholarships and financial aid assistance
• Free computer lab and printing
• Career coaching tailored to veterans
• Work study opportunities
• Student Veterans at the U Association
In addition to providing students with resources and ensuring timely processing of their benefits, the Veterans Support Center creates opportunities for veterans to connect with other military members on campus. Veterans have access to the VSC lounge and study areas and participate in university-sponsored military community events.
“If a veteran is going to use any sort of VA benefit, they need to work through the Veterans Support Center here at the U, and that process is a well-oiled machine. They know what they are doing, and if they don’t have the answer or can’t do it, they can point you in the right direction.”
Matthew Tuttle | Utah Air National Guard University of Utah Professional MBA
Format to Fit Your Schedule 5
The University of Utah offers four AACSB-accredited MBA program options designed to fit all kinds of schedules and lifestyles:
Full-Time MBA: An immersive, experiential, cohort-oriented program connecting students to high-impact careers and networks. Day and evening classes are available.
Professional MBA: Classes are held twice a week in the evenings from 5:30 to 10 p.m., with one night on campus and one night online.
MBA Online: A flexible online solution for career advancement or starting a new career track. Classes are held online with optional live webinar sessions.
Executive MBA: For experienced, senior-level professionals seeking to gain executive-level strategy and leadership skills. Classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays every other weekend from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Ready to take the next steps?
Our program advisors can help you determine what benefits you qualify for and which program format is best for achieving your goals.
“I needed to pursue a different career and I knew that an MBA was going to help me figure out exactly where I could translate my military skills and learn all the different aspects of business.”
Will Acton | US Army University of Utah MBA Online
