As a prospective student, in my home state, I was extremely disappointed in the quality of information and lack access to it for the MBA program.
While a prospective student can dig and find the program outline, course descriptions are difficult to investigate without having several browser tabs open.
In a business world that is aggressive, global, technical, and that requires user experience design to be considered; this program is simply not innovative enough for this learner.
Like most online MBA programs Florida Gulf Coast University requires applicants to take the GMAT. They use a combination of GMAT score and GPA x 200 to configure acceptance which must meet a 1050 requirement. Recent changes to enrollment now list the minimum GMAT score (as of Spring 2012) at 450. While in-state tuition costs are what one would expect for a MBA program out of state fees are exorbitant and one would be wise to look elsewhere if they are a non-resident of Florida.
The MBA degree program at Florida Gulf Coast University can be earned completely through distance (online) learning. It is not a separate "internet MBA"; which has its advantages and disadvantages. You do not really have the opportunity to specialize, nor are there any efforts put forth by the Lutgert College of Business to help engage distance learning students. However, the positive side to this is that you can move from the online/part-time MBA program into the full-time program pretty seamlessly if need be.
Because the school is so young (the university opened in 1997, the Lutgert College of Business was organized about 10 years later), you really feel as if the sky is the limit. Your professors and your peers are open and supportive of new ideas and initatives. The college of business encourages and recognizes students and alumni who have become successful and made their mark on the business world. For FL residents, the tuition is one of the best deals you'll find anywhere.
I feel that my MBA experience at FGCU is a great mix between rigor, flexibility and affordibility. However it must mature a bit more before I can honestly rate it in the 'A' category. However the program improves and the alumni base grows each year, so the future looks pretty good!
MBA Hopeful - 2012
