AU MBA program signs agreement with Hiram

Ashland’s MBA in Entrepreneurship program forms partnership with Hiram College

Published on Oct. 28, 2021
College of Business and Economics

ASHLAND, Ohio – Leaders of the Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship program at Ashland University have come to an agreement with Hiram College on a “4 + 1 Program” that will enhance and further educational opportunities for students at both institutions. The two schools made it official during a signing ceremony on Wednesday at Hiram’s campus.

The “4 + 1 Program” gives Hiram students who are on track for a bachelor of arts and/or science degrees with a minor in entrepreneurship the opportunity to enroll early into Ashland’s MBA in Entrepreneurship coursework. Students who meet specific eligibility requirements will be allowed to complete three of Ashland’s MBA courses as an undergraduate. Thus, the program allows Hiram students to get a head start pursuing an MBA degree from Ashland.

“We are excited to be partnering with Hiram College on this collaborative initiative. This partnership joins two esteemed institutions' Burton D. Morgan Centers for Entrepreneurship, providing economic and innovative growth within northeast Ohio,” remarked Ronald Mickler, executive director of the MBA programs at Ashland. “The students at Hiram College with an interest in entrepreneurship have the opportunity to enroll in Ashland University's top-ranked accredited MBA program specializing in entrepreneurship, while still earning their baccalaureate degree. This partnership is the epitome of entrepreneurial, innovative collaboration among two reputable higher education institutions."

Additionally, a discounted tuition rate will be awarded to students in the “4 + 1 Program.” Hiram students who enroll as undergraduates in Ashland’s MBA in Entrepreneurship program will be offered 10 percent off tuition, and upon completion of a bachelor’s degree and matriculation to Ashland, those students will continue to receive that rate for the remainder of the graduate program.

David Strukel, director for the Burton D. Morgan Center for Entrepreneurship at Hiram, stated “This is an exciting opportunity for our entrepreneurship students who are considering an advanced degree in business. We provide our students with the tools needed to apply what they learn in the classroom to hands-on experiences with our mentorship program and pitch competitions. This partnership will only enhance the opportunities available to our students, as they will be able to continue their education through Ashland University and earn an MBA a short time after completing their bachelor’s degree.”

Ashland University is a mid-sized, private university conveniently located a short distance from Akron, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Ashland University (www.ashland.edu) values the individual student and offers a unique educational experience that combines the challenge of strong applied academic programs with a faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students.