W. P. Carey is looking to attract Generation Z with its ‘Scholarships for All’ program, where every full-time MBA student gets a scholarship
A scholarship can massively impact the decision of where to study for your MBA. With tuition fees reaching in excess of $100,000 for some top US business schools, scholarships are often the only way for students from non-traditional backgrounds to fund their study.
At Arizona State University’s , however, they’ve found a unique solution to the problem of inaccessible tuition fees—offering funding for their entire full-time MBA cohort for the duration of the program.
The ‘Scholarships For All’ initiative was launched in 2016 in the hopes that it would attract students from non-traditional backgrounds to pursue an MBA—and John Wisneski, professor of management and faculty director of the full-time MBA at W. P. Carey, says they’re already noticing a difference.
“Instead of just getting the traditional MBA students who come from corporate America, we’re able to draw on students from a multitude of backgrounds—non-profit, education, the arts,” John says. “And that just adds to the richness of the experience that we can bring to the classroom.”
In the first cohort to benefit from the initiative, 25% of the MBA students at W. P. Carey came from a non-traditional background. John says that the school was specifically looking to attract a new generation of entrepreneurs—those from so-called ‘Generation Z’.
“The students growing up in Gen Z, they’re very conscious of the impact that they make in the world,” John notes. “We really looked for this mentality of a student that wanted to make an impact that was broader than the corporate bottom line.”
A 2017 report by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) surveyed 959 employers worldwide about their recruiting intentions, and found that ‘adaptability’, ‘cross-cultural sensitivity’, and ‘innovation and creativity’ were some of the most sought-after skills in MBA grads—the same skills that are developed in a diverse classroom environment.
Priyanka Mathur, a student from India, (pictured) is currently in her second year of the MBA at and was in the second cohort of students to benefit from the ’Scholarships For All’ initiative. She says the offer of a full scholarship made the MBA at W. P. Carey a much more attractive business school option for her.
“A highly ranked MBA program with full scholarship undoubtedly made Arizona State University my first choice,” she says. “And with the scholarship, the program became more competitive and difficult to get in.”
But aside from the attraction of the program itself, has Priyanka seen first-hand any benefits from the scholarship initiative?
She says that the competitiveness of the program has had a positive effect on the quality of education within the classroom.
“I have close friends in other business schools and I know how education debt keeps them worried or limits them to take certain decisions or risks,” she notes. “At W. P. Carey, we can take risks and focus on our education and personal-development by exploring various domains without a financial constraint.”
And it’s not only within the classroom where Priyanka has seen the positive effects of scholarships—she says students are more willing to participate in community actions in the wider context of Arizona State University.
“Most importantly, I believe a Forward Focus scholarship has inculcated a strong ‘giving back’ attitude in the student towards our alma mater and the society at large.”
As vice president of a student’s governance body specifically for international students, Priyanka has been helping make the MBA more attractive to global students. She says this role has helped strengthen her own engagement with the community at the university.
“It’s a great experience. I am part of the global community and I could lead to making it even stronger,” she says.
“At ,” Priyanka continues, “business is personal. They really look for people who are serious about making a career in business management with a positive impact on future business practices.
“I recommend the W. P. Carey MBA program to anybody who resonates with this vision.”
Student Reviews
W. P. Carey School of Business - Arizona State University
Hands on Experience, labs
I love that that this school is known all over the world and the education is of high quality. It's been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as No. 1 for best online bachelor's in business programs
Amazing Start to Your Career in Social Sciences
I had a great experience at ASU as a Political Science student. ASU is one of the biggest universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of studies. The student body was diverse and overall great to study with. ASU is rich in both academics and student life. There are many clubs, student organizations, amenities, and activities you can join. One thing I would recommend is invest in a lot of sunscreen and good walking shoes. Due to it's large campus you'll be doing a lot of walking which is great but can be a bit of a struggle during the very hot summer months.
Great MSW program!
Arizona State University has an amazing online Master of Social Work Program. Even though it was an online program, I feel that I developed great connections with professors, co-instructors, and peers. Finding an internship placement was stress free because of the high level of support the program offered. I would definitely choose to go back to ASU if I decided to further my education in future.
Long lasting friendships
I have been able to have incredible experiences and make connections that will live long in my memory. I've had the chance to start my career here in a way I never thought I would. I love how the university lets you choose your major and minor and take classes with a lot of freedom.
Continuous Support
Opinion
Arizona State University has many great opportunities available to students. All of the departments are very helpful and really care about student's succeeding.
What's there to like?
One think I like about ASU is their Education program. They really ensure that students will receive useful information that is directly applicable to their career.
One thing I dislike is, nothing! It is a high ranking university but one notable thing is that the school is located in Arizona; where temperatures reach well over 100° throughout the entire Summer.
Would I reccomend ASU?
I would certainly reccomend Arizona State University for any students who are looking to learn and gain meaningful experiences throughout finishing school.
Arizona State University
ASU is a wonderful university with so many educational opportunities. Its professors are friendly and approachable and were always willing to help or give advice to students whenever their help was needed. It also provided students with many opportunities to meet people outside the classroom for example clubs and other social events hosted within the university. ASU offers great education and I loved the campus and faculty
Practical Lecturing
The amazing features about Arizona State University would not allow me to write less when it comes to recommending the second to none university to the public! Life on Arizona State University campus is an intriguing possibility! Here is where dreams are realized due to the immense support from lecturers academically as well as fascinating large lecture halls with modernized appliance that makes learning easier. Goals are realized with ease as students who need support are given chances
University program
The university offers a lot of options for students, particularly in terms of integration and extracurricular activities including involvement in several student organizations. However, I am dissatisfied with the quality of the information offered and the degree of practice skills needed for success in a professional position. Fantastic university location
ASU infrastructures
Without a doubt, I would suggest this university. There is a highly educated personnel with an exceptional commitment toward teaching. The highly developed infrastructure and technology is another significant plus.
Hands on Experience, labs
I love that that this school is known all over the world and the education is of high quality. It's been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as No. 1 for best online bachelor's in business programs
Amazing Start to Your Career in Social Sciences
I had a great experience at ASU as a Political Science student. ASU is one of the biggest universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of studies. The student body was diverse and overall great to study with. ASU is rich in both academics and student life. There are many clubs, student organizations, amenities, and activities you can join. One thing I would recommend is invest in a lot of sunscreen and good walking shoes. Due to it's large campus you'll be doing a lot of walking which is great but can be a bit of a struggle during the very hot summer months.
Great MSW program!
Arizona State University has an amazing online Master of Social Work Program. Even though it was an online program, I feel that I developed great connections with professors, co-instructors, and peers. Finding an internship placement was stress free because of the high level of support the program offered. I would definitely choose to go back to ASU if I decided to further my education in future.
Long lasting friendships
I have been able to have incredible experiences and make connections that will live long in my memory. I've had the chance to start my career here in a way I never thought I would. I love how the university lets you choose your major and minor and take classes with a lot of freedom.
Continuous Support
Opinion
Arizona State University has many great opportunities available to students. All of the departments are very helpful and really care about student's succeeding.
What's there to like?
One think I like about ASU is their Education program. They really ensure that students will receive useful information that is directly applicable to their career.
One thing I dislike is, nothing! It is a high ranking university but one notable thing is that the school is located in Arizona; where temperatures reach well over 100° throughout the entire Summer.
Would I reccomend ASU?
I would certainly reccomend Arizona State University for any students who are looking to learn and gain meaningful experiences throughout finishing school.
Arizona State University
ASU is a wonderful university with so many educational opportunities. Its professors are friendly and approachable and were always willing to help or give advice to students whenever their help was needed. It also provided students with many opportunities to meet people outside the classroom for example clubs and other social events hosted within the university. ASU offers great education and I loved the campus and faculty
Practical Lecturing
The amazing features about Arizona State University would not allow me to write less when it comes to recommending the second to none university to the public! Life on Arizona State University campus is an intriguing possibility! Here is where dreams are realized due to the immense support from lecturers academically as well as fascinating large lecture halls with modernized appliance that makes learning easier. Goals are realized with ease as students who need support are given chances
University program
The university offers a lot of options for students, particularly in terms of integration and extracurricular activities including involvement in several student organizations. However, I am dissatisfied with the quality of the information offered and the degree of practice skills needed for success in a professional position. Fantastic university location
ASU infrastructures
Without a doubt, I would suggest this university. There is a highly educated personnel with an exceptional commitment toward teaching. The highly developed infrastructure and technology is another significant plus.
Uncomplicated and lots of great classes
The application process and anything with admin was easy and made students' lives easy. There were many good classes to choose from as well. The professors were professionals in their subjects and led successful class discussions. The reading lists were also full of great choices.
Flexible coursework
I liked about the way a student could choose from thesis, applied project, or a portfolio to complete a degree. And it’s in a prime location where semiconductor companies are situated. Also the university is diversified and cost of living is less.
Flexible
ASU is great for working students. What I like most is the flexibility. Students can choose to take their courses during the mornings, afternoons, evenings, or online. I dislike most is the lack of good electives to choose from.
amazing professors
As a student at Arizona State University, I've had the pleasure of learning from outstanding professors who are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely care about their students' success. They make complex topics easier to understand through engaging and practical teaching methods. Professors are approachable, always available for support during office hours or via email, and their passion for their subjects makes learning enjoyable. Their dedication and commitment truly enhance the academic experience at ASU.
