Northeastern/CIO Programs
 


What is the difference between the two programs?
The MBA Fundamentals program provides highlights of the topics and disciplines of a first-year MBA program. It is designed to give you a grounding in the concepts that drive all business functions, from business strategy and innovation to accounting, finance, operations and marketing. Material includes case studies, exercises and group work where you will serve as a business decision maker using the frameworks and metrics that professionals in these disciplines use. For tech professionals without a business background, this course will open your eyes to the way business works and produce many aha moments. 

The Beyond the MBA program assumes some business background and focuses specifically on how technology executives can best lead their companies through disruption and change. Courses focus on transformation, analytics, metrics, acquisitions and leadership. Cases and discussions dive into the strategies and frameworks for transforming entire organizations through technology. Coursework includes a team project. 

How do I know which course is better for me? 
The courses are different but complementary. Some students choose to attend both in a single term or single year, whereas others select the one most appropriate for them today. Some decision factors include where you are in your career, and what your top challenges are in your job and in your company right now. If you need assistance in making your selection, please contact us. 

Is one program a prerequisite for the other? 
No, there are no prerequisites for either course. However, participants of the Beyond the MBA program will benefit more if they enter the program with some background in non-IT business disciplines. Who should attend these programs? We welcome all professionals to the MBA Fundamentals course. Participants of the Beyond the MBA course are typically senior executives at the level of director and above. While designed for tech professionals and executives, both programs are open to those of other disciplines as well. 

Where are the programs held? 
Both programs are held on the campus of Northeastern University on Huntington Avenue in Boston. 

How does pricing work? 
Each course has an early-bird rate of $4,995. The regular price is $5,495. This fee covers all coursework, materials, access to an online resource portal, receptions, breakfast and lunch. Travel, accommodations and other meals are the responsibility of the participant. 

Where should I stay in Boston? 
We have reserved a discounted block of rooms at The Colonnade Hotel in Boston. More information about the block and rate can be found on our hotel information page.

I’d love to attend – how do I convince my company to send me? 
Many attendees are able to use their company’s education and/or training stipend to cover the costs of the course. We have printable brochures available for each course, as well as a pre-written letter of intent that you can personalize for your manager. These materials all highlight the course’s mission and takeaways and how each will equip you to add increased value to your organization every day. 

Is there any kind of follow-up for the group after the course ends? 
Yes! Your learning doesn’t stop with the program, and neither do the relationships you form with your classmates and professors during this experience. Included in the course fee for the Beyond the MBA program is an online follow-up session hosted by our faculty director, approximately three months after the conclusion of the course. 

Once I sign up, will there be pre-work? 
Yes. We distribute course materials approximately one month prior to the start of the program via an online web portal. Some reading will be required prior to the first session. We recommend allowing 2-4 hours for course prep. 

How many other students will be there? 
On average, we host 30-35 students per course, from across the U.S. and internationally. 

How long are the programs? 
The MBA Fundamentals and Beyond the MBA courses are intensive, four-day programs. 

Are continuing education credits available for the programs? 
At present, these courses do not offer continuing education credits. Participants receive certificates of completion from the D’Amore-McKim School of Business at a closing ceremony. 

What is the refund policy? 
Enrollees may cancel their participation in writing up to 35 days in advance of the program for a full refund. Participants who must cancel after 35 days may send a colleague in their place or transfer their enrollment to the following term (one time). We regret that we cannot offer refunds after the original refund period.