MSU-Meridian offers three new master's programs

By By Georgia E. Frye / staff writer
July 13, 2004
Beginning in January, students at Mississippi State University-Meridian Campus can earn a master's degree in business administration through a series of Saturday classes.
The intensive MBA program will be conducted over a 19-month, 75-Saturday format beginning in January. The first 15 Saturdays will be reviews and refresher sessions that cover different areas of business.
The cost is $22,000, which includes tuition, fees, books, working lunches and a wireless-capable laptop computer. Jack Tucci, chairman of MSU-Meridian's Division of Business and Industry, said the cost of tuition is $17,000 less than the Southeastern Conference average. He said student loans are available or fees can be paid in three installments.
Tucci, who will direct the new program, said it means a lot to the university and to the city of Meridian.
Tucci announced the new program today at a press conference on the MSU-Meridian campus. He said it is designed to allow people with jobs an opportunity to get the same-quality MBA program the school offers during the week.
In addition to the MBA course, George Thomas, chair of the MSU-Meridian Division of Education, announced two new graduate degrees in education beginning this fall: 1) master of arts in teaching-secondary teacher education alternate route; 2) and master of arts in teaching with a major in community college education.
Thomas said the programs address the need for additional qualified teachers in high schools and community colleges. The courses will be open to those who hold bachelor's degrees in a discipline other than education.