Trustees Approve MBA Program at SUNY New Paltz

NEW PALTZ — SUNY New Paltz has moved one step closer to offering a master of business administration degree (MBA). The SUNY Board of Trustees approved the new program at their September 22 meeting, clearing the way for anticipated final approval by the State Education Department (SED).

The MBA degree has long been sought by SUNY New Paltz. Once approved by the SED, New Paltz will be the only public institution between Albany and New York City to offer the MBA. The university will begin immediately to offer the program.

The New Paltz MBA degree is a 54-credit program. The degree includes 21 credits of foundation courses that can be waived for those who have educational background in the area of business, 24 credits of core courses and nine credits of concentration requirements.

“There is no doubt that we will receive a large number of applications immediately upon approval of the MBA program,” said Hadi Salavitabar, director of the university’s business programs. “For years we have had numerous inquiries from individuals throughout the Hudson Valley and Connecticut, hoping such an offering would soon be available. A number of these students have enrolled in our master of science in business program.”

“I am extremely pleased that the SUNY Trustees have recognized the need for the outstanding master’s curriculum in business administration at SUNY New Paltz,” said Assemblyman Kevin Cahill. “Our potential for further economic development is enhanced with the availability of this program. I am certain that many people in our community will take advantage of this educational opportunity, and I was pleased to work closely with President Roger Bowen and the dedicated SUNY educators to make this degree program a reality.”

“The MBA will be one of the university’s most flexible offerings,” said Salavitabar. “It will be tailored for both full and part-time students. Like our MS in business program, we plan to offer a weekend MBA and an evening MBA. We also plan to offer an executive MBA at an off-campus location.”

Salavitabar went on to say, “The SUNY New Paltz business program has a dedicated, full-time faculty that is comprised of experienced educators, holding doctorate degrees, professional certifications and expertise in one or more areas of specialization. The faculty’s on-going relationship with industry and businesses brings the complex realities of business into the classroom.”

SUNY New Paltz president Roger Bowen said, “The MBA is an extraordinarily valuable addition to the curriculum. It is a jewel in the crown of the professional program offerings available at the university. Regional business leaders and economic development officers have long recognized the need for the New Paltz MBA as a spur for economic development in the mid-Hudson Valley. I am delighted and grateful that the Board of Trustees has responded to the need of our region by giving its approval.”

SUNY New Paltz is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. The business program is seeking additional accreditation from AACSB, the International Association for Management Education. To date, only about 330 schools world-wide hold this valuable credential. Committed to achieving this goal, the university has successfully completed its first year of a five-year candidacy process.