Students in the Pepperdine MBA program are expected to have real-world experience prior to entering the program. Continuing work or internship experience while taking the MBA program is encouraged. The emphasis on real-world programs helps to set this program apart from theoretical MBA programs. Pepperdine has fast-track programs designed for individuals who already have three years of business experience before entering the program. In some cases, having this prior experience can allow a student to enter a 12-month (four-trimester) program and receive the MBA in only one full year.
The MBA coursework required at Pepperdine combines a combination of core classes and elective classes. Forty-eight to 60 course credits are required, depending on whether you are in the 12-month program or the 15-month program. The majority of credits are core credits, with a ratio of almost two required core class credits to every one elective credit. Classwork for the MBA at Pepperdine includes courses in business theory, management, market analysis, financial strategies, and leadership skills, among others.
Internships are a major part of completing the MBA program at Pepperdine if the student's previous business experience was all low level. If the student is not working, or hasn't held any job higher than entry level, then the school may help to arrange an internship in a more specialized field that gives the student the opportunity to learn new skills and improve his resume and work experience.