Summer Business Institute Frequently Asked Questions
- What topics will be covered?
- Who can attend the program?
- Is this program only for SMU Students?
- If I need housing to be provided for me, where will I be staying?
- I’ve never taken a business course; will I be able to keep up with everyone else?
- Will this program strengthen my resume?
- What is the class schedule?
- How much work is involved?
- Will there be social time outside of the classroom?
- Will there be any exams?
- Can I get college credit for this course?
- What is involved in the final presentation?
- I already know how to use MS Excel and MS PowerPoint; do I have to attend these sessions?
- When is the registration cut-off date?
- When do I have to submit my payment?
- What if I need to cancel my registration?
- How long will it take to find out if I have been accepted into the program?
- Can I get a grant, scholarship, or loan?
What topics will be covered?
Students will explore concepts in key topic areas like Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Operations Management. Career planning, working effectively in teams, and making professional presentations using MS PowerPoint and Excel will also be included. See the “Course Curriculum” table in the brochure for a complete list of specific topics.
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Who can attend the program?
The Summer Business Institute is designed for non-business majors who are completing their junior or senior year in college and recent college graduates. Applicants should have completed at least three years of college prior to attending and should have been out of college for no more thanfive years.
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Is this program only for SMU Students?
No. Students from around United States will be attending.
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If I need housing to be provided for me, where will I be staying?
Students will be staying in deluxe rooms at a nearby hotel.
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I’ve never taken a business course; will I be able to keep up with everyone else?
Yes. If students actively participate in class and keep up the readings they will be very successful. The Summer Business Institute presumes no prior knowledge of business topics. We'll start from the beginning and help students build their skills and knowledge one step at a time. Tutors will also be available to assist students outside of the classroom.
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Will this program strengthen my resume?
Definitely. Non-business majors will be better able to present themselves to employers as well-rounded candidates ready to make a contribution on the job from day one. While undergraduates may not be accustomed to listing certificate courses on their resumes, it is a very common occurrence among business professionals. Corporate recruiters will recognize this type of education and it will separate you from the crowd. Properly listing this information on your resume will be covered in the Career Planning module.
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What is the class schedule?
Classes meet Monday through Friday, with generally a three-hour class each morning and another three-hour class each afternoon. Two to three hours of homework will be assigned each evening. Students have free time on weekends, though some optional social events will be held.
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How much work is involved?
This will not be a passive learning experience. In addition to class time, students should expect 2 or more hours of preparation/homework each evening. It will be intense and it will be hard work, but the pay-off will be immense for non-business majors who will be better able to present themselves to potential employers.
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Will there be social time outside of the classroom?
There will be occasional group dinners and special events. Students will also have Saturday and Sunday as free time.
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Will there be any exams?
No.
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Can I get any college credit for this course?
Unfortunately, this program is offered only on a non-credit basis.
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What is involved in the final presentation?
The month-long program will conclude with a group presentation to a corporate audience. Groups will be critiqued on both their analytical and presentation skills.
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I already know how to use MS Excel and MS PowerPoint; do I have to attend these sessions?
No. The Excel and PowerPoint sessions are mandatory.
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When is the registration cut-off date?
It is recommended that you register for the program by May5. However, late applications will be accepted thereafter on a space available basis. If you are submitting an application after May 5, please call immediately so proper arrangements can be made.
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When do I have to submit my payment?
Full payment is due by May 5, 2006. For Applications submitted after May 2nd, full payment is due upon receipt of acceptance and invoice.
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What if I need to cancel my registration? (Please read the cancellation policy for complete details.)
If the cancellation is made prior to May 5, you will be refunded the program fee, less the required deposit.
If the cancellation is made May5 - June 2, 2006, you will be refunded 50% of the program fee.
Students who do not show up or do not complete the program will not be eligible for refunds.
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How long will it take to find out if I have been accepted into the program?
You should receive and email within 1 - 2 days letting you know your application has been received. You should receive acceptance information in the mail within 2 weeks. If you have not received any information within 2 weeks, please give us a call to make sure you application was received.
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Can I get a grant, scholarship, or loan?
The majority of grants and scholarships are for degree-seeking courses. However, there are some alternative loans available. Below are the names of three lenders who provide alternative loans. Please contact the lender directly.
Wells Fargo (Education Connections Career Loan)
Sallie Mae (Career Training Loan)
Key Bank (Career Loan)
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Have more questions? Please email execed@mail.cox.smu.edu or call (214)768-4174.
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