William Paterson University - Christos M. Cotsakos School of Business

A state institution in New Jersey with an AACSB accredited MBA program, William Paterson University provides a “good academic atmosphere” for business professionals looking to enhance their skills. At this largely local school, the faculty comprises “very intelligent” business experts who have “valuable real-world experience to bring into the classroom.” Eager to engage their students, William Paterson professors initiate “challenging discussions and clearly bring their experiences with them to the classroom.” While the teaching staff boasts solid academic credentials, students say, “some are better teachers than others.” For the best experience, a student says, “there are quite a few topnotch professors, and once you learn who they are, try to take as many classes with them as possible.”

At William Paterson, MBA coursework is divided into three tiers: the lower core, the upper core, and concentration courses/electives. Students with advanced business experience or an undergraduate business degree may be able to place out of lower core courses, though they are required to complete at least thirty credits. Currently, the school offers MBA concentrations in accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, finance, and general MBA study. They also operate a unique program in music management (one of two music management programs in the country), which capitalizes on the school’s proximity to New York City. No matter what your field of interest, “professors promote teamwork” throughout the curriculum and soft skills are promoted alongside quantitative knowledge.

Principally catering to local professionals, William Paterson does its best to meet the needs and schedules of its busy student body. Of particular note, the majority of courses are taught in the evening (with additional offerings online and on weekends) so that students may continue with work and personal obligations during the day. In addition, there is a culture of support within the school community. A current MBA tells us “this is my first year back after ten years, and the school administration and professors have made coming back a smooth experience.” With just over 130 students in the MBA program, “class sizes are typically small (fifteen or so students),” and the “intimate setting” is ideal for promoting camaraderie and fostering individual talents. For additional assistance, the majority of professors are also “willing and eager to answer questions outside the classroom.”

While professors are well regarded, “the administration, on the other hand, has virtually no connection to its students.” Additionally, there are administrative and scheduling glitches throughout the MBA. For example, it is “difficult to graduate on time as there is a limit to class offerings and restrictions on virtually every lower-core course offering.” Even so, William Paterson is constantly improving its programs and appears to be on the up-and-up. If the positive changes continue, William Paterson’s “MBA program may become one of the absolute best in the region.”

William Paterson’s MBA program is specially designed for working professionals, and can also offer course rotations for full-time candidates. The business school maintains an online job board, where MBA candidates can browse career opportunities in the area. Registered employers can also use the site to view student resumes. Because William Paterson is located within commuting distance of New York, students can apply for jobs locally and throughout the metropolitan area, which is a definite advantage for those looking for big name employers or music industry contacts. Frequent alumni reunions on the William Paterson campus help graduates keep an ongoing network within the school community.

Beyond the business school, William Paterson graduate students and alumni can get additional job development assistance at the Career Development Center, the Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center, and the new William Pesce Family Mentoring Institute. Here MBA candidates may schedule an appointment for individual career counseling or a resume revision. However, the majority of the Center ’s services, including job fairs, are directed at the undergraduate community.

William Paterson attracts professionals from across New Jersey, and there is a “diverse population of students.” While the school community is “mostly young and ambitious,” students “span a broad age range,” from early professionals to seasoned managers. Across the board, students are “eager to learn” and bring enthusiasm to the classroom.

The Cotsakos College of Business is located in a newly constructed building at William Paterson’s Valley Road campus, which is located just a few miles from the main University. Although there are campus housing options for graduate students, few stu- dents in the business program take advantage of them. With a class of working profes- sionals, “the school is primarily a commuter school.” In fact, for most MBA candidates, “life consists of the classroom experience” and little else. On the greater University campus, “activities are offered, but the MBA program isn’t heavily involved.” William Paterson has been making changes in this regard such as offering a host of guest speak- ers, over 150 enrichment seminars, and other added resources for MBA students.