Civic Scholars Program Frequently Asked Questions

Programming for Neubauer Civic Scholars is cohort-based and designed by the faculty directors and Rustandy Center staff. This includes annual fall and spring retreats, round tables with civic leaders, and Scholar Shares (a peer exchange opportunity), and social events. In addition we welcome and support Scholars organizing other activities as interest warrants.

Public and nonprofit organizations are facing increasing pressures, changing the way professionals manage their organizations and measure success. An MBA from a top-tier business school gives public- and social-sector professionals the management and leadership skills, business knowledge, and network access to create long-term impact, financial stability, and scalability in their organizations.

Evening MBA and Weekend MBA courses are offered in person at the Gleacher Center in downtown Chicago. In addition, virtual only classes are offered to enhance flexibility and students have the option to take up to 25 percent of courses remotely. All of the dedicated, cohort-based programming designed by the Rustandy Center is in-person, and attendance is expected.

Evening and Weekend MBA students may petition for a one-time transfer between programs.

Chicago Booth has offered a multidisciplinary approach to business and management education since 1898. The skills and knowledge you will gain at Booth are applicable to all industries and functions, and provide a foundation for your entire career. Additionally, the Civic Scholars Program offers specialized programming, dedicated faculty directors, and networking opportunities focused on the nonprofit space.

Booth offers numerous concentrations that complement your experience and signal deeper knowledge and skills relevant to areas of particular interest. Our MBA curriculum takes a multidisciplinary approach to business education, and classes are designed for professionals in traditional for-profits, social ventures, nonprofits, and the public sector. Through Booth’s Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation, the school offers a wealth of social impact courses, cocurricular programs, experiential learning opportunities, and events that have a specific focus on the public and social sectors.

The Chicago Approach to management education will teach you how to evaluate problems and opportunities through fundamental disciplines that underlie how organizations function, how markets work, and how people make decisions. These tools and frameworks translate across domains, industries, and sectors, providing powerful solutions for leaders navigating challenges and changes in their organizations.

Our Neubauer Civic Scholars enjoy the same flexible curriculum and transformative experience as every other MBA student at Booth. Our MBA curriculum is rooted in the fundamentals of business, giving you the skills, knowledge, and confidence to transcend trends and solve any business problem. Whether you choose the Evening MBA Program or Weekend MBA Program, you’ll have the freedom to tailor your courses to fit your experience, interests, and career goals.

You will have the option to select an MBA program during the application process.

Yes, Neubauer Civic Scholars have full access to Booth’s student activities, events, and resources, though your options may vary depending on whether you choose the Evening MBA or Weekend MBA Program. You can join a student-led group, participate in a national competition, or choose from more than 300 events each year. In addition, special events are organized for Neubauer Civic Scholars, such as speakers and opportunities to engage with alumni.

Yes, you will have lifelong access to our world-class Career Services team and resources. Access begins the day you start at Booth and will be available for life.

Yes. You must fulfill eligibility requirements including but not limited to: at least 1200 units completed by the time campus recruiting begins (Autumn Quarter), attendance of all required participation sessions, and enrollment in and completion of at least 100 units while participating in campus recruiting.

You will not receive a special certificate, but you will graduate with a master of business administration degree from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. It’s an impressive credential that will make your resume stand out.

While there isn't a strict work experience requirement, we recommend candidates to possess a minimum of three years of experience working within a 501(c)(3) or government entity before they enroll in the Civic Scholars Program.

Applicants must start the Evening MBA or Weekend MBA application for Autumn quarter, then in the essay section, select “yes” to the question that asks, “Do you want to be considered for the Civic Scholars?"

Yes, upon admission to the Evening MBA Program or Weekend MBA Program, you will automatically be considered for all other available scholarships. No separate application is required. If you are not selected as a Civic Scholar, you could still receive one of our other scholarships.

Civic Scholars programming is reserved for the Neubauer Civic Scholars. However, Booth offers a multitude of resources for impact-driven students in all programs. The Rustandy Center, for example, offers courses, career resources, research opportunities, and more.

Yes. In addition to your admissions interview, a separate interview is required for applicants being considered for the Civic Scholars Program. Faculty and program directors determine which applicants they want to interview for the Civic Scholars Program. If you are selected for one of these interviews, you will be notified. If you are not selected for this interview, you are no longer being considered for the scholarship and you will be informed of this.

All Neubauer Civic Scholars matriculate together because the programming offered through Rustandy Center runs on a cohort model. By going through this programming as a group, participants form close connections and a strong sense of community.

No. The award covers a portion of tuition for the duration of your program. You are responsible for covering additional costs, including all fees, travel, living arrangements, and accommodations. Loan programs are available to assist students in financing the cost of their MBA. For details, see Part-Time MBA Scholarships and Financial Aid.