5 Reasons to Start Simon’s PMBA in January

October 16, 2024 | April Marroquin

The following post was written by April Marroquin, senior associate director of recruitment for executive and part-time programs at Simon Business School. April now enjoys life in Rochester as a graduate of Simon’s part-time Online MSBA program and a current PMBA student. With nearly a decade of experience in higher education admissions, April guides prospective part-time students, combining personal insight and professional expertise to showcase the best of Simon and Rochester.

As an admissions counselor and a current Simon Professional MBA student who began the program in January, I’ve seen firsthand how this timing can offer unique benefits. In case you’re on the fence about the best time to go back to school, here are five reasons why starting in January might be perfect for you: 

1. Start the Year Strong

January is all about fresh starts and setting goals, making it a great time to dive into a new challenge like a PMBA. Many students find that the motivation they get from setting New Year’s resolutions helps them tackle their studies with more energy and focus. By starting your MBA in January, you’ll be harnessing that momentum to accelerate your professional and academic growth. It’s a perfect way to make sure your year starts strong and with purpose. 

2. Compete for a Full-Tuition Scholarship

One of the best opportunities for our PMBA students is the Simon Games competition, held in the fall. If you start in January, you’ll be perfectly positioned to participate, giving you a shot at winning a full-tuition scholarship. This is an exciting way to put your skills to the test, network with other students, and potentially earn significant financial support for your degree. Plus, it’s a great chance to sharpen your business acumen and have fun while doing it! 

3. Flexible Scheduling and Non-Matriculated Option

Our PMBA program is designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you prefer to take classes one or two nights a week, or need to take a break between terms, Simon’s PMBA adapts to your schedule. Starting in January gives you the opportunity to ease into your studies while easing into the new year and balance your workload over time. You can even complete the program over as many as seven years if needed, so it’s a great option for busy professionals who want to earn their degree without sacrificing balance in their work or personal life. In addition, Simon offers the ability to "test drive" the PMBA with a non-matriculated start option—meaning students can take up to two classes before officially applying. Contact us to learn more!

4. New Year, New Network

By starting in January, you’ll have the advantage of connecting with two cohorts of peers—those who started in the fall and your own spring cohort. This unique timing increases your exposure to diverse professionals from various industries, giving you even more opportunities to collaborate, share insights, and build relationships throughout the program. These relationships are incredibly valuable—not just during your studies, but throughout your entire career. Simon’s PMBA program is a fantastic place to connect with people who can offer new perspectives, potential job leads, and long-lasting friendships.

5. Apply What You Learn Right Away

Kicking off your PMBA in January allows you to implement new skills and knowledge in the early months of the year. This timing can be particularly beneficial for getting a jump on your career growth ahead of mid-year reviews or performance assessments at work, allowing you to demonstrate immediate impact before you even finish your first semester.

Ready to Begin?

Starting your PMBA in January offers flexibility, scholarships, and immediate career growth. If you’re ready to take the next step, feel free to set up a time to chat with me—I’m here to help!