How do we make admissions decisions for majors program?

Students applying for the major will need to complete all five prerequisite courses and reach junior standing (54 earned credit hours) prior to entering the business school.  In addition, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher at the time of application. 

Admission to the majors program is competitive because we have a limited number of spaces available each semester (majors = 180 for Fall, 45 for Spring).  In the event we have more qualified applicants than spaces available, we will rank students in order of cumulative GPA.  Your choice of major (Accounting, Finance, Marketing, or Operation & Information Systems Management) in no way impacts our admission decisions.

How do we make admission decisions for the minors program?

Minors may select from five areas of study (Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, or Operation & Information Systems Management).  Applicants to the minors program will need to complete all prerequisite courses related to their specific area of study and reach junior standing (54 earned credit hours) prior to entering the business school.  In addition, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher at the time of application. 

Admission to the minors program is competitive because we have a limited number of spaces available each semester in each discipline.  In the event we have more qualified applicants than spaces available, we will rank students in order of cumulative GPA.  Your choice of minor (Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, or Operation & Information Systems Management) will impact our admission decisions.

How competitive is the admission process?

It depends upon the number of qualified students who apply for admission.  The minors program tends to be more competitive than the majors program due to the limited number of spaces available each semester.  The best way to improve your chance of gaining admission to the business school is to work hard to keep your GPA as high as possible. 

Is there a waitlist?

Yes, we do maintain a limited active waitlist. 

Can I take prerequisite courses over the summer?

Yes.  Please keep in mind all prerequisite courses must appear on your William and Mary transcript before the first day of classes for the semester in which you were admitted to the business school. 

Students wishing to take courses at a college or university other than William and Mary should carefully follow the transfer credit guidelines established by the Office of the University Registrar.  For more information about obtaining pre-approval for transfer credit please consult the “Permission To Take Courses Elsewhere – Summer” form available on the Registrar’s website.

Can I meet with an academic advisor in the Business School?

Please feel free to visit our office in Tyler Hall, Suite 235.  You can also call us at (757) 221-2910 or send us an e-mail to undergraduate@mason.wm.edu.  Wlk-in advising is available on Mondays & Wednesdays 1:00-3:00pm, and Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:00-noon.

What if I don’t know what business major to choose?

When you apply to the business school you will be asked to identify the major discipline you think you want to study.  The good news is that you will be given the chance to change your mind mid-way though the Foundation Semester, after you’ve been exposed to each area of study.  During Majors & Concentrations Week faculty members, business professionals, and alumni will discuss the importance of each major and concentration in business.

When do I declare my major?

If you are admitted to the Business School we will declare your business major for you so that you will be able to register for your business courses.  After Majors & Concentrations Week you will formally complete and submit your Declaration of Major paperwork to our office.