School of Business FAQs

Is the degree I will get by studying online the same as the degree I would get by studying on campus

Yes, the degree you earn online is exactly the same as the degree you would earn on campus. There is no notation on the actual degree stating that it was earned online, and in the United States online education is considered to be leading edge and progressive.

From what schools did the faculty graduate

Our faculty are graduates of many of the top schools in the U.S., including Harvard, UCLA, Stanford, UC Berkeley, and New York University.

How many MBAs graduate each year in the United States

Approximately 100,000 MBAs graduate annually, representing at least 66 percent of all graduate business degrees conferred in the US, and the widespread pursuit of MBA education is part of a long-term trend that began in the 1950s and continues to this day. In the United States, there are literally hundreds of thousands of MBAs filling U.S. corporations' management and executive-level positions.

One benefit of on-campus programs is that I can network. Can I also create a network through online study

Yes. Networking is one of the greatest benefits of online study. AU students have the opportunity to network and establish lifetime relationships with their fellow students residing in other parts of the world. A recent study carried out in the United States showed that online students preserve closer relationships with fellow alumni after graduating than do students from on-campus programs. This can be explained by the fact that online students establish good online communication habits, and relationships formed by online study can easily be continued through e-mail, chat and telephone.

What are the benefits of studying online as opposed to on-campus

Studying online provides many benefits. It is cost efficient, in that you may pursue an MBA while working full time. It is practical in that what you learn today can be applied at work tomorrow. It is feasible as you can work your studies around your responsibilities - both at work and at home. It is interactive, in that you can discuss issues with your professors and fellow students on a daily basis. The professors are experts in their fields as online programs can recruit professors from all over the world and do not have geographic limitations. The programs are engaging as you can communicate with students in various fields and from various countries, gaining insight, sharing ideas and networking.

How do I take exams online

All Anaheim University students must successfully complete a series of proctored examinations, some of which may be offered online in the form of an essay, multiple choice quiz, short answer, or true/false. A password to the online examination site will be provided to the University-approved proctor, who will open the site for the student. Assessment is also performed with project-based course work. For example, students create marketing proposals, business plans, and other projects as their final report for each of their courses. These assignments are submitted online.

Can I continue from the Certificate in Sustainable Management to the Diploma and/or MBA in Sustainable Management

Yes, students who successfully complete the Anaheim University Certificate in Sustainable Management may apply their courses to the Diploma in Sustainable Management and/or the MBA in Sustainable Management. Likewise, students who complete the Diploma in Sustainable Management may apply their courses to the MBA in Sustainable Management. To continue to another Anaheim University Sustainable Management program, students must submit a new application form, application fee, and enrollment agreement and be approved by the Dean. Students will be subject to the terms and conditions existing at the time of their acceptance into the new program; for example, students will be subject to the new program fees and will need to complete the new program within the maximum time allowed.

Will a college degree help me get a higher paying job

According to the 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics, a college degree nearly doubles annual income. The marketplace has become more competitive with employers placing greater value on education. While a college undergraduate will earn an average of 66% more than a high school graduate, individuals with a master's degree have averaged 103% more income than a high school graduate.

Am I guaranteed to get a job after I graduate

The University does not guarantee employment. However, employment opportunity announcements received by the University from companies are forwarded to students and alumni.

If I get my MBA, can I be guaranteed that my business will improve

Anaheim University's role is to provide you with the highest quality education possible and to give you a strong, fundamental understanding of business management. The skills and knowledge you gain while studying in Anaheim University's MBA program will prepare you to become a better manager. However, the success of your business will depend on a number of variables including the economic conditions in your field, the effort you make, and your gut instinct.

When can I begin studying in the program?

Courses for the Business Administration and Sustainable Management programs begin every six weeks.

To see the course schedule, click here.

How long will it take to complete a course

Each Business Administration and Sustainable Management course is six weeks in duration.

How long will it take to complete the MBA degree program?

Students enrolling in one International MBA course per term can complete the required total of 10 courses in approximately 60 weeks (15 months). Students enrolling in one Sustainable Management course per term can complete the required total of 12 courses for the MBA in approximately 72 weeks (18 months), for the Diploma in approximately 36 weeks and for the Certificate in approximately 18 weeks.

What is the maximum time allotted to complete the MBA degree program?

Students must complete their entire degree program within three years. Students who are unable to complete the degree program within three years but wish to continue their studies must re-enroll in the program. Re-enrollment requires approval from the appropriate Dean.

Some MBA programs take two years to complete. Why are AU's MBA Programs shorter?

Anaheim University's programs are run on an accelerated semester system to allow busy professionals the opportunity to complete the entire MBA in just over a year. Each course is six weeks in length and new courses begin every six weeks. Therefore, if a student takes one course per term, s/he could finish the International MBA program in about 15 months.

How many hours a day do I have to study?

The amount of time required to study differs from person to person. However, through providing questionnaires to our students and alumni, we have learned that the average Business Administration and Sustainable Management student spends approximately 30 hours per week of total study time.

Are you sure I can study and work full time?

Over 98% of our students are employed full time. When asked, the great majority of students answered that working full time while studying was an advantage, rather than a disadvantage, as it provided an opportunity to apply to the real world the principles and concepts learned in the classroom.

Anaheim University is an online and environmentally-friendly university developed to meet the practical needs of students in the 21st Century. The nature of online education allows for the tremendous saving of resources both financially and environmentally through the use of:

• e-books
• e-assignments
• electronic journals
• electronic libraries and information systems
• online classrooms
• online discussion forums
• globally accessible webcast seminars

The financial savings are passed on to students through low-cost tuition. Our students and professors study and work from where ever they are. This helps to preserve a tremendous amount of resources:

• Brick and mortar buildings and other structures do not need to be constructed, lit, cooled and heated in order to house online classrooms.
• Petroleum does not need to be used to fuel air travel for international students and ground transportation for local commuters.

A tremendous amount of energy and resources are conserved when operating educational programs online, as opposed to on a traditional brick and mortar campus, or in high-tech city structures.

Anaheim University's Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute is currently conducting studies into sustainable management of universities. At the end of this study, statistics will be provided on the estimated energy savings per student studying in an online environment as opposed to an on-campus environment.

The following are a few statistics provided by reports from traditional universities who are attempting to reduce their use of energy.

• In a recent energy management report from a division of an east-coast based state University's Utilities and Plant Engineering Organization, in the fiscal year 2006 alone, it cost the University $107,500,000 to heat, cool, light and power their more than 27.5 million square feet of building space.
• In the fiscal year of 2005,the electricity consumption alone for the campus of a 5,000 student research university on the east coast of the U.S. indirectly resulted in the emission of approximately 74 million pounds of CO2, just under 40 million kWh's of electricity was used on the main campus and the gym alone, and the University Central Heating Plant's natural gas usage was approximately 300,000 mmBTU

What language proficiency requirements are there for non-native English speakers?

For non-native English speakers: a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (CBT 213, iBT 79), a minimum TOEIC score of 800, or a minimum IELTS score of 6.0*

* Please note: Students with a TOEFL score of 500-549, a TOEIC score of 625-799 or an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 may be admitted on a provisional basis and must receive a B or higher in their first two courses.

Is a bachelor's degree required for admission?

Yes. Anaheim University requires applicants for the International Business MBA, Sustainable Management MBA, Diploma and Certificate programs to have a minimum of a recognized four-year undergraduate or bachelor's degree.

Can students with an undergraduate degree from a foreign university, such as a Japanese university, enter?

Yes. Anaheim University accepts undergraduate or bachelor's degrees from any country as long as the degree is recognized by the government or education ministry of the country in which it was conferred.

What does it mean to be a matriculated student?

Matriculated students are those who have been officially enrolled in the degree program and are considered degree-seekers by the University, having completed at least two courses with a grade of B or better. Students who are simply attending a single course are not considered to be matriculated students.

How do I apply for the program?

You can apply online at www.anaheim.edu by clicking `Apply Today` in the right menu section, or you may contact the University by e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to request an application and either a paper application or a digital application, whichever you prefer, will be sent to you. In the case of a digital application, you will need to print it out, sign it and submit it by mail.

Please submit your application to:

Can students who have taken courses at other universities transfer their credit?

Yes. In accordance with California Education Code regulations, graduate students may transfer a maximum of six credits from another university into a Master's degree program.

Is the GMAT or GRE required for admission?

No. Neither the GMAT nor the GRE are required for admission into Anaheim University's programs.

Does AU award credit for professional or life experience?

No. Anaheim University does not award credit for professional or life experience.

Is an entrance examination required?

No. Other than the English proficiency requirements, AU does not require applicants to take an admission or entrance examination.

How soon after applying can students begin their studies?

A student's application must be reviewed by the Office of Admissions and approved by the Dean. The approval process can usually be completed within one week after receipt of all required application documents. Following approval and acceptance into the University, a new student can begin their studies at the beginning of the next term as long as space is available. New terms begin every six weeks. It is recommended that you submit your application at least two weeks prior to the commencement of the term, so that there is sufficient time for course materials and other related information to be sent to you.

Do students have to enroll in the entire degree program, or can they simply enroll in one course to see how they like it?

Students may enroll in only one course, or as many courses as they wish. There is no obligation to complete the entire degree program once you have started.

Do students need to have computer access prior to enrolling?

Yes. Every student must have access to the Internet and a computer with word processing software in order to study in Anaheim University's programs. This does not mean that the student must own a computer. In many cases, students participate in AU courses and use rental computers through local Internet cafes, etc.

Read the information below regarding Anaheim University's admissions policies on undergraduate degree and TOEFL/TOEIC score requirements, documentation for submission, Internet access, transfer credit and prior experiential credit.

Undergraduate Degree

Graduate students are required to hold an earned undergraduate degree accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Education and/or CHEA, or by the government of the country in which the degree was awarded. This requirement is standard for all degrees offered.

TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS Scores

For Graduate Level Programs

Non-native English speakers seeking admission to a graduate level degree, diploma or certificate program are required to have one of the following English proficiency scores:

• a minimum TOEFL score of 550 (CBT 213, iBT 79)
• a minimum TOEIC score of 800, or
• a minimum IELTS score of 6.0.

Please note: Students with one of the following English proficiency scores may be admitted on a provisional basis and must receive a grade of B or higher in their first two courses:

• a minimum TOEFL score of 500-549
• a minimum TOEIC score of 625-799, or
• a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 – 6.0

For the TESOL Certificate or Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners

Non-native English speakers seeking admissions to the TESOL Certificate and Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners programs are required to have one of the following English proficiency scores:

• 500 or higher on the TOEFL (173 CBT, iBT 61)
• 625 or higher on the TOEIC
• 5.5 or higher on the IELTS, or
• Level 3 (60) on the BULATS.

Every student is expected to have a level of language ability that will permit understanding of the textbooks, course materials and examinations.

Required documents for the International MBA, Sustainable Management MBA, Sustainable Management Diploma & Sustainable Management Certificate

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• official transcripts (Note: If the university does not routinely issue transcripts in English, original language records must be submitted with official English translations. We will accept translations issued by the university or a professional translating service. Translations must be exact and complete versions of the original records.)
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment for your first course to complete the enrollment process.

Required documents for the Master of Arts & Graduate Diploma in TESOL

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• official transcripts, licenses or certificates (Note: If the university does not routinely issue transcripts in English, original language records must be submitted with official English translations. We will accept translations issued by the university or a professional translating service. Translations must be exact and complete versions of the original records.)
• resume
• a 300-400 word statement setting out why you have selected the Anaheim University program, what you hope to get out of it, and how it will help you in your present and future career
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment for your first course to complete the enrollment process.

Required documents for the TESOL Certificate & Certificate in Teaching English to Young Learners

• application form
• application fee
• one recent color photograph
• Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official document of their TOEFL, TOEIC or IELTS score.

Once your application materials have been approved, you will need to submit an Enrollment Agreement and tuition payment to complete the enrollment process.

Internet Access

All students are required to have access to a computer equipped with Internet access capabilities.

Entrance Examination

There is no entrance examination required for admission to Anaheim University.

Transfer Credits

Anaheim University will accept up to six graduate semester units or the equivalent in other units awarded by another institution toward a Master's degree at Anaheim University. The entering student will be required to clearly state the equivalency of a transfer course and justify its acceptance through petition. No course will be considered for transfer with a grade lower than B, or its equivalent. Petitions are directed to the specific Dean for the affected program. There is a fee of $125 per unit of credit transferred. All petitions for transfer credit must be submitted as part of the student’s initial application to the University. Credits awarded as part of another degree will not be accepted for transfer.

Prior Experiential Credit

Anaheim University will not extend experiential credit to any student.

Am I required to attend on-campus classes?

The business administration and sustainable management programs are designed to be completed through online learning and students are not required to attend on-campus classes. However, the University does offer optional face-to-face seminars throughout the year and students are encouraged to attend whenever possible.

Do students have regular contact with their professors?

Yes. Students communicate directly with their professors through the online webcam classes in real time and are in regular contact by e-mail with their professors in the Online Discussion Forum.

May I contact my professor by e-mail?

Yes. Students may contact their professor by e-mail. The professor's e-mail address is typically listed in the online course guide.

Do I have regular contact with other students in my course?

Yes. Through the University's Online Discussion Forum, students communicate regularly with all other students enrolled in the same course. Each week, a student is nominated as "Student Host." It is the Student Host's responsibility to encourage students to participate and to keep discussions going by presenting topics for discussion. This Student Host system in conjunction with the real-time online webcam classes has proven to be so effective, it is said that AU students have more contact with their professors and fellow students than most students do in on-campus programs! To further enhance this communication, AU students have the option of having their e-mail address connected to the Forum discussions. This allows students to follow conversations from students and professors from around the world 24 hours a day no matter where they are.

Is there any support for students who do not have access to major libraries?

Yes. The AU online library offers students 24-hour access to a vast collection of publications and other printed resources available in digital format for their research. The Academia Library was developed by a team of professionals who have evaluated thousands of Internet resources to identify and annotate only those deemed useful to students doing academic or professional research on the Web. The Academia Library offers academically appropriate, Internet-based resources. Each resource is updated regularly to ensure quality, accuracy, and currency.

How can I purchase textbooks?

AU students may order textbooks through the Anaheim University Online Bookstore. The Online Bookstore provides a competitive and reliable textbook service that ensures receipt of the correct textbook in a timely manner. Purchases will be subject to the refund policy of the bookstore.

Is there an alumni association?

Yes. AU's Alumni Association for lifelong learning is more than just a membership. As graduates of AU, students are automatically enrolled in a learning process that will extend beyond their degree. The University fully subscribes to the principle that "learning never ends." One of the great advantages of the online university is that students can maintain contact with the University, the faculty and fellow classmates throughout their lifetime. The Alumni Association will send students up-to-date information on new developments, suggested readings, cutting-edge information, occupational trends, and professional career opportunities.

How can I learn about upcoming events in my field of study?

Students wishing to read or post announcements about upcoming events, seminars, fairs, conventions, etc. or other subjects of academic interest to students in their major or to all AU students may do so through the AU Online Discussion Forum.

Is it possible to publish my research through Anaheim University?

Yes. The Anaheim University Press is an online innovation that provides opportunities for faculty and students to individually or collectively publish articles and research reports that will be made available for global interest. In addition to these online services, graduate theses and projects may be published, furthering the work of research in the fields of study represented by the University's programs. The AU Press will also give consideration to the publication of printed materials which conforms to the University mission.

Is there a graduation ceremony

Yes. The University holds graduation ceremonies from time to time and although it is not mandatory all students are welcome to take part.

1. Are tuition fees for international students different from those of California residents?

No. Anaheim University's tuition fees are the same no matter where the student resides. All tuition fees are paid in US dollars.

2. How are tuition payments handled?

All payments must be made in US dollars. Students may pay by credit card (American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover), bank transfer, check or money order made payable to Anaheim University. To pay by credit card, please download a credit card authorization form at the Applications page of this website, complete it, and send to the University by email or fax. A bank transfer may be made by contacting Anaheim University for detailed information. Payments are processed through the University's Administrative Offices in California.

Upon initial application, students are required to submit payment for the application fee. Upon acceptance, students must pay the Registration Fee plus the Records Fee and Tuition Fee for the first course.

The Tuition and Records Fee for each course are paid no later than two weeks prior to beginning each course. Prior to graduation, students must make payment of the Graduation Fee. For current tuition rates, please see the tuition fee schedule.

Do I have to own my own computer

No. You do not need to own your own computer. However, all students must have regular access to a computer connected to the Internet.

Do I have to purchase equipment or special software in order to access the online campus

For the majority of Anaheim University's online learning system, students do not need special hardware or software.

For live webcam classes, the following are the system requirements:
PC Users

• Windows® 7, Vista, XP or 2003 Server
• Dual core 2.4GHz CPU or faster with at least 2 GB of RAM
• Internet Explorer® 7.0 or newer, Mozilla® Firefox® 3.0 or newer, or Google Chrome 5.0 or newer (JavaScript and Java enabled)
• Internet connection with cable modem, DSL or better recommended

• Mac OS® X v10.5 Leopard® or newer
• Safari® 3.0 or newer, Firefox 3.0 or newer or Google Chrome 5.0 or newer (JavaScript and Java enabled)
• Internet connection with cable modem, DSL or better recommended
• Intel processor with 512 MB of RAM or better is required for video.
• Macs with PowerPC G4/G5 processor can attend live classes, but are unable to use or view webcams.

Recommended Hardware

The online webcam software works with most standard webcams. The following webcams come highly recommended from testing

• Logitech® HD Pro Webcam C910
• Logitech Webcam Pro 9000
• Logitech HD Webcam C510
• Logitech HD Webcam C310
• Students who wish to speak by live webcam or microphone, will be required to use a microphone/earphone headset. Students who wish to communicate by text chat only are not required to use a headset.

Are textbooks included in the tuition

No. Textbooks are not included in the tuition. Each course usually requires either one or two textbooks. It is suggested that you budget approximately $1,200 for textbooks for the entire program. AU students have the opportunity of ordering their textbooks through the Anaheim University Online Bookstore, which also sells used textbooks at a discounted rate. Purchases will be subject to the refund policy of eCampus.com, which runs the bookstore.

Can I pay by credit card

Yes. The University currently accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover credit card. To pay by credit card, please download a credit card authorization form at the Applications page of this website, complete it, and send to the University by email or fax.

Can I make credit card installment payments

Yes. Credit card companies have various installment payment plans in order to accommodate students, and these plans vary based on your credit card limit. However, students in the past have made up to 36 payments by credit card installment payment plans.

How do I withdraw from my program if I am unable to continue my studies?

If you are unable to continue your studies, you should submit a cancellation request in any manner to the University. Then, a Notice of Withdrawal Form must be completed, signed and submitted to the University. The Notice of Withdrawal Form can be obtained from the Downloadable Forms section of this website, by visiting the University's Admissions office in Anaheim, CA, or by contacting Student Services at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . To receive a refund for the unused portion of tuition, you are encouraged to send a refund request by registered mail to the University's main office in Anaheim, CA.

1. Is Anaheim University accredited?

Yes, Anaheim University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The DETC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally-recognized accrediting agency. Anaheim University and its programs have been examined and found to meet the educational and business ethics standards set by the DETC Accrediting Commission. The Accrediting Commission of the DETC is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

2. Under what authority are the University's degrees granted?

As well as being accredited, Anaheim University also operates under the full approval of the State of California in accordance with the requirements set forth by the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education. Original temporary approval was granted in 1997 by the Council for Private Post-Secondary and Vocational Education under Section 94310 of the California State Education Code. The temporary approval was changed to full approval in April 2007. Approval or approval to operate means that the Council has determined and certified that the institution meets minimum standards established by the Council for integrity, financial stability and educational quality, including the offering of bona fide instruction by qualified faculty and the appropriate assessment of students' achievements prior to, during, and at the end of its program. AU is authorized to grant graduate degrees at the master level under the degree granting authority of the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education.

3. Are the University's degree programs designed to meet specific credential requirements?

The University's degree programs are not designed to meet any local, state or national licensing or credentialing laws, nor to meet any requirements established by any private, independent, professional or governmental associations. Prospective students are instructed to check with their respective school districts, state, professional associations and government agencies when licensing and/or credentials are the eventual objective of the prospective student.

4. Are credits from Anaheim University accepted by other universities?

Anaheim University is an accredited university and generally qualifications from accredited universities are widely recognized; however, it is entirely up to the discretion of the college, university or institution to which a student is seeking admission, to decide on the acceptance of the said student into a given degree program. It is recommended that if transfer of credit or degree is the eventual goal of the prospective student, the student should contact all institutions to which s/he is potentially interested in seeking enrollment.