Hello,

I'm interested in a MBA program in America, especially in California or Florida.

My background:
- 3.5 years Bachelor degree in International Management (in Germany but all courses in english)

- 2.0 years Master of Science in Sales Management (in Germany and in german) (GPA=3,4)

I finished both programs after work (from 6-9pm) so I have more than 6 years of work experience. Between the two programs I spend 6 month in USA and worked for an American company.

My questions:
1. I dont want to make a specilized MBA. So which program do you recommend to get a deeper understanding and knowledge of Sales & Marketing (prefered in CA or FL)

2. What do you think would it be possible to get a scholoarship at a business school?

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Best regards

Well, though the choice will depend on a number of factors like your GMAT score, budget, etc. UC Berkeley-Haas Business School, USC Marshall School of Business, University of San Diego, Stanford, UC Davis & Pepperdine. These have AACSB, AMBA or EQUIS accredition. Also, take your GMAT and try to score a 700+.

As far as scholarships are concerned these are far less in business programs as compared to technical programs.

One thing to note is that business schools will probably not consider work experience that you accrued before or during your bachelor's degree program. So as you are looking at your competitiveness at MBA programs based on average work experience of the cohorts, keep that in mind.

Mamit's right, a big part of your application will be based on your GMAT score.

It's possible to get a scholarship but this will depend on the schools you are applying to. Having something extraordinary about your profile -- a super high GMAT score, more work experience than normal, or something else interesting -- is usually necessary. Check with the schools you are applying to.

There are many, many MBA programs that can give you a good sense of sales and marketing. I would use the Businessweek rankings as a guide, and Mamit has given you a few good Californian schools; here are some schools in Florida you might look into as well:

Florida - Hough (currently ranked 46 in BW)
Florida International University (currently ranked 65 in BW)
The University of Miami (currently ranked 72 in BW)
The University of Tampa - Sykes

As far as scholarships are concerned these are far less in business programs as compared to technical programs.

Yes, and in particular US scholarships are targeted more on PhDs than on MBAs.