Texas MSTC | FAQ | McCombs School of Business

General

What are the program objectives?	The ability to commercialize new technology rapidly is essential for competitive advantage in the global economy. To achieve desired results in their organizations, decision makers must have access to concepts, tools and knowledge for commercialization. The mission of the Texas McCombs MSTC Program is to combine cutting edge technology, entrepreneurship and education to bridge the gap between ideas and needs in the marketplace resulting in the creation of new, innovative ventures and products.
What degree is conferred?	A Master of Science in Technology Commercialization is conferred by the University of Texas at Austin upon successful completion of the program.
Is the program accredited?	The program is accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). AACSB is one of six regional accrediting associations in the United States.
Is this a STEM designated graduate degree program?	Yes.
How many credits are in the program?	The one-year Texas McCombs MSTC Program begins in early May each year and consists of ten three-credit courses delivered over three consecutive semesters. Each term all students are automatically enrolled in each course.
Can course work from other universities be transferred into the program?	We do not accept transfer credits. The program utilizes a cohort model - each class starts together and stays together throughout the 12-month program. All students are automatically enrolled in all ten courses and no electives are required.
How is computer technology utilized in the program?	Overall the MSTC Program is technology agnostic, but our students work to commercialize technology enabled business through the application of business coursework. The McCombs School of Business, where classes are held, is a high-tech facility allowing for video-conferences and electronic networking. A basic computer configuration for use in the program is recommended.
How is a Texas McCombs MSTC degree different from an MBA?	The Texas McCombs MSTC degree integrates key business fundamentals with technology and its influence on the creation of prosperity. The focus of the Program is on the knowledge base and skill set needed to get technology enabled products and business into the market. The degree hones management and leadership skills, but the program is focused on science and technology commercialization, technology assessment, technology transfer, technology enterprises and entrepreneurship.
How does the Texas McCombs MSTC program differ from the Masters in Business Analytics program (MSBA)?	The MSTC meets on alternating weekends (Friday evenings and Saturday mornings and afternoons) and consists of mostly working professionals. MSBA meets full time (weekdays) and is comprised mostly of students coming directly from undergrad. You can compare the curricula of the two programs with the following links: https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/Business-Analytics/Curriculum http://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Program-Information/Curriculum If you have more specific questions about the MSBA program, it would be best to send an email to: MSBusinessAnalytics@mccombs.utexas.edu
How much time should I expect to spend outside of class time?	As one might expect, attempting to complete 30 graduate hours in one year is an intensive experience. Typical MSTC students spend several hours per day and most weekends dedicated to their studies.
When do classes begin and when is the graduation date?	The Texas McCombs MSTC Program is a one year, three semester program. See calendar for the upcoming academic year.
What types of careers are available after graduation?	Examples include: entrepreneurship, technology transfer, business development, commercialization planning, intellectual property management, business planning, technology assessment and product development. Most of our graduates work in entrepreneurial ventures, in large corporations in product development, and as technology transfer specialists in research universities and federal labs. Our graduates work in various technology based companies that populate Austin. https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Career-Development https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Entrepreneurial-Success https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Corporate-Innovators https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Military
What kind of salary can I expect with this degree?	Due to the nature of MSTC being a working professionals program, outcomes vary widely depending on the incoming students goals. Here are some specific examples provided through alumni surveys: Dell, Product Manager, average salary $125K IBM, Offering (product) Manager, average salary $135K Kasasa, Product Manager, average salary $130K - $150K Google, Product/Product Marketing Manager, average salary $104K - $113K Austin, CTO, average salary $112K Austin, Design Lead, $100K Austin, Global Marketing Manager, $103K Austin, Product Analyst, $65K - $90K Over 90% of the alumni reported a significant increase in the satisfaction with their current positions as a result of the program.
Is this program available online?	Yes, the program is offered online, via live video conferencing. Students are required to attend during scheduled class times. Additionally, all students are required to attend one intensive week in Austin, as well as the international trip. The international trip is a requirement.
Can this program be completed 100% online?	No, all students are required to attend one separate intensive weeks in Austin, as well as the international trip. The international trip is a requirement.
What is the cost of the program?	To learn more about tuition and finances, go to https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Tuition-Finance
Is it feasible for me to enroll in a program like this after being out of the technology field for 15+ years?	Yes, a background in technology is not required.
Can these classes be taken out of sequence?	No
Must the program be completed in 12 months?	Yes. If for some reason you are unable to complete coursework throughout the year you have the option to return the following year to complete your degree.
What makes a competitive applicant?	Academic ability Fit with the program Professional promise
What is the CIP code for the Texas McCombs MSTC program?	52.1399.00
Are the Texas McCombs MSTC info sessions live-streamed?	Yes, all information sessions are available via live-stream. We're also happy to Skype one-on-one to connect at a time that is most convenient for your schedule.
Is lodging included for Launch week?	Texas McCombs MSTC provides lodging during the Launch week to kick off the program in May. Each student can only be provided one room with no roommate(s).

Application

When does the program begin and when should I apply?	The Texas McCombs MSTC Program begins in early May, and students graduate the following May. Please visit the Applications process page https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Application-Process for this years recruiting cycle.
What are the requirements for applying?	Please view the Application process page https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Application-Process.
What are the requirements for the upcoming class year?	https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Application-Process
Does the Texas McCombs MSTC program require any prerequisite courses for non-business undergraduate degrees?	No
Is the application required to be submitted online?	Yes
Can the application fee be waived?	Yes. The application fee will be waived for prospective students who attend the Quick Admit admissions event.
Is there a possibility of deferred admission?	Yes, after accepting enrollment and the payment of deposit to hold your spot
How many years can I defer my admission to the Texas McCombs MSTC program?	You can defer admission for one year. After one year you must re-apply to the program.
How can I check the status of my application?	All applications to the Texas McCombs MSTC Program undergo a two-part process. The Graduate and International Admissions Center (GIAC) handles the processing of your transcripts, test scores and visa/permanent residence information (if applicable). The Texas McCombs MSTC Admissions Committee conducts the application review and administers a decision. Check the status of these items https://graduate-admissions.McCombs.utexas.edu/apply/status to see if they have been received. If any of these items are shown as outstanding or not received, your application decision will be delayed. You can check https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Application-Process
How strict is the program's requirement for a 3.0 minimum for upper division coursework?	We have a holistic application process, meaning there is no hard minimum for GPA, test score, years of work experience, etc. Rather, we look at the applicant as a whole to determine if they would be a good fit with the program.
Can I transfer my MBA application materials, as well as the application fee payment to the Texas McCombs MSTC application?	Yes, you can transfer your transcript and TOEFL and we can waive your application fee.
Can I apply using LSAT scores instead of GMAT or GRE?	No
What score should I aim to achieve on the GMAT/GRE?	While UT has no minimum score, the GMAT/GRE are an extremely important component of each application. Candidates should address this application component aggressively. You may take the exam(s) as often as you wish. UT will only consider your highest score, we do not average test scores. The Texas McCombs MSTC Admissions committee likes to see an average of 600 on the GMAT and an average of 155 verbal & 155 quantitative (after 2011) or total of 1200 (before 2011) on the GRE. Please keep in mind that the test score is just one item in the application process. The Texas McCombs MSTC Admissions Committee reviews all elements of the application. The resume, essay, letters of recommendations, achievements, work experience, and entrepreneurial spirit are just as important as the standardized test scores.
I do not have my GMAT/GRE scores; will my MBA suffice?	Yes, we waive the GRE/GMAT with another master's degree.
Can the GRE/GMAT requirement be waived?	Yes, here are the GMAT/GRE waiver requirements in detail: - If you have 15 or more years of work experience - If you have an expired score to consider - If you have 5 or more years of people or project management experience Candidates for whom the GMAT/GRE requirement is waived must: - Demonstrate quantitative abilities through work history, undergraduate record, or continuing education classes - Meet all other admissions requirements - Receive approval for the GMAT/GRE waiver
Is it possible to apply for the Texas McCombs MSTC Program after receiving an MBA elsewhere? Or to work on receiving the degrees concurrently?	The Texas McCombs MSTC is an intense one year program. It would not be feasible to take it concurrently with an MBA. We would welcome you to apply after you receive your MBA.
I am taking my GMAT/GRE late in the application process, how do I expedite the final steps?	1. Please have the GRE test sent directly to the Graduate School (code 6882). Also, once you’ve completed the test, please call and let us know what the scores were for both verbal and quantitative. Once we have the unofficial scores, we can make a decision on your file. If admitted, it will be a conditional admit until we receive the official scores at the Graduate School. 2. If admitted, we will need you to make a decision right away if you will be attending the Texas McCombs MSTC Program. There will be “Enrollment Reply Form” that you will need to fill out right away. Please also plan to submit the deposit by the date given. 3. We have already sent out important information to the incoming students, so (if admitted) we will want to get these items out to you as well. There will be a few questionnaires, readings and a profile to complete to prepare for our Launch Week.
How long are my GMAT/GRE scores good for?	We accept expired qualifying scores with documentation provided.
What score should I aim for in the TOEFL?	As far as the TOEFL goes, a score of 550 (paper test), 213 (computer-based test), or 79 (internet-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) OR an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is considered the minimum acceptable for admission to The University of Texas at Austin.
Can the TOEFL be waived?	In order to request a TOEFL or IELTS waiver you must submit a Texas MSTC application and meet one of the following conditions: You have lived and worked full-time in the U.S. or in a country where English is the official language for at least two of the past four years. You hold a master's degree from a college or university located in the U.S. or from a country where English is the official language. You were educated solely in English for your undergraduate and/or prior graduate degree. If you do not meet any of these conditions, you are required to submit the TOEFL or IELTS exam.
Can I apply without full-time work experience?	Yes. Although most Texas MSTC students have at least 10 years of work experience, a small percentage of students with little to no work experience will be accepted.
How long will the program review applications for after the deadline?	Once the Graduate School has the scores it takes about 2 weeks for them to review the file. We will be reviewing it during that time as well. The decision will be released about two weeks following the delivery of the scores.
How do I pay my deposit from out of state?	Acceptable methods of payment: (1) Personal check payable to The University of Texas - must be drawn on U.S. banks in U.S. dollars, please write Texas McCombs MSTC and your UT EID in the memo section. (2) Money Order/ Cashier's Check - payable to The University of Texas, please write Texas McCombs MSTC and your UT EID in the memo section. (3) Wire Transfer - call (512) 475-9036 for instructions.
What forms are necessary to apply for the test requirement waiver?	https://graduate-admissions.McCombs.utexas.edu/register/waiver

Financial Aid

Is financial Aid available to students in the Program?	Yes. At least two-thirds of all Texas MSTC students receive some form of financial aid, whether from the federal government or a private lending institution. Domestic and permanent U.S. residents may apply for federal loans by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ (FAFSA). You will need to authorize The University of Texas at Austin to receive your FAFSA information by entering the following Title IV School Code: 003658. A bit more information can be found here: https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Tuition-Finance. More information about federal loans can be found here https://studentaid.ed.gov/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized
Are scholarships or grants available?	Learn more about the George Kozmetsky tuition waiver here: https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Tuition-Finance
What scholarships are available to international students and what are the requirements?	The Texas McCombs MSTC Program does not offer scholarships for international students. You can find information here https://world.utexas.edu/abroad/funding/scholarships
What scholarships are available to military students and what are the requirements?	We do not offer any other scholarships at this time, but many of our students do utilize public or private loan options.
Is there a scholarship for University of Texas employees?	Yes, the McCombs School of Business created the George Kozmetsky Tuition Waiver specifically for full-time University of Texas employees admitted to the Texas McCombs MSTC Program. To be considered for this scholarship, admitted UT employees should send a letter to the Program Director (trent.thurman@mccombs.utexas.edu) stating (1) how The University of Texas' technology commercialization initiatives would benefit by their earning the Texas McCombs MSTC degree, and (2) how they can contribute to the strengthening institutional relationships between their organization or unit and the McCombs School of Business.
Are there any consortium-related opportunities for scholarships within Texas McCombs MSTC?	No
Is the cost less for attending the Program online?	No.

Military

Am I eligible to use GI Bill or Hazelwood Act in this Program?	Since the Program does not receive state funding, Hazelwood Act benefits do not apply, however students may be eligible for the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver in place of the Hazelwood Act. Beginning in May, 2012, the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver will not cover the cost of books. Students can NOT receive the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver AND the GI Bill. The Post-911 GI Bill will only cover the tuition. Fees for housing, food, books, etc. are not included. The amount is based off of a percentage of eligibility of service. Veterans may choose to use their GI Bill for tuition purposes. Visit the Registrar's Office, Veteran's Service Website http://registrar.utexas.edu/students/cert/vetn for more information or contact their office at (512) 475-7540 for details.
What is the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver and who is eligible?	The Texas Military Waiver is for those students that are eligible for the Hazelwood Act. The Texas McCombs MSTC Program does not receive state funding so Hazelwood Act benefits do not apply, however students may be eligible for the Texas McCombs MSTC Military Waiver in place of the Hazelwood Act.
Is there an application to request the Texas Military Waiver for tuition?	There is no official application. Contact Danica.Obradovic@mccombs.utexas.edu for info.

International

Are there any immunization requirements?	Immunization – below is a link with information on the medical requirements for International students http://www.healthyhorns.utexas.edu/internationalstudents.html You’ll soon receive more information about the program from me, via email. Also, the University’s International Office will be in communication with you separately to provide the visa documentation you will need in order to attend classes here in the USA.
What are some of my options for housing?	Housing in Austin - private dormitories (https://world.utexas.edu/isss/students/new/housing/long) are a better option for Grad students than on-campus housing. Other Housing resources can be found: https://world.utexas.edu/isss/students/new/housing
Do international students receive F-1 support for this program?	Yes
What scholarships are available to international students and what are the requirements?	We do not offer scholarships for international students. You can find more information regarding loan and scholarship options here https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MSTC/Admissions/Tuition-Finance. One of the many perks of the Texas McCombs MSTC Program is that the opportunity costs are lower due to the intensive, one year schedule. Thus, you’re able to target the jobs you ultimately seek that much sooner.
If I am living in the U.S. with a work visa do I need to apply as an international student?	The University's International office will note you as an international student, though you won't need to complete any requirements for an F1 visa since you are sponsored by your company in the US.
Will the Texas McCombs MSTC program be able to issue I-20 for student visa applications?	Yes, this is processed by the University's International office in Spring ahead of the program start.
Is CFR the only form I need to fill and upload before getting an I-20 from UT?	A passport, and visa application may also be needed. The University's International office will work with each individual international student to determine what may be needed from them or their home country for the I-20.
Is this a STEM designated graduate degree program?	Yes