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Program Overview

The Fully Employed MBA (FEMBA) program at California State University San Marcos is a general MBA designed specifically for experienced working professionals seeking to advance their careers, strengthen leadership capabilities, and remain competitive in today’s evolving business environment. Admission requires a minimum of three years of professional work experience, ensuring a high-level, peer-driven learning experience grounded in real-world application.

This program is ideal for professionals who already understand how organizations operate and want to broaden their strategic perspective rather than pursue a narrow specialization. Students leverage their professional experience in a collaborative cohort model that emphasizes leadership development, strategic thinking, and meaningful professional connections.

Delivered in a flexible hybrid format, FEMBA is structured to support full-time employment while maintaining academic rigor. Classes meet on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available.

The program spans five consecutive terms, beginning each summer, and is designed for completion in 18 months. The structured schedule provides predictability and balance, allowing students to progress efficiently while managing professional and personal commitments.

Coursera Access & Certificates

As a unique value-add, students enrolled in MBA courses will receive full access to Coursera, giving them the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certificates from top institutions and companies. This access begins upon enrollment and continues for one year after graduation, allowing students to enhance their skills at their own pace and stay competitive in a dynamic job market.

Excellence and Accreditation

Our AACSB-accredited College of Business Administration ranks among the top 5% of business schools worldwide, ensuring rigorous academic standards and global recognition. Graduates emerge with strategic expertise, leadership capability, and a strong professional network — fully prepared for career advancement.

Cost and Financial Support

Tuition and fees follow CSU guidelines and vary based on residency. While subject to change, we remain committed to providing a high-value, affordable education. A variety of financial aid options are available, including grants, scholarships, loans, and part-time employment opportunities.

Why Choose ÌÇÐÄÉÙÅ®?

High-Caliber, Experience-Driven Cohorts

The Fully Employed MBA is designed for professionals with meaningful work experience, creating a cohort of highly qualified peers who contribute real-world perspectives to every discussion. Small class sizes foster deeper engagement, collaborative learning, and strong professional relationships that begin in the classroom and continue well beyond graduation.

Convenient Hybrid Class Schedule for Working Professionals

The program’s hybrid format is intentionally structured to support full-time employment. Classes meet on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays. Students attend virtually for two Saturdays per five-week course. The rest of the instruction includes a combination of in-person and online activities. This predictable schedule allows students to maintain professional and personal commitments while progressing efficiently toward degree completion in 18 months. See Schedule. 

Industry-Relevant Curriculum with Practical Application

The curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation across core business disciplines while emphasizing strategic thinking, leadership development, and applied decision-making. Coursework is designed to build on students’ professional experience, integrating real-world applications, interactive workshops, and a capstone master’s project that strengthens practical skills and professional confidence. Explore the full course offerings and descriptions in Curriculum.

Experienced, Engaged Faculty

Students learn from dedicated faculty members with strong academic credentials, industry experience, and global perspectives. Faculty bring real-world insight into the classroom and foster meaningful dialogue that challenges students to think critically, lead effectively, and adapt to evolving business environments.

Lifelong Professional Network

Graduates become part of an active alumni network that supports ongoing professional development through networking events, career resources, and continued engagement with the College of Business Administration. These connections provide long-term value across industries and career stages.

Affordability

ÌÇÐÄÉÙÅ® offers one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited MBA programs in San Diego County while maintaining the academic rigor and engagement of in-person learning. As part of the CSU system, the Fully Employed MBA delivers exceptional value through a hybrid format that combines face-to-face instruction with flexible online components, allowing students to benefit from direct faculty interaction and peer collaboration without the cost structure of private or fully executive programs. Affordability Without Compromising Quality or Engagement. See Tuition and Fees.

Small Class Sizes

Smaller cohorts offer students the opportunity to build stronger connections with faculty. Build strong connections with faculty and peers in an intimate, cohort-based learning environment where networking begins on day one.

Campus Environment

ÌÇÐÄÉÙÅ® has rated as the #1 safest campus in California and #13 in the United States. At ÌÇÐÄÉÙÅ®, is our top priority and creates a welcome atmosphere for all students.

Location

The only MBA Program in and conveniently accessible from Highway 78. Located just ten miles from beautiful California beaches.