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Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the OTM program?
For what types of jobs does the OTM program prepare me?
What is the average starting salary for graduates of the OTM program?
How do I know the OTM program is right for me?
Why would I pursue a degree in business when I can get one in engineering or the sciences?
Can I be admitted to the OTM program without an engineering or science degree?
Can I take this degree as a part-time student?
Do I have to take all courses on the UW-Madison campus?
 

What is unique about the OTM program?

The OTM program is built on the notion that managers involved with operations and/or technology need to have a broad understanding of business. It provides an education where comprehensive management training (from product design to distribution) complements previous skills in engineering or science.

The OTM program differs from traditional MBA programs in business schools in that the curriculum is designed to focus on course work relevant to the management of operations and technology. Among its special features can be mentioned: Courses can be taken outside of the School of Business (e.g., in engineering, law, science, etc.), students get the opportunity to work with business and non-business students on class assignments, and both theory and practice are considered through required and elective project courses where students work in teams on industry-based problems.

The program is administered by the Erdman Center for Operations and Technology Management. Through this center, students get work space, access to computers and other office equipment, get individual attention in matters involving study plans, campus life, industry contacts, etc., and develop a close network with other OTM students. A multi-disciplinary Academic Advisory Board consisting of faculty from both business and engineering governs the Erdman Center. In addition, a large Industrial Advisory Board linked to the Center provides guidance and assistance with curriculum development, internships, paid project assistantships, and other matters. Its members also serve as mentors for the OTM students. The Board meets twice a year. These meetings are opportunities for OTM students to meet board members, alumni, faculty, and school staff.

For what types of jobs does the OTM program prepare me?

It is clearly very difficult to predict the path that a person's career will take. However, the thread that unites students in the OTM program is the interest in operations and the application of technology. This is true regardless of whether past degrees are in engineering, biotechnology, food science, information systems, or business (to name a few). Some students may be more interested in the product technology side, and will select course work accordingly, while other are more interested in manufacturing or service operations. Quite a few students have as their goal to start their own company and want a comprehensive degree that prepares them for this entrepreneurial career. Starting positions are naturally dependent on previous work experience, and may range from an analyst/staff position to a management trainee program to an upper-level management position (also see Careers).

What is the average starting salary for graduates of the OTM program?

For more information please see placement statistics.

How do I know if the OTM program is right for me?

This program is primarily designed for the engineer or scientist who entered the workforce with an undergraduate degree, and have spent a few years on the job. The following scenario may be typical:

"Through my work experience I have been exposed to many problems for which my technical background has not adequately prepared me. These problems tend to be of a managerial nature, involving issues such as organizing and leading product development teams, estimating financial impact of a new product line, outlining new manufacturing strategies, achieving excellence in quality to maintain the customer base, and planning for the implementation of new information and manufacturing technology. It has become clear to me that any further career advancements require formal managerial training from a graduate business school."

Of course, you may have a different experience and different reasons for pursuing a graduate degree. However, it is the challenging managerial issues related to product and process technology implementations and improvements that point to the OTM program. You should consult the Student Views page on this website for comments by current students.

Why would I pursue a degree in business when I can get one in engineering or the sciences?

The simple answer is that you are reading this because you want to become a trained manager working in a technical organization. If you want to remain a "pure" engineer or scientist, you should obviously pursue a second degree in that area. However, if you no longer see yourself predominantly as a scientist or engineer, if you have strong managerial aspirations, and/or are thinking of starting and operating your own company, an MBA degree which combines management and operations/technology may be your best choice. You have probably also found, through your past work experience, that technology alone is not sufficient for success. It is the interplay between people, technology, and organizations that makes for successful enterprises. The OTM degree can provide the integrative managerial background you need to serve as a manager in such an enterprise.

Can I be admitted to the OTM program without an engineering or science degree?

Yes, this is possible if you have another degree. Such decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. You should have worked for with operations and/or technology-based issues and have a clear idea of your future career goals.

Can I take this degree as a part-time student?

The OTM program at UW-Madison is designed to serve students who wish to focus on his/her education full-time. Part-time study in the School of Business is not allowed. There are, however, opportunities to pursue an MBA following either the Evening or the Executive MBA (weekend) program. These generic programs do not allow you to specialize in OTM.

Do I have to take all courses on the UW-Madison campus?

The UW-Madison MBA degree is not available through distance education. There are no waivers or transfers of coursework for the MBA core classes from other universities. If you have questions about transfer of elective courses please contact the Erdman Center or the school’s MBA Office.