Deans Digest: August 2009

Robust but Level, Application Trends for 2009 Hint at New Cycle

Against a backdrop of sustained economic turmoil worldwide, graduate business schools enjoyed three years of strong growth in application volume through 2008. GMAC’s 2009 Application Trends Survey shows that even though application volume remains high, the growth of the last few years may be leveling off. Based on historical patterns, this year’s numbers may signal the beginning of a less robust cycle in the flow of applications to MBA and other graduate management programs.

French Authorities Give Sole Approval to GMAT Exam to Collect Biometric Data to Advance Security

For the first time in its history, the French National Commission for Data Protection and the Liberties (CNIL) has granted approval to a private testing company—GMAC—to collect biometric data as part of its efforts to ensure the highest level of security for the GMAT exam. No other private examination has obtained this permission.

Registration Open for GMAC European Conference on Selecting for Success—Is a “New Je Ne Sais Quoi” Needed to Thrive in Business School and Beyond?

Mindful of the ever-shifting global economy and with an eye on the future, decision makers in program direction, marketing, and admissions, will gather on October 13 and 14 in Barcelona for the second annual GMAC European Conference, and shake up the conversation about how we select and cultivate tomorrow’s business leaders. The conference, titled “Selecting for Success.” is hosted by IESE Business School and features provocative keynote addresses by Srikumar S. Rao, MBA, PhD, professor, and expert on creativity and personal mastery, and Philip Delves Broughton, MBA, author, and commentator on the role of business schools.

DATA TO GO: Indications Are—GMAT Volume Reliable in Forecasting Application Trends

GMAT volumes are important early indicators of first-year graduate enrollment for business programs, according to the US Council of Graduate Schools. In fact, the exam may provide an advance look at trends in application volume to programs in other world regions, as well as those in the United States, because non-US citizens account for nearly half (49%) of GMAT tests taken.

Different Models, Different Options, Which Diversity Program Is Right for Your School?

Attendees at this year’s GMAC Annual Industry Conference learned that when it comes to school diversity programs one thing is certain—they are definitely diverse.

Going Green Through Sustainable Marketing

Glossy brochures may still have their place, but in a world where sustainability is increasingly a way of life, business schools are finding ways to turn their marketing green.

D-Briefs

What's going on in the Graduate Management Education Industry?