BISMARCK, ND – The University of Mary’s Gary Tharaldson School of Business (GTSB) has been awarded reaccreditation of its specialized business programs by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), underscoring its commitment to excellence and integrity academic, said in a statement. The announcement was made following the meeting of the IACBE Board of Commissioners on December 3, 2024, with accreditation effective from January 2025 to December 31, 2031.
This distinction applies to all undergraduate and graduate programs within the Gary Tharaldson School of Business. The recently launched Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, now recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society, will be reviewed for accreditation through the IACBE after the first cohort graduates this spring.
The IACBE accreditation process involves a rigorous assessment of the university’s adherence to nine principles, including quality assessment, innovation in business education, ethical behavior and strategic planning. This achievement reflects GTSB’s ongoing commitment to providing students with quality education that combines academic rigor with practical application.
In the announcement, Dr. Karel Sovak, dean of the Gary Tharaldson School of Business, praised the accreditation as a testament to the faculty’s dedication and the university’s mission.
“This is a credit to the quality of our faculty and their adherence to the mission of the University of Mary,” said Sovak. “We are known for our commitment to integrity, responsibility and ethical behavior, and we model this for our students. Additionally, the experiential learning we provide our students, as well as the many networking opportunities they experience, all add to the ability to be highly successful before they graduate from the Gary Tharaldson School of Business.”
Sovak emphasized that the accreditation results from a collaborative effort between the faculties, who try to ensure the success of the students.
“We measure our success by the success of our students and take pride in how well they thrive in the workforce,” he said. “The faculties know that this will reflect our future growth and will work hard to ensure that this philosophy continues long into the future. We are grateful that the IACBE recognizes all of our efforts to produce quality business education.”
Innovative university experience
The Gary Tharaldson School of Business excels at providing students with hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for leadership roles in their fields. Signature programs include:
- Emerging Leaders Academy: Students receive mentorship from industry leaders in their future fields, building essential professional skills.
- Investment Club: Members research stocks and manage an investment portfolio, providing real-world experience in finance.
- Student Run Bank: This unique on-campus facility gives students a hands-on opportunity to manage banking operations and develop critical financial management skills.
- YES Competition: A Young Entrepreneur and STEM (YES) is a special talent search for high school students, offered by the University of Mary, with top participants and their nominated teacher or school counselor receiving cash prizes.
- DECA: Through this nationally recognized business organization, students compete in case studies and projects, enhancing their leadership, problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills.
These initiatives exemplify the school’s focus on experiential learning, ensuring that students graduate with practical knowledge and a competitive edge in the job market.
A Premier MBA program rooted in values
The University of Mary’s newly renovated Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is one of the region’s leading graduate programs and is recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society’s Newman Guide. This degree is designed to integrate professional preparation with personal training, equipping students with the confidence, expertise and integrity required to lead in today’s complex business environment, the release said.
Rooted in Christian, Catholic and Benedictine values, the MBA program emphasizes ethical decision-making and leadership. Students receive comprehensive instruction in management, finance, and other business disciplines, complemented by a focus on character formation. The program offers flexibility for working adults, with courses available online or in person one evening per week at various campus locations and can be completed in one year. Qualified MBA candidates may also qualify for a $10,000 scholarship, making the program accessible and affordable.
For more information about the Gary Tharaldson School of Business and its IACBE-accredited programs, visit the IACBE Member Status page featuring the University of Mary.
