How Do I Get an MBA in Total Quality Management?

Total quality management is a management philosophy that involves managing all aspects of quality holistically and with the goal of continuous improvement. To obtain an MBA in total quality management, you will need to first complete a bachelor's degree program. You will also need to find a school that offers the specialty, be accepted into the program and complete all required coursework with passing grades. In some programs, you may also have to complete a capstone project or thesis.

You typically will be unable to earn an MBA in total quality management if you do not already have a bachelor's degree. Most such programs admit students with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in any field, but some may require an undergraduate degree in a business concentration. Programs vary in terms of GPA requirements as well, so you will want to check with the schools you are interested in attending to find out about specific requirements.

Once you have a bachelor's degree, you will need to choose a university and program for your MBA in total quality management. Not every MBA program has a total quality management specialization or track, so you will need to research programs to find one that does. MBA programs may be offered in traditional settings, online settings or a combination of the two, and prices for tuition and fees can vary drastically. You'll want to choose the one that fits best with your needs and budget, then complete the application process and be accepted into the program.

An MBA in total quality management will involve a wide array of classes. These usually will include general business coursework that applies to all MBA tracks. Topics of such classes might include corporate communications, management strategy, research, international business and business law. You can also expect to take classes with subjects specific to your track, such as statistical processes, process optimizations, quality management and production management.

You will need to pass each class that you take. Some universities also require you to maintain a specific GPA in order to remain in the program. If you are receiving financial aid, you may also be required to meet minimum GPA standards.

In most cases, you will need to complete a thesis or a capstone project to earn your MBA in total quality management. This might involve an analysis, an internship or another type of final project. Such projects are usually completed in your final term and are graded and credited much like a standard class.