Kent State University Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship

Program Overview

Kent State's Crawford College has pivoted toward analytics and digital transformation at a time when every company needs those skills. The concentrations in business analytics, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship reflect where the job market is heading. At $20K per year, it's priced for working professionals who need business credentials without the financial risk of an expensive program.

The 40-student class draws from Northeast Ohio's manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services sectors. Akron, Cleveland, and the broader I-77 corridor provide an employer base that values practical business skills. Kent State's entrepreneurship resources include incubator space and mentorship. The program serves professionals who want to advance in their current market rather than relocate to a coastal city.

Culture & Community

Kent is a college town with a proud history and tight community. The MBA culture is practical and career-focused. Students are working professionals who commute from Cleveland, Akron, and Canton. The 40-person class bonds through shared courses and study groups. Campus life is anchored by the university's strong academic tradition. The social scene is limited compared to MBA programs in major cities, but the focus on learning and career advancement compensates.

Academics & Curriculum

Business analytics courses teach data-driven decision making and digital tools. Digital transformation coursework addresses how companies modernize operations and customer engagement. Entrepreneurship concentrations provide startup resources and incubator access. Core business courses cover fundamentals with a practical emphasis. Faculty bring research and industry connections in analytics and technology management.

Career Outcomes

Northeast Ohio's employers in healthcare (Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals), manufacturing (Goodyear, Parker Hannifin), and financial services (KeyBank, Progressive) provide the recruiting base. Average salary is approximately $68,000. The 78% employment rate reflects the regional market. Career services connects students to local employers. The Kent State alumni network in Ohio is broad, and the Crawford name carries weight in the state's business community.

Who Should Apply

Northeast Ohio professionals targeting local career advancement. Analytics-minded candidates who want digital transformation skills. Entrepreneurs seeking incubator resources at public university prices. Budget-conscious students in Ohio's I-77 corridor.

What to Watch Out For

The $68K average salary is low by MBA standards. Kent State's brand is regional; outside Ohio, it's not a differentiator in recruiting. The program doesn't have pipelines to major consulting firms, tech companies, or finance hubs. If you're planning to leave Ohio, the return on the degree diminishes. And the small-city location limits on-site employer engagement.

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See also: Overall Rankings · Highest Salaries · Is an MBA Worth It? · GMAT vs GRE Guide