Consistently ranked in the top 10 business schools globally, the University of Michigan Ross School of Business is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasis on hands-on learning, and legacy of leadership and innovation that drives everything from curriculum development to admissions.
The business school’s range of one-year master’s programs are particularly focused on preparing students to excel in a rapidly evolving business landscape, combining leadership training with career development opportunities. However, the programs’ admissions processes didn’t reflect the same alignment with the realities of the modern business world.
“Innovation is key in the ever-evolving landscape of higher education,” shared Julia Hoffert, the Director of Admissions and Recruitment for the One-Year Master’s Programs at Michigan Ross. “We are proud to announce a groundbreaking approach to the application process for our One-Year Master's Programs. Coupled with this innovative application process is a new asynchronous interview tool called Kira.”
Designing a multi-program application process
Michigan Ross’ new multi-program application allows candidates to apply to several one-year master’s programs with just one submission, offering flexibility and reducing the pressure of choosing a single path upfront.
“Gone are the days of agonizing over which program to choose,” Hoffert explained. “By offering the option to apply to multiple programs through a single application, we are breaking barriers and expanding possibilities for ambitious learners to tailor their graduate education to their unique goals.”
“This initiative encourages the exploration of multiple programs, allowing applicants to consider, ‘Which programs are avenues to my goals?’ instead of the traditional limiting question, ‘Which single Ross program should I choose?’"
“To ensure that the multi-program application process is efficient, we have combined the common components shared by all programs,” Hoffert continued. “Applicants only need to submit core elements such as letters of recommendation and academic transcripts once, saving time and effort during the application process.”
That's where Kira comes in. With a custom Asynchronous Assessment in Kira, Michigan Ross can efficiently conduct large-scale interviews, ensuring the process remains streamlined while maintaining its depth and thoroughness.
“Kira offers an asynchronous and online interview experience, bringing transparency and authenticity to our admissions process,” Hoffert explained.
Elevating business admissions to match the professional world
“Engaging in Kira's interview process provides candidates with preparatory experience that mirrors the initial interview stages used by many progressive companies today.” shared Hoffert. “Candidates receive practical experience that can be beneficial for their future job searches. They become more comfortable and adept in front of the camera, improve their time management skills, and enhance their ability to deliver concise, impactful responses.”
“Kira serves as a valuable training ground, giving candidates a taste of what they can expect in the professional world while honing their interview skills.”
Kira also provides applicants with the opportunity to get a sense of campus culture and meet the faculty, through videos seamlessly integrated throughout the assessment experience.
“We personally recorded interview questions,” Hoffert explained. “By aligning these questions with our core values — collaborating, learning and growing, doing great things, being an owner, and being inclusive — we not only identify students who will thrive at our institution but also provide them with a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed within our community.”
Flexible choices for tomorrow's business leaders
“One of the significant advantages of this new interview process is its accessibility for all applicants, regardless of their time zone,” Hoffert shared. “In the past, scheduling interviews across different time zones posed challenges.”
“Now, with Kira, these barriers are largely eliminated, allowing candidates to participate at times that are most convenient for their schedules.”
“This process ensures that every candidate is given an equal opportunity to submit their interview, leveling the playing field and making the process more inclusive,” continued Hoffert. “Applicants can now effectively manage their own time, choosing the best moments to record and submit their responses.”
“This flexibility reduces the stress associated with live interviews, allowing candidates to prepare in their own environment and at their own pace,” she added. “By accommodating individual needs and schedules, we aim to make the process more convenient for every applicant.”
“Michigan Ross believes in innovation and providing applicants with the best opportunities to succeed,” Hoffert finished. “The introduction of the multi-program application process and Kira's interview tool are examples of our commitment to excellence in higher education.”
