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Darden is known for a few things: their top-notch educational experience, their strong general management focus, and the case method. For veterans considering graduate business school, this combination makes Darden an extremely attractive option after the military.
Most veterans applying to MBA programs will admit that while they feel comfortable leading teams based off their military experiences, but they recognize that their practical business acumen in accounting, finance, or marketing is lacking. Darden places a huge emphasis on academics in comparison to many other MBA programs–the case method makes students come prepared to engage in class. And the general management focus can be appealing to veterans who are looking for leadership opportunities in that function after graduation.
Key stats about Darden (Class of 2021):
- Rankings: 2019- Forbes (13), Economist (16), US News and World Report (11)
- Other rankings: #1 Educational experience since 2011 (Economist), #1 General Management Program (2019, Financial Times, #1 Faculty (2017-2019, Princeton Review)
- Top 3 industries post-graduation: Consulting, Financial Services, and Tech
- Class size: 336
- Average GPA: 3.5
- Average Age: 27
- Average GMAT: 713
- Average GRE: 321 (161 V/ 160 Q)
The Darden Military Association (DMA) is one of the better veteran clubs that I experienced during my MBA search. They were extremely helpful in helping with resume feedback and interview prep–two areas that can be a cause for strife for veteran applicants unfamiliar with these processes.
Each Darden class is typically comprised of 7-9% veterans, one of the higher proportions of veterans at the top MBA programs. The program also has two classes just for veterans, one that is only open to former active duty, and one that is open to reservists. Both classes are meant to provide a forum for veterans to explore the leadership skills they learned in the military and how they can apply them to their civilian careers.
Financially, Darden is a great fit for veterans. They waive the application fee (as do most top programs) and as a public school, Darden is fully covered by the GI Bill. This makes it one of the few options in the Top 20 where a military candidate can expect few, if any, out-of-pocket costs associated with their education if they have 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. Additionally, Darden has a number of veteran-specific scholarships that can provide further financial benefits to veteran candidates.
Beyond just Darden, UVA as a whole is a fantastic school with some of the best programs in the country. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia wine country, and nestled with downtown Charlottesville, UVA and Darden have a great environment to live and study in for two years.
Related:
Patrick Weeks: Veterans at Darden