DECATUR, Ill. — and have established a new MBA Direct Admit partnership that will create a seamless pathway for qualified Blackburn students to pursue degree through the University’s Tabor School of Business.
The partnership strengthens collaboration between the two institutions while expanding opportunities for Blackburn students to continue their education through ĢƵAPP’s graduate business program. The agreement guarantees placement opportunities in ĢƵAPP’s Accelerated MBA program for a minimum of four qualified Blackburn students each academic cycle, provided they meet the program’s admission requirements.
Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, Blackburn students who meet the partnership’s eligibility criteria — including maintaining a cumulative 3.0 GPA, submitting a resume and completing an interview with the ĢƵAPP MBA Program Director — will have a direct path to pursue the Accelerated MBA program.
In addition to the admissions pathway, ĢƵAPP will reserve graduate assistant positions for Blackburn students who enroll in the program, providing leadership experience while pursuing graduate study.
RJ Podeschi, Dean of ĢƵAPP’s , said the partnership reflects ĢƵAPP’s commitment to building strong regional collaborations that expand educational opportunities for students.
“This partnership with Blackburn College creates a meaningful pathway for talented students to continue their education at ĢƵAPP and pursue advanced business leadership training,” Podeschi said. “Our Accelerated MBA program combines rigorous academics with real-world application, and we’re excited to welcome Blackburn students who are eager to take the next step in their professional journeys.”
ĢƵAPP’s Accelerated MBA program is a 12-month, 40-credit graduate program delivered in eight-week units, designed for recent graduates and early-career professionals from a wide range of academic backgrounds. The program now features a hybrid format combining in-person and online coursework.
“At Blackburn, we are deeply committed to preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong learning,” said Dr. Laura Wiedlocher, Blackburn Provost. “This partnership with ĢƵAPP provides Blackburn students the option of direct access to a high-quality MBA program, allowing them to accelerate their careers while building on the skills and experiences they develop here.”
Blackburn College, located in Carlinville, Ill., is recognized for its distinctive student-managed Work Program — the only program of its kind in the nation — which combines academic preparation with professional skill development and hands-on learning. As a result, Blackburn students graduate with practical knowledge and leadership skills that can add depth to MBA programs typically shaped by candidates with work experience.
“Blackburn students graduate with a strong academic and professional foundation that prepares them to take the next step immediately after earning their degree,” said Dr. Carley Swalley, Chair of Blackburn’s Business & Economics Department. “That’s what makes our work with ĢƵAPP such a good fit. This creates an important opportunity for Blackburn graduates to seamlessly transition into an accelerated MBA program and continue developing the applied business skills needed for today’s workforce.”
Students in the program benefit from small cohort sizes, hands-on learning experiences and opportunities such as international travel as part of the curriculum. The MBA also offers specialized concentrations in areas including Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance and Healthcare Administration.
ĢƵAPP Interim Provost Dr. Nancy Curtin said the collaboration reflects the University’s broader commitment to strengthening partnerships that benefit students across the region.
“Partnerships like this strengthen higher education across our region by creating clear avenues for students to advance their education and career goals,” Curtin said. “We are proud to work with Blackburn College to provide new opportunities for students to continue their academic journey through ĢƵAPP’s graduate programs.”
Through the agreement, ĢƵAPP representatives will also work closely with Blackburn advisors and faculty to host information sessions and provide guidance to students interested in the MBA program.
ĢƵAPP’s Tabor School of Business offers undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the University’s signature Performance Learning approach, which emphasizes hands-on, real-world experience that prepares students to lead in today’s evolving business landscape.
For more information about the Blackburn ĢƵAPP MBA partnership or to begin the application process, visit or apply directly at millikin.edu/apply. The deadline to apply for the Accelerated MBA program is May 1.
