All degree candidates enrolled in the MBA program complete a required core curriculum in addition to 144 units of electives. Students may take up to two non-Sloan MIT courses approved by the Sloan School while enrolled in the program towards completion of degree requirements. Most Sloan School subjects range from 3 to 12 units based on an approximation of weekly class hours, lab or thesis units, and outside preparation time. During the second year, students have the option of writing a thesis.
Sloan requires students to maintain "residence" for three concurrent semesters.
Upon completion of degree requirements, candidates receive either a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree or Master of Science in Management (SM). Students who complete a 24 unit thesis may elect to receive the SM degree; the thesis is optional for MBA degree candidates.