Further, women find joint-degree options attractive because they can combine an M.B.A. with an interest in environmental science, public policy, nursing or other career track. School diversity also appears to be more important to women than to men. Ask yourself what the school offers, beyond the M.B.A. program, to help you tap into the strengths of the women's community at school. Having a high percentage of women on the faculty is important for many reasons, says Patricia O'Brien, dean of Simmons Graduate School of Management. For one thing, research indicates that students at all levels learn better when they can identify with the discussion group leader, says Ms. O'Brien, a former Harvard Business School professor.
Women feel empowered to speak when there's representation of women in the faculty.
Christin Evans, a second-year M.B.A. student at the University of Michigan, says she didn't choose her school solely because of the number of women on the faculty. Ms. Evans notes that three professors in her core courses were women, a rate she views as above average. Michigan also seeks to bring in women as guest speakers. These role models are especially important for women. Alumni are an important resource for jobs.