University of Mary’s Gary Tharaldson School of Business Earns Prestigious Accreditation

IACBE Reaffirms Accreditation for Popular Undergraduate and Graduate Programs

BISMARCK, ND — The University of Mary’s Gary Tharaldson School of Business (GTSB) has been granted reaccreditation of its specialized business programs by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), underscoring its commitment to academic excellence and integrity. The announcement was made following the IACBE Board of Commissioners’ December 3, 2024, meeting, with accreditation effective from January 2025 through December 31, 2031.

This distinction applies to all undergraduate and master’s programs within the Gary Tharaldson School of Business. The recently launched Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, already recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society, will be reviewed for accreditation through IACBE after the first cohort graduates this spring. 

The IACBE accreditation process involves a rigorous evaluation of the university’s adherence to nine principles, including quality assessment, innovation in business education, ethical behavior, and strategic planning. This achievement reflects the GTSB’s ongoing commitment to providing students with high-quality education that combines academic rigor with practical application.

Dr. Karel Sovak, dean of the Gary Tharaldson School of Business, praised the accreditation as a testament to the faculty’s dedication and the university’s mission.

“This is a credit to the quality of our faculty and their adherence to the mission of the University of Mary,” said Sovak. “We are recognized for our commitment to integrity, responsibility, and ethical behavior, and we model that for our students. Additionally, the experiential learning we provide to our students, as well as the numerous networking opportunities they experience, all add up to the ability to be quite successful before they even graduate from the Gary Tharaldson School of Business.”

Sovak emphasized that accreditation results from a collaborative effort among faculty, who strive to ensure student success. “We measure our success by the success of our students and take pride in how well they thrive in the workforce,” he noted. “Faculty know that will reflect our future growth and work hard to ensure this philosophy continues long into the future. We are grateful for IACBE recognizing all our efforts to produce a quality business education.”

Innovative Undergraduate Experiences

The Gary Tharaldson School of Business stands out for offering students hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for leadership roles in their fields. Signature programs include:

• Emerging Leaders Academy: Students receive mentorship from industry leaders in their prospective fields, building essential professional skills.
• Investment Club: Members research stocks and manage an investment portfolio, providing real-world experience in finance.
• Student-Run Bank: This unique on-campus facility gives students a hands-on opportunity to manage banking operations and develop critical financial management skills.
• YES Competition: A Young Entrepreneur and STEM (YES) is a one-of-a-kind talent search for high school students offered by the University of Mary with top participants and their nominating teacher or school counselor receiving cash prizes. 
• DECA: Through this nationally recognized business organization, students compete in case studies and projects, enhancing their leadership, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills.

These initiatives exemplify the school’s focus on experiential learning, ensuring that students graduate with practical knowledge and a competitive edge in the job market.

A Premier MBA Program Rooted in Values

The University of Mary’s newly revamped Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is one of the region’s premier graduate programs and is recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society’s Newman Guide. This degree is designed to integrate professional preparation with personal formation, equipping students with the confidence, expertise, and integrity required to lead in today’s complex business environment.

Rooted in Christian, Catholic, and Benedictine values, the MBA program emphasizes ethical decision-making and leadership. Students receive comprehensive instruction in management, finance, and other business disciplines, complemented by a focus on character formation. The program offers flexibility for working adults, with courses available online or in-person one evening per week at various campus locations and can be completed in one year. Eligible MBA candidates may also qualify for a $10,000 scholarship, making the program both accessible and affordable.

A Commitment to Academic Quality and Regional Impact

The Gary Tharaldson School of Business has long been a pillar of excellence in higher education, serving as a hub for innovative business education in North Dakota and beyond. With the reaffirmation of IACBE accreditation, the school solidifies its reputation as a leader in preparing students for successful careers while addressing the needs of a rapidly evolving business landscape.

For more information about the Gary Tharaldson School of Business and its IACBE-accredited programs, visit the IACBE Member Status page featuring the University of Mary.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about the University of Mary can do so at 7yru.zhanmi.net or  online.zhanmi.net, or by contacting an admissions representative at enroll@zhanmi.net, or by calling (701) 355-8030. The University of Mary is one of only 15 Recommended Cardinal Newman Society Residential Colleges and universities in the US. 

About the University of Mary: True to its motto “lumen vitae”—The Light of Life—the University of Mary offers education for the whole of life through cutting-edge professional programs and graduate programs animated by moral courage and leadership in chosen professions and service to the community. A private, co-educational Catholic institution, the University of Mary welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds.

A Christian, Catholic, Benedictine institution founded in 1959 by the Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, Mary offers over 60 bachelor’s, 15 master’s, and five doctoral programs—in Business Administration, Education, Nursing Practice, Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy. The 19-sport Athletic Department adheres to its Greatness Through Virtue mission under the governance of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) conferences. With more than 3,800 students, Mary has locations in North Dakota, Montana, Arizona, Rome, Italy, as well as vibrant online offerings.