The Gateway Experience

Kick off the graduate core

The MBA505 Gateway Experience course is designed to be the first 500-level class MBA students take, as it provides an introductory experience to “kick off” the graduate core. This 1 credit hour course introduces experiential learning, integrates business concepts and tools, and sets expectations for the graduate program. The Gateway Experience has proven to be a hands-on, fun, bonding experience for new students.

This one-time experience takes place over a four-day period, which includes a Saturday library session, Friday evening welcome dinner, Friday evening research session, and an all-day Saturday presentation session. Attendance at all four days is required for the in-person MBA505 Gateway course.

When is Gateway offered?

Gateway is offered three times a year, either before or during the first week of classes each semester.

It is possible to enroll in other 500-level courses the same semester you complete MBA505 Gateway Experience. If there is a time conflict with another one of your courses, email mba@butler.edu to ask that your enrollment in MBA 505 be granted.

Fall 2026

Saturday, August 15, 2026 | 1:00–4:00 PM
Friday, August 28, 2026 | 5:30–10:00 PM
Monday, August 31, 2026 | 6:00–9:00 PM
Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Yes, it’s required

MBA505 Gateway Experience is a mandatory course for completion of the on-campus MBA program, and is designed to be taken prior to any other 500-level courses. If necessary, a student may take MBA 510 or MBA 515 before taking MBA 505, but only with the permission of the MBA Director. These are the only exceptions allowed.

Students must complete MBA505 Gateway by the end of the second semester in order to continue the MBA program.