AMR is designed to challenge MBA students to fully integrate all of their academic learning into an actual business application. It is an opportunity for students to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have gained at UCLA Anderson and it is the final requirement for completing our MBA degree. The project may take various forms, including the execution of a consulting-style project with an external client and the implementation of a new business.
Business Creation Option (BCO)
Traditional AMR projects are consulting-style projects whereby Anderson students work with an external client to address a specific business need through research and strategic recommendations. Projects vary widely in content and scope but might include:
- New product launch
- International expansion
- Strategic partner identification
- Development of a new marketing strategy
- Working with a consulting company in a lab format
- Microfinance projects
Business Creation Option (BCO)
Student teams may opt to complete a BCO project, which requires the implementation of a new business. Implementation can includes things such as forming an entity, raising capital, selling a product, conducting market research, hiring staff, etc. In order to qualify for a BCO project, the team must have a vetted business plan completed prior to beginning the AMR process. This can be achieved in several ways, including taking our Business Plan Development course, participating in our Knapp Competition, or receiving our Wolfen Fellowship.
Each student team selects a faculty advisor for their project. Faculty advisors usually do not interface directly with company executives; this is the responsibility of the student team, since AMR is a student-managed course in which students provide the main driving force, direction, and decision-making. Faculty advisors are there to offer guidance and help ensure a successful project, as well as determine final grading.