Program Start Dates

Once you enroll, our Office of Academic Programs and Student Experience will share more information about our onboarding process.  Below is a snapshot of some of the key onboarding events. For questions about Kickoff, Launch, or Executive Forum, please contact us.

Kickoff Weekend 

(for Professional and Executive students)
Your first opportunity to come together as a class and begin to develop lifelong friendships, Kickoff is a MANDATORY orientation to the Rice Business experience. Over the course of a weekend, you will become more familiar with the program, McNair Hall, and the business school’s staff. You will complete basic administrative requirements so that you will be set to begin the program during Launch and Executive Forum!

Professional MBAs: July 14-15, 2023
Executive MBAs: July 22, 2023

Launch Week 

(for Professional and Full-Time students)
Launch is a MANDATORY immersive experience to propel you into your Rice Business journey. Building on kickoff, you’ll become more closely acquainted with student programs and career development services. Launch is also the beginning of your academic journey and you will begin coursework in earnest. Working in your student teams for the first time, you will build your team and set the conditions for a successful first year and beyond!

Full-Time MBAs: August 7-18, 2023

Professional MBAs:
- Weekend Schedule: July 24-28, 2023
- Evening Schedule: July 31 - August 4, 2023

Executive Forum 

(for Executive students)
A Houston residency program that builds the foundation for personal leadership and principles of strategy formulation. The core curriculum focuses on providing you with the analytical skills necessary for robust critical decision-making and the depth of functional knowledge necessary to lead across the organization. This MANDATORY week sets the tone for the duration of the program, as well as establishes the relationships you will have throughout your two years.

July 31 - August 5, 2023