Graduate Faculty Focus | Tianning Li, Ph.D.

I completed my Ph.D. in finance at University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 2009, and I have been teaching at Hood College since then.

The location of Hood College is the number one factor. Frederick is only one hour away from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, yet it is still quiet, beautiful and historic. I fell in love with the beautiful campus and the City of Frederick when I came for the job interview. I enjoyed working with my departmental colleagues and students.

Our MBA program has been highlighted as a top program in Washington Monthly’s annual College Guide, and it has been featured as one of Research.com’s “Best MBA Degrees in America.”

These accolades highlight the program’s dedication to providing a high-quality, accessible education that empowers students from diverse backgrounds to succeed in leadership roles. Additionally, Hood College integrates practical experiences and innovative coursework, such as electives in data analytics, which align with current industry needs. Its personalized advising and faculty engagement further support the program’s success

Hood College’s MBA program is designed with several unique features that make it stand out for prospective students. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). It is flexible, offering part-time and full-time options along with hybrid and online courses. Its class sizes are small, emphasizing personalized attention and direct interaction with faculty and peers.

The faculty have academic credentials and real-world business experience, ensuring students gain both theoretical and practical insights. Hood’s MBA program also has strong ties with the regional business community, creating networking opportunities for students. Finally, the program is competitively priced and affordable, offering a high-quality education without the heavy financial burden often associated with MBA programs.

Online/hybrid courses are very important to the program, as many of our students have full-time jobs, family obligations and long commute times. Online/hybrid courses offer them the flexibility they need to complete the program successfully and balance work, study and life at the same time.

An MBA remains a valuable asset in today’s job market, offering numerous benefits. The degree is often a prerequisite for leadership and management roles, helping professionals climb the corporate ladder. Graduates typically enjoy higher salaries compared to those with only undergraduate degrees. An MBA provides advanced knowledge in finance, marketing, strategy and operations, along with soft skills like leadership, communication and critical thinking.

In addition, an MBA offers access to a diverse network of peers, alumni and faculty who can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Hood’s MBA program offers specialized tracks, allowing students to tailor their education to specific industries or career goals. As industries evolve, the strategic and analytical skills gained in an MBA program prepare graduates to navigate and lead through change.

Lastly, an MBA’s advanced qualifications can provide an edge in competitive job markets, offering more stability in uncertain times.

I play soccer. I have been rooting for AC Milan since the late 1980s.

Interested in the career benefits of an MBA? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s master’s programs, such as business administration, by clicking here.