Working professionals will have the chance to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree at the University of California, Davis, through a new program that offers professionals the benefits of studying at the Graduate School of Management while moving at their own pace. "This is a University of California-quality education, comparable to UC Berkeley or UCLA," said Bob Smiley, dean of the Graduate School of Management, "and it's now available to professionals working full time in the Sacramento region." Beginning in the fall of 1994, students in the working professional program will be able to take courses taught by professors with a wide variety of national business research and consulting experience. Faculty members include David Bunch, an assistant professor of management and telecommuting consultant to the U.S. Department of Transportation; Nicole Biggart, a professor of management and an expert on Japanese and American management practices; and Jerome Suran, a senior lecturer, former manager of research and development for General Electric and president of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. The program's structure gives students flexibility that allows them to move at their own pace and earn a M.B.A. degree in as few as two or as many as four or more years, according to Smiley. The curriculum provides concentrations in accounting, marketing, finance, health care management, general management and information technology. Students can choose to attend classes in both Sacramento and on the Davis campus. One of the area's largest employers -- Pacific Bell -- has stated support for the UC Davis program and believes it will be of great service and value to the region. The program is a "life investment," said Chuck Smith, general manager of Sacramento's Pacific Bell. "I anticipate that the company will send 20 to 25 of our employees through the program in the next few years." Fees for the program are $800 per unit, or $4,800 annually for participants choosing the four-year curriculum. For those who sign up to complete the program in two years, the annual cost is $9,600. Questions about the new program can be answered at information sessions scheduled to begin in January or by calling (916) 752-7399. The deadline for applications for 1994 fall enrollment is May 15.