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What is an MBA?

What Is an MBA? All About the MBA Degree and MBA Programs

The MBA is the world’s most popular graduate management degree. Employers love it and students can’t get enough of it. Thousands of ambitious professionals apply to different types of MBA program each year.

As a generalist degree, the MBA gives you fundamental management knowledge, meaning you’ll get a holistic view of business across areas like marketing, finance, and accounting, all while developing those vital soft skills and leadership skills.

Famous MBA alumni include CEOs of multinational companies, successful entrepreneurs, and former Presidents. George W Bush, Michael Bloomberg, Tim Cook, Satya Nadella, Sundar Pichai, Sheryl Sandberg—they all have MBAs.

So what can you do with an MBA degree? What types of MBA programs are available? And is an MBA worth it?

What does MBA stand for? MBA definition

MBA stands for Master of Business Administration.

First introduced by Harvard University Graduate School of Administration in 1908 (now Harvard Business School ), the MBA is the original graduate degree offered by business schools globally.

Having “MBA” on your resume will help you stand out to employers, but the true meaning of the MBA goes beyond three letters on a sheet. During an MBA, you’ll build your business knowledge, grow your professional network, and boost your career and salary prospects.

Who is an MBA degree for?

The Harvard MBA class of 2025 is comprised of 39% international students and 45% women. Students come from technology, manufacturing, healthcare, nonprofits, the media, and the military, as well as finance and consulting.

At INSEAD , more than 80 nationalities are typically represented in the MBA class and students come from academic backgrounds ranging from business and engineering to the arts and political sciences.

According to the Graduate Management Admission Council™ (GMAC™), the top career motivations for prospective business school students include: the opportunity to enrich their lives, develop their potential, increase their income, gain business knowledge, and enhance their network – and these benefits are just some of the many reasons to get an MBA .

Whatever your background, if you want to learn management skills and advance your career, the MBA is for you; whether you want to start your own business, progress within your current company, switch function, industry, location, or all three at the same time.

“An MBA is not just designed to equip students for their next job post-graduation; it’s a life changing experience that enables students to make career changes five, 10, and 15 years post-MBA, thanks to the skills they learn and the network that lasts long after graduation,” says Virginie Fougea, global director of admissions and financial aid at INSEAD.

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Types of MBA programs

While the traditional full-time MBA degree is a popular option, the MBA today comes in all shapes and sizes. Business schools offer various types of MBA programs suited to different profiles of students.

MBA program types

Students, duration, and formats of different MBA program types

Full-time MBA

The full-time MBA is the original, immersive, on-campus experience, designed for early and mid-career students who may be looking to completely change their career path. The two-year, full-time MBA program is most popular in the United States and offered by the group of elite M7 business schools . In India, the Postgraduate Diploma in Management is also offered as an MBA alternative.

The one-year MBA is especially popular in Europe and Asia, offering an accelerated experience and less time out of the workplace, although full-time MBAs come in a variety of formats. INSEAD’s MBA takes just 10 months to complete, while London Business School offers flexible exit points after 15, 18, or 21 months of study.

Part-time MBA

The part-time MBA allows you to combine work and study, meaning you don’t miss out on your salary and the opportunity cost of pursuing a full-time program. Part-time MBA classes typically take place in evenings, weekends, or in flexible modular formats, combining online learning with in-person sessions.

Executive MBA

The Executive MBA is a part-time MBA program targeted at experienced, executive-level professionals with over 10 years of work experience. EMBA programs bring senior leaders together to upskill, network, and knowledge share, with participants bringing their professional projects into the classroom.

The Online MBA is a super-flexible, part-time MBA experience, allowing you to continue working while studying from the comfort of your home. Online MBA programs typically require a residential component (1-2 weeks), although there are an increasing number of 100 percent-online MBA programs. Many online MBAs also allow you to pay per module and plan your own study time. This means durations for online MBA programs can vary, although most take around two years to complete.

MBA specializations

While the MBA is a generalist degree, you can specialize in areas you’re interested in. Business schools offer various MBA specializations including MBAs in healthcare management, business analytics, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, and HR. These usually combine core MBA courses in management with a specialist track of courses focused on your area of interest.

In the US, STEM MBA programs have specializations that incorporate STEM topics and international graduates from STEM MBAs can stay and work in the US for up to three years without an H-1B visa .

You can also pursue dual degrees at most business schools, combining your MBA with a specialized business master’s , or cross-university programs like the JD MBA , offered jointly by law and business schools.

MBA courses and curriculum

The MBA curriculum is typically divided into two parts:

Core MBA courses cover the foundations of general management. Core courses typical of MBA programs include:

Business Communication
Business Ethics
Business Strategy
Data Analytics

Elective MBA courses give you the opportunity to select courses that best match your individual career goals. You usually study the core MBA syllabus before choosing electives in the second half of the program.

There are a wide variety of elective courses covering anything from HR management, nonprofit management, entrepreneurship, sustainability and CSR, to cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence and blockchain.

Most MBA courses are taught using the case study method, made famous by Harvard Business School, which sees students analyze case studies of business successes or failures before discussing them in class.

You learn the business theory during an MBA before applying your learnings in group project work or even real-world consulting projects. Outside class, you can immerse yourself in all aspects of business school life: MBA clubs, extracurriculars, networking events, conferences, competitions, company visits, and exciting international immersions.

What’s it like being an MBA student? “The irony of the MBA is that it’s usually pursued in an effort to stand out, but during the experience your interaction with so many interesting, driven, and stimulating people is both humbling and inspiring,” says Pascal Michels, former MBA student and MBA admissions director at IESE Business School , now a director and consultant at MBA admissions consulting firm Menlo Coaching.

“Beyond the academics, an MBA is really about the people you meet; the friendships forged in heated classroom discussions and late-night team meetings—that’s what triggers much of the personal growth.”

MBA jobs: What can you do with an MBA?

What can you do with an MBA degree? Pretty much anything you set your mind to. An MBA prepares you for jobs in a variety of industries and roles. Typical high-paying MBA jobs include:

Finance Manager
Financial Advisor
Investment Banker
Management Analyst
Management Consultant
Marketing Manager
Operations Manager

Employers love hiring MBA graduates and many recruit on campus. According to GMAC’s Corporate Recruiters Survey , 82% of employers expressed their confidence in business schools’ ability to prepare graduates for success.

Increasingly, MBA graduates can be found in industries ranging from healthcare to nonprofits working for both multinationals and startups, and many start businesses of their own. In 2023, entrepreneurial graduates from Stanford Graduate School of Business and Harvard Business School launched 87 startups between them.

Companies that hire the most MBAs include the Big Three management consulting firms , Bain, BCG, and McKinsey; Big Tech firms like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft; and accounting firms like Accenture, Deloitte, and EY.

Several years after graduation, MBAs progress to senior, executive-level jobs. Many Fortune 500 CEOs – including the CEOs of Apple, JP Morgan, Microsoft, and Walmart – have MBAs.

“When we hire an MBA grad, the global perspective and diversity of experiences they have allows them to plug right into Bain, and any of our capability areas, and start helping our clients succeed in their industries,” says Keith Bevans, global head of consultant recruiting at Bain & Company.

MBA program salary: What can you earn?

Getting an MBA degree will boost your salary prospects. MBA students from the NYU Stern School of Business Class of 2022 landed median base salaries of $170k. Meanwhile, grads from the University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business landed median base salaries of $155k in 2022.

Three years after graduation, MBA salaries can increase by well over 100%. Across the top 10 MBA programs ranked by the Financial Times in 2023, students increased their salaries by around 130% on average, within three years of achieving their MBA.

Your average MBA salary prospects naturally vary depending on your industry, role, and the business school you go to. The highest-paying MBA jobs tend to be in finance or consulting. Consulting salaries for MBA graduates at McKinsey, Bain, and BCG can reach $260k (including bonuses and benefits) in the first year after completing an MBA, according to ManagementConsulted.

The average MBA salary in the US is around $106k after graduation, although MBA salary also varies by location. Based on your experience level and industry, you can estimate your post-MBA salary using our interactive tool .

MBA cost: Is an MBA degree program worth it?

How much does an MBA cost? According to the BusinessBecause Cost of MBA Report 2023 , the average total cost of studying one of the world’s top-ranked full-time MBA programs is $202k. This figure includes the cost of tuition, additional fees, living expenses, and healthcare insurance.

The cost of an MBA varies significantly depending on where you study. The average total cost of a top-ranked, full-time MBA program in the US is US$233k, while in Europe it’s US$146k, and in Asia it’s US$113k.

Tuition fees for the top-ranked full-time MBA programs featured in the BusinessBecause report vary from US$64k to around US$173k.

There are many more affordable full-time MBA programs that deliver similar quality of learning and outcomes. The Bath School of Management MBA, priced at £37.5k for international students, and Birmingham Business School MBA, £32.5k, offer two of the most affordable MBA programs in the UK .

If you’re living at home and working alongside a Part-time MBA, Online MBA, or Executive MBA program, you won’t pay additional fees related to living costs and you won’t face the opportunity cost from missing out on your salary.

What’s more, business schools offer a variety of MBA scholarships and financial aid to help you fund your tuition, meaning – for full-time MBAs especially – you’ll rarely pay the full cost of tuition for your MBA.

These benefits – plus the post-MBA salary, skills, and network you’ll gain – mean you shouldn’t let the price of an MBA put you off when weighing up your return on investment (MBA ROI). If you can find the best fit MBA program that can deliver on your personal ambitions and career goals, then an MBA is more than worth it.

MBA admissions: Applying for an MBA

What are the standard MBA admission requirements? Most business schools require an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification and a minimum level of work experience.

You’ll need to prepare your application materials – resume, essays, recommendation letters, and GMAT – before applying by an MBA application round deadline . If successful, you’ll progress to an interview before getting a final offer of acceptance.

Applying to business school can be competitive, with MBA acceptance rates for top-ranked MBA programs as low as 8.6% at Stanford, although most top-tier programs admit 20- to 60% of applicants, according to BusinessBecause.

The GMAT exam is a key performance indicator for business schools, but schools consider your holistic profile, looking at all aspects of your application together.

“Strong candidates have a habit of leadership in past and current endeavors, analytical appetite and curiosity, and a penchant for contributing to the success of a community. We want to get to know each applicant and to try to understand how s/he will contribute in our classrooms and community,” says Chad Losee, Harvard Business School’s MBA admissions director.

Now you know what an MBA is and how an MBA can benefit your career, it’s time to take the next step and apply. The MBA application process requires organization and perseverance, and you’ll need to do your research to find the business school that best matches your personality, areas of interest, and career goals.

Find out how to navigate the full-time MBA admissions process and more in our free-to-download Full-Time MBA Application Guide .

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First-Year Curriculum

You have big ideas and goals. We give you the most versatile toolkit to achieve those dreams.

Where do you see yourself five years from now? What about ten? Twenty? Will you be a corporate leader, founder, CFO, nonprofit leader, philanthropist, or all of the above? Our core curriculum is designed to make sure you’re ready for anything and everything — to build your analytical foundation and intuitive skills to succeed in whatever comes next.

Coursework in the first year includes mainly core requirements, distribution requirements, and the potential for one or two electives. You’ll dive into complex managerial issues, gain insight into the perspective of a senior leader, and develop your decision-making and communication skills in a global context. And because you and your classmates have different educational and professional backgrounds, some courses offer different levels and options in each required discipline, calibrated to your skills, experience, and future goals. We’ll work with you to find the right path.

Core Requirements

Core requirements are designed to give you insight into the perspective of a senior manager and leader.

Data Analysis and Decision Making

General managers require a sophisticated understanding of what one can - and cannot - infer from data and how to use those inferences to make good decisions. Our courses in data analysis provide the analytical tools/techniques for using data to make appropriate inferences and good decisions.

Leading with Values

With leadership comes responsibility. This course explores the numerous ethical duties faced by managers and organizations. It combines analytical frameworks with the latest findings on human behavior to inform a wide range of ethical decisions and strategies. Readings include case studies, insights from experimental psychology and economics, and excerpts from or about major works of moral philosophy. Through class exercises, rigorous discussion, and personal reflection, you will clarify your own ethical stance, think through ethical dilemmas, practice articulating recommendations compellingly, discover the diversity of ethical viewpoints, and find out how to avoid the social and cognitive pitfalls that come in the way of ethical leadership.

Finance I covers the foundations of finance with an emphasis on applications that are vital for corporate managers, including the major financial decisions made by corporate managers both within the firm and in their interactions with investors. Essential in most of these decisions is the process of valuation, which will be an important emphasis of the course. Topics include criteria for making investment decisions, valuation of financial assets and liabilities, relationships between risk and return, and capital structure choice.

Financial Accounting

Business leaders must read, understand, and use corporate financial statements. The base-level and accelerated courses in this area are broad courses in how financial accounting information is produced and used. The advanced applications option assumes knowledge of most of the concepts taught in the base and accelerated-level courses and covers global financial reporting issues through comparisons of US and International Financial Reporting Standards. It also covers intermediate and advanced financial reporting topics, including fair value accounting, asset securitization, consolidation, foreign currency translation, derivatives, hedging, leases, revenue recognition, pensions, and equity compensation.

Leadership Laboratory

Consider the question: “Why would someone follow you?” This is a course in which you consider what kind of leader you want to be, what kind of leader you are, and how to align your leadership behavior with your leadership goals. You will have an opportunity to lead a squad and in doing so to discover your strengths and challenges as a leader. You will receive feedback about your approach to leadership and you will have the opportunity to try out new skills and tools. Students will be placed into 5-6 person squads and the majority of class time will be spent in these squads. Your squad will meet to work on basic leadership challenges, including managing conflict and assessing a team’s progress. There will be the opportunity for feedback so you can achieve a deeper understanding of the impact of your behavior on others. The squads will do role-play cases and group exercises designed to help you think more deeply about the dynamics in your group and to allow you to practice and experiment with new ways of leading. The quarter culminates with the Executive Challenge, which engages alumni judges in role-plays that test your ability to lead effectively.

Managing Groups and Teams

Managing Groups and Teams introduces you to the structures and processes that affect group performance and highlights some of the common pitfalls associated with working in teams. Topics include team culture, fostering creativity and coordination, making group decisions, and dealing with a variety of personalities. You will participate in a number of exercises to illustrate principles of teamwork and to give you practice not only in diagnosing team problems but also in taking action to improve total team performance.

Microeconomics

The discipline of microeconomics is the foundation of much of what you study in business school and is a tool of analysis of specific market and non-market interactions. The base-level course provides you with the essential frameworks and concepts to study market equilibrium, firm and consumer behavior, and competitive interactions through the lens of microeconomics. The advanced applications options apply the frameworks to specific contexts, such as auctions, price discrimination, and business strategy.

Optimization and Simulation Modeling

Disciplined thought is often based on analytical models: simplified, quantitative depictions of a complex reality that allow you to focus your attention on a few key issues. Management runs on numbers and models. Whatever your current level of modeling skills, improving those skills is a key to success. Even if you never construct models yourself, as a manager you will be a consumer of them. The advanced applications option of this course assumes prior experience with optimization and simulation modeling and combines smart pricing and market design with modeling applications.

Organizational Behavior

Building on the discipline of social psychology, this course leads you to cultivate mindsets and build skills to understand the ways in which organizations and their members affect each other. You will learn frameworks for diagnosing and resolving problems in organizational settings. The course relates theory and research to organizational problems by reviewing basic concepts such as individual motivation and behavior; decision making; interpersonal communication and influence; small group behavior; and dyadic, individual, and inter-group conflict and cooperation.

Featured Courses

Distribution Requirements

Distribution requirements focus on specific business functions and business theory. You must successfully complete a certain number of units and no more than one course within each area.

Designed to be the natural follow-up to the Finance I courses, Finance II includes courses that will develop and extend standard tools and techniques of financial analysis and apply these skills to a wide range of issues related to valuation of cash flows and control and capital structure.

Human Resource Management

Human resources are often the most valuable assets of the organization and the most difficult to manage. Drawing on the disciplines of economics, social psychology, and organizational sociology, the course offerings in Human Resource Management give you frameworks and concepts that help you manage the people in your organization. Course options focus on small, scaling, large, and global organizations.

Information Management

Knowledge of technology (computing, networks, software applications, etc.) is a prerequisite for a successful manager. Understanding the implications of technology for management, strategy, and organization is even more important. So rather than just look at a snapshot of the current status of different technologies, the information management courses focus on management issues, such as: How do information technologies create value? How do you implement them? How do they affect the structure of competition?

Macroeconomics

This course gives students the background they need to understand the broad movements in the global economy. Key topics include long-run economic growth, technological change, wage inequality, international trade, interest rates, inflation, exchange rates, and monetary policy. By the end of the course, students should be able to read and understand the discussions of economic issues in The Economist , The Wall Street Journal , The New York Times , or the Congressional Budget Office .

Managerial Accounting

To evaluate business strategies and outcomes, you must understand the many ways that firms account for, control, and manage costs. Courses in this area explore alternative costing methods and how the resulting cost information can be used for decision making, planning, and performance measurement.

Our marketing courses introduce you to the substantive and procedural aspects of marketing management. You’ll learn about analyzing the needs and wants of potential customers and about creating and delivering goods and services profitably.

Our operations courses address managerial issues arising in the operations of both manufacturing and service industries. You will learn about the challenges and issues confronting operations managers and gain language, conceptual models, and analytical techniques that are broadly applicable in confronting those challenges.

These courses examine fundamental issues of general management and leadership within an organization. You will learn about setting an organization’s strategic direction, aligning structure to implement strategy, and leading individuals within the firm. You will master concepts, frameworks, and tools to assess an industry and a firm’s competitive environment and to craft alternatives. You will study the interplay among formal structure, informal networks, and culture in shaping organizational performance. By integrating leadership theory, the lessons of practical application, and your own experience, you will develop skills and capabilities essential to leading others. And you’ll gain a better understanding of your own leadership preferences, strengths, and weaknesses.

Strategy Beyond Markets

Business leaders must increasingly engage in strategy beyond markets, interacting with politicians, bureaucrats, voters, and others who help set the rules of the game. These players can make your product illegal, force you to change your business model, or force your competitors to change theirs. Be they at Uber or Chevron, CEOs of many major companies report spending a majority of their time engaging with these non-market issues even though managers rarely gain exposure to them earlier in their careers. This area will prepare you to strategically interact with these important constituents, organizations, and institutions outside of markets.

Oyinda Ajayi

The core classes have definitely created a foundation that would support me as I go forward in my career. As a business leader, they are fundamental things that you should know and understand. For anyone thinking of business school as a next step, I would say absolutely do it. You cannot imagine the amount of growth and opportunities that come with this experience.

Each MBA student undertakes a global experience to fully appreciate the complexities of global management. You can choose from various exciting programs. Not only will you broaden your worldview, but you’ll get to share these transformational experiences with your peers back on campus.

Based on 2023–2024 course offerings and subject to change.

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MBA Curriculum and Core Courses in an MBA Program

MBA Curriculum and Core Courses Simplified

The foundation of any Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree lies in its curriculum. An amalgamation of rigorous academic concepts and practical applications, the MBA curriculum serves as the groundwork for broadening business acumen. From understanding complex business strategies to grasping the principles of financial management, students cultivate skills that allow them to navigate the multifaceted world of business confidently.

Core courses play a pivotal role in this transformative journey. Establishing a solid base in diverse business disciplines, these classes ensure students acquire a comprehensive understanding of the business ecosystem. They arm students with the tools to make informed decisions, devise effective strategies, and lead with authority. Here’s a glance at the cornerstone subjects generally incorporated within the MBA core curriculum:

Economics : Equips students with an understanding of economic theories and principles that drive business decisions.
Finance : Provides the foundations of financial theory, covering topics like capital management, budgeting, and investment strategy.
Marketing : Delivers insight into creating, promoting, and delivering goods and services to consumers.
Operations Management : Offers knowledge about the efficient control of production and business operations.
Organizational Behavior : Explores how individuals and groups behave within an organization, aiming to enhance leadership and teamwork skills.
Accounting : Teaches students about financial reporting, analysis, and the effective communication of financial information.
Business Strategy : Introduces students to the art of strategic planning and decision-making.

This well-rounded exposure to various business disciplines is what sets the MBA degree apart. The core courses not only impart essential knowledge but also promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They create versatile business leaders, capable of steering their organizations towards success in a constantly evolving business landscape.

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MBA Curriculum and Core Courses

The Structure of an MBA Curriculum

Core courses.

The heartbeat of an MBA curriculum is its core courses. Designed to instill essential knowledge in various areas of business, these classes play a significant role in shaping a well-rounded business professional. They serve as the building blocks for advanced study and specialized concentrations, ensuring that students have a comprehensive grasp of business fundamentals.

The core courses aim to broaden students’ understanding of business from all angles. They delve into key areas such as financial management, organizational behavior, marketing, operations, and strategy. By integrating theory with practical examples, these courses provide a real-world context that allows students to understand the applicability of what they’re learning.

Here’s a snapshot of the common subjects usually offered as part of the core curriculum in most MBA programs:

Accounting : Teaches students about the financial backbone of businesses, with a focus on financial reporting and analysis.
Economics : Provides an understanding of economic principles and how they influence business decisions and strategies.
Finance : Offers insight into financial management principles, including capital management, budgeting, and investment strategies.
Marketing : Introduces the process of creating and marketing goods or services to customers, with a focus on marketing strategy and customer behavior.
Operations Management : Covers the planning and control of business operations, providing students with a clear view of production and service management.
Organizational Behavior : Explores how individuals and groups behave within an organization, helping students develop leadership and teamwork skills.
Business Strategy : Teaches students about strategic decision-making and planning, preparing them to make high-level decisions that can influence the direction of a business.

These core courses provide students with the tools they need to understand and navigate the world of business. They lay the groundwork for further specialization and equip students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.

Electives and Specializations

Following the completion of core courses, MBA students venture into the realm of electives and specializations. This phase of the MBA curriculum offers the opportunity to tailor the degree to specific career aspirations.

Electives provide students with the flexibility to explore areas of interest in greater depth. They can select from a wide range of subjects that extend beyond the core curriculum, allowing them to acquire specialized knowledge and skills. Whether a student aims to delve into the nuances of digital marketing or wishes to understand the intricacies of supply chain management, electives serve as a pathway to individualize their educational journey.

In parallel, specializations or concentrations enable students to gain expertise in a particular domain. They can choose to specialize in areas like Finance, Marketing, Operations, Technology, or Entrepreneurship, among others. Each specialization offers an in-depth understanding of the field and prepares students for roles within that sector.

Here are some popular MBA specializations:

Finance : This specialization focuses on topics like corporate finance, investment analysis, and financial markets, preparing students for careers in banking, financial consulting, or financial management.
Marketing : This specialization covers advanced marketing concepts and strategies, consumer behavior, and brand management. Graduates often pursue careers in marketing management, market research, or brand management.
Operations Management : This track delves into process management, supply chain management, and logistics. Graduates often find roles in manufacturing, logistics, and operations consulting.
Information Systems : This specialization explores the use of information systems in business operations and decision-making. Careers can include systems analyst, IT consultant, or IT manager.
Entrepreneurship : This track prepares students to start and manage their own businesses, covering areas like venture capital, innovation, and business plan development.

See a detailed listing of 55 Concentrations offered in the U.S..

By integrating core courses, electives, and specializations, the MBA curriculum offers a holistic and customized learning experience. It paves the way for graduates to step confidently into a variety of business roles, armed with a blend of broad-based knowledge and specialized skills.

Capstone Projects and Experiential Learning Opportunities

In addition to coursework, MBA curricula often culminate in a capstone project. This comprehensive assignment integrates the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program, challenging students to apply learned concepts to practical situations.

Capstone projects vary in format, but they generally involve solving a business problem or developing a business plan. These projects enable students to showcase their ability to apply theoretical knowledge, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills in a practical setting.

Experiential learning serves as another key component of many MBA programs. It bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, providing students with first-hand exposure to business operations.

Below are some of the typical experiential learning opportunities in MBA programs:

Internships : Offer students the opportunity to gain work experience in a field related to their specialization. Internships allow students to apply their classroom learning to real-world situations, gain practical skills, and build professional networks.
Study Abroad Programs : Some MBA programs offer international immersion experiences. These programs provide a global perspective on business, exposing students to different cultures and business practices.
Business Simulations : These interactive tools immerse students in a realistic business scenario, challenging them to make strategic decisions that affect a virtual company’s performance.
Consulting Projects : Students work with real companies to address existing business challenges. These projects offer an opportunity to apply theory to practice and often involve collaboration with experienced professionals.

By combining academic learning with practical application, capstone projects and experiential learning opportunities enrich the MBA experience. They prepare students for the dynamic business world and equip them with the necessary tools to solve complex business problems effectively.

Common Core Courses in an MBA Program

Accounting and financial management.

A core element of an MBA program, the Accounting and Financial Management course instills fundamental knowledge that shapes successful business leaders.

Accounting provides the ability to understand and analyze financial statements, giving students a window into the financial health of a business. Topics typically covered include financial reporting, cost accounting, and managerial accounting. It’s crucial for decision-making and offers insights into profitability, financial stability, and growth potential of an organization.

Financial Management , on the other hand, educates students about capital management, investment decisions, and financial risk management. It revolves around the efficient management of a company’s finances to maximize shareholder value. Concepts like capital budgeting, asset valuation, risk, and return, and working capital management are generally covered.

Together, these subjects play a crucial role in forming the backbone of any successful business. They arm future leaders with the tools necessary to make informed financial decisions, manage resources effectively, and steer their organizations towards financial sustainability. Understanding these concepts allows business leaders to navigate financial complexities, fuel growth, and foster business resilience.

Marketing Management

Marketing Management is a critical core course in an MBA program, building proficiency in key marketing strategies and concepts.

Students delve into the dynamics of market segmentation, targeting, and positioning. They explore elements of the marketing mix—product, price, place, and promotion—and how to integrate these components to create effective marketing strategies. Topics like consumer behavior, brand management, digital marketing, and marketing analytics also take center stage.

The knowledge and skills acquired in this course extend beyond conventional marketing roles. Irrespective of the industry or function, every manager needs a solid understanding of marketing. Whether it’s launching a new product, entering a new market, or managing customer relationships, marketing principles come into play.

An understanding of marketing management equips future business leaders with the tools to anticipate and meet customer needs, establish a strong brand presence, and drive business growth. It provides them with a customer-centric lens, critical for business success in today’s competitive marketplace.

Operations Management

Operations Management, a staple in the MBA core curriculum, unravels the intricacies of managing and improving business processes.

This course presents a deep dive into the systematic design, direction, and control of processes that transform inputs into services and products for customers. Key topics often include process analysis, capacity planning, inventory management, supply chain management, quality control, and project management.

Operations Managemen t holds a central role in optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations. It provides the tools to improve productivity, minimize waste, and create value in an organization’s operations.

For future business leaders, an understanding of operations management is pivotal. It equips them with the ability to streamline processes, enhance quality, and manage resources effectively, ultimately driving operational excellence. It’s not confined to manufacturing or logistics; these principles apply to any process-driven activity in an organization, from customer service to human resources.

In a business world characterized by increasing complexity and rapid change, the insights gained from studying operations management are invaluable. They enable managers to navigate operational challenges, adapt to change, and drive performance improvement, crucial for sustaining competitive advantage.

Organizational Behavior and Leadership

Organizational Behavior and Leadership form a key component of MBA programs, emphasizing the human side of management.

Organizational Behavior (OB) delves into how individuals, groups, and structures impact behavior within an organization. It offers insight into team dynamics, motivation, communication, conflict resolution, and organizational culture. By studying OB, students gain an understanding of human behavior in a work context, enabling them to manage people and interpersonal dynamics effectively.

Leadership focuses on developing the essential skills required to guide teams and organizations. It covers topics like leadership styles, decision-making, strategic planning, change management, and ethical leadership. Students learn not only about the traits and behaviors of effective leaders but also how to adapt their leadership style to different situations and individuals.

These courses play a pivotal role in developing management skills. Whether managing a team, leading a project, or running an entire organization, leadership and understanding of organizational behavior are crucial. These competencies allow future business leaders to inspire and motivate their teams, manage change effectively, and foster a positive organizational culture. They provide a foundation for effective leadership in any managerial role, across industries and sectors.

Strategy and Business Policy

The Strategy and Business Policy course stands as a capstone in MBA programs, focusing on the macro perspective of managing businesses.

This course hones students’ skills in formulating, implementing, and evaluating cross-functional decisions that enable an organization to achieve its objectives. Key topics typically include industry analysis, competitive strategy, corporate strategy, business models, and strategic change.

Students learn to identify strategic issues, analyze competitive forces, and evaluate strategic alternatives. They develop an understanding of how organizations create and sustain competitive advantage. Case studies of real-world business situations often serve as key learning tools, allowing students to apply strategic concepts in complex, dynamic environments.

Understanding strategic decision-making is critical for any future business leader. Whether deciding to enter a new market, launch a new product, acquire a company, or pursue a strategic partnership, these decisions have far-reaching implications on a company’s performance.

Strategy and Business Policy courses prepare students for these high-stakes decisions, equipping them with the frameworks and tools to shape the strategic direction of their organizations. These insights prove invaluable in driving business success, navigating competitive landscapes, and steering companies towards their strategic objectives.

Adapting to Changes in Business Environment

Integrating technology and data analytics into the curriculum.

As the digital revolution continues to reshape the business landscape, MBA curriculums adapt accordingly. They now integrate technology-driven courses like data analytics, artificial intelligence, and information systems.

Data Analytics stands at the intersection of statistical analysis and business management, helping students turn raw data into actionable business insights. This course covers topics like data visualization, predictive analytics, and statistical modeling. As companies increasingly rely on data to inform their strategies, these skills are becoming more crucial than ever.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) modules familiarize students with AI and ML concepts and their applications in business. With AI transforming various business functions, an understanding of its principles and capabilities can give future business leaders a competitive edge.

Information Systems (IS) , on the other hand, covers how to leverage technology to improve business processes and decision-making. The course introduces students to systems like ERP, CRM, and SCM, equipping them with the knowledge to select and manage these systems effectively.

These technology-centered courses are not just for aspiring tech managers or data scientists. They equip all future business leaders with the tools to navigate a digital business landscape, drive technology-enabled innovation, and lead data-driven decision-making. In an increasingly digital and data-driven world, these competencies are becoming essential for success in any management role.

Emphasizing Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Reflecting the growing demand for sustainable and ethical business practices, MBA programs are integrating courses on sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Sustainability Management courses enable students to understand the intersection between business, environment, and society. They explore topics such as sustainable supply chain management, green marketing, and corporate sustainability strategy. These courses aim to educate future business leaders about the environmental and social impact of business decisions and how to manage them effectively.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) , on the other hand, delves into the ethical and societal aspects of business. It covers areas like stakeholder management, ethical decision making, and CSR strategy. Students learn about the social responsibilities of corporations and how to balance profit-making with values and ethics.

By incorporating these subjects into their curriculum, MBA programs foster a mindset of ethical and responsible decision-making among students. They equip future business leaders with the knowledge and skills to lead their organizations responsibly, considering not just profit, but also people and the planet. In a world where companies are increasingly judged by their social and environmental impact, these competencies have become vital for any aspiring business leader.

Group Projects and Teamwork Method

Beyond individual work, MBA programs place a strong emphasis on group projects as a cornerstone of their teaching methodology. This approach fosters collaboration and teamwork, mirroring the dynamics of real-world business environments where cross-functional teams often drive initiatives.

Group projects vary in scope and nature. They can involve tackling case studies, developing business plans, executing simulations, or even consulting projects for real companies. Working on these projects, students draw on the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills within their team to navigate complex tasks, make collective decisions, and deliver results.

The benefits of this teaching method extend beyond mastering course content. It builds communication and interpersonal skills , essential for any future management role. By collaborating on projects, students learn to delegate tasks, manage conflicts, leverage team strengths, and align team members towards common goals.

Moreover, teamwork encourages a learning environment where students learn not just from their professors, but also from each other. They share insights, challenge each other’s ideas, and broaden their perspectives through lively discussions and debates.

In essence, group projects turn the classroom into a microcosm of the business world, preparing students for the collaborative and cross-functional nature of their future management roles. The skills developed through these projects – from team management and conflict resolution to communication and persuasion – are valuable assets in the toolkit of any aspiring business leader.

Guest Speakers and Networking Opportunities

MBA programs understand the value of guest speakers and networking events in providing students with exposure to industry experts and expanding their professional network.

Guest speakers, who are typically experienced professionals or subject matter experts, bring real-world insights and practical knowledge to the classroom. They share their experiences, discuss industry trends, and offer valuable perspectives on various business topics. These sessions allow students to gain a deeper understanding of industry practices, current challenges, and emerging opportunities.

Networking events, on the other hand, provide valuable opportunities for students to connect with professionals from diverse industries and build meaningful relationships. These events can take the form of career fairs, alumni gatherings, industry panels, or conferences. Engaging with professionals and fellow students facilitates the exchange of ideas, fosters mentorship opportunities, and opens doors to potential internships or job offers.

The benefits of guest speakers and networking opportunities are manifold. Firstly, students gain exposure to different industries and career paths, broadening their horizons and helping them make more informed career choices. Secondly, they establish connections with professionals who can provide guidance, advice, and potential career opportunities. Finally, these interactions enhance the learning experience by bridging theory and practice, making classroom concepts more tangible and relevant.

In summary, guest speakers and networking events play a vital role in enriching the MBA experience, offering students exposure to industry expertise and expanding their professional network. These interactions contribute to their personal and professional growth, positioning them for success as they embark on their career journeys.

MBA programs typically have a set list of core courses that all students are required to take. The curriculum is designed to provide a well-rounded education in key business areas. However, some programs may offer limited flexibility to choose electives within the core course requirements.

While there are common core courses found in many MBA programs, the specific courses and their content may vary between schools. Each program may tailor its core curriculum to align with its educational philosophy, faculty expertise, and industry trends.

Some MBA programs offer the option to waive certain core courses if you can demonstrate sufficient prior academic coursework or professional experience in those areas. This is typically determined on a case-by-case basis and varies between institutions.

Core courses provide a broad-based education and may not offer specialization options. However, they serve as a foundation for further specialization through elective courses that allow you to focus on specific areas of interest.

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Full-time MBA Courses & Curriculum

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Through complex coursework, experiential learning, and the case method, the Georgetown MBA curriculum inspires collaboration among both students and faculty. A challenging core curriculum with an emphasis on ethical leadership provides students with a global management framework that is crucial for continued professional accomplishments. Specialized electives and intensive learning experiences allow students to tailor their coursework and further strengthen their professional skill set to advance in today’s global marketplace.

All students begin by taking individual core classes including finance, marketing, strategy, decision sciences, economics, and management in a cohort of approximately 60-70 students. Starting in the second semester, full-time students begin to tailor the curriculum to meet their interests by taking elective courses in addition to core classes.

Current first and second year Full-time students should refer to Canvas for their curriculum map.

STEM-Designated Management Science Major

The Georgetown MBA offers a variety of coursework focused on quantitative analysis and management science, allowing students to complete a STEM-designated management science major. In addition to the STEM-eligible credits you will take as part of the core curriculum above, students must complete 12 elective credits during the MBA program from the designated list to earn the designation.

Opening Term

Your MBA studies will begin with three weeks of intensive, interactive and engaging instruction in leadership development and global business. You will complete the Leading Teams for Performance and Impact and Structure of Global Industries courses.

Core Courses

Leading Teams for Performance and Impact
Structure of Global Industries
Accounting Fundamentals
Corporate Financial Reporting
Financial Analysis for Managers and Investors
Firm Analysis and Strategy
Financial Markets and Corporate Decision Making
Marketing Analysis & Customer Strategy
Managerial Statistics
Analytical Problem Solving
Leadership Communications
Business and Policy in a Global Economy
Ethical Leadership
Global Business Experience

Although you do not have to choose an area of concentration, you can customize your academic experience by selecting electives from more than 70 course offerings.

Taxes & Business Strategy
Startup Law
Investment Analysis
Derivatives and Financial Markets
Real Estate Private Equity
Project Finance
Real Estate Public Debt
Real Estate Private Debt
Real Estate Public Equity
Private Equity
Entrepreneurial Finance & Venture Capital
Valuation
Applied Value Investing
Financial Analysis & Modeling
Financial Markets & Crises
Strategic Marketing Research
Applied Product Management
Consumer Behavior
How to Build Strong Brands
Data and Society
Customer Analytics
Practicum: Consumer Analytics
Global Marketing
Social Marketing for Global Good
Critical Conversations
Understanding Social Innovation
Managing the Enterprise
Innovation Through Inclusion
Impact Investing
Lean Startup Principles
Design Thinking & Service Consulting
Globalization & Wine Industry
Building Entrepreneurial Ventures
Growing Entrepreneurial Businesses
Defending the Bottom Line
Understanding Entrepreneurship
Consulting Methods & Methods
Consulting Strategic Analysis
Social Entrepreneurship
Advanced Oral Presentations
Meditation and Leadership
Leadership & Management of Nonprofit Organizations
Sports Leadership
Negotiations
Advanced Coaching: Leadership Fellows

Operations and Analytics

Decision Support Systems
Decision Theory: Small Data
Environmentally Sustainable Operations & Business Models
Regression Analysis
Sustainable Business Practicum
Data Science for Business Decisions
Analytics Advantage
Database Development & Management
Applied Data Visualization
Global Supply Chain Management
Internet Business Technologies

Strategy, Economics, Ethics & Public Policy

The Non-Market Environment in DC
The Miracle of Markets
Strategies Beyond the Market
Tech Disruption & The Future of Work
Peer to Peer Economies
Economics of Strategic Behavior
Organizational Design Strategy
China: Economy, Politics, & Business
Corporate Social Responsibility
Game Theory
Technology Strategy
Antitrust & Business Strategy
Strategic Pricing
Global Strategy

Intensive Learning Experiences

Intensive Learning Experiences (ILEs) are elective courses offered in short time periods (one to two weeks) and provide one and a half or three hours of academic credit. These courses use innovative pedagogies, such as experiential learning, client-centered work, and off-site visits that take advantage of the concentrated time format. This list is a general guide and is subject to change.

Infrastructure Finance
Understanding Mutual Funds
Startup Factory
The Life of Work
Net Assessment Strategy
National Security & The Global Economy
Mobile and AI Strategies, Products & Business Models
Core Principles of Data Visualization
Developing New Business Models
Effective Crisis Management
Women and Leadership
Fundamentals & Techniques of Value Investing
Information-Based Investment Strategies
Joint Ventures & Strategic Alliances
Coaching High Performance Teams
Corporate Innovation & Intrapreneurship
Venturing for Business & Social Value
Digital Advertising
Real Estate Development
The Business of Defense
Disruption in US Healthcare
AI, Talent Analytics, & the Future of Work
Commercial Approaches to the Public Sector

Transfer Credit Policy

Georgetown McDonough MBA students may petition for the transfer of a maximum of 12 credits for specific courses taken at an accredited institution prior to their admission at McDonough. Only courses that satisfy the following requirements will be considered for transfer credit:

Course must be graduate level, relevant to the MBA, taken for credit at degree-granting institutions, and meet McDonough academic standards as determined by the Associate Dean of MBA Programs in consultation with appropriate faculty.
Only courses completed in the last seven years (from time of request) for which you earned a “B” or better (or the equivalent) will be considered.
Courses applied toward a previous degree cannot be approved for transfer. If the course to be transferred is on a transcript for a previous degree, it must be clearly noted that it was not used to satisfy any degree requirements.
Transfer credit requests for core courses will only be approved if you also pass a waiver exam proving mastery of core concepts. If the waiver exam is not passed, no transfer credits will be granted.

You must complete a minimum of 75% of the credits required for the MBA at Georgetown McDonough. Therefore, transferring credits may limit opportunities for registration in Consortium of Universities in D.C. courses, cross registration at Georgetown University, and study abroad.

Requests for transfer credit will be reviewed for Flex MBA students after admission to McDonough is granted; full-time students’ requests will be reviewed after being admitted and submitting a deposit.

Registration Outside the MBA Program

As an additional way to customize your MBA, we offer you the opportunity to request to take up to 13.5 elective credits outside of the McDonough School of Business. Relevant graduate-level classes may be taken elsewhere within Georgetown University through cross registration. You can also pursue courses through the Consortium of Universities in D.C., such as: American University, George Mason University, Howard University, The George Washington University, and the University of Maryland at College Park.

Certificates and Experiential Learning

Through certificate programs, academic tutorials, in-class client work, and experiences like the Venture Fellows Program and Real Estate Clinic, we bring the real world to the classroom for our students.

Continue Exploring McDonough MBA

students walking on healy lawn in the fall

Year One, Fall

Begin the year with personal leadership activities, reflection, and small team projects..

+ View Curriculum & Videos

HBS's MBA curriculum includes a range of exciting courses and is frequently refreshed with new content. The goal is to give students a firm grasp of broad-based fundamentals. The School's inductive learning model goes beyond facts and theories—a process that teaches individuals not only how to manage organizations, but also how to continually grow and learn throughout life.

During the first year at HBS, all students pursue the same course of study: the Required Curriculum and FIELD. By studying under a common curriculum, students build a solid, broad foundation of general management concepts and skills across all the key disciplines.

Required Curriculum

Finance 1 (FIN1)
Financial Reporting and Control (FRC)
Leadership & Organizational Behavior (LEAD)
Technology & Operations Management (TOM)
Short Intensive Programs (SIPs)

→ View Course Descriptions

Year One, Spring

Practice teamwork and deepen conversations about diversity as you prepare for a global immersion..

The Required Curriculum forms the first year of study and establishes a common foundation in the fundamental practices of business including finance, marketing, leadership, negotiation, operations, strategy, and more. All students participate in the same set of classes within their section of 90 colleagues, including FIELD, which complements case-method learning with smaller hands-on team projects, personal reflection, and global immersions. In addition to acquiring specific analytical and quantitative skills, students become acclimated to MBA Program standards of communication and collaboration, and develop strong, lasting relationships with one another.

Business, Government, and the International Economy (BGIE)
Strategy (STRAT)
The Entrepreneurial Manager (TEM)
Finance 2 (FIN2)
Leadership and Corporate Accountability (LCA)
FIELD Global Immersion (FGI)

→ Course Descriptions

Year Two, Fall

Choose from an unparalleled range of elective courses to build on the concepts developed in the required curriculum..

+ View Curriculum

During the second year, students choose from an unparalleled range of elective courses to build on the basic concepts developed in the Required Curriculum. This portion of the program enables students to integrate the functional skills learned in the first year into an understanding of the firm as a total enterprise.

Students may take any combination of courses—up to five courses per semester—and also have the opportunity to cross-register for courses in other select graduate programs.

Elective Curriculum

Consult the online listing of Elective Curriculum MBA courses for faculty biographies, unit overviews, and detailed course descriptions.

Cross-Registration

Opportunities for students to take classes at other select graduate programs during their second year.

→ More About Cross-registration

Year 2, Spring

Integrate the functional skills you've learned into an understanding of the firm as a total enterprise..

During the winter term, choose from an array of courses spanning topics from corporate board leadership to reimagining capitalism and authentic leadership development to managing global health. You also have the opportunity to participate in Immersive Field Course (IFC).

Application Requirements
Student Experience Q&A
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Understanding the Online MBA Curriculum: Courses and Real-world Applications

Do you have what it takes to solve complex problems that businesses face today? Do you have the confidence to take strategic risks against critics within your organization? Whether you’re interested in the C-suite or founding a non-profit venture, an MBA can take you where you want to go.

MBA degrees are widely known for their prestige, value and diversity of applications. They usually are geared toward business professionals who want to move up in leadership or develop a new set of skills for a new position. Each MBA program differs in its focuses, but most will give you deep expertise in financial management, business development, marketing management, strategy and more.

An MBA Success Story

American business leader Indra Nooyi leveraged the skills she gained from an MBA at companies like Johnson and Johnson and BCG. She landed the top spot at Pepsi in 2006 as one of the first female CEOs and, therefore, had to create her own playbook. 1 During her 24-year-tenure, she developed a strategic redirection at the company called Performance with Purpose and ultimately grew sales by 80%. 2,3 She was not afraid to make bold moves, such as acquiring healthier product lines like Tropicana and a merger with the Quaker Oats Company. 2 She steered the company toward eco-friendly practices, including 100 percent renewable energy at its facilities. 2

If you choose to pursue an MBA degree like Nooyi, you will not only gain business fundamentals, but also more modern and specialized skills that can help move your business into the future. With MBA programs prioritizing experiential learning as part of the curriculum, you will also learn how to think like a leader. 4 With that mindset, you will be better prepared to lead an organization toward growth and profitability, especially in uncertain times.

With all of the promise and potential an MBA brings, let's take a closer look at the core curriculum and how exactly it can benefit your career.

Unlocking Success: Navigating the Online MBA Curriculum

MBA programs typically offer a multifaceted curriculum, which includes core business subjects, to develop leadership skills. Courses in organizational behavior enhance understanding of group dynamics and effective team management. Strategy courses teach decision-making and vision-setting abilities crucial for leadership roles. Marketing and finance courses provide insights into market analysis, resource allocation and strategic planning.

You will learn essential skills, such as how to: 5

Create a company culture that attracts and retains top talent
Use design thinking to ideate, develop and implement solutions to difficult business problems
Develop strategies to increase sales of your products and services
Promote and maintain the company’s positive image or reinvent it based on new values and priorities

By taking a broad range of courses—such as leadership, financial accounting , marketing, and operations management—MBA students gain exposure to diverse skill sets and real-world scenarios. During your MBA journey, you can discover strengths and interests you didn’t know you had. These experiences can help shape your career trajectory and development as a leader.

Real-world Applications: Bridging Theory and Practices

Using William and Mary's Online MBA as an example, the MBA curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, developing students into well-rounded leaders who can navigate complex business challenges, which include supply chain disruptions. For example, ecommerce founder Ahmed Shabana entered an MBA program after launching Instapill, a healthcare product supplier. 6 While taking supply chain courses, the entrepreneur read business cases about Zara’s just-in-time production model, a cost-cutting strategy he might not have discovered on his own. 6

From design thinking to wicked problem-solving , course assignments are designed to be relevant to students’ workplaces. You can expect to have immediate opportunities to apply strategies you are learning in class and make tangible impacts on operations or other areas of the business.

"I just completed the Business Analytics course, and that helped me dig into the numbers that I see daily and how to see, work and play with the data that we as a company have currently and what we will have in the future," says Benjamin H., Director of Transportation Operations, Carolina Tank Lines, Mason MBA '20. "In Global Managerial Economics, the curriculum played a key role in what I do because our economy and the trucking industry are basically tied together. If the economy is slow, then the trucking industry is going to be slow. For instance, the trade wars and the North American Free Trade Agreement not being ratified puts a lot of constrictions on the economy and on the trucking industry because it restricts our ability to deliver freight."

Other MBA experiences that integrate theory with practice include: 7,8

Case Method: Encourages students to think critically by analyzing business decisions that real leaders have made. In an online course, students may debate the pros and cons of a business strategy through discussion boards or forums.
Capstone Projects: Involves in-depth research, analysis and development of actionable recommendations to solve complex business issues for an organization.
Experiential Learning: Reinforces classroom learning through internships, consulting projects or simulations, providing MBA grads with specific achievements to highlight during interviews.

Online Learning: Embracing Technology and Flexibility

For individuals with non-traditional lifestyles, online MBA programs remove barriers to higher education. If you’re juggling a full-time job, are a busy parent or have other needs and responsibilities, online learning gives you the chance to engage with MBA coursework on your terms. 9

Online MBA courses often leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance curriculum delivery. This creates a rich and interactive experience, with unlimited access to lecture materials and resources. 9 In fact, studies have shown that students can learn material faster when they have easy access to recorded lectures and other course materials. 9

Networking in the Online MBA Environment: Building Bridges

One of the invaluable aspects of pursuing an online MBA is the networking opportunities it offers. Students have the chance to build professional connections, engage with alumni networks and establish industry connections. These networks serve as catalysts for career growth, providing avenues for collaboration, mentorship, professional development and career advancement.

Follow these tips to become a networking pro: 10

Virtual study groups: Form groups where you can discuss projects and share tips with your classmates. Take advantage of platforms such as Facebook, Slack and Whatsapp to facilitate communication and collaboration.
Online discussions: Actively participate in forums to find potential study partners and gain fresh insights and perspectives by reading your peers’ posts.
Live lectures/guest speaker sessions: Benefit from a classroom-like experience and Q&A opportunities, which are designed to maximize learning and networking opportunities.
On-campus events: Foster teamwork and connect with peers and faculty outside formal settings to build relationships.
Alumni networking: Seek mentoring from alumni, who can share their career journeys and offer advice.

Your peers in an online MBA program will likely bring varied expertise in areas ranging from engineering and economics to social sciences and humanities. Through discussions, events and consulting projects, you will become part of a dynamic learning environment designed to reflect real-world interdisciplinary teamwork and perspectives.

The Future of Online MBA Education: Trends and Innovations

As online MBA programs continue to evolve, they adapt to global changes and embrace innovative trends. From specialized concentrations that offer a serious competitive advantage in the job market, to experiential learning opportunities that bridge theory with practice, the future of online MBA education is dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the business world.

Whether you’ve had success as an entrepreneur or are a non-business major, the online MBA curriculum equips you with the knowledge, tools, skills and networks needed to be an innovative leader that drives an organization’s success.

An MBA for Real-World Problem-Solvers at William & Mary

Gain the skills you need to tackle today’s business challenges and the innovative perspective to design tomorrow’s solutions. Complete your online MBA in as little as two years in the acclaimed Raymond A. Mason School of Business .

The Online MBA degree program blends the best of William & Mary—a "Public Ivy" education, world-class faculty, small classes and a close-knit, global community —with the convenience of an online program .

For more information, schedule an appointment with an admissions outreach advisor today.

Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from finance.yahoo.com/news/pepsico-former-ceo-led-fortune-110000513.html
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from worldfinance.com/special-reports/how-indra-nooyi-changed-the-face-of-pepsico
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from businessbecause.com/news/mba-degree/6036/5-famous-mbas-who-have-changed-the-world
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from forbes.com/sites/patrickmullane/2023/04/13/dont-believe-what-you-hear-the-mba-is-more-relevant-than-ever/?sh=4233701876df
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from mastersportal.com/articles/340/10-very-good-reasons-to-do-an-mba-degree.html
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from forbes.com/sites/rhettpower/2023/02/07/online-mba-programs-are-booming-how-do-you-choose-the-right-one/?sh=320529fc6058
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from topmba.com/mba-programs/case-case-study-method
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from fortune.com/education/articles/top-business-schools-focus-on-building-future-leaders-with-experiential-learning-model/
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from yellowdig.co/post/how-virtual-learning-make-education-more-flexible-for-students
Retrieved on March 29, 2024, from graduateguide.com/5-tips-for-networking-in-online-mba-programs/

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William & Mary has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

Full-Time MBA (FTMBA)

Full-time mba.

A full-time two-year MBA program for early career professionals to sharpen business fundamentals, learn to leverage technology for business and social impact, and empower leadership of diverse global teams. Opportunities for networking and specialization enable students to use the MBA to transform their career.

Marshall is located in one of the most vibrant global economies and is part of a large, diverse university ready to engage the world’s demanding challenges. The Trojan family, known for its strong network, includes more than 450,000 alumni, where 90,000+ are from the Marshall School. Our campus community includes a world-class faculty, high performing students and a dedicated professional staff.

Three USC Marshall Full-Time MBA students.

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PROGRAM PROFILE - FULL-TIME MBA (FTMBA)

Program Length: 2 years

Format: In-Person

Class Schedule: Weekdays on campus.

Student Profile: Early-Career Professionals

STEM Designation: STEM Certified

FTMBA PROGRAM BENEFITS

A holistic academic-career program.

Marshall employs a holistic academic-career program model. Marshall has tightly integrated and aligned the academic, programmatic and career development of the MBA Program. Academic courses at the start of the MBA Core such as Communication for Management, Foundations for Your Professional Value and Structured Analysis for Unstructured Problems that explore self-awareness, leadership, communication and value-creation help students identify their personal interests and value in the marketplace.

Career Preparation

Engaging with Graduate Career Services ensures that you’re among the best-prepared candidates in the marketplace. You’ll partner with a career strategist on your career journey as you make connections to the organizations and industries that hire Marshall talent. Through one-on-one career coaching, self-reflection, involvement with career clubs, case competitions, career workshops, and recruiting events, you’ll come to a clear understanding of what you want, your differentiating skills and what’s important to you in your future career.

Elite Faculty

Marshall faculty devote a lot of effort designing core courses that build on and complement each other and the overall program learning goals. Marshall faculty are encouraged to engage in collaborative teaching, often partnering with each other to use common case studies to explore a common business problem from a variety of academic perspectives, providing students with a richer understanding of the circumstances, factors and issues of the case.

This inter-disciplinary teaching is enhanced by the incorporation of current events, career panels and forums, guest speakers and industry practitioners who support the academic content with real-world perspectives.

STEM Certification

As of Spring 2020, Marshall's entire Full-Time MBA Program is STEM certified. Marshall is one of a small number of business schools with a STEM MBA Program which is designed to combine data-driven decision-making and analytics with the overall MBA program learning objectives of developing a global and entrepreneurial mindset, building a deep understanding of business fundamentals, and leading high-performing teams.

The STEM MBA is focused on preparing students to fulfill the increasing need to apply quantitative and scientific methods to business challenges. Additionally, international graduates are able to apply to extend their 12 month OPT by an additional 24 months, potentially expanding their employment opportunities within the U.S.

Global Opportunities - PRIME Program

Los Angeles is perfectly situated to serve as the gateway to global business. PRIME is designed to put your collective classroom experience to use in an immersive experience abroad. After studying the cultural, economic, and political facets of a region, you will work with multi-national companies, domestic enterprises, and governmental institutions to develop recommendations and solutions for pressing economic and societal issues. You will have the opportunity to select one of six unique experiences in Southeast Asia and, where you will explore the history and culture of the region. Whether you visit the Great Wall or hike the Peruvian highlands, you'll have an unforgettable experience!

Career Insights Seminars

Developing strategies for lifelong career management and taking action on those strategies is the key to successfully managing one’s career and to exploring, identifying, and landing satisfying roles throughout a lifetime. To support our students in this effort, this course will deliver industry insight sessions to enable the student to improve industry awareness and gain a deeper understanding of the future of the business and industry.

MBA Alumni Mentor Program

One of the longest running programs of its kind at USC Marshall and brings MBA students and alumni together in a relationship designed to assist students in making informed career decisions. Our mentors are seasoned professionals from a variety of functions and industries and are typically USC alumni.

FULL-TIME MBA CURRICULUM

Academic overview.

Holistic Academic-Career Program: The program begins with MBA Core courses that explore self-awareness, leadership, communication and value creation in order to help students identify their personal interest and value in the market place. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and customizable to suit each individuals' career goals. The program offers 100 different electives and opportunities to take courses from other graduate schools at USC like the School of Cinematic Arts or Viterbi School of Engineering. The Core Curriculum is designed to provide students with the fundamental principles of business that every manager needs to know and is delivered over five terms within the first academic year.

In Term 4, student-teams participate in a consulting project with a Los Angeles-based company, developing solutions for real-life business problems, using fundamental business tools they have learned in the program. In Term 5, students also begin to explore global business through the Global Context of Business course followed by the PRIME overseas experience. USC Marshall’s signature PRIME overseas experience is an experiential opportunity that allows students to travel abroad to one of a select number of countries to gain first-hand knowledge of how business is done globally. During the 10-day PRIME trip, students visit domestic and multinational companies and governmental institutions, develop business insights and complete projects that take into consideration the cultural, financial, regulatory, political and other constraints and opportunities of the country.

Core Curriculum

GSBA-511: Microeconomics for Management

In this course, you will learn about supply and demand analysis, game theory, and the causes and consequences of market failures.

GSBA-540: Contemporary Issues for Competitive Strategy

Fundamental strategic business decisions can only be made effectively by viewing a firm holistically. This integrative course takes a broad view of the overall environment, including companies, customers, and competitors, to create a body of analytical tools to aid in strategic decision-making.

GSBA-541: Foundations of Your Professional Value

What drives you? This course is designed to help you put into place the foundational knowledge to discover, identify, and leverage your personal strengths to serve as catalysts in your career development.

GSBA-542: Communication for Management

This communication and leadership course is designed to jumpstart your development as a true leader in your respective field by enhancing your core leadership skills, professional communication style, and self-awareness through clinical research in leadership and communication theory.

GSBA-510: Accounting Concepts and Financial Reporting

Learn the language, rules, and conventions used in preparing financial statements to critically assess companies and make decisions based on financial data. The course provides foundational financial reporting knowledge for business managers.

GSBA-524: Data Science for Business

This course offers a deep dive into probability, statistics, and advanced analytics critical to managerial decision making. You will learn modern statistical techniques like neural networks, data mining, and clustering analysis through multiple applications, including R programming language.

GSBA-527: Structured Analysis for Unstructured Problems

In this course, you will learn how to grapple with how to frame problems and make decisions with incomplete information that is typical in the business world through problem-framing, analogical reasoning, hypothesis evaluation, and counterfactual thinking.

GSBA-548: Corporate Finance

Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of finance in this course designed to provide an introductory framework for understanding how financiers break down the components of a financial problem and make decisions as investors in capital markets.

GSBA-509: Marketing Management

Marketing concepts are at the core of every business. After this course, you will be able to understand marketing strategy, determine market opportunities, and apply both qualitative and quantitative frameworks from a managerial perspective.

GSBA-510: Accounting Concepts and Financial Reporting (Cont’d)

GSBA-524: Data Science for Business (Cont’d)

GSBA-548: Corporate Finance (Cont’d)

GSBA-504a: Operations Management

You will learn about the fundamentals of design, operations, and production systems of a firm's business practices critical to meeting consumer demands for goods and services.

GSBA-533: Organizational Behavior and Leadership

Leading, managing, and working collaboratively with others is essential to being effective in the workplace. By recognizing the motivations and behaviors of stakeholders inside and outside organizations, you will have a heightened ability to apply ethical principles and professional standards in the corporate world.

GSBA-552: Problem Solving and Decision Making: An Integrated Approach Electives

This immersive course will give you experience and exposure to actual unstructured business problems faced by various companies, ranging from startups to multinational organizations. You will apply classroom knowledge and your professional experience as you partner with local companies and help develop recommendations to solve business issues in this team-based consultancy project.

GSBA-503: Contemporary Issues in Competitive Global Strategy

In the quest to enter foreign markets, firms must look at the overall strategy to become multinational. In this course, you will learn several aspects of corporate and global strategy designed to help you understand and analyze significant business opportunities around the world.

GSBA-580: The Global Context of Business: PRIME Electives

In this course, you will put the material you learned in your core classes to the test in a week-long immersive experience abroad. You will analyze the influence of emerging business models and technologies that have the potential to significantly alter the industry landscape and society. After studying the cultural, economic, and political characteristics of your selected region, you will work with multi-national companies, domestic enterprises, and governmental institutions to develop recommendations for pressing economic and societal issues they aim to solve.

Elective Classes

Elective courses allow students to explore their areas of interest and develop deep competencies that align with their career goals.

MBA students may select 7.5 units of elective classes during the Spring semester of their first year. This provides students the opportunity to take classes that they feel will prepare them to be successful in their summer internship. Students may choose to take additional elective classes during the summer in lieu of an internship.

The second-year of the MBA program is intended to be customized to suit student’s interests and career goals. The 30 remaining elective units can be earned by: - Taking elective coursework – Marshall offers close to 100 elective courses for MBA students in any given year; - Designing an individualized program of study that cuts across several functional areas*; - Completing an independent study project*; and/or - Selecting courses from other graduate schools within the university*- students may take up to nine elective units at another USC graduate school

*Available to second year MBA students who have completed all core curriculum and are in good standing (minimum 3.0 GPA)

Please note course offerings are not guaranteed and students should consult the Schedule of Classes for courses offered during any given term.

Featured Elective Courses

Negotiation and Deal Making

The purpose of this course is to understand the theory and processes of negotiation as it is practiced in a variety of settings. The course is designed to be relevant to the broad spectrum of negotiation problems that managers face. Considerable emphasis is placed on simulations, role-playing and case studies.

Strategy and Operations through CFO Lens

This class addresses the strategic and operational issues that companies face in multiple industries, and the responses of chief financial officers who are responsible for the accounting and financial planning and decision making. The class includes guest speakers, CFOs who present how they view the business as a whole and measure performance effectively.

Experiential Learning Projects

Graduate Student Investment Fund (SIF) Course

The Student Investment Fund (SIF) Program is a one-year experiential course consisting of two 3-unit finance electives in “Applied Portfolio Management” (i.e., FBE 553a & FBE553b). It is designed to give students rigorous exposure to contemporary investment and portfolio theory and practice. Each year interested Marshall graduate students apply to be part of the course and 16 students are selected to manage approximately $8.0 million of USC’s endowment fund in four equity and one fixed-income portfolio, each with a unique investment discipline. Analytical tools for the valuation of stocks, bonds, and options are presented. The course also covers risk management and portfolio optimization, behavioral finance, and performance attribution. Students will demonstrate and refine their ability to apply analytical concepts and techniques through the following:

Fund management
Sector reports
Company research reports
Investment research reports
Security pitches

MBA Society and Business Fellowship Program

Sponsored by the USC Marshall Brittingham Social Enterprise Lab (BSEL), the MBA Society and Business Fellowship Program is a highly selective, year-long opportunity for the small cadre of MBA and MBA.PM students who are seeking a business degree in order to pursue careers in poverty alleviation, including homelessness, education, and global health.

As a Society and Business Fellow, students receive:

Monthly cohort meetings with like-minded students and professional networking relationships with alumni who share values.
Personal mentoring from the Brittingham Social Enterprise Lab (BSEL) staff.
Targeted guidance and counseling for summer internships and full-time employment.
Professional development tailored to non-traditional business careers.
Priority registration for BAEP 566/567, 571, 591.
Exclusive opportunities to meet with industry leaders and exposure to best practices in social entrepreneurship.
Funding toward professional development.
Priority consideration for a subsidy (up to $2,500) to complete a summer internship at an eligible nonprofit organization.

Marshall Leadership Fellows Program (MLFP)

MLFP offers a unique leadership development course combining classroom and experiential learning opportunities where second year MBA students dedicated to personal and professional leadership development provide coaching to first year Core teams. This program includes two semester academic experience, totaling 3.0 units of elective coursework (MOR-574a and MOR-574b). In this program second year student coaches hone their leadership skills, gain practical experience, and learn to provide structured feedback using concepts, mechanism, and management best practices while guided by the Business Communications and Organizational Behavior Core Faculty. At the same time, through this coaching, first year core teams become more high-functioning and collaborative while each team member becomes more high-performing, flexible and open to complexity.

Independent Projects

Upon completion of the core curriculum, second year MBA students in good standing may apply to complete an independent research project. The independent project option allows students to pursue research in specific areas of interest that may not be covered in other course offerings. Independent projects include Field Research in Business, Independent Research in Business, Research Practicum in Business and Consulting Project in Business. Students working on independent projects work one-on-one with their supervising faculty member to design and execute their research plan.

FTMBA SAMPLE CURRICULUM

APPLYING TO THE FTMBA PROGRAM

Application deadlines, chat with an ambassador.

SEE ALL AMBASSADORS

FTMBA STUDENT LIFE

Ftmba student organizations.

USC Marshall has 40 graduate student organizations. Ranging from community outreach, diversity and affinity groups, career clubs, and social and athletic organizations, students are able to expand their network to other USC Marshall MBA graduate programs and corporate contacts. Club activities take place during the day, evenings and weekends, and can include networking opportunities, social events and company visits.

Challenge For Charity

Challenge for Charity (C4C) is a 37-year-old nonprofit 501(c)(3) that puts teams from eight elite West Coast MBA programs against each other in a year-long effort to demonstrate their commitment to community outreach and social responsibility.

Despite Covid-19 challenges, Marshall MBAs have remained involved in supporting C4C core charities through service and fundraising. USC’s C4C chapters have raised over 2 million dollars and volunteered over 60,000 hours for our core charities.

Throughout the year, USC Marshall students volunteer and raise money for three charities, including:

SPECIAL OLYMPICS: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BRANCH

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF SOUTHER CALIFORNIA

HEAL THE BAY

Case Competitions

The MARSHALL BUSINESS COMPETITION PROGRAM (MBCP) seeks to provide MBA students with the opportunity to enhance critical business and leadership skills, connect with potential employers, and put classroom learning in to practice. Each year Marshall is invited to compete in case competitions hosted by MBA programs around the country and world. In the 2015-2016 academic year, Marshall students competed in 18 case competitions, resulting in six first place and two second place finishes.

Leadership Fellows Program (MLFP)

MLFP is a one-year leadership development program for Full-Time MBA students. The program provides coaching, classroom and experiential learning, as well as personal and professional development resources and support. MORE

WHY MARSHALL — Full-Time MBA

Career pathways.

Marshall graduate students are actively sought by the world's leading companies Amazon, Google, Salesforce, BCG and Goldman Sachs. Benefitting from Marshall's deep industry ties, they are leaders in a range of industries from Technology, Entertainment and Interactive Gaming to Healthcare, Consulting and Financial Services.

Trojan Network

The Marshall Trojan network links students and business leaders around the globe. Over 90,000 Marshall alumni worldwide create a proactive pay-it-forward culture that drives powerful career outcomes. There is simply no other alumni network quite like it.

Real-World Learning

Every Marshall graduate student has opportunities to integrate and apply what they learn in the classroom to real challenges outside the classroom. Learning by doing trains leaders to be visionary and resilient.

Faculty Expertise

USC Marshall faculty come from a wide array of backgrounds and disciplines. They engage in collaborative and inter-disciplinary teaching to explore business challenges and opportunities from a variety of viewpoints. They incorporate case studies, current events, career panels, and industry speakers to support academic content with real-world perspectives.

Global School in the Heart of LA

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, USC Marshall is embedded in one of the most vibrant global economies and part of a large, diverse university community committed to a culture of inclusion, collegiality, cooperation, and team work. Our students, faculty and alumni play leading roles in the industries that have built and continue to drive L.A. forward - from real-estate and accounting, to marketing and finance, to entertainment and tech.

Program Showcase: FTMBA

Ftmba news + events, welcome back to marshall.

Marshall and Leventhal deans welcome incoming and returning students as the 2023-2024 academic year begins.

Alum’s Clean Makeup Brand Keeps Growing

Amy Liu MBA ’04 credits entrepreneurship courses and mentorship for her success.

USC Marshall Honors Kevin Curry as the 2023 Food Industry Executive of the Year

The USC Marshall Food Industry Management (FIM) program will honor Kevin Curry as its 2023 Executive of the Year.

An Early Network

USC Marshall was the first West Coast business school to join the Consortium. It still plays a role in creating a diverse full-time MBA cohort.

Skateboard Diplomacy

First-year Full-Time MBA student Miles Jackson brings skills and a global mindset to Cuban youth through skateboarding.

STAY CONNECTED

Mailing Address USC Marshall MBA Admissions 630 Childs Way — JKP 308 Los Angeles, CA 90089-2633

213-740-7846

MBA Admissions is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am-5:00pm.

Stay Informed + Stay Connected

100% ONLINE MBA PROGRAMS BUILT ON INNOVATION

The Online Master of Business Administration at Boise State University is designed for working professionals with at least two years of managerial experience. The Online MBA offers unique advantages like no GMAT/GRE requirements, cost-effective courses, accelerated completion in one year, a flexible asynchronous format, eight career-focused emphases and learning from seasoned peers – all within a top-ranked program.

Want to learn more? Connect with a student success coach and claim your free application waiver.

Next Application Deadline: July 29

Admission to the Boise State Online MBA program is offered every seven weeks each fall, spring and summer semester. The application deadline for the fall fist seven-week session has passed. Apply by September 23 to start classes this October.

Boise State University’s Online MBA is delivered in a convenient, 100% online format featuring seven-week courses and six start dates a year. Our flexible schedule allows you to start when you’re ready and makes it easy for you to pause when you need it. Get started right away and earn your degree while you continue working.

Can’t start in June? Check out future start date options.

Program Details

Use the program detail cards to learn more about the Online Master of Business Administration.

How to Apply

Classes and scheduling, career opportunities, military and veteran students, online mba emphasis areas.

At Boise State University, we encourage the pursuit of bold, new ideas and academic excellence. Known for our research and advanced degree programs, our Online MBA prepares you for success in today’s competitive global market.

Choose between eight Online MBA options to take your career to the next level. Whether you have a specific industry in mind or want to customize a degree path to match your interests, Boise State has a relevant Online MBA to help you meet your goals.

With nationally-recognized faculty and seven renowned colleges supporting both undergraduate and graduate degree programs, it’s easy to see why Boise State is a leading university in the Pacific Northwest.

Watch: Learn more about Boise State’s Online MBA emphasis options

Online Master of Business Administration

Online mba in business analytics, online mba in construction management, online mba + cyber emphasis, online mba in finance, online mba in healthcare leadership, online mba in management, online mba in marketing leadership, hear from our graduates.

Jerid Rimbley

“I am very glad that I found Boise State. I wanted something flexible and completely online. The Online MBA challenged my understanding of business finance; I have that now after taking accounting. It gave me the tools to become a better manager.”

Wendy Berkson

“I often seek opportunities to learn and feed my intellectual curiosity, and the Online MBA provided that for me. The courses equipped me with new content and information that set me up for success in a variety of career paths.”

Shawn Norman

“The flexibility of the Online MBA is excellent. You should also go in with an open mind about the things you’re learning and what you can take away to enhance your skills and career opportunities. The sky is the limit if you put the hard work into it.”

The Online Experience

The Boise State Online MBA is as accessible as it is renowned. The program uses 100% digital content, replacing traditional textbook cost and hassle. Program tuition includes all course materials — saving you time and money.

With a streamlined admission process, industry-focused classes and accelerated completion options, you can earn a top-ranked degree completely online at an unbeatable price.

Student Support

From application to graduation, students are supported throughout their education journey at Boise State.

I Haven't Applied Yet

I've been accepted to the program.

Nationally Ranked

Boise State’s Online MBA ranks among the top in the nation from the 2024 U.S. News and World Report . Rankings are determined by excellence in performance in areas like faculty credentials and training, services and technologies, engagement and student excellence.

U.S. News and World Report Rankings

No. 55 Best Online MBA Programs (top 16%)
No. 31 Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans

AACSB Accredited

Boise State’s College of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), putting them in the top tier of business schools worldwide. Only 874 business institutions in 56 territories and countries have earned AACSB accreditation.

AACSB accreditation assures you that our program meets rigorous criteria and standards for excellence in education across three main themes: engagement, innovation and impact.

Student Satisfaction

Boise State Online MBA students and graduates report satisfaction and success with the program:

Online MBA Frequently Asked Questions

What will my diploma say?

The Online MBA is a Boise State MBA. Your diploma will list your degree as a Master of Business Administration from Boise State University. The only “online” designation will be on your official transcript but not on your diploma. If you have selected an emphasis, it will be designated on your transcript and your diploma.

Is there an application fee waiver?

The Online MBA program offers an application fee waiver if you have not yet submitted your application. Contact a student success coach prior to submitting your application to receive your waiver.

Are scholarships available?

Scholarships are available for qualified applicants. All scholarships offer the same discount — 15% off tuition, saving students about $5,500. The 15% discount is applied incrementally to each course a student enrolls in; it cannot be applied all at once. Discounts and scholarships may not be combined.

What type of military support is available?

Boise State offers support for current or former active duty, reserve or National Guard members and their families through Veteran Services and Military Programs.

What are courses like?

Classes are 100% online and fully asynchronous. You can complete your work anytime or anywhere, with no proctoring requirements or live class sessions.

What will my assignments be like?

Our Online MBA was intentionally designed to provide courses that help you understand and apply the knowledge learned in coursework. Assignments vary based on the individual class but include research, discussions, assessments and hands-on learning through projects.

Online MBA in the News

Recent graduates share their impressive online mba success stories, using employee value propositions to improve retention, what is data literacy, and why is it so important, tailor your advanced online degree with seven mba specializations or standard option, assistant professor felice klein’s research featured by major publication, online mba overview.

Boise State’s Online MBA is designed for collaboration, an important skill necessary in the workplace, and for immediate applicability. In this video, Program Director Brian O’Morrow and Associate Director Ally Daniels explain why Boise State’s Online MBA may be right for you. Closed captions are available or you can access the Online MBA overview video transcript .

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CORe INCLUDES

Credential of readiness (core), key concepts, who will benefit, professionals, mba applicants, recent graduate students.

What You Earn

Credential of Readiness

Prove your mastery of business fundamentals

Earn by: completing the three-course CORe curriculum and passing the exam

Business Analytics

Describing and Summarizing Data
Sampling and Estimation
Hypothesis Testing
Single Variable Linear Regression
Multiple Regression

Featured Exercises

Economics for managers.

Customer Demand: Foundations
Strategies for Assessing and Increasing Demand
Suppliers and Cost
Competition and Differentiation

Financial Accounting

The Accounting Equation
Recording Transactions
Financial Statements
Adjusting Journal Entries
The Statement of Cash Flows
Analyzing Financial Statements
Accounting for the Future

Your Guide to Preparing for Business School

Advance Your Career with Essential Business Skills

Which Version of HBS Online's Credential of Readiness (CORe) Program Is Right for You?

Our difference, about the professors.

V.G. Narayanan Financial Accounting

Bharat Anand Economics for Managers

Jan Hammond Business Analytics

Dates & eligibility.

No current course offerings for this selection.

All applicants must be at least 18 years of age, proficient in English, and committed to learning and engaging with fellow participants throughout the course.

Applicants who have previously enrolled in Business Analytics, Economics for Managers, or Financial Accounting will not be eligible to enroll in CORe.

Learn about bringing this course to your organization .

Learner Stories

What kind of time commitment is required for CORe?

CORe is offered with multiple durations of study—ranging from 10-week cohorts to extended 17-week cohorts. However, the course content and program requirements are identical regardless of the program length. Our goal in offering different program lengths is to give learners different options to balance the program’s rigors with their particular lifestyle and responsibilities.

The median time required to complete the program is approximately 150 hours, though this learning time varies widely. Some participants spend more time on the platform to enhance their understanding of course concepts and share insights with peers. This time includes all coursework on the platform, including written reflections and quizzes, as well as engagement with peers. This does not include review work outside the platform or preparing for and taking the three-hour CORe final exam.

In the standard versions of CORe—10-week and 12-week cohorts—you should be prepared to spend more time per week on the program. Although we have smoothed out the workload as evenly as possible, you should expect that some weeks will require more work than others.

What is the difference between the undergraduate credit and noncredit versions of CORe?

During the January, May, and September CORe cohorts, we offer an undergraduate credit option through the Harvard Extension School. When you start your application, you can select whether you are seeking admission for the for-credit or non-credit option of CORe. The course content, deadlines, and grading process are all the same whether you choose to enroll in the undergraduate credit ($4,080) or credential-only ($2,500) version of CORe.

By enrolling in the undergraduate credit option of CORe, you will be enrolled at Harvard Extension School (January or September CORe cohorts) or Harvard Summer School (May CORe cohort) and eligible for student privileges like a Harvard University ID number (to access online library resources), free career and academic webinars, a Harvard Gmail account, and education tax credit and loan deferments.

Upon successful completion of CORe, undergraduate credit option participants will earn eight undergraduate credits from Harvard Extension School (January or September CORe cohorts) or Harvard Summer School (May CORe cohort). Harvard Extension School and Harvard Summer School are fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges—the same accreditation as all other schools at Harvard. Harvard transfer credit is accepted by institutions around the world, but it is always up to the accepting university to determine transferability. Successful undergraduate credit option participants will also receive a Credential of Readiness certificate from Harvard Business School Online, and an official transcript will be made available to verify your mastery of the program’s content.

The Harvard Extension School graduate program in the field of management or finance offers an accelerated admission pathway for students who pass CORe (in the for-credit or non-credit offering).

Financial aid and financing options available for CORe program participants also vary depending on whether participants have elected the undergraduate credit option or have enrolled in the non-credit version of the program. More information is available on the Payment & Financial Aid page .

Are there grants for CORe? How do I qualify?

CORe participants may be eligible for financial aid based on demonstrated financial need. To receive financial aid, you will be asked to provide supporting documentation. Please refer to our Payment & Financial Aid page.

Will my performance in CORe factor in to my admission to HBS?

Successful completion of CORe will help you prepare for an MBA program. While applicants to the MBA Program at HBS will have an opportunity to inform the Admissions Board of non-degree preparatory coursework (including CORe), this is one of many application elements and will be considered in the larger context of a holistic selection process.

Will my participation in CORe factor in to my admission to other graduate programs?

Can i take core if i've taken financial accounting, business analytics, or economics for managers.

By enrolling in the Financial Accounting, Business Analytics, or Economics for Managers certificate programs, participants will be ineligible to enroll in the CORe program. By enrolling in the CORe program, participants will be ineligible to enroll in Financial Accounting, Business Analytics, or Economics for Managers as individual certificate programs.

In addition, participants currently enrolled in one of the individual courses cannot transfer their enrollment to CORe. If you're interested in earning the Credential of Readiness, you must enroll in the full CORe program.

What are the policies for refunds, deferrals, and withdrawals?

Please refer to our Policies page .

What materials will I have access to after completing the Credential of Readiness program?

You will have access to the materials in every prior module as you progress through the program and prepare for the final exam. Access to course materials and the course platform ends 60 days after the final deadline in the program. At the end of each course module, you will be able to download a PDF summary of the module’s key takeaways. At the end of the program, you will receive a PDF compilation of all of the module summary documents.

How should I list my credential on my resume?

Once you've earned your Credential of Readiness, list it on your resume along with the date of completion like this:

Harvard Business School Online CORe: Credential of Readiness, [Grade] [Cohort Start Month and Year]

List your credential on your LinkedIn profile under "Education" with the language from the Credential Verification page:

School: Harvard Business School Online Dates Attended: [The year you participated in the program] Degree: Other; CORe Credential of Readiness Field of Study: Leave blank Grade: "Pass," "Pass with Honors" or "Pass with High Honors" as applicable Activities and Societies: Leave blank

For the program description on LinkedIn, please use the following:

Description: CORe (Credential of Readiness) is a 150-hour certificate program on the fundamentals of business from Harvard Business School. CORe is comprised of three courses—Business Analytics, Economics for Managers, and Financial Accounting—developed by leading Harvard Business School faculty and delivered in an active learning environment based on the HBS signature case-based learning model.

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Will an MBA Help You Become an Investment Banker?

A Master of Business Administration degree from a top business school is almost a necessity, experts say.

The Degree for Investment Bankers

A businessman pondering over work at his laptop in a modern office setting. The portrait conveys dedication and professionalism.

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Experts advise students from lower-ranked MBA programs to divide their efforts between networking for positions at top banks and applying to regional or middle-market banks.

Key Takeaways

An MBA is a huge advantage but not a guarantee.
An MBA is one of two surest routes to investment banking.
Tailor your B-school coursework to banking-related topics.

Investment banking can be a lucrative and rewarding career for those able to secure a job at a multinational like Goldman Sachs or J.P. Morgan. But to even get a foot in the door, an MBA from a top business school is a virtual necessity, experts say.

“Banks expect a certain level of academic training, technical proficiency and, for lack of a better word, ‘polish’ provided by top MBA programs,” Drew Pascarella, senior lecturer of finance at Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management in New York, wrote in an email.

While attending a top ranked MBA program won’t guarantee a job offer after graduation, it is the first step in making a dream a reality for most aspiring investment bankers.

The Path to Investment Banking

Investment banker can be a broad term, but in general it refers to professionals who work for investment banks advising corporate clients on mergers, acquisitions and raising capital.

Although experts say there are always a few exceptions to the rule, most future investment bankers have only two paths into the field. The first is by joining a bank right out of undergrad as an analyst. The other is joining as an associate after graduating from an MBA program.

“There’s not really another path unless you’re promoted as an undergrad,” says Sunshine Singer, a career adviser for investment banking at The Wharton School at University of Pennsylvania. “Besides that, there’s not really a path besides the MBA .”

While the degree gives students the skills to become investment bankers, top business schools also provide networking and recruitment opportunities that are hard for non-MBA candidates to find on their own. That's because most prominent investment banks have well-established recruitment relationships with business schools and rarely hire associates through other avenues, experts say.

Investment banks also rarely hire professionals from other fields. They tend to follow a rigid hiring schedule based on graduation cycles, so there are few opportunities for on-demand hiring. It’s also rare for early- or mid-career applicants to transition into investment banking.

“A non-investment banker lateraling into the industry from the outside will generally have a particularly difficult time performing at a level expected of a banker, given their lack of ‘time-in-seat’ experience,” Pascarella says.

Pascarella notes one exception: candidates who hold a law degree and have worked on the same type of corporate deals in their legal career, and therefore have a solid background in business fundamentals.

The MBA and Investment Banking

An MBA offers students a wealth of resources as they prepare for a career as an investment banker.

Aside from the courses that will train them in the skills needed to perform their job, perhaps the most important path into the investment banking world will be a student’s summer internship between the first and second year of the MBA program, experts say.

“That summer internship is the biggest feeder to a full-time job,” Singer says. “Most banks look to fill their incoming class with interns.”

In addition to completing an internship, students also have the option of joining their school’s investment banking club. These clubs offer students extensive networking opportunities, events with professional bankers and interview prep for when they enter the job market.

Despite all these advantages, even candidates with an MBA will find it difficult to land an investment banking job if they haven’t attended a top business school.

“Associate-level hiring is extremely network-driven,” Singer says. “MBA programs have dinners, they have ‘lunch-and-learns,’ they do a lot more networking, so I think it’s more difficult if you’re not at a top-30 program.”

Columbia in New York NYU Stern , Chicago Booth in Illinois, Wharton and Cornell frequently led business schools for graduates obtaining investment banking jobs, according to 2020 data from MBA admissions consulting firm Menlo Coaching. Those schools rank in the top tier of all business schools, U.S. News data shows.

For students who attend lower-ranked MBA programs, experts recommend splitting their time between networking to find a position with a top bank and applying to regional or middle-market banks.

The Best MBA Courses for Investment Bankers

To prepare for the technical aspects of investment banking, MBA students should focus on courses centered on the “big skills” needed for the job, including accounting, corporate finance and corporate valuation, experts recommend.

While these are essential entry-level skills, David White, founding partner at Menlo Coaching, advises aspiring investment bankers to add MBA courses targeting the leadership, management and communications skills they'll need later in their careers.

“As bankers become more senior,” Pascarella says, “they need to be able to market themselves and their firm effectively in a highly competitive market with a sophisticated client base; to build valuable relationships with clients; to turn massive amounts of data and analysis into actionable and credible advice; and to lead large teams of people through the most complex deals a company will ever do.”

For MBA students aiming to work at a firm focused on a single sector, White recommends tailoring coursework to those particular areas of banking.

“For example, a restructuring banker may find it useful to take cross-listed courses from their university's law school about legal procedure to better understand what is likely to happen during a bankruptcy process, or an energy banker may want to take courses about the economics of renewable energy,” White wrote in an email.

Job Outlook and Earnings for an Investment Banker

While it's difficult to break into investment banking, successful job seekers will enter a fast-growing sector with high earning potential.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth from 2022 to 2032 for securities, commodities and financial services sales agents – a sector that includes investment bankers.

According to Payscale, the average investment banker salary is a little over $116,000, but that number doesn’t include year-end bonuses – as high as $90,000 to $130,000 for top performers. High earnings typically come high pressure and demanding working conditions, and according to a report from Goldman Sachs, first-year analysts work on average close to 100 hours a week.

Fluctuations in the global economy are affecting investment banks. However, while hiring in fields like consulting and tech was down, competition for investment banking jobs was highly competitive this past year, Singer says.

“It’s one of the best training grounds for finance you can get,” Singer says. “Whether they want to stay in banking or move on, students know they are going to gain strong finance skills in that role. It’s also great training and lots of exposure to different types of deals and companies.”

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Master of Business Administration

An Online MBA Degree That Prepares You to be a Successful Business Leader

You're ready to become a leader and rise to the next level in business. A master's degree in business administration is the step you need to take you further in your professional career and potentially earn a higher salary. A reputable online MBA degree program can be the difference-maker for your future by helping you understand business practices and management skills. This master's in business administration is focused on equipping you with skills and credentials that helps distinguish your value in the business world.

Compare this degree: Also considering the MSML degree program? This article can help you understand the differences .

Graduates can finish within

WGU lets you set a schedule so you can finish your MBA in just one year. You are in control of the schedule and timing for your online MBA program.

*WGU Internal Data

Tuition per six-month term is

See what your online MBA will cost at our university. Tuition charged per term—rather than per credit—helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. Finish faster, pay less!

Average salary increase

Master of Business Administration graduates report an average salary increase of $14,025 after completing their WGU degree.

Ready to Start Your WGU Journey?

Next Start Date: {{startdate}}

Start Dates the 1st of Every Month

MBA Courses

Program consists of 11 courses

At WGU, we design our curriculum to be timely, relevant, and practical—all to help you show that you know your stuff.

This program is composed of the following business and management courses. You will typically complete them one at a time as you make your way through your program, working with your Program Mentor each term to build your personalized degree plan. You’ll work through each course as quickly as you can study and master the material. As soon as you’re ready, you’ll pass the assessment, complete the course, and move on. This means you can finish as many courses as you're able in a term at no additional cost. One year MBA students can complete all of their coursework in just two WGU terms. You will set a schedule with your Program Mentor to enable you to finish your program quickly. Learn more about the one year MBA program at WGU.

To ensure WGU graduates acquire the knowledge and skills sought by today’s employers, our Master of Business Administration—like all of WGU's School of Business programs—was developed with significant input from experts and business leaders who serve on our Business Program Council.

This course covers principles of effective management and leadership that maximize organizational performance. The following topics are included: the role and functions of a manager, analysis of personal leadership styles, approaches to self-awareness and self-assessment, and application of foundational leadership and management skills.

This course focuses on strategies and tools that managers use to maximize employee contribution and create organizational excellence. You will learn talent management strategies to motivate and develop employees as well as best practices to manage performance for added value.

This course prepares students for the communication challenges in organizations. Topics examined include theories and strategies of communication, persuasion, conflict management, and ethics that enhance communication to various audiences.

This course focuses on the strategic importance of operations management to overall performance. This course also emphasizes principles of supply chain management relevant to a variety of business operations ranging from manufacturing goods to retail services. You will examine the various planning, control, and decision-making tools and techniques of the operations function.

This course examines how economic tools, techniques, and indicators can be used for solving organizational problems related to competitiveness, productivity, and growth. You will explore the management implications of a variety of economic concepts and effective strategies to make decisions within a global context.

Marketing Fundamentals introduces students to principles of the marketing environment, social media, consumer behavior, marketing research, and market segmentation. Students will also explore marketing strategies that are related to products and services, distribution channels, promotions, sales, and pricing.

This course provides you with the accounting knowledge and skills to assess and manage a business. Topics include the accounting cycle, financial statements, taxes, and budgeting. This course will improve students’ ability to understand reports and use accounting information to plan and make sound business decisions.

This course examines the ethical issues and dilemmas managers face. This course provides a framework for analysis of management-related ethical issues and decision-making action required for satisfactory resolution of these issues.

This course covers practical approaches to analysis and decision-making in the administration of corporate funds, including capital budgeting, working capital management, and cost of capital. Topics include financial planning, management of working capital, analysis of investment opportunities, sources of long-term financing, government regulations, and global influences. This course will improve students’ ability to interpret financial statements and manage corporate finances.

This course presents critical problem-solving methodologies, including field research and data collection methods that enhance organizational performance. Topics include quantitative analysis, statistical and quality tools. You will improve your ability to use data to make informed decisions.

MBA Capstone is the culminating course in the MBA program that provides an integrative experience with all competencies and assessment topics throughout the program. Students synthesize concepts from previously completed coursework and demonstrate an understanding of responsible practices for growing and running a business. This course promotes a meaningful connection between the academic work and career experience.

Program consists of 11 courses

Capstone Project

Special requirements for this program

At the end of your program, you will complete a capstone project that represents the culmination of all your hard work—a project that allows you to take what you’ve learned and apply it to a real-world situation, proposing a solution to an actual issue you face in your place of business.

Skills For Your Résumé

As part of this program, you will develop a range of valuable skills that employers are looking for.

Management: Identified and determined the resources required to effectively support an organization or process, ensuring optimal functionality and efficiency.
Operations: Developed comprehensive systems with standard operating procedures (SOPs) for distinct parts of a business, promoting consistency, compliance, and operational excellence.
Communication: Leveraged appropriate communication techniques to effectively persuade and guide outcomes.
Data Analysis: Applied analytical and logical reasoning skills to uncover valuable information crucial for decision-making processes.
Written Communication: Addressed internal and external stakeholders using the most suitable written communication strategy for each audience, fostering effective communication and engagement.
Business Development: Developed strategic plans for acquiring new business and expanding existing business in collaboration with the business development team.

“Because of WGU's competency-based program, I didn't have to get into things that I already knew. Instead I was able to use that for the things that were more challenging for me to learn.”

—Alvyn Joy Halili MBA

WGU vs. Traditional Universities Compare the Difference

Traditional Universities

TUITION STRUCTURE

Per credit hour

Flat rate per 6-month term

Schedule and wait days or even weeks to meet with one of many counselors

Simply email or call to connect with your designated Program Mentor who supports you from day one

Scheduled time

Whenever you feel ready

Professor led lectures at a certain time and place

Courses available anytime, from anywhere

TIME TO FINISH

Approximately 2 years, minimal acceleration options

As quickly as you can master the material, can finish programs in 1 year

Earning Potential

After graduation, WGU MBA master's degree graduates report earning $16,200 more per year*. Are you ready to make more money?

Entirely Online

Competency-based education means you can move as quickly through your degree as you can master the material. You don't have to log in to classes at a certain time—you are truly in the driver's seat of your education.

The Master of Business Administration degree at WGU is 100% online, which means it works wherever you are. You can do your coursework at night after working at your full-time job, on weekends, while you're traveling the world or on vacation—it's entirely up to you.

Accredited, Respected, Recognized™

One important measure of a degree’s value is the reputation of the university where it was earned. When employers, industry leaders, and academic experts hold your alma mater in high esteem, you reap the benefits of that respect. WGU is a pioneer in reinventing higher education for the 21st century, and our quality has been recognized.

COST & TIME

Affordable Online Degree Programs

By charging per term rather than per credit—and empowering students to accelerate through material they know well or learn quickly—WGU helps students control the ultimate cost of their degrees. The faster you complete your program, the less you pay for your degree.

A College Degree Within Reach

There is help available to make paying for school possible for you:

The average student loan debt of WGU graduates in 2022 (among those who borrowed) was less than half* the national average.

Most WGU students qualify for financial aid, and WGU is approved for federal financial aid and U.S. veterans benefits.

Many scholarship opportunities are available. Find out what you might be eligible for.

* WGU undergraduate students have approximately half the debt at graduation compared to the national average, according to the Institute for College Access and Success (2022).

Flexible schedule, you control where, when, and how fast you learn and graduate.

Schedules are tight and often unpredictable for busy professionals. That’s why we offer a flexible, personalized approach to how education should be. No interruptions to your work and family obligations. No rigid class schedules. No barriers to earning your degree on your own terms. Just a solid, career-focused online MBA program that meshes seamlessly with your current lifestyle.

"I was fortunate enough to finish my WGU degree program in six months because I was able to show what I knew and not have to sit in needless classes. I was able to showcase my strengths and still have plenty of time to work on my weaknesses, which really helped me finish my degree. I couldn't have done this anywhere else.”

—David Burks MBA

CAREER OUTLOOK

A Respected MBA Degree That Can Prepare You for a Successful Management Career

Goldman Sachs. Google. MGM. Microsoft. Apple. These giant organizations are changing the world, and WGU MBA graduates are there in the thick of it—making decisions as key leaders in top organizations. An online MBA degree from WGU has prepared these graduates to stand out from the competition, to take charge, and to make change. And a master's in business administration degree could do the same thing for you. Get an MBA online that is focused on helping you excel as a business leader and reach all your career aspirations.

WGU’s online MBA degree is designed for business professionals who are ready to advance their career. It is a university program that focuses on management, strategy, and business skills that are vital to your success as a leader. Earn an online MBA that gives you the skills to become the impactful business leader your organization needs.

Return on Your Investment

On average, wgu graduates see an increase in income post-graduation.

Average income increase from all degrees in annual salary vs. pre-enrollment salary. Source: 2023 Harris Poll Survey of 1,655 WGU graduates.

Survey was sent to a representative sample of WGU graduates from all colleges. Respondents received at least one WGU degree since 2017.

Employment of top executives is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031.

—U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

MBAs from WGU Are Leading Teams and Businesses in Diverse Industries

Problem-solving leaders are required in every industry, and strategic thinking is necessary at every successful company. If you're ready to broaden your business knowledge and advance your career, WGU's MBA program online can prepare you to be an effective leader and produce successful results wherever you go. Your business management career starts here! Our 5,300-plus MBA grads have great jobs and satisfying careers.

President and CEO
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WGU Grads Hold Positions With Top Employers

ADMISSIONS & TRANSFERS

MBA Admission Requirements

To be considered for this program, you must:

Submit a transcript verifying receipt of your bachelor’s degree from a recognized, accredited institution.

NOTE: You do not need to take the GRE or GMAT to be admitted to this program. Learn why we don't require these tests.

Transfer Credits

Get Your Enrollment Checklist

Download your step-by-step guide to enrollment.

Get Your Questions Answered

Talk to an WGU Enrollment Counselor.

FINISH FASTER

The One-Year MBA

WGU's unique competency-based model allows you to move faster through your degree program. This online Master of Business Administration degree gives you the flexibility you need to earn your degree on your terms. You don't have to leave your job to pursue a master's in business administration—something you and your employer will both appreciate. No logging in, no set class times—you are in the driver's seat of your education.

WGU's one-year* MBA allows you to finish your Master in Business Administration program in only 12 months for just $9,510.

* Program can be completed in as little as 12 months. Pricing is based on 12-month completion of the program. Students that do not complete in 12 months and need longer to complete the program will need to pay for additional terms.

Frequently Asked Questions about MBA Programs

General MBA FAQs
Online MBA FAQs

What is an MBA?

MBA stands for Master’s of Business Administration. An MBA is a graduate-level business management degree that teaches you leadership skills for the modern business world. Those with an MBA often stand out among candidates for upper management positions.

Is it Masters or Master of Business Administration?

Both terms are commonly used, but the technical correct usage is Master of Business Administration, or a Master's in Business Administration.

What can you do with a Master in Business Administration?

There are many job opportunities with an MBA degree. They include:

Chief executive officer
Chief financial officer
Marketing manager
International business development
Chief marketing officer
Sales manager
Operations manager
Human resources manager

What is the purpose of an MBA degree?

An MBA gives you additional skills and training that can help you progress in your career. You'll learn about strategy, communication, management, and leadership that will help you move into larger roles in an organization. An MBA trains you to become a business leader in many different kinds of industries.

What do you learn in an MBA program?

In an MBA program you'll have courses in accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, leadership, management, and more.

Is a Master's in Business Administration worth it?

Yes! An MBA can help you boost your résumé and help you get higher pay, better job opportunities, and more. In fact, WGU MBA graduates earn an average of $16,200 more per year after graduation.

Why should you pursue an MBA?

An MBA is a great option for those who want to progress into management or leadership roles in an organization. Whether you want to move to a new company or have upward mobility in your current organization, an MBA can help you be prepared to move up.

What is an MBA good for?

An MBA teaches you leadership skills that can help you excel as an executive in a business setting. Earning an MBA can set you apart when you’re looking to advance into a management role within a corporation. The skills you learn in an MBA program may also help you start and manage your own business.

How long does it take to get an MBA degree?

In general, it takes around two years to earn an MBA degree. That said, through a competency-based online MBA program like the one offered at WGU, students may be able to earn their degree more quickly, sometimes in 18 months or less.

How many years does it take to get an MBA degree?

The number of years it takes to earn an MBA degree can vary depending on the university.

Traditional university: 2 years
Competency-based MBA program: 1 to 1.5 years
Part-time MBA program: around 3 years

Can you earn an MBA completely online?

Yes. You can earn an MBA completely online. This unique model enables students to keep their current job while working toward their degree. Competency-based education models and on-demand classes, tests, and assignments make earning a degree online a valid option for busy working professionals or those with limited access to a brick and mortar university.

Does online MBA have any value?

Yes. With the growing prevalence and availability of online MBA programs, curriculum and acceptance criteria have become more rigorous. As higher education has moved increasingly to online formats, more employers are respecting online MBAs and finding online MBA grads to possess the skills necessary to add value to their business.

Is an online MBA respected?

Yes. If you earn an MBA from an accredited and reputable university, it will likely be respected by employers. Many online MBA programs have gained enough of a reputation that employers now seek out graduates specifically from certain online programs and universities.

Which online MBA program is best?

The best online MBA programs in terms of ROI include:

Excelsior College; 497% ROI
Western Governors University; 267% ROI
American Public University; 249% ROI
Arizona State University—Skysong; 225% ROI
Capella University; 171% ROI

Is an online MBA easy?

No. An online MBA is not necessarily easy. While an online MBA may offer more flexibility and accessibility than a typical in-person program, online programs are still competitive and rigorous. Many students, however, find that an online MBA is easier in the sense that it fits more seamlessly into their busy lives, as they can access courses, take exams, and complete projects anywhere they have internet access.

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Charting your MBA path: Helpful tips from the Class of 2024

Evening and Weekend MBA

Graduates in the Class of 2024 give their best advice to future generations of Kellogg students. Check out what they have to say.

The student experience at Kellogg is full of ways to get involved, learn and grow — from global opportunities and its extensive immersive learning experiences to its rich community on campus that participates in creating impact and paying it forward.

Starting business school is an exciting chapter of your life that will bring about a myriad of new experiences. Whether you're just starting your MBA journey or already deep into it, we’ve collected a roundup of advice and perspectives to help you make the most out of your time at Kellogg.

Graduates in the Class of 2024 gave their best advice here to future generations of Kellogg students. Here’s what they had to say:

Bushra Amiwala ’24 Evening & Weekend MBA

“Entering business school is a time where you have an opportunity to slightly re-brand yourself. While at Kellogg, you will learn just as much about yourself personally, as you will acquire business knowledge if you truly lean into how you show up authentically in a professional space.”

Peter Good Dissinger ’24 Two-Year MBA

“Be intentional in seeking out hands-on learning opportunities and one-on-ones with professors. In particular, I recommend cultivating personal relationships with two or three professors by going above and beyond in their classes: Visit them at office hours, participate regularly in class and submit high quality homework.

“The three professors I’ve invested in were extremely excited when I asked to do more with them outside of a class setting. I conducted independent studies (self-directed projects that I conducted while advised by faculty) with two of those professors and was a teaching and research assistant for the third. Those learning experiences were professionally transformative and defined my second year at Kellogg.”

Corin Hernandez ’24 Evening & Weekend MBA

“This is your chance to push yourself out of your comfort zone in a low-risk high reward environment. Take advantage of every opportunity whether through clubs, experiential classes, networking events, study abroad opportunities and/or case competitions. Don't forget, we are all trying to ‘figure it out’ and are here to learn! No one here has all the answers.”

“Carve out time to relax, recharge and reflect throughout your time at Kellogg. Time constantly feels like it is moving at the speed of a bullet train. This creates a pressure to do more and go to more events which ironically reduces your ability to process these experiences.”

Swetha Medapati ’24 Two-Year MBA Program at Kellogg

Swetha Medapati ’24 Two-Year MBA Program “As they say, ‘fear of missing out’ (FOMO) is real. However, getting carried away by that usually results in you not getting the most out of the Kellogg experience. “Choose your priorities for each quarter — while ensuring to diversify them each time — and focus on them to make the most out of your time here. Avoid making one priority, including recruitment, your sole focus; creating balance will ensure a fulfilling Kellogg experience. “And, most importantly, don’t shy away from trying new things and seeking new experiences. You might discover a new side of yourself here!”

Jeffrey Ng ’24 MMM Program “Carve out time to relax, recharge and reflect throughout your time at Kellogg. Time constantly feels like it is moving at the speed of a bullet train. This creates a pressure to do more and go to more events which ironically reduces your ability to process these experiences.

“Whether it’s taking a walk around the lakefill or journaling at the coffee shop on a Sunday morning, taking time for just you and your thoughts enables you to slow down, be more intentional and make the most of your time here.”

Bre Thomas ’24 Two-Year MBA

“The MBA will steal time you didn’t know you had. Be sure to make time for the things that you love and that keep you grounded. “Your classmates are your greatest resource while here! I’ve been able to reach out to my peers about payment transactions in Colombia as well as understanding diversity in risk management careers. If I need help, I can rely on my peers to offer a helping hand.”

Priyanka Toddywala ’24 Two-Year MBA at Kellogg

Priyanka Toddywala ’24 Two-Year MBA “Business school is very much ‘choose your own adventure.’ I recommend you actively create the opportunities you want to have. That means being intentional about the people you want to become closer to, events you want to attend and firms you recruit for. “The opportunities at Kellogg are endless, and you can’t expect your ideal experience to just happen. My advice would be to actively work towards the experience you envision. Whether it be hosting an event you’ve been thinking about or planning a trip to somewhere you’ve been wanting to visit, intentionality matters. Don’t wait for it all to just land in your lap, otherwise, your life will unfold around others’ plans and schedules and not yours. Be in the driver’s seat of your Kellogg experience.”

“Make sure to also get out of your comfort zone and meet others that you likely wouldn’t encounter outside of business school. You may end up missing out on a huge network of connections, and perhaps lifelong friends, by sticking with only those who feel familiar to you.”

Shivani Taskar ’24 Two-Year MBA at Kellogg

Shivani Taskar ’24 Two-Year MBA “My favorite part of the Kellogg experience is the small group dinners (SGDs). Picture a cozy gathering of six to eight students where every gathering is hosted by a classmate in the warmth of their home. Each dinner carries a unique theme, often reflecting the host's personal interests. “I’ve celebrated the Chinese New Year, learned the most scrumptious Swiss raclette recipes, candidly discussed world politics and enjoyed numerous trivia and game nights. SGDs are the most underrated way to discover the breadth of experiences that your classmates have to offer! They’re more than just a meal — they're a doorway to new connections and unforgettable memories.”

Cherry Jessica Tran ’24 Two-Year MBA at Kellogg

Cherry Jessica Tran ’24 Two-Year MBA “When it comes to academics, take a broad range of classes and pay attention to professor course evaluations. Even if the subject matter isn’t 100% what you’re interested in, the world-class Kellogg faculty are experts in engaging and challenging their students — you’ll find yourself learning a ton! Also, take advantage of the academic advisors to help talk through bidding strategy and plan out your classes. “Make sure to also get out of your comfort zone and meet others that you likely wouldn’t encounter outside of business school. You may end up missing out on a huge network of connections, and perhaps lifelong friends, by sticking with only those who feel familiar to you. At the start of the year, everyone is excited and eager to meeting new people, so I encourage you to keep an open mindset throughout your time at Kellogg and beyond.”

Read next: “It’s the people who ultimately won me over,” says a Full-Time MBA student

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MBA vs. EMBA: What’s the Difference? Find the Right Path for Your Business Career

Working professionals can hone their leadership and business skills by earning a graduate business degree. But which is better, an MBA or an EMBA? We asked a business school professor and a recent grad from the University of Fredericton (UFred) about their experience with these higher education credentials.

If you aspire to become an in-demand business leader with your current employer or want to sharpen your leadership skills to make the next big jump in your career, completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree or Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) credential is one of the best ways to acquire the knowledge and skills you need to continue to work and grow in your chosen field. Or, if you are an entrepreneur leading a start-up or other small business and want to leverage the knowledge and networks of an MBA program to expand your business, pursuing an MBA or EMBA could be beneficial.

But how much of an investment of both time and money is required for taking on a graduate program and how do you determine which one is right for you? While MBA and EMBA degrees require a significant commitment of your time and money, they can be well worth the investment over the long term.

To help understand the differences between an MBA and EMBA, we spoke with professor Raeleen Manjak of the University of Fredericton’s School of Business about the benefits of each degree, along with Pierre-Marc Gervais, a pharmacist and business owner who recently graduated from the EMBA program at UFred. He provides his thoughts on how the EMBA program was the right choice for him at this point in his career.

Advantages of a graduate business degree

An advanced business degree such as an MBA or EMBA creates a competitive advantage for the person who holds it and the organization they work for, says Professor Manjak, who has been teaching Human Resource Leadership courses in UFred’s MBA and EMBA programs for about four years, bringing her background and expertise in human resource management to the program’s curriculum. She guides the university’s strategic HRM program and contributes to course development.

Once someone has earned an MBA or EMBA, they can use those skills, abilities and new ways of thinking to be a more creative problem-solver, find efficiencies and apply critical thinking. Manjak said the University of Fredericton’s graduate business programs focus on the leadership skills that students require for both personal and organizational success.

When considering an MBA, Manjak suggests asking yourself: Am I curious about problem solving? Do I want to understand the bigger picture in a business environment? If you answer yes, then an MBA may be the right program for you. “You should be someone who wants to understand those foundational business concepts that drive innovation and drive creativity,” she says.

Ideal candidates for an MBA or EMBA

MBA and EMBA programs can equip working professionals with the knowledge, skills, and business acumen to become effective leaders who can improve financial outcomes for the businesses they represent, while also enabling the expansion of career options.

Embarking on a graduate business degree will not only sharpen your leadership skills and your strategic thinking to help you make smarter decisions, but it will also improve your marketable skills by exposing you to all aspects of running a business – from managing people to understanding financial statements and the various demands of navigating a constantly changing business landscape.

MBAs are structured for those just starting to get a foothold in the business world, while EMBAs are designed for executives or those ascending the executive ranks, with about five-to-15 years of job experience. MBA programs tend to be designed more for those who have about two-to-five years of work experience following the completion of an undergraduate degree.

Manjak explains that the courses in an MBA program are longer in duration than the courses in an executive MBA. “You’re doing the same work, just in a shorter period,” she says. “You have that condensed, focused; a very immersive experience inside that learning environment; whereas it’s a little more protracted inside the MBA program.”

Cost of an MBA vs EMBA

In today’s competitive job market, an MBA or EMBA is an increasingly popular option for those professionals looking to advance their careers, get a salary bump, or land that next role. According to the 2022-2023 EMBAC Student Exit Survey , graduates reported receiving a 23.9% increase in compensation — combined, both salary and bonuses, while in the program.

According to Statistics Canada , the average annual cost of tuition for an MBA program in Canada was $30,464 in 2022/23, while the average EMBA cost $53,227 for domestic students. The full tuition for a one-three year MBA program from the top business schools in Canada , including University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Management, Smith School of Business at Queen’s University and Ivey Business School at Western University, ranges between $83,000 and $93,000 for domestic students, while one-two year EMBAs cost between $112,000 and $125,000. Online MBA and EMBA options, such as those at the University of Fredericton , where an MBA is about $26,000 and an EMBA is about $31,000, can be significantly lower in cost.

While EMBA degrees are designed for more seasoned professionals who want to take on roles with greater responsibility and accountability, overall, an MBA or EMBA can give you the competitive edge needed to rise above your current position, change careers or make a bigger impact in the job you’re currently in.

What to expect from an MBA or EMBA program

Prospective MBA students should consider their current lifestyle before diving into a program that will demand upwards of 20 hours of work a week on top of the commitments of a job.

“Do you have a young family? Are there a lot of expectations on your time? Where are you at in your career trajectory? Are you working 80 hours a week?” asks Manjak. “Or are you working 40 hours a week and have the flexibility to adjust as expectations change? You must take into consideration all of the various demands on your time.”

It’s also a good idea to speak to someone in an MBA program so that you can get a fulsome understanding of what the expectations are on time, resources, and energy. Most MBA or EMBA university program coordinators can connect you with students in a current program or a recent grad to discuss what the time and course demands are like before committing yourself to 12 months-three years of intensive study.

As a former student of the UFred EMBA program, Gervais says the courses he studied gave him the tools to take his career to the next stage. Both the hard and soft skills he learned in the UFred EMBA program have been instrumental in helping him feel more confident in being a business owner, especially when it comes to accounting and learning how to read a balance sheet and income statement. “It’s particularly rewarding for the first time you go to a meeting with all the directors; you don’t feel out of place. You know what you’re talking about, and you can ask the right questions,” says Gervais.

He discovered there was a benefit to studying for his EMBA while working because he saw the direct application to the challenges and opportunities that exist in his workplace day-to-day. What’s happening in one sector is often a challenge that has already been remedied in another sector represented by other students. When the students come together within that collegial environment, they have the opportunity to share common experiences and strategies to solve problems.

Choosing the right program for your career goals and personal schedule

As a husband and father of young children, Gervais worked on his EMBA from January 2020 until completion in December 2023. As much of that was during the height of the pandemic, he took longer and was studying under difficult circumstances. He had worked in management roles at different organizations before deciding to pursue his EMBA. He recently joined the family business of customs brokers and freight forwarders at Axxess International as a Vice President.

“A key priority for me was to be able to have a work/study and family life balance. I had to choose something that I could fit into my schedule — something that offered flexibility. You need to put in 10-15 hours a week to be able to succeed in the EMBA program. The quality of the program was another factor for me. I wanted something serious with a good reputation that would bring value to me,” says Gervais.

Throughout the EMBA program, he found that the course material and instructors delivered important lessons he could apply to the challenges of his job and the business.

“I was always reflecting on what we learned and how I could apply it, including those issues related to human resources and the processes we put in place to assess employees. I found I was also learning a little bit more about myself and who I am as a leader,” he says.

When he finished pharmacy school, Gervais had gone to business school part-time to learn the basics of business management. “As a business owner, you try to reflect on decisions you’ve made, but you’re not sure, exactly, if you’re doing the right thing or not. When I started my EMBA program, I was about to move to a new position for the provincial pharmacist owner’s association. The timing was great for me to keep evolving as an individual, but also as a professional. You never know where life is going to take you.”

Gervais chose the EMBA program at the University of Fredericton in equal parts because of the curriculum and reputation but also for its flexibility which would allow him to continue working and studying without having to spend large amounts of time attending classes onsite away from home. His employer was pleased and supportive of his interest in taking on the EMBA program.

“It helped that my boss also had an MBA. He told me: ‘If you see good ideas that you have learned, share them with me’.”

After weighing all the options and pros and cons of taking an MBA versus an EMBA, Gervais offers this advice: “If you want to do an MBA or an EMBA, do it for yourself first and foremost. What you’re going to get out of the program is the amount of effort that you put into the program. The grades were just a by-product of the effort that you put in, but I wanted to be a better business leader. That’s all that mattered to me,” he says.

Jennifer Brown is a journalist and communications professional with extensive experience creating engaging content internally and externally for various B2B and consumer audiences. As a journalist, she has written about and interviewed leaders in the health care, education, legal, enterprise technology and cannabis sectors.

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You may choose to take a single course — perhaps to build a new skill, explore a passion, or prepare for graduate school. Or you may decide to take courses in pursuit of a degree or certificate . The choice is yours.

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Here, Learn Ways To Analyze Business Theory From Renowned Faculty To Advance Your Career. Master Business Here. Flexible Course Options to Fit Your Schedule & Dedicated Faculty.
Top Mba Courses
Boost your career with an affordable online MBA! Find your perfect program today. Get an Online Degree: Expand Your Knowledge, Boost Your Resume!
Full-Time MBA Program
Learn about the different options for earning your MBA at Kellogg, a top-ranked business school. Explore the curriculum, highlights and benefits of each program and find your path to leadership.
MBA Curriculum
Learn about the flexible and multidisciplinary MBA curriculum at Booth, which covers foundations, functions, electives, and leadership development. Explore the courses, concentrations, and career paths available for Full-Time, Part-Time, and Executive MBA students.
What Is an MBA Degree? MBA Programs and What MBA Stands For
Learn about the MBA degree, the world's most popular graduate management degree, and the different types of MBA programs available. Find out what MBA stands for, who is an MBA for, and what MBA courses and curriculum are like.
MBA Courses
Explore MBA courses, degrees, and programs from top universities and institutions on Coursera. Learn business skills, analytics, leadership, and more with flexible online learning options.
First-Year Curriculum
Coursework in the first year includes mainly core requirements, distribution requirements, and the potential for one or two electives. You'll dive into complex managerial issues, gain insight into the perspective of a senior leader, and develop your decision-making and communication skills in a global context. ... MBA 2023. The core classes ...
Online MBA and Business Degree Programs
Explore flexible and affordable online degree programs in business and MBA from top universities on Coursera. Learn from distinguished faculty and industry experts, build in-demand skills, and grow your network.
MBA Curriculum and Core Courses in an MBA Program
Learn about the core courses, electives, and specializations that make up an MBA curriculum. Find out how they prepare students for success in business with practical and theoretical knowledge.
Full-time MBA Courses & Curriculum
Learn about the core courses, electives, and intensive learning experiences that make up the Georgetown MBA curriculum. Customize your academic experience with a STEM-designated management science major, transfer credits, or cross registration.
curriculum
Students may take any combination of courses—up to five courses per semester—and also have the opportunity to cross-register for courses in other select graduate programs. Elective Curriculum Consult the online listing of Elective Curriculum MBA courses for faculty biographies, unit overviews, and detailed course descriptions.
Typical MBA Curriculum
Learn about the core courses and electives in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, as well as online availability and program length. Find out how to supplement your MBA with Study.com lessons on accounting, finance, marketing, human resources, operations, microeconomics and more.
Best Online MBA Programs
William & Mary's MBA program consists of 12 courses and one weekend residency. All courses can be completed online, but the weekend residency occurs in person on the Virginia campus. Weekend residencies include intensive business discussions, team-building exercises, and the opportunity to network with mentors.
What Is an MBA? About the Degree, Programs, Jobs, and More
Learn about the Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, a graduate-level business and management credential with a focus on leadership and managerial skills. Explore different types of MBA programs, online vs. on-campus options, coursework, concentrations, and career paths.
Online MBA Curriculum: Core Courses & Real-world Applications
Online MBA courses often leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance curriculum delivery. This creates a rich and interactive experience, with unlimited access to lecture materials and resources. 9 In fact, studies have shown that students can learn material faster when they have easy access to recorded lectures and other course materials. 9.
Full-time MBA Curriculum
Our transformative Connected MBA curriculum and experience shapes students into leaders who do, build, and catalyze. Over the course of your program, you will connect to yourself, others, industry, ideas, your community, and the world. Do: Learn by doing. Practice new skills in a supportive environment and spark connections with classmates and ...
Master of Business Administration Online
Learn about the online MBA program at USC Marshall, a top 5 comprehensive MBA program for working professionals. The program features self-paced, asynchronous coursework and real-time interactive sessions with expert faculty.
MBA Essentials Course by University of Glasgow
Learn the fundamentals of business administration and MBA with this online course. Explore topics such as business models, global economy, supply chain management, accounting analytics, SDGs, digital innovation, project management, change leadership, and marketing.
Full-Time MBA (FTMBA)
The Trojan family, known for its strong network, includes more than 450,000 alumni, where 90,000+ are from the Marshall School. Our campus community includes a world-class faculty, high performing students and a dedicated professional staff. Our Full-Time MBA is a two-year on-campus program. Ranked as a Top MBA program and STEM Certified. Learn ...
Best Online MBA Courses Courses and Programs
Learn about advanced business topics to advance your career with online MBA courses delivered through edX.
Online MBA Programs
The Online Master of Business Administration at Boise State University is designed for working professionals with at least two years of managerial experience. The Online MBA offers unique advantages like no GMAT/GRE requirements, cost-effective courses, accelerated completion in one year, a flexible asynchronous format, eight career-focused ...
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Guide
Learn what an MBA is, how to get one, and what you can do with it. Explore different types of MBA programs, concentrations, and online options from top universities on Coursera.
Business Fundamentals Course
Successful completion of CORe will help you prepare for an MBA program. While applicants to the MBA Program at HBS will have an opportunity to inform the Admissions Board of non-degree preparatory coursework (including CORe), this is one of many application elements and will be considered in the larger context of a holistic selection process.
Will an MBA Help You Become an Investment Banker?
An MBA is a huge advantage but not a guarantee. An MBA is one of two surest routes to investment banking. Tailor your B-school coursework to banking-related topics. Investment banking can be a ...
Online MBA Degree Programs
Learn how to become a successful business leader with WGU's online MBA degree program. Choose from 11 courses, set your own schedule, and finish in as little as one year with a flexible and affordable tuition structure.
Charting your MBA path: Helpful tips from the Class of 2024
Cherry Jessica Tran '24 Two-Year MBA "When it comes to academics, take a broad range of classes and pay attention to professor course evaluations. Even if the subject matter isn't 100% what you're interested in, the world-class Kellogg faculty are experts in engaging and challenging their students — you'll find yourself learning a ...
What Is an Executive MBA?
The two-year degree program is a popular and convenient option for those with several years of business and leadership experience. Much of the coursework mirrors that of a traditional MBA program, but a key distinctions separate an executive MBA versus an MBA. Classroom discussions in an EMBA program tend to be more advanced, as students in ...
MBA vs. EMBA: What's the Difference? Find the Right Path for Your
The average annual tuition for an MBA program in Canada was $30,464 in 2022/23. Full program tuition (1-3 year MBAs) for the top business schools in Canada range between $83,000 and $93,000 for domestic students. The average annual tuition for an EMBA program in Canada was $53,227 in 2022/23. Full program tuition (1-2 year EMBAs) for the top ...
MBA Programs
MBA Programs. Be Bold. Be Booth. Chicago Booth offers an MBA degree in four formats, designed to meet your professional needs and goals: the Full-Time MBA, Evening MBA, Weekend MBA, and the global Executive MBA Program. Chicago Booth is a place for risk-takers. For people who believe in challenging the status quo.
Take a Course
Courses Designed for Impact. At Harvard Extension School, our courses are the cornerstone of our academic offerings. You may choose to take a single course — perhaps to build a new skill, explore a passion, or prepare for graduate school. Or you may decide to take courses in pursuit of a degree or certificate. The choice is yours.
Best MBA Courses Online with Certificates [2024]
Explore various MBA courses online with certificates from top universities and institutions. Learn skills in leadership, management, marketing, finance, data analysis, and more.
2024 Best Online MBA Programs
OnlineU.com provides a list of the best online MBA programs based on salary, enrollment, and tuition. Learn about the types, benefits, and FAQs of online MBA programs and how to choose the right one for you.

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MBA Curriculum and Core Courses in an MBA Program

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