Masters of Business Administration (GMBA)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Washington

Program Overview

The Global Master of Business Administration (GMBA) at the University of Washington's Foster School of Business is a specialised one-year programme designed for students enrolled in selected international partner MBA universities. It allows eligible students to complete the equivalent of their first-year MBA core at their home institution and then study advanced business electives at Foster, earning an MBA from both their home university and the University of Washington.

The programme provides international business exposure, advanced management education, and opportunities to learn alongside students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. It is intended for international MBA students seeking to expand their global business knowledge and professional networks.

Curriculum Structure

The GMBA is a one-year, full-time programme based at the University of Washington's Seattle campus. Students must have completed coursework equivalent to the Foster School's first-year MBA core before enrolling. The programme focuses on second-year MBA electives rather than repeating the foundational MBA curriculum.

Programme Year – Foster School of Business

Students take advanced MBA electives in areas such as finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, international business, marketing, management, strategy, and operations. Available course examples include Introduction to Financial Statement Analysis, Advanced Marketing Strategy, Customer Analytics, Digital Marketing Analytics, Cases in Sustainability, International Business Consulting, and Global Business Study Tour.

Students can select courses according to their academic interests and professional goals, subject to course availability, eligibility, and enrolment restrictions. The specific course selection may vary by academic year.

Focus Areas

Global business, international management, strategic management, corporate finance, financial statement analysis, accounting, entrepreneurship, international marketing, digital marketing, marketing analytics, business strategy, organisational management, operations management, information technology management, sustainability, business consulting, global economics, leadership, and cross-cultural business management.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to evaluate complex business challenges, analyse financial and market information, and make strategic decisions in international business environments. They strengthen their understanding of global markets, organisational management, corporate strategy, and cross-cultural collaboration. The programme also supports the development of leadership, communication, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and professional networking skills through advanced coursework and interaction with an international MBA community.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

AACSB Accreditation: The Foster School of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation body for business education.
International Learning: Students gain exposure to a diverse academic environment and learn alongside MBA students from different countries and professional backgrounds.
Advanced Business Education: The programme allows students to pursue advanced MBA electives in areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, management, and international business.
Professional Networking: Studying at Foster provides opportunities to build relationships with faculty, fellow MBA students, and the wider University of Washington business community.
Dual MBA Qualification: Eligible students earn an MBA from their home international university and an additional MBA from the University of Washington.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

Business School Reputation: The Foster School of Business is an AACSB-accredited business school within the University of Washington.
International Exposure: The programme provides international academic experience and exposure to business perspectives from different markets.
Professional Development: Advanced electives and interaction with the Foster MBA community help students strengthen their management knowledge and professional networks.
Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Management Consultant, Business Strategy Manager, Financial Analyst, Investment Manager, International Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Business Development Manager, Operations Manager, Corporate Finance Manager, Global Supply Chain Manager, Entrepreneur, and Strategic Planning Manager.

Note: The above career opportunities reflect potential career paths for MBA graduates and are not guaranteed employment outcomes specific to the GMBA programme.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Washington's Foster School of Business, the MBA in Business Administration Global program is designed to equip students with practical skills that are essential for success in today’s dynamic business environment. Through a blend of hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and access to cutting-edge resources, students are prepared to tackle real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, which is crucial for developing a comprehensive understanding of global business practices.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MBA Business Administration Global program:

- Global Business Projects: Engage in team-based projects that involve real companies, allowing you to apply your skills in a global context.
- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with leading organizations, enhancing your resume and professional network.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software and tools such as Tableau for data visualization, Salesforce for customer relationship management, and various financial modeling applications.
- Field Trips: Participate in international study tours and field trips that provide firsthand exposure to global markets and business operations.
- Collaborative Learning Spaces: Access state-of-the-art facilities designed for teamwork and innovation, fostering collaboration among peers.
- Research Labs: Work in dedicated research labs that focus on areas such as entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing, allowing you to contribute to cutting-edge research.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including databases and journals that support your academic and professional research needs.
- Centers and Institutes: Engage with specialized centers such as the Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER), which offers resources and support for global business initiatives.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in the global business landscape.

Consider applying to the MBA Business Administration Global program at the University of Washington to take advantage of these incredible opportunities!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MBA in Business Administration Global at the University of Washington equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in a competitive global marketplace. Alumni often find themselves in influential roles such as Global Marketing Manager, Business Development Director, and Operations Consultant. This program not only enhances your business acumen but also opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities:

- University Services for Employment: The Foster School of Business offers dedicated career services, including personalized coaching, resume workshops, and networking events that connect students with industry leaders.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates from the Foster MBA program have an impressive employment rate of over 90% within three months of graduation, with average starting salaries around $120,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Washington has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing, providing students with invaluable internship and job placement opportunities.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Foster School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a mark of excellence that enhances the value of your degree in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates report high levels of satisfaction with their career progression, with many moving into leadership roles within just a few years post-graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MBA program, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. in a specialized area of business. This can lead to opportunities in academia, advanced research positions, or high-level consultancy roles, allowing you to deepen your expertise and expand your career horizons.

The MBA in Business Administration Global at the University of Washington is not just a degree; it's a stepping stone to a successful and fulfilling career.