Master of Business Administration (or Master of Science in Management) and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Program Overview

The Leaders for Global Operations (LGO) programme at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a two-year interdisciplinary graduate programme jointly offered by the MIT Sloan School of Management and the MIT School of Engineering. It combines a Master of Business Administration (MBA), or alternatively a Master of Science in Management (SM), with a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS).

The programme is designed for professionals who want to lead at the intersection of business, engineering, technology, and global operations. Students combine management education with advanced technical study and complete an industry-based research thesis through an LGO partner company.

Curriculum Structure

The programme follows a two-year structure combining MBA coursework, LGO-specific management and operations subjects, graduate-level EECS courses, engineering electives, and an industry-based thesis. The MIT Course Catalog lists 157 units for the MBA component and 90 units for the EECS SM component.

Management Foundations — MBA Coursework

Students complete core management subjects that develop their understanding of business leadership, economics, communication, organisational behaviour, and financial reporting. Required courses include:

Leadership Challenges for an Inclusive World
Economic Analysis for Business Decisions
Communication for Leaders
Organizational Processes
Financial Accounting

LGO students follow a modified MBA core and do not take the standard MBA subject Data, Models, and Decisions. They complete the ethics module of the MBA Core Leadership requirement.

Leadership and Global Operations

The LGO-specific curriculum connects business management with operational systems, engineering, and organisational leadership. Required subjects include:

Engineering Probability
Building and Leading Effective Teams
Leadership and Organizational Change
Introduction to Operations Management
Operations Strategy
Global Operations Leadership Seminar
Research Project in Operations
One three-unit subject in lean operations
One nine-unit plant tour and partner integration subject

These courses help students understand operational performance, process improvement, leadership, teamwork, and the management of global production and supply networks.

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Core

Students pursuing the EECS specialisation complete two LGO engineering subjects:

System Optimization and Analysis for Operations
Engineering Statistics and Data Science

They must also complete one three-unit subject in Python. This Python subject is taught at the undergraduate level and does not count towards the graduate degree's required units.

EECS Graduate Electives

Students complete three graduate-level EECS subjects worth 36 units in total, selected from the department's Approved Advanced Graduate Subjects (AAGS) list. These courses allow students to develop advanced technical knowledge in areas aligned with their academic interests and professional goals.

Engineering Electives

Students must complete at least six additional units through graduate-level engineering coursework. The selection is made in accordance with the programme's academic requirements and relevant advising arrangements.

Industry Internship and Graduate Thesis

Students complete a 24-unit graduate thesis based on an internship with an LGO partner company. The research must incorporate both management and engineering content to fulfil the dual-degree thesis requirement. The thesis provides an opportunity to investigate a real organisational or technical challenge and develop an applied solution.

Focus Areas

Electrical engineering, computer science, technology management, operations management, global supply-chain management, engineering statistics, data science, system optimisation, software and hardware systems, robotics, product design, technology development, manufacturing systems, process improvement, organisational leadership, innovation management, and business strategy.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to combine advanced technical knowledge with business and management expertise to address complex challenges in technology-driven organisations. They learn to analyse engineering and operational systems, apply statistical and data-science methods, evaluate technical solutions, and make informed decisions about technology investments and organisational performance.

The programme also strengthens strategic thinking, leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Through the industry internship and thesis, students gain experience conducting applied research, collaborating with technical and business teams, and developing solutions that connect engineering innovation with operational and commercial objectives.

Professional Alignment

The programme is designed for professionals who want to lead technology-intensive organisations and manage complex engineering, digital, and operational initiatives. It is particularly relevant to individuals pursuing leadership roles in technology development, engineering management, product innovation, data-driven operations, manufacturing, and global business strategy.

Potential career paths include engineering manager, technology director, chief technology officer, technical programme manager, product development manager, software engineering manager, hardware engineering manager, robotics manager, data science director, operations director, manufacturing technology manager, digital transformation director, product strategy manager, innovation director, and technology strategy consultant.

The combination of management education, advanced EECS coursework, and industry-based research provides preparation for roles that require both technical understanding and organisational leadership.

Reputation

MIT's Leaders for Global Operations programme is a collaboration between the MIT Sloan School of Management and the MIT School of Engineering. It aims to develop global leaders with strong knowledge of operations, engineering, data technologies, and management through an interdisciplinary curriculum and industry-based thesis projects.

The EECS pathway gives students access to graduate-level study in one of MIT's major technical departments. Students work with EECS faculty to shape a technical curriculum that complements their MBA coursework and aligns with their academic interests. The programme's combination of management education, engineering study, and partner-company research is particularly relevant to professionals seeking leadership positions in technology-driven industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), experiential learning is at the heart of both the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) programs. These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills that are essential for success in today’s dynamic business and technology landscapes. Students engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and utilize cutting-edge facilities and tools that foster innovation and real-world application.

Here’s how you can expect to gain practical experience in each program:

Master of Business Administration (MBA):
- Action Learning Labs: Participate in real-world projects through MIT Sloan’s Action Learning Labs, where you work with companies to solve pressing business challenges.
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Access to the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship, which provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Sloan Innovation Period: Engage in a unique, immersive experience where you can work on projects that apply your learning in a practical context.
- Global Opportunities: Take part in global study trips and international projects that broaden your understanding of global business practices.
- Networking Events: Attend workshops and seminars featuring industry leaders, providing insights and connections that can enhance your career.

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS):
- Research Labs: Work in state-of-the-art research labs such as the MIT Media Lab and the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), where groundbreaking research is conducted.
- Collaborative Projects: Engage in group projects that encourage teamwork and innovation, often leading to publications and presentations at conferences.
- Internship Opportunities: Benefit from MIT’s strong connections with leading tech companies, facilitating internships that provide invaluable industry experience.
- Advanced Software Tools: Gain proficiency in industry-standard software and tools, including MATLAB, Python, and various simulation and modeling software used in engineering.
- Field Trips and Workshops: Participate in field trips to tech companies and workshops that enhance your practical understanding of the industry.

The combination of these experiential learning opportunities ensures that you not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in real-world scenarios, preparing you for a successful career in business or technology.

Choosing to pursue your graduate studies at MIT means immersing yourself in an environment that values innovation, collaboration, and practical experience. I encourage you to apply and take the next step toward an exciting future!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) opens doors to a wealth of opportunities. Graduates from these programs often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Product Manager, Data Scientist, and Systems Engineer. The skills and knowledge gained at MIT equip students to excel in dynamic industries, making them highly competitive in the job market:

- Career Services: MIT offers robust career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events that connect students with industry leaders.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of MBA graduates secure employment within three months of graduation, with average starting salaries exceeding $150,000. For EECS graduates, the employment rate is similarly impressive, with starting salaries averaging around $120,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: MIT has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.
- Accreditation Value: Both programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni from these programs often go on to hold influential positions in top-tier companies, start their own ventures, or pursue further academic research.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MBA or MS in EECS, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Management or Electrical Engineering, allowing you to delve deeper into research and academia. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications or executive education programs that enhance your expertise and keep you at the forefront of industry advancements.

Choosing MIT for your graduate studies means investing in a future filled with potential and opportunities. The combination of a prestigious education, extensive resources, and a powerful alumni network will set you on a path to success.