Full-time MBA

21 Months On Campus Masters Program

Arizona State University Tempe

Program Overview

The Full-time MBA at Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business is a 21-month, STEM-designated program designed to develop confident business leaders who can navigate complex challenges, drive innovation, and lead organizational transformation. Combining core business education with leadership development, executive mentoring, practical projects, and specialized concentrations, the program is ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers, transition into new industries, or develop expertise in areas such as finance, marketing, business analytics, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

The first year builds a strong foundation in essential business disciplines, management, and leadership. Students study subjects such as Financial Accounting, Managerial Economics, Marketing Management, Organizational Behavior, Managerial Finance, and Decision Making with Data Analytics, developing the ability to evaluate financial information, understand markets, manage teams, and make evidence-based business decisions. Leadership and Teamwork, Managerial Communications, and Experiential Learning Labs further strengthen communication, collaboration, design thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Summer Internship

Between the first and second years, students complete a required summer internship, gaining practical experience in their chosen industry or professional function. This provides an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge, develop workplace skills, build professional connections, and demonstrate their abilities to potential employers.

Year 2

The second year allows students to customize their MBA through specialized concentrations and advanced business learning aligned with their career ambitions. They can explore areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Consulting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Information Management, Marketing, Real Estate, and Supply Chain Management, developing deeper expertise in their chosen field. Students also strengthen their strategic leadership and decision-making capabilities through executive mentoring, applied projects, and the Capstone: Strategic Management course, which integrates knowledge from different business functions to address organizational challenges.

Focus Areas

Strategic management, business leadership, financial management, marketing strategy, business analytics, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and innovation, management consulting, information systems and technology management, real estate development, operations management, and supply chain management.

Learning Outcomes

Develop strategic leadership and managerial decision-making skills; analyse financial statements and business performance; apply data analytics to business challenges; evaluate competitive markets and business opportunities; manage organisational change and cross-functional teams; develop innovative business strategies; communicate effectively with stakeholders; lead ethical and sustainable business practices; and apply business knowledge to real-world organisational challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The W. P. Carey School of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The school has maintained AACSB accreditation since 1962, while its MBA program has been accredited since 1964. This internationally recognised accreditation reflects the school's commitment to academic quality, curriculum development, teaching effectiveness, and continuous improvement.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

U.S. News & World Report 2026: Ranked No. 12 among public universities for Full-time MBA programs.
Poets&Quants: Ranked No. 5 in the United States and No. 8 worldwide for Best MBA Programs for Entrepreneurship.
Employment Outcomes (Class of 2025): 90% of graduates accepted a full-time job offer within 90 days of graduation.
Average Starting Salary: $121,116 for Full-time MBA graduates in 2025.
Recruitment Network: More than 650 organisations across over 35 industries partner with W. P. Carey to recruit talent.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, experiential learning is at the heart of the MBA program. Students are immersed in real-world challenges that equip them with practical skills essential for today’s dynamic business environment. The program emphasizes hands-on experiences through various facilities and tools designed to enhance learning and foster collaboration.

Here’s how you can expect to engage in experiential learning at ASU:

- Consulting Projects: Work on real consulting projects with local businesses, allowing you to apply classroom knowledge to solve actual business problems.
- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with leading companies, providing you with insights into industry practices and networking opportunities.
- Business Simulation Labs: Utilize state-of-the-art simulation software that mimics real-world business scenarios, helping you develop strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
- Collaborative Learning Spaces: Access innovative spaces designed for teamwork and collaboration, encouraging group projects and peer learning.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various organizations, giving you a firsthand look at different industries and business operations.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects through dedicated laboratories and institutes, allowing you to explore topics of interest and contribute to the field.
- Access to Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources and databases that support your research and learning needs.

These experiences not only enhance your academic journey but also prepare you for leadership roles in the business world. The W. P. Carey School of Business is committed to providing you with the tools and opportunities necessary to succeed.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing an MBA at Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe opens doors to a wealth of opportunities and impressive career outcomes. Graduates from this program often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, and Operations Director. The skills and knowledge gained during your MBA will empower you to excel in various industries, making you a competitive candidate in today’s job market.

Here’s how ASU supports your journey toward success:

- Career Services: ASU offers robust career services, including personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out to employers.
- Employment Statistics: The MBA program boasts a strong employment rate, with over 90% of graduates securing jobs within three months of graduation, often with starting salaries exceeding $80,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: ASU has established partnerships with leading companies such as Intel, Deloitte, and Amazon, providing students with networking opportunities, internships, and real-world projects that enhance learning.
- Accreditation: The W. P. Carey School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program report high levels of job satisfaction and career advancement, with many moving into leadership roles within just a few years of graduation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MBA, you may choose to further your education 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, research, or high-level consulting roles, allowing you to deepen your expertise and expand your career horizons even further.

Choosing ASU for your MBA is not just about earning a degree; it’s about investing in your future and setting yourself up for long-term success.