Master of Business Administration (MBA)

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Washington University

Program Overview

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at The George Washington University is designed to develop confident, responsible business leaders who can manage organisations, make informed decisions and respond to challenges in a changing global economy. The programme combines core business knowledge with analytical thinking, technology, ethical leadership and practical learning opportunities, supported by the university’s location in Washington, D.C.

GW offers several MBA formats to suit different career goals and schedules, including the Flex MBA, Global MBA, Online MBA and Online Healthcare MBA. The curriculum and study experience vary by format, so students can choose a pathway that fits their professional plans.

Curriculum Structure

The MBA curriculum develops knowledge across the main areas of business, including accounting, finance, economics, marketing, operations, data analysis, technology, organisational behaviour and strategic management.

Core Courses: Depending on the MBA format, required subjects include:

Financial Accounting
Accounting for Internal Decision Making
Operations Management
Decision Making and Data Analysis
Finance
Competition in the Global Economy
Microeconomics for the World Economy
Technology for Business in D.C.
Organizations and Human Capital
Marketing
Strategic Management
Business Ethics and Public Policy

Electives and Specialisation: Students can tailor their studies through elective courses and graduate certificates. Available areas include business analytics, finance, international business, entrepreneurship and innovation, marketing strategy and analytics, information systems and technology management, strategic management and public policy, real estate, and sport, event and hospitality management.

Focus Areas

Business Administration, Accounting, Corporate Finance, Business Analytics, Decision-Making, Operations Management, Marketing Strategy, International Business, Strategic Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Information Systems, Technology Management, Organisational Leadership, Business Ethics, Sustainability, Global Management, Healthcare Management, Public Policy.

Learning Outcomes

Students learn to evaluate business challenges, interpret financial and analytical information, and make informed decisions using quantitative tools and technology. They also develop strong communication and teamwork skills, understand how to adapt business strategies to global economic and cultural changes, and build the ethical judgement needed to lead responsibly.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The GW School of Business holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The Flex MBA and Global MBA are STEM-designated, reflecting their emphasis on analytical skills, technology and data-informed business decision-making.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

GW School of Business has received recognition in the Princeton Review’s 2025 business school rankings, including No. 8 for Best MBA for Marketing and No. 10 for Best MBA for Management. The school also reports that its MBA graduates earn an average of US$125,000 one year after graduation and US$165,000 after ten years, based on figures attributed to the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP). These are reported MBA graduate earnings, not a programme-specific placement rate.

Career Opportunities

Business Manager, Management Consultant, Business Development Manager, Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Project Manager, Product Manager, Business Intelligence Analyst, Business Analytics Manager, Strategy Consultant, Corporate Strategy Manager, Entrepreneur, Human Resources Manager, International Business Manager, Healthcare Administrator, Government Affairs Manager.

Programme Duration and Format

GW offers different MBA formats, each with its own credit requirements and schedule:

Flex MBA: 46.5 credits; part-time or full-time intensive study; average completion time of approximately 2.5 years; on-campus at the Foggy Bottom campus, with Fall and Spring entry.
Global MBA: 53 credits; full-time, two-year programme; includes the Consulting Abroad Program.
Online MBA: 46.5 credits; part-time or full-time study, with live online sessions and recorded learning materials.
Online Healthcare MBA: 46.5 credits; part-time online programme with healthcare-focused electives.

The Flex and Global MBA are STEM-designated. Duration, study mode and entry terms depend on the selected format.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Washington University, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through a combination of innovative coursework, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students develop the practical skills necessary to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, which is crucial for building confidence and competence in their chosen fields.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available to MBA students at GWU:

- Capstone Projects: Engage in real-world consulting projects with local businesses, allowing you to apply your skills to solve actual business challenges.
- Internships: Gain valuable work experience through internships with leading companies in Washington, D.C., and beyond, enhancing your resume and professional network.
- Global Experiences: Participate in international study trips that provide insights into global business practices and cultural perspectives.
- Business Simulation Labs: Utilize advanced simulation software to practice decision-making in a risk-free environment, honing your strategic thinking and analytical skills.
- Entrepreneurship Lab: Access resources and mentorship for launching your own business ideas, including workshops and networking events with successful entrepreneurs.
- Research Centers: Collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research projects at institutes like the Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence and the Institute for Corporate Responsibility.
- Networking Events: Attend exclusive events with industry leaders, alumni, and potential employers to build connections and learn from their experiences.
- Library Resources: Benefit from extensive library facilities, including access to databases, journals, and research materials tailored for business students.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you not only learn the theory but also gain the practical skills and experiences that employers are looking for.

Embarking on your MBA journey at GWU means stepping into a vibrant community where learning extends beyond the classroom, preparing you for a successful career in business.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at George Washington University opens doors to a wealth of career opportunities and impressive graduate outcomes. Graduates often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Management Consultant, Marketing Manager, and Financial Analyst. The skills and knowledge gained during the program equip students to excel in various industries, making them competitive candidates in the job market.

Here’s how GWU supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out to employers.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of MBA graduates secure employment within three months of graduation, with an average starting salary of around $100,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: GWU has strong connections with leading organizations in Washington, D.C., providing students with networking opportunities and internships that can lead to job placements.
- Accreditation: The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for top companies such as Deloitte, Amazon, and Goldman Sachs, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for success.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MBA, you may choose to further enhance your qualifications 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 consulting roles, allowing you to continue your journey of lifelong learning and professional development.

Choosing GWU for your MBA is not just about earning a degree; it's about investing in your future and unlocking your potential in the business world.