Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Business Studies

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

George Washington University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Business Studies (MIBS) at The George Washington University gives students the flexibility to build a graduate business education around their individual interests and career ambitions. Instead of following a single fixed specialisation, students combine two graduate business certificates with elective courses, developing a customised mix of business, analytical, technological and management skills.

The programme is suitable for students and professionals who want to broaden their business knowledge, explore more than one discipline and prepare for career opportunities across different industries.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 30 credit hours and follows a flexible structure:

Graduate Business Certificate 1
Graduate Business Certificate 2
Six credit hours of graduate business electives

Students select two certificates that complement their academic interests and professional goals. For example, combining Business Analytics with Investments and Portfolio Management can develop both financial knowledge and data-analysis skills. Another option is to combine Cloud, Applications and Information Technology with Artificial Intelligence to build expertise in technology and emerging business solutions.

Available Graduate Certificate Areas include:

Accountancy
Artificial Intelligence
Business Analytics
Crisis Management
Cloud, Applications and Information Technology
Creativity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Digital Marketing and Analytics
Energy Systems Management
Environmental Systems Management
Financial Management
Global Management
Human Capital
Management Leadership
Management of Technology and Innovation
Marketing and Brand Management
Project Management
Quantitative Business Foundations
Sport Management

The exact courses depend on the certificates selected and the electives approved for the student's study plan.

Focus Areas

Business Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Accountancy, Financial Management, Global Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Digital Marketing, Marketing and Brand Management, Project Management, Crisis Management, Environmental Systems Management, Energy Systems Management, Human Capital, Organisational Leadership, Information Technology, Quantitative Business Foundations, Sport Management.

Learning Outcomes

Students learn to combine knowledge from different business disciplines and apply it to practical organisational challenges. They develop skills in business analysis, strategic decision-making, communication, leadership and problem-solving. Depending on their selected certificates, they can also build specialised expertise in areas such as financial management, data analytics, artificial intelligence, technology management or entrepreneurship.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The GW School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Students can choose either a STEM or non-STEM pathway. To pursue the STEM-designated option, students must combine two STEM-designated graduate business certificates with six elective credits. Eligible international graduates on F-1 status may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, subject to applicable requirements.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The university highlights the career opportunities available through its Washington, D.C., location, dedicated career services and extensive alumni network. GW Business reports that its alumni network includes more than 60,000 graduates working across over 260 organisations, including major companies, startups and nonprofit organisations.

However, the university does not publish a specific employment rate, average graduate salary or programme-level employability ranking for the MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies.

Career Opportunities

Business Analyst, Management Analyst, Business Development Manager, Project Manager, Financial Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Marketing Manager, Digital Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Management Consultant, Strategy Consultant, Technology Consultant, Entrepreneurship Manager, Artificial Intelligence Business Analyst, Accountancy Associate, Human Resources Manager, Global Business Manager, Risk Management Analyst, Corporate Strategy Analyst, Innovation Manager.

Programme Duration and Format

The programme requires 30 credit hours and is offered in person at GW's Foggy Bottom campus in Washington, D.C. Students can study full-time or part-time, with an average completion time of approximately two years for full-time students and two and a half years for part-time students. Admission is available for the Fall and Spring semesters.

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the university's published cost estimate lists tuition of US$62,280 for the 30-credit programme, excluding additional university fees, books and living expenses. Actual tuition may vary according to the applicable academic-year rates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At George Washington University, the MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies program is designed to equip students with practical skills that are essential for success in today’s dynamic business environment. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with peers, and gain valuable insights from industry professionals.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Capstone Projects: Students work on real-world business challenges, collaborating with local organizations to develop innovative solutions.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages internships that provide practical experience and networking opportunities in various industries.
- Access to Digital Tools: Students utilize advanced software such as Tableau for data visualization and SPSS for statistical analysis, enhancing their analytical skills.
- Group Projects: Collaborative assignments foster teamwork and communication skills, preparing students for the collaborative nature of modern workplaces.
- Field Trips: Students have the chance to visit local businesses and organizations, gaining firsthand insights into industry practices and trends.
- Research Facilities: The university offers dedicated spaces for research and collaboration, including the GWU Libraries, which provide extensive resources for academic and professional development.
- Networking Events: Regular events with alumni and industry leaders help students build connections and gain insights into career paths.

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

Consider applying to the MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies program and take the next step toward a rewarding career!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies at George Washington University equips graduates with a versatile skill set that opens doors to a variety of career paths. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as Business Analyst, Project Manager, and Marketing Strategist. This program not only enhances your business acumen but also prepares you for leadership positions in diverse industries:

- University Services: The Career Services Center offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events to connect students with potential employers. Additionally, the Office of Graduate Student Life provides resources for professional development and community engagement.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for alumni is approximately $75,000, with many reporting significant salary increases within a few years.

- University–Industry Partnerships: GWU has established strong partnerships with leading organizations in Washington, D.C., including the World Bank, Deloitte, and various tech startups, providing students with unique internship and job placement opportunities.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a hallmark of excellence that enhances the value of your degree in the job market.

- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work in prestigious companies and organizations, often taking on roles that influence strategic decision-making and drive innovation.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MS in Interdisciplinary Business Studies, you may choose to further your education by pursuing a Ph.D. in Business Administration or related fields. This could lead to academic positions or advanced research roles. Alternatively, you might consider specialized certifications in areas such as data analytics, project management, or digital marketing to enhance your expertise and career prospects even further.

With the robust support and resources available at George Washington University, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a successful career journey.