Master of Business Administration

2 Years Blended Masters Program

University of Kansas

Program Overview

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Kansas School of Business provides a broad management education for students from different academic and professional backgrounds. The programme combines business fundamentals, analytical decision-making, leadership development, and practical experience to prepare graduates for management and leadership roles across industries.

Curriculum Structure

The University of Kansas offers several MBA formats, including a full-time, on-campus programme in Lawrence and an online MBA. The Full-Time MBA is designed for students seeking career advancement or a career change and combines core business coursework, experiential learning, and elective options. The current university programme page describes a 16-month, 49-credit-hour format.

First Year

Students build a foundation in accounting, economics, statistics, business analytics, and professional development. Core courses include Accounting, Managerial Economics, Statistics and Decision Tools, and Business Analytics. Students also develop professional communication and workplace skills through Professional Skills Development and take part in practical projects that connect business concepts with real organisational challenges.

Second Year

Students deepen their business knowledge through advanced coursework, electives, and applied learning experiences. The curriculum includes opportunities to work on consulting projects with real organisations, analyse business challenges, and develop recommendations for business owners and organisational leaders. Students can tailor elective choices to their interests and career goals.

Note: The current Full-Time MBA programme page describes a 16-month, 49-credit-hour structure. The linked academic catalogue may display different programme requirements or credit totals depending on the catalogue year and programme format.

Focus Areas

Accounting, financial management, managerial economics, business analytics, statistics and decision-making, international business, marketing management, operations and supply chain management, managing people, business law and ethics, global strategic management, leadership, entrepreneurship, consulting, and business strategy.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to apply business concepts across key management functions, analyse financial and operational information, use statistical and analytical tools to support decisions, and evaluate organisational challenges. They also strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, professional communication, presentation, teamwork, and leadership skills. The programme's practical projects help students apply these capabilities to real business situations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

AACSB Accreditation: The KU School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation for business education.
Experiential Learning: Students participate in consulting projects through the KU Small Business Development Center, working with business owners and organisational leaders to address real business challenges.
Internship Experience: The Full-Time MBA includes a summer internship, allowing students to gain professional experience and apply classroom knowledge.
Professional Development: Courses such as Professional Skills Development and Professional Skills Development II help students strengthen communication, workplace effectiveness, and professional capabilities.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

U.S. News & World Report 2026: KU's Full-Time MBA ranked 25th among public universities.
Graduate Employment: The university reports that 95% of its MBA graduates secure employment within three months of graduation.
Industry Connections: Graduates have found opportunities with organisations such as Hill's Pet Nutrition, Huhtamaki, T-Mobile, EY, and Lockton.
Alumni Network: Students benefit from the KU School of Business alumni network, which supports professional connections, mentorship, and career development.
Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Management Consultant, Financial Analyst, Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Business Development Manager, Strategy Consultant, Project Manager, and Entrepreneur.

Note: The employment figure is reported for KU MBA graduates and is not a guaranteed outcome for individual students.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Kansas, 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 in the MBA program at the University of Kansas:

- 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 that connect you with industry leaders and enhance your professional network.
- Collaborative Learning: Participate in group projects that foster teamwork and communication skills, essential for success in any business environment.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software such as Tableau for data visualization and SAP for enterprise resource planning, equipping you with the tools used in the industry.
- Field Trips: Experience firsthand the operations of successful companies through organized visits, providing insights into various business practices.
- Research Facilities: Access dedicated research labs and resources at the KU School of Business, where you can conduct studies and collaborate on innovative projects.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including databases and journals, to support your research and learning.
- Institute for Leadership Studies: Engage with programs and workshops that focus on developing leadership skills, preparing you for managerial roles in the future.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to ensure that you not only learn the theory but also gain the practical skills that employers are looking for. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, the MBA program at the University of Kansas is an excellent choice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Kansas opens doors to a wealth of career opportunities and prepares you for leadership roles in various industries. Graduates often find themselves in positions such as Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, and Operations Director, equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in today’s competitive job market. Here’s what you can expect from your MBA journey at KU:

- University Services: The KU Career Center offers personalized career coaching, resume workshops, and networking events to connect you with potential employers. Additionally, the Business Career Services team provides tailored support for MBA students, including internship placements and job search strategies.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of MBA graduates from KU secure employment within three months of graduation, with average starting salaries exceeding $70,000. Many graduates see significant salary increases as they advance in their careers.

- University–Industry Partnerships: KU has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as Garmin, Hallmark, and Cerner, providing students with valuable internship and job opportunities, as well as real-world projects that enhance learning.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The KU MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by only 5% of business schools worldwide. This accreditation ensures that you receive a high-quality education that is recognized and respected by employers.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the KU MBA program report high levels of job satisfaction and career advancement, with many moving into senior management roles within just a few years of graduation.

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, research, or high-level consulting roles, allowing you to contribute to the field of business in impactful ways.

The University of Kansas is committed to your success, and an MBA from KU is a powerful step toward achieving your career aspirations.