Masters of Business Administration

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Washington Bothell is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their business knowledge, leadership abilities, and strategic decision-making skills. The programme combines core business courses, practical learning experiences, and flexible electives, allowing students to customise their studies through general business, leadership, or technology-focused pathways.

Curriculum Structure

The MBA is a 64-credit programme comprising 44 core credits and 20 elective credits. Students can complete it in approximately 18 months or study at their own pace through a flexible schedule. Classes are primarily delivered in person during weekday evenings, with some electives offered on weekends or online. Students can begin in any academic quarter.

First Year

The first year develops a foundation in business management, accounting, finance, marketing, economics, statistics, and organisational leadership. Core courses include Leadership and Ethical Decision Making, Statistics for Business, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Microeconomics for Business, Financial Management, Marketing Management, and Managing Organizational Effectiveness. Students also explore business strategy, team leadership, and organisational performance.

Second Year

The second year builds on this foundation through advanced management subjects, specialised electives, and applied learning. Core courses include Leadership Social Responsibility, Global Business, Operations and Supply Chain Management, and Strategic Management Capstone. Students can select electives such as Advanced Leadership Models, Business Intelligence and AI, Digital Marketing, Enterprise IT Management, Entrepreneurial Finance, Management Consulting, Project Management, Sustainability, and Technology and Innovation Management. These courses allow students to develop expertise aligned with their professional interests.

Specialisation Options

• General MBA: Allows students to customise their studies by selecting five electives across different business disciplines.

• Leadership MBA: Focuses on team leadership, strategic change, organisational growth, and management effectiveness.

• Technology MBA: Develops knowledge of technology-driven business innovation, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Focus Areas

Business administration, strategic management, leadership development, ethical decision-making, financial management, financial reporting, managerial accounting, marketing management, digital marketing, business analytics, artificial intelligence, technology management, entrepreneurship, organisational effectiveness, human resource management, global business, microeconomics, operations management, supply chain management, corporate governance, management consulting, project management, sustainability, and business communication.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to evaluate business challenges, interpret financial and statistical information, and make informed management decisions. They learn to formulate business strategies, manage organisational resources, understand global business environments, and improve operational performance. The programme also strengthens leadership, teamwork, communication, ethical decision-making, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Through electives and practical projects, students can apply their knowledge to real organisational and industry challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

• AACSB Accreditation: The UW Bothell School of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), an internationally recognised accreditation body for business schools.

• Leadership Development: Leadership-focused coursework, retreats, team activities, and faculty feedback help students develop management and interpersonal skills.

• Practical Learning: The curriculum includes applied projects, case studies, business simulations, and management consulting opportunities.

• Technology and Innovation: Technology-focused electives introduce students to enterprise IT management, artificial intelligence, business intelligence, and innovation management.

• Global Business Exposure: Global business coursework and the optional Global Study Tour help students understand international markets, cultural differences, and global business strategies.

Reputation (Employability and Rankings)

• Career Advancement: According to the university, 64% of MBA graduates were promoted or switched organisations within three years of graduation.

• Career Mobility: The university reports that 53% of graduates changed their industry or job function within three years of completing the programme.

• Professional Flexibility: The programme's evening classes and flexible study pace make it suitable for working professionals seeking to advance their careers while continuing their employment.

• Alumni Success: MBA alumni have progressed into professional roles across technology, management, consulting, and other business sectors.

• Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as Business Manager, Management Consultant, Business Analyst, Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Project Manager, Human Resources Manager, Strategy Consultant, Business Development Manager, Technology Manager, and Supply Chain Manager.