The Smith School’s MBA programs are now STEM-designated, recognizing the analytical, data-informed nature of the curriculum. The STEM designation acknowledges the value of the degree for those seeking to work in business analytics and technology-driven enterprise.
Leveraging the Smith School’s faculty expertise in analytics, optimization, and operations management and new fields like data science and blockchain, Smith’s MBA programs help students develop contemporary tools and frameworks for better decision-making in any industry. Smith faculty work continuously with industry executives in its MBA Advisory Councils to include in-demand skills in the curriculum.
“The Smith School STEM-designated MBA program prepares future business leaders to make better business decisions by offering a curriculum focused on technology and data analytics techniques and complementing them with skills in leadership and strategic thinking,” says Rosellina Ferraro, Assistant Dean of MBA Programs.
Issues around integrating AI are infused throughout the coursework, and courses like Data-Driven Decision Models, Data Analytics, and Strategic and Transformational IT build a strong foundational expertise.
Full-Time and Flex MBA students interested in leading tech innovation can also take the Smith Graduate Certificate in Technology Management as a second-year elective track. The program prepares public and private sector leaders to identify, transition and leverage emergent technology into and across their organizations and markets. Students explore the practical challenges of technology development and adoption, learn best practices in R&D management and innovation, understand the interface of public policy and private enterprise in science and technology, and craft strategies to cultivate emergent technology from concept to commercial use. This certificate may also be taken as a stand-alone academic credential.
Smith’s STEM-designated MBA programs can accelerate success for current technology professionals or open new careers for those looking to access technology-driven industries. Employers are on the lookout for STEM MBA graduates. ”Our STEM designation signals to employers that graduates from our program understand how to uncover data-derived insights to drive value creation,” says Neta Moye, Assistant Dean of Career Services. “This is a skill valuable to any organization whose competitive advantage depends on data analytic capabilities, organizations well beyond the technology sector including consulting, finance, retail, and consumer products.”
A STEM-designated program also allows students from outside of the U.S. eligibility for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT).
- Learn more about the Full-Time MBA
- Learn more about the Flex MBA
- Learn more about the Online MBA
- Learn more about the Executive MBA
- Learn more about the Graduate Certificate in Technology Management
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About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business
The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and flex MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, business master’s, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.