Kelley School to Offer 5 STEM-Designated MBA Degrees
The Kelley School of Business joins the growing ranks of top business schools embracing all things STEM. Kelley has announced it will now offer STEM-designated MBA degrees in five disciplines.
As of this spring, MBAs with majors in accounting, business analytics, finance, marketing, and supply chain and operations will carry the special designation of being Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math certified.
Besides helping all students remain competitive, Kelley says the designation offers particular benefits to international students. Namely, STEM MBA graduates can opt to work longer in positions related to their studies at U.S. firms after graduation.
“The digital economy permeates every aspect of society and across many industries today,” said Kelley School dean Idalene “Idie” Kesner. She noted that recruiters seek graduates who understand how technology drives innovation.
This new designation better reflects the quantitative nature of the Kelley curriculum, Kesner explained. Also, she added, it shows how the school adjusts to meet the needs of students.
“The curriculum at Kelley has evolved to ensure that our students are ready for digitization, artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics required in 21st-century jobs,” said Ash Soni, executive associate dean for academic programs.
“Our employers appreciate that the STEM designation makes it easier for them to recruit the students who have completed this coursework and are the most prepared to perform in these roles.”
Why the sudden boom in STEM-Designated MBA Degrees?
Above all, recruiter demand has driven the boom, according to the school’s graduate career services office. Companies need MBAs who can understand and thrive in the disciplines of science, technology, math, and analytics.
According to a 2018 Pew Research Center report, employment in STEM occupations has grown by about 80 percent since 1990. In fact, it outpaces overall job growth in the United States.
“More than ever, we’re producing graduates who can focus on driving data-driven business decisions, solutions, and operational insights,” said program chair Kyle Cattani. “We believe this reflects what we do well.”
