Central Washington University Board of Trustees February 21 , 2025 ACTION – Approval of the Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The MBA program, developed by the College of Business with input from multiple stakeholders such as businesses, College of Professional Studies, students, and administration is designed to prepare learners for leadership roles in a dynamic global business environment. Below are a few salient characteristics of the proposed MBA program: 1. Comprehensive Curriculum : The MBA curriculum is interdisciplinary, incorporating key business areas such as management, marketing, finance, accounting, analytics, and supply chain. It emphasizes systems thinking, ethical leadership, and data-driven decision-making, equipping students to tackle complex business challenges. The curriculum also integrates real-world experiential learning opportunities, such as capstone projects and case studies, ensuring that students graduate with practical skills as well as professional development in human-centric businesses, use of artificial intelligence, sales, etc. 2. Industry-Relevant Specializations : The program will offer specializations and stackable certificates tailored to current industry needs, including Cybersecurity Management, Business Analytics, Sports Business, and Human Resource Management. These areas reflect high-demand skills in the marketplace and prepare students for careers in sectors with strong job growth projections. 3. Flexible : To meet the diverse needs of learners, the MBA program will be offered online with in- person/hybrid professional development to foster networking. This makes the program accessible to place-bound learners and working professionals. This flexibility aligns with Central Washington University's mission to expand access and success for all students. 4. Alignment with Workforce Needs : The MBA program responds directly to current workforce demands. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in fields such as financial and management analysis and healthcare administration with job growth rates exceeding national averages. The program will prepare graduates for roles in these expanding sectors, addressing both regional and national employment needs. 5. Competitive Advantage : The proposed MBA program is positioned to be competitive with other institutions in the Pacific Northwest. Its affordability, flexible delivery option, interdisciplinarity, and stackable certificates make it attractive to a broad range of learners, including CWU graduates, community college graduates offering a 4-year baccalaureate degrees, alumni, and learners from other diverse educational and professional backgrounds. 6. Contribution to CWU's Mission : The MBA program aligns with the university’s mission to foster equity, sustainability, and community partnerships. The program emphasizes ethical leadership, social responsibility, and the development of sustainable business solutions, ensuring graduates are equipped to make a positive societal impact. We are confident that the MBA program will enhance CWU’s academic offerings, contribute to enrollment growth, and strengthen partnerships with local and global industries.
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