MBA applicants tend to overvalue rankings and so can overlook some strong business schools that might be a good fit. In this series, we profile amazing programs at schools that are typically ranked outside the top 15.
Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business unveiled a new MBA curriculum in 2012, and with it, a revamped global emphasis. Dean David A. Thomas announced the changes as part of an effort to respond to the evolving global business landscape by equipping students “with the skills to be innovative leaders—whether they are joining established organizations or becoming entrepreneurs.” During their “opening term,” first-year students are required to take “Structure of Global Industries.” This immersive three-week core course provides a foundation in international business that runs through the required “modules” in the spring semester and culminates with the school’s newly expanded, signature “Global Business Experience” during students’ second year. As part of this program, students take on consulting roles working for actual international organizations. In the spring, student teams travel to their respective client’s country to gain firsthand experience working in a global consulting and management setting. After the participating students return to campus, they present the stories of and takeaways from their experiences to their classmates at the school’s Global Business Conference.