Master of Business Administration

Program Overview

The MBA program at UB is offered in both full-time and part-time formats, providing flexibility for students with different professional commitments. The full-time program is typically completed in two years. The curriculum is structured to build a strong foundation in core business functions, followed by opportunities for specialization through various concentrations. A distinctive feature of the UB MBA is the LeaderCORE™ certification program, which spans the entire two years, offering students real-world business simulations and opportunities to develop identified management competencies for effective workplace performance. The program aims to ensure graduates are "management ready" and can seamlessly transition into leadership-track careers.

AACSB Accredited: Yes, the University at Buffalo School of Management's MBA program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International). This accreditation is a hallmark of excellence in business education, globally recognized as the highest standard for business schools. UB's School of Management has held AACSB accreditation since 1930, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to quality and continuous improvement in its business and accounting programs. This accreditation assures students and employers that the program meets rigorous standards for curriculum, faculty qualifications, research, and career outcomes.

Curriculum: The MBA curriculum at UB is designed to provide a broad understanding of business fundamentals while allowing for deep specialization. The core curriculum covers essential areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, operations management, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Students then have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of focus areas or concentrations, including Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance (with tracks in Financial Risk Management/Fintech and Quantitative Finance/Fintech), Management, Management Information Systems, and Supply Chain Management. The curriculum emphasizes "Action Learning," allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real business problems through projects and case studies.

Research Focus: The School of Management at UB has a strong research focus, with faculty actively engaged in scholarship across all business disciplines. Their research aims to discover and deepen the understanding of management concepts and applications that drive effective organizations. This includes diverse areas such as accounting and law, finance, management science and systems, marketing, operations management, and organization and human resources. The school also features various centers and labs, including the Center for AI Business Innovation, Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership, Center for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness, Center for Marketing Analysis, Center for Supply Chain Analytics, and a Behavioral Research Lab. These centers serve as bridges between academia and industry, fostering innovation and providing platforms for both faculty and students to engage in relevant, impactful research.

Industry Engagement: The UB MBA program places a significant emphasis on industry engagement, preparing students for successful careers through various initiatives. The LeaderCORE™ program, with its focus on real-world business situations and competency development, is a prime example. The UB MBA Consulting Group provides pro bono consulting services to local businesses, offering students hands-on experience in strategic planning, market analysis, operational efficiency, and more. The school's centers (e.g., Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership) actively connect students with industry leaders and entrepreneurial opportunities. Furthermore, the strong alumni network and dedicated career services facilitate internships and job placements with a wide range of companies across diverse industries. The program also offers opportunities for combined degrees, such as an Industrial Engineering BS/Business Administration MBA, fostering interdisciplinary connections.

Global Perspective: The UB MBA program actively cultivates a global perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of today's business world. The curriculum integrates international business concepts, and some concentrations, such as "International Management," specifically focus on global business challenges and opportunities. The School of Management emphasizes its "Global Reach" and offers various "Global Programs," including study abroad opportunities and global immersion experiences, to expose students to diverse business environments and cultural contexts. The university's diverse student body, including many international students, further enriches the classroom experience with varied perspectives on global business practices and challenges. This emphasis prepares graduates to operate effectively in multinational corporations and global markets.