07-02-2025
Technology is driving change in every industry, and business is leading the charge. As companies adopt AI, machine learning and automation, the demand for skilled business and tech professionals is surging.
A graduate business degree with an emphasis on technology is a strategic choice for future industry leaders aiming to gain a competitive edge. Technology-focused MBAs are increasingly popular as professionals seek to acquire in-demand tech skills to stay relevant in a changing business landscape.
Let’s explore the core components of a quality graduate business and technology degree and what to consider when building a tech-focused skill set that employers across industries will value for years to come.
A technology MBA is a graduate business degree rooted in core business principles, equipping students with skills in leadership, strategy and management. The program incorporates technology-focused topics such as analytics, digital marketing and artificial intelligence.
This degree focuses on how businesses operate today, teaching professionals to use technology effectively for operational success and strategic growth.
Compared to the traditional MBA that focuses primarily on broader business management, a tech MBA’s curriculum places emphasis on technical theory and practice.
A technology MBA program retrofits the traditional MBA for engineers, specialists and technologists and emphasizes technology-specific topics like AI and digital transformation, which are less central in traditional MBAs. Additionally, the tech MBA is geared toward students with a generalist background who want to learn more about technology or toward technologists who want to learn more about business.
Compare the traditional MBA curriculum to a technology-focused master’s in business degree.
When seeking a graduate degree in technology and business, it’s critical to choose a program that’s specifically designed with your success in mind. Here are five core elements to consider when choosing a tech-focused graduate business program.
The curriculum is the core of any graduate degree program. A tech-focused business degree should emphasize advanced technological coursework, including computational business intelligence, technology solutions and digital product design.
In a time when questions about the ethics of technology are being raised, the integration of ethical considerations in technology management should also be central to the core curriculum.
A quality, tech-driven business program will give students the valuable opportunity to tailor their experience to a specific area of interest. Customization through specialized electives deepens a student’s knowledge by giving them a focus area and significantly increases their competitive edge upon graduation.
Some specialized electives in a tech-focused business degree could include:
Mentorship is essential to the success of professionals in any field. A strategic business program connects graduate students with industry leaders and academic advisors in relevant disciplines. This provides invaluable opportunities to network and share insights on emerging business and technology trends.
In addition to mentorship, a strong alumni network and career resources can help students connect with other driven professionals, create a career plan, build a competitive resume and refine critical interview skills. These benefits are valuable both during the program and throughout their careers.
As more professionals seek to advance their education without relocating, graduate programs often offer both traditional on-campus and flexible online options for earning a master’s degree. Each format has unique benefits, allowing students to choose the approach that best fits their needs and goals.
What defines an immersive program is not the location but the quality of the experience. Engaging courses, accessible faculty, and opportunities for collaboration are essential. Whether on campus or online, a well-designed program provides the tools and support needed for a meaningful and effective educational journey.
Graduate school requires a significant investment of time, money, and energy. That’s why it’s essential to choose a graduate business or technology degree with a strong return on investment (ROI). Be sure to compare tuition costs and explore available financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants and loans.
With careful planning and research, you can select a graduate program with proven ROI that aligns with your financial goals.
Purdue University offers a groundbreaking graduate degree for leaders at the intersection of technology and business: the Master of Business and Technology (MBT).
Different from traditional and technology MBA programs, the MBT is a technology-first degree, designed specifically for professionals with engineering or technical backgrounds. It builds on this foundation to enhance skills in the development, adoption and commercialization of technology-driven solutions, making it a future-forward choice for aspiring tech leaders.
This STEM-designated degree provides the technical expertise to innovate while equipping graduates with the leadership skills needed to excel in C-suite roles.
The Mitch Daniels School of Business is proud to offer this innovative degree and invites driven, curious professionals from diverse fields to join us. Here’s what sets Purdue’s MBT program apart:
To learn more about this new and innovative graduate degree, we invite you to download our guide, The Tech MBA of the Future: Earning Your Master of Business and Technology.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your business and technology career, we invite you to request more information about the MBT program or .
If you would like to receive more information about pursuing a business master’s at the Mitch Daniels School of Business, please fill out the form and a program specialist will be in touch!
