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Online MBA Themes & Specializations

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Themes

Select a theme for list of specializations

The Finance & Economics theme sharpens your ability to make bold, data-driven decisions in areas like corporate finance, investment management, computational finance and financial economics. Dive into advanced topics like portfolio theory, big data analytics and corporate mergers while mastering econometric techniques. This hands-on, analytical approach transforms your quantitative skills and critical thinking, giving you an edge in solving real-world financial puzzles. With industry-relevant expertise in financial modeling and strategic decision-making, you'll be ready to lead in niche financial markets and thrive amid global challenges.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

Computational Finance Specialization

The Computational Finance Specialization equips students with cutting-edge tools for data-driven financial decision-making. Courses combine investment theory with hands-on projects in portfolio management, asset pricing and advanced analytics. Students gain expertise in database management, cloud-based tools and data mining, while developing AI and modeling skills to meet the demands of modern finance.

Credits Course
2 Investments

Investments

This course provides a foundation in investment management and portfolio theory covering topics like trading mechanics, optimal portfolio selection, asset pricing models, derivative securities and trading strategies. With real-world application, the course focuses on common stocks and options encouraging students to follow the financial press.

2 Database and SQL

Database and SQL

This course equips managers with essential database management skills for informed decision-making. It covers conceptual data modeling, ER diagrams, relational data models and SQL enabling efficient data utilization. Practical applications through collaborative group projects reinforce key concepts and techniques preparing participants for modern business challenges.

2 Big Data Analytics in the Cloud

Big Data Analytics in the Cloud

This course equips students with skills to leverage cloud computing and AI for big data analytics. Using Google Cloud Platform (GCP), participants learn to analyze large datasets, apply generative AI and machine learning and develop scalable data pipelines for comprehensive analytics projects.

2 Data Mining

Corporate Finance Specialization

The Corporate Finance Specialization offers deep insights into financial strategy, investment management and mergers and acquisitions. Students tackle real-world challenges like capital structure optimization, shareholder returns and M&A deal-making. Through case studies and practical applications, they develop skills in corporate governance, financial restructuring and risk management—preparing for strategic roles in corporate finance and private equity.

Credits Course
2 Advanced Corporate Finance

Advanced Corporate Finance

This advanced finance course builds on Financial Management (MGMT 610) to equip students with tools for financial analysis and decision-making. It focuses on investment and financing decisions covering topics such as cost of capital, capital structure, shareholder payouts, corporate distress and bankruptcy proceedings.

2 Investments

Investments

This course provides a foundation in investment management and portfolio theory covering topics like trading mechanics, optimal portfolio selection, asset pricing models, derivative securities and trading strategies. With real-world application, the course focuses on common stocks and options encouraging students to follow the financial press.

2 Merger, Acquisition and Corporate Control
2 Data Mining

Financial Economics Specialization

The Financial Economics Specialization empowers students to analyze economic forces shaping global financial markets. Coursework spans econometric techniques, trade theories and firm behavior in competitive and regulated markets. Students explore pressing issues like international trade and healthcare economics, building a solid foundation for careers requiring expertise in financial markets and public policy.

Credits Course
2 Financial Econometrics
2 International Economics
2 Industrial Economics
2 Health Economics

Ready to revolutionize the world’s supply chains? The Supply Chain Management theme arms you with the tools to streamline global networks—from sourcing and production to distribution and sustainability. You'll learn to integrate information, finance and goods flows while mastering strategic sourcing, project management and advanced manufacturing concepts. Get hands-on with cutting-edge tools like machine learning and data visualization to drive efficiency and solve real-world challenges. Courses in ethical and sustainable supply chains ensure you're prepared for the future, while case studies and industry-backed projects connect you with the practical know-how to build resilient systems that thrive in a fast-changing world.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

Supply Chain Strategy

The Supply Chain Strategy Specialization develops leaders who can design resilient, sustainable supply chains. Using analytical tools, students master production optimization, sourcing strategies, risk management and sustainability. Real-world cases and experiential projects hone their ability to lead initiatives that drive innovation and efficiency across global supply chains.

Credits Course
Advanced Manufacturing

Advanced Manufacturing

Manufacturing drives the global economy, with recent advancements from Industry 4.0 emphasizing analytics in management. This course introduces key concepts, techniques and models for designing and improving production processes and quality, covering process management, multiproduct management, lean manufacturing, predictive maintenance and trends like individualized manufacturing and output optimization.

2 Strategic Sourcing and Procurement
2 Global Supply Chain Management
2 Ethical and Sustainable Supply Chain
2 Project Management
2 Change Management

Change Management

This course on change management equips individuals, managers and leaders with practical tools to implement and sustain organizational changes. It covers frameworks, models and challenges associated with change, promoting sustained change through experiential assignments. Online videos complement readings, focusing on key principles for real-world change initiatives in a flexible format.

Supply Chain Analytics

The Supply Chain Analytics Specialization trains students in data-driven decision-making for complex global networks. They build expertise in predictive analytics, machine learning and data visualization using tools like Tableau. Through hands-on projects, students learn to communicate insights effectively, optimize operations and influence strategic decisions in supply chain management.

Credits Course
2 Global Supply Chain Management
Advanced Manufacturing

Advanced Manufacturing

Manufacturing drives the global economy, with recent advancements from Industry 4.0 emphasizing analytics in management. This course introduces key concepts, techniques and models for designing and improving production processes and quality, covering process management, multiproduct management, lean manufacturing, predictive maintenance and trends like individualized manufacturing and output optimization.

2 Strategic Sourcing and Procurement
2 Project Management
2 Statistical and Machine Learning
2 Visualization and Persuasion

Visualization and Persuasion

This course focuses on using Tableau to create persuasive visuals for solving business problems through storytelling. Students will learn to align their subject knowledge with the mental accounting of the audience, selecting visuals that effectively communicate their narrative to convince decision-makers, such as CEOs and board members.

Great leaders aren't born—they're developed. The Leadership theme is your launchpad to inspire teams, spark innovation and navigate complex business challenges. Through self-awareness exercises, emotional intelligence training and ethical decision-making scenarios, you’ll uncover your unique leadership style. Focused tracks like Leading Change and Innovation give you the skills to manage organizational transformation and build collaborative, forward-thinking cultures. Interested in leading technical teams? Learn executive presence, project management and tech strategy to guide teams with confidence. Whether you're driving change or inspiring innovation, this pathway equips you to excel in leadership roles across industries.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

Leadership Fundamentals

The Leadership Fundamentals Specialization prepares students to thrive in dynamic business environments. Courses focus on negotiation, leadership strategies and driving organizational change. Experiential learning, case studies and personal assessments help students build resilience, refine their leadership style and confidently tackle complex challenges.

Credits Course
2 Leadership
2 Negotiations in Organizations
2 Change Management

Change Management

This course on change management equips individuals, managers and leaders with practical tools to implement and sustain organizational changes. It covers frameworks, models and challenges associated with change, promoting sustained change through experiential assignments. Online videos complement readings, focusing on key principles for real-world change initiatives in a flexible format.

Leading Change and Innovation

The Leading Change and Innovation Specialization equips students to spearhead transformation and inspire collaboration. Topics include managing mergers and acquisitions, aligning HR with strategic goals and applying consulting frameworks to solve business problems. Students leave ready to lead cross-functional teams and drive organizational growth in fast-changing industries.

Credits Course
Leadership: Historical Perspectives
2 Collaborative Innovation

Collaborative Innovation

This course explores innovation as a collaborative phenomenon across organizational boundaries. Learners will acquire skills to design and facilitate conversations, platforms and ecosystems for shared-value innovation. Integrating theories from management, psychology and social science, the course emphasizes collaborative innovation processes as essential skills for the 21st-century open economy.

2 Merger, Acquisition and Corporate Control
2 HR Strategy
2 Consulting Tools and Skills

Consulting Tools and Skills

This consulting course emphasizes critical thinking and structured problem-solving, essential for addressing client challenges. It covers the consulting process common across firms, integrating multifunctional tools. Students will gain insights into the consulting industry, client management and skill development, enabling them to assess their fit within consulting careers effectively.

Leading Technical Teams

The Leading Technical Teams Specialization focuses on managing high-performing teams in technology-driven fields. Students develop skills in guiding technical projects, safeguarding intellectual property and bringing innovations to market. This specialization emphasizes leadership, team management and strategic problem-solving to prepare graduates for success in tech-focused environments.

Credits Course
1-2 Executive Presence

Executive Presence

At Daniels, the Communication faculty in Law, Communication and Ethics help students enhance their speaking, writing and interpersonal skills for business settings. This course offers online master’s students the chance to develop and practice their executive presence, improving their effectiveness in interactions with clients, colleagues and stakeholders.

2 Project Management
2 Tech Strategy

Tech Strategy

This master’s course examines the impact of technological innovation on market competition and how firms can strategically navigate these dynamics. It introduces tools, concepts and analytical frameworks to enhance students' abilities to define and analyze strategic problems arising from innovation, identifying competitive advantages at both industry and firm levels.

1 Intellectual Property Strategies

Intellectual Property Strategies

This course explores intellectual property, including copyrights, patents, trademarks and trade secrets. It consists of two modules: the first focuses on identifying and understanding each type of intellectual property, while the second applies strategy through team-based IP audits, allowing students to practice their knowledge on real companies.

2 Tech Commercialization

Tech Commercialization

This course focuses on the commercialization of innovations, products and services, crucial for entrepreneurial success. With only 5% of early-stage innovations reaching the market, students will learn a comprehensive framework for navigating the technology commercialization process, gaining insights into strategies, methodologies and best practices from idea inception to market introduction.

Turn data into actionable insights with the Analytics theme. From predictive modeling to cloud-based big data analytics, this program equips you with the cutting-edge tools to solve complex business problems. Specialize in business or marketing analytics while mastering platforms like R, Python and Tableau. You’ll gain hands-on experience designing predictive models, creating stunning visualizations and exploring the game-changing impact of AI. With expertise that spans statistical programming, machine learning and digital marketing analytics, you'll be ready to interpret data and shape strategy in fields like finance, healthcare, operations and beyond.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

Business Analytics Fundamentals

The Business Analytics Fundamentals Specialization provides students with a strong foundation in data analysis and management. They learn advanced topics like machine learning, deep learning and statistical modeling. Practical applications in tools like R, Tableau and Excel equip students to leverage analytics and AI for solving complex business problems and creating high-impact data visualizations.

Credits Course
2 Big Data Analytics in the Cloud

Big Data Analytics in the Cloud

This course equips students with skills to leverage cloud computing and AI for big data analytics. Using Google Cloud Platform (GCP), participants learn to analyze large datasets, apply generative AI and machine learning and develop scalable data pipelines for comprehensive analytics projects.

2 Data Mining
2 Database and SQL

Database and SQL

This course equips managers with essential database management skills for informed decision-making. It covers conceptual data modeling, ER diagrams, relational data models and SQL enabling efficient data utilization. Practical applications through collaborative group projects reinforce key concepts and techniques preparing participants for modern business challenges.

2 Deep Learning

Deep Learning

This course offers a systematic introduction to recent developments in machine learning, focusing on deep learning and its business applications. Students will gain hands-on experience with modern frameworks while exploring concepts like neural networks, convolutional networks, recurrent networks, deep generative models and deep reinforcement learning, reflecting advancements in the field.

1 Frontiers in AI

Frontiers in AI

This self-paced course provides a high-level overview of artificial intelligence technologies and their current state. It explores AI's impact on three industries—Agriculture, Medical and Marketing—through expert perspectives. Weekly readings and videos will cover material, showcasing how AI is driving disruptive changes in these sectors.

2 Statistical and Machine Learning
2 Machine Learning II

Machine Learning II

This second course in machine learning builds on fundamental concepts from Machine Learning I. It covers advanced topics such as support vector machines, deep learning, neural networks and principal components analysis. Students will extensively use R and its packages to implement various learning methods throughout the course.

2 Spreadsheet Modeling and Simulation
2 Using R for Analytics

Using R for Analytics

This course introduces R programming using RStudio for data analytics. Students will learn popular R packages, reinforced by a free DataCamp subscription. Assignments include conceptual and hands-on exercises, culminating in a team project to develop a YouTube video showcasing a Shiny app addressing a business problem.

2 Visualization and Persuasion

Visualization and Persuasion

This course focuses on using Tableau to create persuasive visuals for solving business problems through storytelling. Students will learn to align their subject knowledge with the mental accounting of the audience, selecting visuals that effectively communicate their narrative to convince decision-makers, such as CEOs and board members.

2 Web Data Analytics

Web Data Analytics

This course trains leaders in algorithmic problem-solving using web data across industries. Students will learn to collect, analyze and communicate insights from large datasets, emphasizing clickstream analysis and experimentation. The hands-on approach includes group projects, readings and case discussions, reinforcing data-driven decision-making in a modern business environment.

Marketing Analytics Specialization

The Marketing Analytics Specialization prepares students to harness data and AI to optimize marketing strategies. Coursework focuses on customer behavior analysis, market segmentation and performance measurement. Students apply analytics and AI to optimize strategies and measure performance. With hands-on experience in visualization tools like Tableau, they gain the skills to drive business results and effectively communicate insights.

Credits Course
2 Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing

The Digital Marketing course explores how customers create and engage with digital content, posing challenges and opportunities for marketers. It covers strategies for leveraging digital media, including online advertising, analytics and social network analysis. Through lectures, case studies and projects, students will learn to develop effective digital marketing strategies.

2 Marketing Analytics
2 Visualization and Persuasion

Visualization and Persuasion

This course focuses on using Tableau to create persuasive visuals for solving business problems through storytelling. Students will learn to align their subject knowledge with the mental accounting of the audience, selecting visuals that effectively communicate their narrative to convince decision-makers, such as CEOs and board members.

2 Python Programming
1 Frontiers in AI

Frontiers in AI

This self-paced course provides a high-level overview of artificial intelligence technologies and their current state. It explores AI's impact on three industries—Agriculture, Medical and Marketing—through expert perspectives. Weekly readings and videos will cover material, showcasing how AI is driving disruptive changes in these sectors.

Step into the future with the Technology theme. This dynamic pathway blends technical mastery and strategic thinking to help you lead innovation with AI and machine learning. Whether you're diving into predictive modeling and natural language processing or exploring AI governance and ethics, you'll gain the skills to shape tomorrow's tech-driven world. Hands-on projects and interdisciplinary collaboration prepare you to tackle the biggest challenges in business and technology. With customizable electives, you can align your learning with your career goals and position yourself as a leader in AI innovation and policy.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

AI Machine Learning

The specialization in AI Machine Learning equips students with advanced technical and analytical skills to lead in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Students will gain hands-on experience using tools like Python, R, and SAS Enterprise Miner to tackle real-world business challenges through predictive modeling, data analysis, and natural language processing. This specialization prepares students to apply AI and machine learning techniques to solve complex problems, driving innovation and strategic decision-making across industries.

Credits Course
Advanced AI Fundamentals for Technical Professionals

Advanced AI Fundamentals for Technical Professionals

This course explores AI fundamentals, focusing on data mining and machine learning. It covers key techniques like exploratory data analysis, predictive and descriptive modeling. Students need programming skills (Python, R) and a background in calculus, linear algebra, algorithms and probability theory for success.

2 Data Mining
2 Deep Learning

Deep Learning

This course offers a systematic introduction to recent developments in machine learning, focusing on deep learning and its business applications. Students will gain hands-on experience with modern frameworks while exploring concepts like neural networks, convolutional networks, recurrent networks, deep generative models and deep reinforcement learning, reflecting advancements in the field.

Natural Language Processing

Natural Language Processing

This course introduces natural language processing (NLP) and computational linguistics, covering morphological, syntactic, semantic and pragmatic processing. Students will learn to design parsers, construct semantic representations and develop NLP applications like information extraction and machine translation, along with presenting research results to peers.

2 Statistical and Machine Learning

AI Policy

The specialization in AI Policy equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intersection of artificial intelligence, governance, and societal impact. Students will explore how AI shapes political, economic, and social practices, while gaining insights into the policy, legal, and ethical considerations involved in AI implementation. This specialization prepares students to lead responsible AI initiatives, advocate for effective governance, and contribute to interdisciplinary collaborations across industries.

Credits Course
2 AI Essentials: A Non-Technical Introduction

AI Essentials: A Non-Technical Introduction

This course provides students on the translator track with foundational knowledge in AI, machine learning and natural language processing. It equips students to bridge language and technology, enhancing translation efficiency and accuracy. Students will also gain skills to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations and contribute to tech-driven industries.

Artificial Intelligence Policy, Governance and Ethics

Artificial Intelligence Policy, Governance and Ethics

This course provides a foundation in the policy, ethical and legal aspects of AI governance. Students will analyze laws, regulations and governance strategies across sectors and jurisdictions, gaining an interdisciplinary understanding of ethical principles and values guiding AI development and implementation in various contexts.

Interdisciplinary AI Fundamentals: Bridging Knowledge

Interdisciplinary AI Fundamentals: Bridging Knowledge

This foundational AI course covers the history, reasoning and knowledge of artificial intelligence, offering practical communication skills for AI projects. Designed for learners with diverse backgrounds, it provides a solid understanding of AI concepts, principles and applications. Basic knowledge of math and programming (e.g., Python, R, Java) is recommended.

Social Impacts of AI

Social Impacts of AI

This course explores how AI transforms social, political and economic practices using interdisciplinary theories and tools. Students will evaluate AI's societal impact through case studies, research and data analysis, fostering communication between technical and non-technical fields. The course emphasizes systematic analysis of AI’s effects on society.

Become an expert in the field you’re passionate about with an industry-focused MBA specialization. Whether it’s hospitality, health administration, defense strategy or spatial data science, these pathways help you combine technical expertise with strategic leadership to stand out in your chosen sector. You’ll learn from real-world case studies and industry-specific projects that ensure you're ready to drive change and innovation. By aligning your skills with the unique demands of your industry, you'll emerge as a competitive, forward-thinking leader equipped to make an impact.

Specializations (Credits will vary)

Defense Strategy

The Defense Strategy specialization in the MBA program provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex intersection of defense, technology, and leadership. Through courses like Technology War and Strategy, Grand Engineering Challenges, and Strategic Defense Foresight and Leadership, students will explore key defense topics such as strategic planning, engineering solutions, and long-term operational foresight. They will gain a deep understanding of the historical, political, military, and technological contexts shaping defense strategies, preparing them to lead organizations in addressing future defense challenges. The specialization equips students with the tools needed to design and execute impactful strategies, making them valuable leaders in defense and industry.

Credits Course
Grand Engineering Challenges

Grand Engineering Challenges

This course explores engineering challenges in national defense, focusing on Energy, Logistics, Information and Rapid Offense/Defense Systems. Students examine past, present and future challenges, integrating conceptual insight, research priorities and system planning skills to meet emerging defense needs. The course combines historical context with forward-thinking solutions.

Strategic Defense Foresight and Leadership

Strategic Defense Foresight and Leadership

This course equips emerging leaders with strategic foresight tools to make informed decisions about long-term defense environments. Students will learn to create adaptive strategies and plans based on future scenarios, ensuring defense or industry organizations stay competitive by applying emerging insights and preparing for future operational challenges.

3 Technology War and Strategy

Spatial Data Science

The Spatial Data Science MBA specialization provides students with advanced skills in spatial data analysis and management. Students learn to use tools like ArcGIS Pro, Python, and remote sensing software to analyze geographic data, manage natural resources, and address environmental challenges. The specialization prepares students to design and implement spatial data solutions, integrating diverse data sources to support strategic decision-making and real-world applications across industries.

Credits Course
3 Advanced Spatial Ecology and GIS
3 Environmental Informatics
3 Geographic Information System Application
3 Remote Sensing of Land Resources

Which MBA Specialization Supports Your Career Goals?

Theme Finance & Economics Supply Chain Management Leadership Analytics Technology Industry Focus
Specialization Computational Finance Supply Chain Analytics Leadership Fundamentals Business Analytics Fundamentals AI Machine Learning Defense Strategy
Corporate Finance Supply Chain Strategy Leading Change and Innovation Marketing Analytics AI Policy Spatial Data Science
Financial Economics Leading Technical Teams

What to Consider When Choosing an MBA Specialization

Your Personal Strengths and Interests
Assess your professional skills and knowledge. What sets you apart? Which specialization suits you?

The Professional Path You've Chosen
Do you plan to go further in your current career? An MBA specialization could help you advance.

Your Ultimate Career Goals
Think about where you'd like to be in five years. Choose a specialization that helps you get there.

Feedback From Your Supervisor
He or she can help you decide which specialization could take you furthest within the organization.

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