We don’t have to tell frequent readers of Poets&Quants For Undergrads that the way we do business in changing. The pandemic, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, the climate crisis and a myriad other factors have impacted everything from how we go to work, what work we do once there (wherever “there” may be these days), and how our work interacts with the world around us.
To keep up, business schools themselves must change. And many are.
Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business – long a top business school for graduate students – launched a brand new program for undergrads in 2021 to create leaders for issues like the energy transition. The first cohort graduates in May.
Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business – known for its pioneering approach to merging technology with business – has a new dean with a strong vision. It recently launched a new minor in FinTech and is infusing AI across its curriculum.
And, the Carlson School of Management at University of Minnesota launched a brand-new curriculum in Fall 2022 centered around three pillars: People & Planet, Data & Decisions, and Foundations & Impact.
You can find many, many more innovative examples of business schools responding to our changing economy at institutions across the country. Too many to count.
For this compilation of the 10 business schools to watch, we looked at the innovations, differentiators, and X-factors preparing business leaders for the big changes that are coming or that are already here. We looked for forward momentum and the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of new challenges and opportunities.
From the large and celebrated, to the ambitious upstarts, to the overlooked gems, here are the 10 schools we’ll be watching in 2024. Click through each to read why they caught our eye.
Loyola Marymount University College of Business Administration
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School
University of Tennessee Knoxville Haslam College of Business
Rice University in the heart of Houston, Texas. Rice’s Jones Graduate School of Business will graduate its first cohort of undergraduate business majors this May. Courtesy photo
Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business
Don’t let its name fool you. The Jones Graduate School of Business is a power player in the MBA ranks, finishing 18th in Poets&Quants’ composite ranking of the top 100 U.S. programs and sixth in our ranking of the best online MBAs.
But, as of fall 2021, Rice Jones also offers a undergraduate business major. Its first class will graduate this May.
“Rice undergrads are known for setting a high bar — rigorous academics, multiple majors and minors in STEM, research with faculty, and following the honor code,” says dean Peter Rodriguez.
“By taking these strengths and combining them with the business program and our location in Houston, we are creating a new kind of leader who can address critical issues in the world; accelerate opportunities in the energy transition, AI and other fields; and contribute to the vitality of urban communities, specifically our home city. Our undergraduate business students will be uniquely capable of doing that.”
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH PETER RODRIGUEZ
May 2024 is set to be a big month for Rice Business education. Not only will its first cohort of undergraduate business majors walk across the commencement stage, but it also marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the B-school.
“We think that shows our growth and reach in the best possible light,” Rodriguez says.
Of course, the proof in the business major pudding is in the metrics Rice Jones hasn’t yet had the chance to measure. Think employment rate after graduation, first year salaries and signing bonuses, and the companies and organizations who hire Jones graduates. We won’t know how the first class of Jones business undergrads fared until after they start entering the workforce this summer.
And we think that will be worth watching.
We reached out to dean Rodriguez to learn more about the new undergraduate program. Read the interview below.
Dean Peter Rodriguez, Jones Graduate School of Business
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
We encourage students to pursue independent study, which is a research-oriented opportunity, and we now offer an Applied Business Experience course, which facilitates student internships. Because of the increasing interest in the major and the high demand for our undergraduate courses, we are considering new electives and are constantly innovating the registration process to ensure that all student requirements are satisfied. At the same time, we are improving the advising and communication platforms.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
This May, we graduate the first cohort of business majors. It coincides with the 50th anniversary of the school’s founding. We think that shows our growth and reach in the best possible light.
We are also developing student awards to celebrate their academic and service contributions to the school.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
We pride ourselves on having cultivated an environment at the business school that is attentive, responsive and kind. These values reflect the way we treat our community, especially our students. Attentive, responsive and kind, which we sometimes refer to as ARK, characterizes the best of what Rice Business does. We demonstrate our respect for each other, empathy and generosity. By introducing it at the undergraduate level, we imbue these values into students as they prepare to lead or launch top organizations.
Another differentiator is our tight-knit community, meaning that professors know your name and are open to work one-on-one with students on various research projects. Our professors are the same research-backed academics who teach our MBA, MAcc and Ph.D. students.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
Our graduates often have multiple majors or minors in various other areas of interest. This provides diversity of perspective that is valuable no matter what industry they choose to work in after graduation. We can’t wait to tell their stories once they’re out in the business world.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
Our Center for Career Development provides undergraduate business majors with industry nights, resume reviews, and mock interviews. Our Career Development staff also help students with case preparation to ensure their success on the job market.
Students participate in business-focused clubs that give them engagement and networking opportunities along with career support. Some of these clubs include: Rice Business Society, Rice Consulting, Rice Undergraduate Investment Fund, Rice New Energy Fund, 180 Degree Consulting, Rice Women in Business, Women in Finance and Investing.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
Since our program is new and growing (and we don’t have alumni yet), students have yet to name a signature experience. You’ll know when we do.
People walk outside the home of Rice Jones Graduate School of Business, McNair Hall. Courtesy photo
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
Rice undergrads are known for setting a high bar — rigorous academics, multiple majors and minors in STEM, research with faculty, and following the honor code. By taking these strengths and combining them with the business program and our location in Houston, we are creating a new kind of leader who can address critical issues in the world; accelerate opportunities in the energy transition, AI and other fields; and contribute to the vitality of urban communities, specifically our home city. Our undergraduate business students will be uniquely capable of doing that.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
We graduate our first cohort of business majors this May and look forward to hearing from employers about what makes our students special over the next few years.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
As I talk to people who are interested in Rice and the undergraduate business program, I like to remind them of the university’s signature financial aid program called The Rice Investment. As a loan-free institution, we invest in our students so they can graduate without the burden of student debt. As of today, 57% of undergraduates receive some kind of aid. Our need-based aid and merit awards meet 100% of demonstrated need for all students. That means if there’s a gap between what an admitted student’s family is able to pay and our total cost of attendance, we cover the gap. We’re so proud of this commitment, and we believe that every eligible student who wants to pursue a Rice education has the opportunity to do so.
NEXT PAGE: University of Richmond Robins School of Business
Robins School of Business at University of Richmond has posted among the highest undergrad employment rates for the last three years in P&Q’s undergraduate B-school ranking. (University of Richmond photo)
University of Richmond Robins School of Business
When it comes to getting a job, there are few undergraduate business programs that have your back as consistently as University of Richmond’sRobins School of Business.
For the past three years inPoets&Quants For Undergrads ranking of the best undergraduate business schools, Robins School graduates have posted increasingly impressive career outcomes, including full-time employment rates that are regularly top-of-class. Out of 91 undergrad B-schools we ranked for 2024, Robins wasone of only two schools to report full employment for all Class of 2023 job-seeking graduates. That means that 100% of graduates who were looking for full-time jobs found them within three months of walking across the stage. The school also posted 98.8% employment for the Class of 2022 and 100% for the Class of 2021.
The University of Richmond is a private, liberal arts school with about 3,500 undergraduates – around 35% of whom graduate from the Robins School. The B-school has 80 tenure-track faculty members and 90-some total faculty, allowing for small class sizes and individual attention.
One of its strongest tools for helping its graduates build their careers is its Spider Network, named for the university’s mascot, WebstUR the Spider. That’s the university’s web-like network of alum, faculty, career professionals, and industry practitioners who help connect students with internships, advice, and those all important post-graduate jobs.
“The Spider Network is a real thing. It is amazing … Alums want to know what (students) are up to, what they are doing, and how they can help. They are just very loyal,” Mickey Quiñones, now in his fifth year as Robins School dean, told P&Q in this interview.
“I put it back to the experience that they had at Robins and the impact that has had on their career. They want to pay it forward.”
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH MICKEY QUIÑONES
We at P&Q are eager to see how Robins graduates fare in an increasingly tricky labor market. We reached out to dean Quiñones to learn more the program’s success. Our interview is posted below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
This year marked the debut of our Digital Marketing Practicum. In this innovative course, students take the reins of the Robins School Instagram and TikTok accounts, crafting and executing digital marketing strategies under the mentorship of a professor. They delve into social media analytics to understand audience engagement and trends, tracking and analyzing data to refine their approaches. The course offers them a nuanced understanding of effective content strategies, from reels and stories to standard posts, providing insights into what captures audience interest and drives engagement.
Mickey Quiñones, dean of the Robins School
The Spider Business Hub connects the Robins School with client-based projects in the Richmond community. Individual students sign up to work on a project under the mentorship of the Hub Director or another faculty member. In addition, professors can incorporate a Hub project into their classes so students can apply what they are learning in the course to real-world challenges.
Since its launch three years ago, student engagement with the Hub has grown exponentially. Our vision is for every student in the Robins School to have a meaningful client-based experience prior to graduating.
Additionally, our Bench Top Innovations program offers a unique, year-long immersive experience where 16 students from all majors across campus collaborate to bring a consumer-packaged food or beverage idea from concept to market. In the initial semester, teams brainstorm and refine innovative product concepts, culminating in a Demo Day that showcases their ideas to the university and local startup community. A panel of industry experts assesses these ideas for commercial potential. The following semester transitions students into the roles of company employees, tasked with launching and scaling the venture.
This comprehensive program is enhanced by expert instructors, advisors, and guest speakers, ensuring students face and overcome real-world business challenges. Since the program’s launch, it has already yielded successful ventures, such as Absurd Snacks, a nut-free trail-mix now available at Whole Foods across the Mid-Atlantic region and on Amazon, demonstrating the tangible impact of hands-on learning.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
Our commitment to continuous improvement is guided by our dedication to the principles of excellence, relevance, impact, and community. This fall, I initiated a Sustainability Task Force with the mission to critically assess how effectively we’re equipping our students to confront the complexities of climate change and other sustainability challenges. Our curriculum already encompasses a range of relevant courses, including environmental economics, sustainable marketing, and sustainability management. Additionally, for the past four years, we’ve championed the Sustainable Solutions Challenge, engaging the wider campus in addressing ecological issues. I am confident that the insights and recommendations from the Sustainability Task Force will be instrumental in further enriching our offerings, ensuring our students are even better prepared to make a meaningful difference in this critical area.
We are also building on our commitment to international business education. Currently more than half of our students study abroad prior to graduating. We are actively exploring new avenues to utilize our network of over 50 international partner schools to offer even more diverse international experiences. These initiatives range from short-term international engagements to applied projects with a global perspective, ensuring our students gain the comprehensive, worldly insights needed to thrive in today’s interconnected business landscape.
Robins School student in its Innovation Lab (iLab). (University of Richmond photo)
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
Upon joining the Robins School in 2019, I was struck by a description from one of our Executives-in-Residence who likened our educational approach to that of an “artisanal” craft. This perfectly encapsulates our dedication to a student-centered philosophy. Our faculty and staff prioritize building deep, mentoring relationships with each student, taking the time to understand their unique aspirations, and guiding them on how to make the most of their journey with us. I often emphasize to parents that in our intimate class settings, with an average size of just 20, there’s simply no place for students to blend into the background. This ensures that every student actively develops their communication and analytical skills, nurtured within a rigorous yet supportive environment.
Another key differentiator for our institution is the broad spectrum of experiential learning opportunities available, designed to enhance our students’ business acumen and professional skills. Our relatively small size facilitates easy access for all students to these invaluable resources. This approach ensures a more personalized and impactful learning experience, where students can immerse themselves in practical business scenarios, engage in hands-on projects, and participate in real-world problem-solving. This direct involvement not only sharpens their skills but also boosts their confidence and readiness for the professional world, setting them apart in the competitive job market. Through such engagements, our students emerge as well-rounded professionals, equipped with a deep understanding of business principles and the ability to apply them effectively in any setting.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
The Robins School stands apart in the educational landscape, representing the best of both worlds as a comprehensive business school nestled within a traditional liberal arts college. With a robust faculty of over 100 members spanning six departments, we offer a broad and deep educational experience. Our setting allows students to develop an understanding of the myriad contexts—historical, social, psychological, technological, environmental, and political—within which businesses operate. This integration of a liberal arts perspective forms a solid foundation upon which our business curriculum is built. Feedback from employers consistently highlights that our graduates not only possess a wide-ranging knowledge base but also a deep mastery of business principles and practical skills. They are noted for their professionalism, strong work ethic, and proactive approach to problem-solving. In essence, our students are “Day One Ready,” fully prepared to excel from the moment they step into their professional roles.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
Our approach to career preparation is comprehensive and tailored to meet the diverse interests and aspirations of our students, starting right from their first year. In addition to having dedicated Career Services specialists for each discipline, we offer specialized programs like “Deconstructing Wall Street” and “Deconstructing Health Care” to expose students to a variety of career paths in these sectors and beyond. For those drawn to finance, our “Banking Bootcamp” provides an in-depth look into this sought-after field. Additionally, through guest lectures, visits to major cities, and interaction with our Executives-in-Residence, students explore career possibilities they might not have previously considered.
For accounting enthusiasts, our Director of Accounting Student Engagement offers year-round activities and facilitates connections with leading firms, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in accounting. It’s a point of pride that most of our students secure at least one internship before graduating, gaining invaluable real-world experience. For students who are interested in unpaid internships or research opportunities, the University of Richmond offers up to $5,000 to support students through the Richmond Guarantee, ensuring equitable access to all opportunities.
Collaborating with Startup Virginia, we also provide pathways for students interested in entrepreneurship, offering them firsthand experience with startup culture. Our mentorship program is another cornerstone of our career preparation efforts, matching students with seasoned executives for career counseling and skill development.
Moreover, our Q-Camp, a professional development off-site conference for second year students, is specifically designed to refine students’ interview skills, etiquette for business dining, and networking strategies, ensuring they are fully prepared for the professional world.
Together, these initiatives embody our commitment to equipping students with the skills, experiences, and connections necessary to thrive in their chosen careers.
One hundred percent of job-seeking Robins School Class of 2023 undergrads found jobs within three months of graduation in our latest ranking. (University of Richmond photo)
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
When we sought feedback from our alumni about the most impactful aspect of their education at the Robins School, the answer was clear and consistent: the profound relationships they formed with their professors stood out as the most cherished element of their experience. Our graduates frequently emphasize how these connections went beyond the traditional teacher-student dynamic, evolving into mentorships that nurtured their personal and professional growth. This unique facet of our educational environment, where professors are deeply invested in the success and development of each student, is highlighted as a key differentiator of the Robins School experience. Such relationships not only enriched their time at the university but also continued to influence their careers and lives long after graduation, underscoring the lasting impact of our committed faculty on their students.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
Our entrepreneurship education is a standout yet often overlooked aspect of our program. Our faculty in this area are not only recognized experts in their fields but also bring a wealth of practical experience from their own entrepreneurial ventures. This combination of academic rigor and real-world knowledge uniquely positions our students for success. Many have gone on to start their own businesses, leveraging the skills and connections they developed at the Robins School.
Additionally, we have a robust mentorship program where alumni who have become successful entrepreneurs return to mentor current students as Entrepreneurs-in-Residence and Founders-in-Residence. This practical support and guidance from those who have navigated the entrepreneurial path themselves is a critical component of our entrepreneurship education, providing both inspiration and practical advice to our students.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
The primary employers of our graduates, notably large banks and the big four accounting firms, consistently praise our students for their exceptional preparation and proactive approach to challenges. This feedback highlights the immediate positive impression our graduates make, characterized by their confidence and professional demeanor, making them highly valued and sought after by leading organizations.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
We evaluate our success by the impact our students have in the world. Their ability to effect positive change within their organizations, communities, and beyond is a source of tremendous pride for us. It is this very impact that motivates us to keep refining and enhancing our program.
While our primary focus is on undergraduate business education, our faculty are also well-known researchers consistently publishing in top tier journals. Providing opportunities for our students to work with faculty on research projects enhances their curiosity, critical thinking, and data analysis skills.
NEXT PAGE: Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business
Scheller College of Business has a brand new dean, recently launched a minor in FinTech, and created a new Sports and Entertainment Undergraduate Certificate. Courtesy photo
Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business
2024 is already shaping up to be a transformative year for Georgia Institute of Technology’s Scheller College of Business.
It has a brand new dean. Anuj Mehrotra, the Stephen P. Zelnak Jr. Chair and a professor of Operations Management, took over in January after serving six years as dean of George Washington University’s School of Business.
It’s launched or is preparing to launch several undergrad initiatives leveraging’sScheller’s core strengths, location, and network while connecting students with the real world of business from day one. These include a new minor in FinTech, a new Sports and Entertainment Undergraduate Certificate, and integrating AI across its curriculum.
It’s creating an entrepreneurship capstone course, expanding interdisciplinary and experiential learning opportunities, and further developing its partnerships within Atlanta’s Tech Square.
If all that weren’t enough to hold our attention throughout the year, Craig Womack, associate dean of undergraduate programs, tells us they’re also exploring a new undergraduate degree in Business and Technology. One more innovation to watch for.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH CRAIG WOMACK
Womack tells us more about these recent innovations in the interview below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
The arrival of Dean Anuj Mehrotra at the beginning of this year ignited a new chapter of excitement and innovation for us.
We’re on the brink of implementing several student-focused advancements that leverage Scheller’s core strengths, location, and network. These slated undergraduate initiatives will redefine the Scheller educational experience by connecting students with the real world of business from day one.
Craig Womack, associate dean of undergraduate programs
Most recently, we launched a new minor in FinTech, which prepares students for the seismic shifts in the industry, imparting skills in blockchain, digital currencies, electronic payments, and more. A new Sports and Entertainment Undergraduate Certificate is also in development, tapping into Atlanta’s sports, media, and economic influence. Furthermore, the accelerated inclusion of AI across our curriculum is equipping students with the ability to harness emerging technologies across business functions.
Another major area of focus is the creation of an entrepreneurship capstone course for undergraduate students. We also aim to extend interdisciplinary, experiential learning across the degree program. Other future developments include expansion of our partnerships within Atlanta’s Tech Square, providing students with more opportunities to collaborate with startups and established tech companies.
A new undergraduate degree in Business and Technology is further out on the horizon. This offering will provide a modified core curriculum along with new concentration options.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
Our new minor in FinTech, Sports and Entertainment Undergraduate Certificate, and entrepreneurship capstone course are the key initiatives under way for 2024.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
First, Scheller students are admitted directly into the business school, diving headfirst into the business studies their very first semester. This means student make progress on their chosen concentration from day one. This immediate plunge sets us apart from programs that delay the introduction of specialized business courses until later years, ensuring our students hit the ground running in pursuit of their passion.
Second, our curriculum is designed to prepare students for a dynamic, tech-driven world. Through interdisciplinary education that integrates courses from Georgia Tech’s renowned computing and engineering schools, students emerge as business professionals fluent in technology. This translates into more than a mere comprehension of business theories – Scheller graduates know how to wield technology to solve complex problems for real-world organizations.
A portrait of Georgia Tech Scheller Dean’s Scholars. Scheller undergrads are admitted directly into the business school which means they start business courses the very first semester. Courtesy photo
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
Scheller graduates defy the constraints of conventional business silos and embrace the interconnectedness of knowledge. Our graduates operate comfortably in a space where boundaries blur and disciplines converge – the best ground for innovation and discovery.
We firmly believe in equipping our students with the invaluable skill of “learning how to learn.” Through our emphasis on experiential and entrepreneurial work, we instill in our students the capacity to adapt and evolve continuously, anticipating and meeting the evolving needs of the business world.
Scheller students graduate with fluency in the language of business, yet, their expertise extends far beyond its traditional realms. From computing to ethics, engineering to sociology, and health sciences to design thinking – Scheller creates well-rounded business students equipped with creativity and adaptability essential for navigating complexity.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
At Scheller, our commitment to student success extends far beyond traditional job placement. We empower our students to not only land great opportunities but also to excel in their careers.
Scheller graduates know how to articulate their unique value proposition across every platform and medium. Our innovative career services curriculum is designed to keep pace with the ever-evolving hiring landscape. Through programs like our first-year business seminar and third-year career development course, students are equipped with the latest insights and strategies, including navigating the growing influence of AI in recruitment and hiring processes. We are committed to keeping students informed about employment trends, the ROI from their degree, and effective communication strategies with employers.
Buzz the Mascot and Cindy, a Scheller Business Ambassador. Courtesy photo
Another major goal we have is to empower students to interact with corporate partners in professional and effective ways, ultimately positioning them for long-term career success. We actively foster connections between students and industry through various channels, including employer visits to career development classes, young alumni panels, and coordinated communication between employers and students. Additionally, our student organizations, aligned with each academic concentration, provide invaluable real-world insights and networking opportunities through events such as company tours, guest speaker sessions, and mentorship programs.
We also pride ourselves on our robust collaboration with the central Georgia Tech career services center, ensuring a seamless experience for students as they prepare for career fairs, virtual interviews, and other professional opportunities.
At Scheller, we understand that career readiness goes beyond securing a job – it’s about equipping students with the skills, network, and confidence to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
When our alumni reflect on their undergraduate journey at Scheller, they often highlight the interdisciplinary exploration they did that transcended the boundaries of a traditional business education.
A staggering 25% of Scheller classes are taken by non-business majors. Our College attracts a diverse array of students eager to explore the intersection of business with other disciplines. Whether it’s a psychology major diving into consumer behavior or an architecture student mastering sustainable business practices, these interdisciplinary connections enrich the learning experience of all Georgia Tech and Scheller students.
Many of our students have partnered with top engineering and computing peers to tackle real-world challenges head-on. From using cutting-edge technologies to crafting innovative business strategies, these partnerships have sparked creativity and drove tangible results. Our Denning Technology & Management Program is one such formal avenue for this type of transformative experience.
Most Scheller students also cite interdisciplinary study abroad opportunities that offered not just cultural immersion but a chance to expand their academic horizons. Whether it’s navigating the bustling streets of Tokyo or delving into the rich history of Barcelona, these experiences not only broaden their worldview but also enrich their understanding of global business dynamics.
When Scheller alumni look back on their time in business school, they recall a transformative journey fueled by interdisciplinary exploration and immersion. It’s a signature experience that leaves an indelible mark, shaping not just their careers but the way they see the world.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
At Scheller, it’s not just about being another face in the crowd. Here, everyone knows your name, and that makes all the difference.
Students walk into class and they’re greeted by name, not just by their professors but by their classmates and even the administrative staff. Belonging is what sets our program apart and it extends far beyond the classroom. Our faculty and staff go above and beyond to foster a culture of mentorship and peer support. Whether it’s through informal chats during office hours, career and academic advising sessions, or dedicated programs like Scheller Business Ambassadors, there is always someone eager to offer invaluable advice and lend a helping hand.
This pay-it-forward mindset is ingrained in our community. It’s not about competition – it’s about reaching new heights, together. And this sense of community isn’t just a bonus – it’s at the core of what Scheller is.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
From big corporate names to innovative startups, our graduates are making an impact across a wide spectrum of industries and regions. With over 120 different companies represented by the Class of 2023 alone, it’s clear that we empower our students to pursue their passion and carve out their own path to success. Whether it’s a global powerhouse like Accenture, Delta, or McKinsey, or an innovative brand headquartered in Atlanta like Coca-Cola, Home Depot, or UPS, employers recognize the exceptional caliber of our graduates and the unique qualities that set them apart.
Equipped with a robust foundation in technology woven throughout their degree, our students possess a multifaceted skill set that allows them to excel in a variety of roles and industries. Whether it’s technical prowess, analytical acumen, or strong leadership and management skills, Scheller students are known for their versatility and adaptability.
But it’s not just about technical expertise. Employers also rave about our students’ outstanding soft skills and problem-solving abilities. From day one, our curriculum is designed to cultivate a curious and collaborative mindset, empowering students to tackle complex challenges with confidence and creativity.
Moreover, our alumni have a reputation for being Scheller ready, meaning they’re not just prepared to succeed in the workforce, but to thrive and make meaningful contributions from day one. This readiness, coupled with their passion for continuous learning and growth, makes them an invaluable asset to any organization.
Scheller’s curriculum prepares students for a dynamic, tech-driven world with courses that integrates Georgia Tech’s renowned computing and engineering expertise. Courtesy photo
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
At Scheller, we believe in the power of student-directed culture creation. One of the ways this manifests itself is through the Scheller Business Ambassadors program.
Scheller Business Ambassadors are a dedicated group of student leaders who play a pivotal role in cultivating a welcoming and inclusive environment within our College. These ambassadors serve as the face of our program, representing our values to both current and prospective students, as well as alumni and industry partners.
Through their passion for leadership and service, Scheller Business Ambassadors organize a variety of events and initiatives aimed at enriching the student experience. From hosting welcome events and professional development workshops to organizing community service projects and social gatherings, these student leaders actively contribute to the dynamic culture of collaboration and support that defines our College.
But perhaps most importantly, Scheller Business Ambassadors serve as mentors and role models for their peers, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference. By fostering a culture of engagement and empowerment, they’re helping our community thrive.
NEXT PAGE: William & Mary Mason School of Business
Students mingle on the famous Crim Dell Bridge on the William & Mary campus. Courtesy photo
William & Mary Raymond A. Mason School of Business
William & Mary’s Raymond A. Mason School of Business is a B-school on the rise, at least when it comes to P&Q’s ranking of the best undergraduate business school programs.
And it’s a sharp rise at that.
Mason climbed 20 spots to No. 48 in our 2024 ranking, the highest of all 91 schools we evaluated. That’s on top of the 17 spots it rose in 2023, climbing to No. 68 from No. 85.
In 2024, the Virginia-based business school scored its highest in Admission Standards, ranking 15th in the category which was up seven spots from last year. That includes an acceptance rate of 24.7% (the 25th most selective school in the ranking), dropping 14 points from its 38.8% acceptance rate the school reported last year.
Dean Todd Mooradian tells us the school is investing in both academic programs and dedicated centers of excellence to ensure “students have the opportunity to explore their passions, develop valuable skills, and make meaningful contributions to their fields and communities.”
The school recently launched two new minors – one in global business and one in business administration – to offer more pathways for students to tailor their degrees. And programs like Tribe Innovation, the William & Mary Makerspace, Miller Entrepreneurship Center, Boehly Center for Excellence in Finance, and the Ukrop Studio for Innovation & Design give students hands-on experience in a variety of fields.
“The dedication and expertise of the faculty members in delivering high-quality education, experiential learning opportunities, and mentorship to students is unmatched and a tangible differentiator for our school,” Mooradian says.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH TODD MOORADIAN
We reached out to Mooradian to learn more about what’s happening at the Mason School. Our Q&A is posted below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
Investments in academic programs and dedicated centers of excellence are central to the Mason School of Business’ commitment to providing students with a transformative educational experience that prepares them for success in the modern workforce. Currently, students may elect to deepen their expertise through applied learning via our centers of excellence, Tribe Innovation, the William & Mary Makerspace, Miller Entrepreneurship Center, Boehly Center for Excellence in Finance, and the Ukrop Studio for Innovation & Design. Through expanded academic offerings and robust support structures, students have the opportunity to explore their passions, develop valuable skills, and make meaningful contributions to their fields and communities.
Todd Mooradian, Dean of the Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William & Mary
Recently, we have launched a Global Business Minor and a Business Administration Minor, two exciting programs that will provide students with additional pathways to tailor their education to their career aspirations. These minors will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the global marketplace and excel in various business roles. By broadening the academic offerings of our school, we aim to ensure that students at the Mason School of Business have diverse opportunities to explore their interests and prepare for the ever-evolving business landscape.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
We’re proud to say, once again, that the Mason School of Business was recognized by Bloomberg Businessweek as the number one institution for learning. For us, this underscores our commitment to academic excellence and student success and reinforces our university’s reputation as a leader in providing an exceptional learning experience. The latest rankings from US News and World Report put William & Mary number six for undergraduate teaching and The Princeton Review’s most recent rankings recognized our business school faculty as among the top five in the nation.
These are wonderful accolades for our community, but more importantly for us, these acknowledgments are representative of the impact of our teacher-scholar-practicioner model. The dedication and expertise of the faculty members in delivering high-quality education, experiental learning opportunities, and mentorship to students is unmatched and a tangible differentiator for our school. As we look forward to developments in 2024, our most important focus continues to be an institutional dedication to providing a top-tier education, fostering global perspectives, and supporting student success, all while maintaining a strong sense of community and inclusivity.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
Our program offers a unique “block” experience where all newly admitted students start as a cohort, engaging in a foundational set of courses together. The block experience exposes students to a diverse range of business disciplines, ensuring they develop a well-rounded understanding of core concepts and methodologies. Students are strategically assigned to teams comprising individuals from different majors including Accounting, Business Analytics, Finance, and Marketing. This interdisciplinary approach fosters collaboration, diversity of thought, and holistic problem-solving skills. This breadth of knowledge equips students with a holistic perspective, enabling them to tackle complex business challenges from multiple angles.
Each team is also paired with an Executive Partner, providing invaluable guidance on team dynamics, course deliverables evaluation, and presentation skills refinement. Executive Partners are retired industry professionals who actively engage with students to provide mentorship, guidance, and real-world insights. These Executive Partners play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, offering students invaluable connections, internships, and career opportunities. By interacting with professionals who have excelled in their fields, students gain a deeper understanding of industry trends, challenges, and best practices. The personalized mentorship provided by Executive Partners ensures that students receive tailored guidance and support throughout their academic journey. This individualized attention helps students identify their unique strengths, interests, and career goals, empowering them to make informed decisions and pursue opportunities aligned with their aspirations.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
The Mason School of Business places a strong emphasis on integrating liberal arts education into the business curriculum. So in addition to core business courses, our students engage with a diverse array of subjects including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Our undergraduate business program also offers an Individual Plan of Study, allowing students to customize their education based on their unique strengths, interests, and career aspirations. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to integrate various fields of study into their coursework. Statistics show that a significant portion of our graduates take advantage of this flexibility – 70% of the 2023 graduates completed both a major and a concentration within the business school, allowing them to delve deep into specific business disciplines while still exploring a broad range of topics.
Our graduates are known for their well-roundedness and engagement beyond the classroom. They have the opportunity to participate in athletics, clubs, activities, and community service while pursuing their academic studies. The flexibility of the curriculum allows students to “do it all,” whether it’s excelling in sports, leading student organizations, or pursuing double majors or minors in Arts & Sciences. For example, 31% of the graduating class of 2023 completed a major in the business school and a minor in Arts & Sciences, while 17% pursued a double major in both business and Arts & Sciences. Our graduates distinguish themselves through their interdisciplinary education, creative thinking, and holistic engagement. They are prepared to tackle complex challenges, adapt to diverse environments, and make meaningful contributions to the business world and society at large.
Mason students enjoy small class sizes with the largest undergraduate class capped at 60, allowing for personalized attention from faculty. Courtesy photo
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
The Raymond A. Mason School of Business is supported by the Office of Career Development & Professional Engagement, whose mission is to equip students and alumni to be lifelong learners prepared to navigate rapid change and thrive from their first job to their last. William & Mary students are given opportunities to test their knowledge through hands-on application – via internships, externships, student clubs and organizations, study abroad, university-sponsored centers and programming such as the Boehly Center for Excellence in Finance, annual treks to NYC, DC and Charlotte, the Women’s Stock Pitch competition and From DoG Street to Wall Street conference and case preparation workshop series.
William & Mary’s 111,000 strong alumni support students through career connections, speaking engagements and offering experiential learning opportunities. William & Mary’s strategic plan, Vision 2026, set the stage to guarantee a funded internship for every undergraduate and the launch of William & Mary’s One Network platform has created opportunities for further connection between students and alumni. Three dedicated career advisors support William & Mary undergraduate business students, resulting in a 140:1 ratio of students to professional career services staff members as compared to the national average of 1225:1 (NACE*).
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
There are several key themes we consistently hear our alumni speak about as defining experiences. Our alumni often fondly remember the strong sense of community and belonging fostered within our program and William & Mary at large. Despite the BBA program being a two-year program, we prioritize building relationships with freshmen and sophom*ores through special events, club participation, and various organizations.
The Senior Capstone in Global Strategic Management is often remembered as a pinnacle experience for alumni. This hands-on project allows students to apply their accumulated knowledge and skills to real-world business challenges. Working in teams, students develop comprehensive strategic plans for companies, gaining valuable insights into strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and cross-cultural management. Many alumni will also highlight their participation in the Student Managed Investment Fund as a standout experience. This opportunity allows students to gain practical experience in investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial decision-making. Managing real money under faculty guidance not only provides valuable insights into the financial markets but also instills confidence and leadership skills in students.
William & Mary has a longstanding tradition of philanthropy, and alumni take pride in the university’s consistent #1 ranking in giving. Whether through donations, volunteerism, or mentorship, graduates appreciate the culture of generosity instilled during their time at the university. Overall, our alumni remember the deep connections formed, the emphasis on teamwork and leadership, and the hands-on experiences that prepare them for successful careers in business and beyond.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
I touched on it earlier, but one of the most underrated features of our undergraduate business program is the infusion of liberal arts into the curriculum. The classical understanding of a “liberal arts” education was as the essential skills (the “ars” or arts) of a free person (“liberalis”) in order to be an engaged citizen in a democratic society. William and Mary’s Mason School of Business, grounded in one of the world’s great liberal arts universities, integrates a liberal arts education, with its breadth of diverse problem-solving paradigms, with the depth of skills in business and leadership to enable our graduates to obtain and excel in great first jobs that lead to impactful careers, to be engaged citizens, and to live lives of principled achievement. During the first two years, students engage in a common core curriculum that includes selections in academic disciplines such as Arts, Letters, and Values; Cultures, Societies, and the Individual; and the Natural World and Quantitative Reasoning. This approach challenges students to learn broadly and deeply across various disciplines before having to make a decision on a major. Exposure to diverse fields of study enhances students’ ability to think creatively, make connections between different subjects, and understand the broader societal context in which businesses operate. By incorporating elements of the liberal arts, our program emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and interdisciplinary perspectives. This holistic approach not only cultivates well-rounded individuals but also equips business majors with a unique perspective that sets them apart in the professional world.
Another underrated aspect of our undergraduate business program is the small class sizes and the quality of our faculty. With the largest class size in the business school capped at 60 students, our program prioritizes personalized education and meaningful interaction between students and faculty. The small class sizes allow for individualized attention, mentorship, and opportunities for students to actively participate in discussions, projects, and research initiatives. This close interaction with faculty members enhances students’ learning experiences, encourages collaboration, and fosters a supportive academic community. By combining the best aspects of liberal arts education with specialized business training, our program equips business majors with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to thrive in a dynamic and competitive global marketplace.
William & Mary’s strategic plan, Vision 2026, guarantees a funded internship for every undergraduate. Courtesy photo
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Top employers of talented William & Mary business students include Accenture Federal Services, Bank of America, Booz Allen Hamilton, Capital One, CGI, Deloitte, EY, Goldman Sachs, Grant Thornton, IBM, JPMorgan Chase & Co, KPMG, MUFG, PwC and William & Mary. Companies share they seek William & Mary students and alumni because they are quick to learn and think critically about a problem, desire to take initiative and fill leadership roles, are creative and proactive, have strong communication skills and work well in groups. Our students bring their full complement of skills to the table, and that total package is of high value to employers.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
Our program places a strong emphasis on principled leadership, preparing students not only to excel in their careers but also to make ethical and socially responsible decisions. We strive to instill values of integrity, accountability, and compassion, ensuring that graduates become ethical leaders who positively impact their organizations and communities.
We believe in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community, and as such, we review applicants holistically, valuing breadth of experience and diverse perspectives. This approach enriches our learning environment and ensures that every student brings unique contributions to the classroom.
Our program maintains a rigorous academic curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students. We uphold high standards of excellence in teaching, research, and professional development, empowering students to achieve their full potential and excel in their chosen fields. We also leverage established advisory boards across various disciplines including Foundation, Accounting, Business Analytics, Boehly, and Consulting. These boards comprise industry experts and professionals who provide valuable insights, guidance, and mentorship to ensure that our curriculum remains relevant and aligned with industry needs.
Our overarching strategy is to provide the most personal learning experience of any public university. We prioritize individualized attention, small class sizes, and mentorship opportunities to ensure that every student receives the support and guidance they need to thrive academically and professionally. We are dedicated to expanding our reach and making a meaningful impact in the world. Through initiatives such as expanding our global partnerships, increasing diversity and inclusion efforts, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, we aim to prepare graduates who are equipped to address global challenges and drive positive change.
We are committed to continuous improvement and evolution, always striving to excel in everything we do. By embracing innovation, adapting to changing needs, and staying at the forefront of business education, we ensure that our program remains relevant, dynamic, and impactful in an ever-changing world.
NEXT PAGE: University of Michigan Ross School of Business
Happy birthday to Michigan Ross. The business school at the University of Michigan celebrates 100 years in 2024. Courtesy photo
University of Michigan Ross School of Business
2024 will certainly be a year to celebrate at University of Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business. It turns 100!
The School of Business opened in 1924 in Tappan Hall. It offered just one degree (a two-year Master of Business Administration) and had just 14 faculty – including one of the first women to be a member of a business school, Margaret Tracy.
Today, it employs nearly 210 academic staff and educates more than 1,400 undergrads and 1,800 graduate students per year. It’s also one of the best undergraduate business programs in the country, consistently ranking in the top five of P&Q’s undergraduate business school ranking. It landed at No. 5 this year.
In January, Ross dean Sharon Matusik shared her predictions for 2024 with P&Q readers. She expected an increasing expectation for business schools like Ross to train student to address the grand challenges of our time – from climate change to technology disruption. She also outlined priorities for Ross centered around DEI, action-based learning, and heightened global visibility.
“As we commemorate a century of excellence and impact, Ross remains as committed as ever to its mission of building a better world through business. We have clear values that guide our actions and a deliberate strategy for achieving our mission. In 2024, we will double down on this strategy,” Matusik wrote.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH PAUL KIRSCH & CATHY SHAKESPEARE
Poets&Quants For Undergrads asked Paul Kirsch, Managing Director of Undergraduate Programs, and Cathy Shakespeare, Thomas C Jones Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education and
Professor of Accounting, to tell us more about the distinguishing features of the Ross undergrad business degree. Their answers are below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
Paul Kirsch, Michigan Ross Managing Director of Undergraduate Programs
Kirsch: We expanded our previous diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programming and have re-envisioned it as a new Inclusive Leaders Pathway that is embedded in each of a student’s four years through the Signature Learning Experience. Our associate dean and director of DEI are working closely with this program to constantly improve how our students engage with these important issues in society.
In Fall 2022, our second-year undergraduate business students were introduced to Spire @ Ross, a technological platform that lays the foundation for their success at Ross and beyond. This is done through 12 core competencies (e.g. communication, ethical reasoning, critical thinking, lifelong learning). These competencies derive from key learnings within the curriculum at Ross, value rubrics from the American Association of Colleges and Universities, and the skills employers are looking for in top graduates. By weaving the competencies through the curriculum and challenging students to engage with the Career Development Office and their academic advisors, students are able to personalize their education and demonstrate increased ability and engagement. Students demonstrate this growth and eventual mastery by responding to a series of prompts and reflecting on their academic, co-curricular, and professional experiences.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
Kirsch: 2024 is the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Ross School of Business. There will be celebrations and programming throughout the year. We are acknowledging notable alumni and donors as well as the leadership the Ross School of Business has shown in business education.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
Kirsch: 1) Action-Based Learning: Michigan Ross continues to build on its heritage of providing students with a distinctive way to learn business: by actually doing it. With our acclaimed REAL (Ross Experiences in Action-Based Learning) programming, every BBA student has the opportunity to start a business; advise a business; invest real money in a diverse range of student-led investment funds; and contribute their leadership to an existing business. Every student engages with ABL in their sophom*ore year and junior core classes, and about 75% of each class engages in at least one additional action-based learning experience through curricular or co-curricular experiences.
2) Comprehensive and Flexible Curriculum: The BBA curriculum develops critical thinking, core business skills, and durable competencies that integrate across the curricular and co-curricular experiences, allowing students to personalize their own journey. Highlights include:
First Year: BA100 Foundations in Learning Business focuses on both transitioning to U-M and Ross, and teaches students the elements required to learn business successfully.
Second Year: BA200 Business & Leaders: The Positive Difference gives students a broad understanding of the role of business in society, the individual’s role in business, and the value and practice of leadership.
Third Year: Ross Integrative Semester (RIS) is four core courses taught from a common integrated perspective that allows students to see business as an integrated whole and to solve problems within high-functioning teams. Within the semester, students work on an Action-Based Learning business challenge to address real-world business and social issues.
Fourth Year: Capstone elective courses provide a chance to bring together a student’s full academic experience. The new core course in development will allow our students to integrate their learning across the curriculum and further help launch Ross students into their chosen careers.
‘The most underrated feature of the Ross undergraduate program is the sense of belonging that is cultivated by our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Michigan Ross creates a community that attracts students who are collaborative and team-oriented.’ Courtesy photo
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
Kirsch: The most underrated feature of the Ross undergraduate program is the sense of belonging that is cultivated by our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Michigan Ross creates a community that attracts students who are collaborative and team-oriented. Faculty and staff are focused on developing well-prepared, empathetic leaders. Alumni play an active role in student learning as guest speakers, action-based learning project sponsors, recruiters, and mentors.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
Kirsch: We have been enhancing our pre-enrollment activities. Both first-year and transfer students have multiple days of welcome and orientation programming. First-year students will begin attending classes in their sections which previously were not defined until sophom*ore year. These changes enhance the community within Ross and allow students to develop a true sense of belonging.
The Ross School of Business at University of Michigan. Courtesy photo
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
Shakespeare: At Ross, leadership is not just about having the technical knowledge to be successful. The curriculum and world-class faculty at Michigan Ross, and more broadly the University of Michigan, prepare students with the expertise to excel in virtually any role. What differentiates Ross graduates is that they have applied classroom learning in real-world situations. Our emphasis on soft skills alongside technical expertise allows alumni to flourish in all types of industries and roles despite the fast pace of change. Furthermore, the culture of collaboration and inclusivity enables Ross graduates to thrive in team environments.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
Cathy Shakespeare, Michigan Ross Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education
Shakespeare: The Michigan Ross Career Development Office(CDO) has a dedicated in-house team whose responsibility is to prepare students with the skills to execute successful career searches. The staff in CDO facilitates students’ learning as they develop the skills needed to manage their careers well beyond their first job, as graduates will navigate numerous roles and career pivots throughout their professional lives. Ross provides career support for life through Alumni Advantage, a program that offers free career coaching and tuition-free executive education.
Early classes in the BBA program introduce and discuss various roles and industries. As recruiting accelerates, Ross provides resources and structure for students to enhance their career readiness (networking, interviewing, personal branding) and understand the recruiting process earlier than ever before. CDO provides equitable support to a diverse student population by leveraging a variety of modes and channels for student learning with a focus on career exploration and recruiting preparation support through signature experiences such as high-touch 1:1 career coaching, company treks, Career Exploration Week, Functional Action Networks (career-prep communities focused on mentorship, networking, and community), and Career Foundations learning modules.
There are nearly 70 undergraduate clubs at Ross that can provide additional action-based learning opportunities. For example, they can be part of real consulting teams tackling projects for corporate clients or trading equities with independent funds.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
Shakespeare: Ross Integrative Semester (RIS), which takes place in the fall of their third year, is four core courses taught from a common integrated perspective that allows students to see business as an integrated whole and to solve problems within high-functioning teams. Within the semester, students work on an Action-Based Learning business challenge to address real-world business and social issues. The emphasis on teams beyond RIS is a defining feature of the program and is often an alum’s first recollection of their Ross experience. Not every team is high-functioning, but every team experience at Ross has deep learning potential.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Shakespeare: Companies from all industries, geographic areas, and sizes hire Ross BBA graduates. The top hiring companies include McKinsey & Co, Capital One, PwC, Deloitte, and Bain & Co. Inc. Hiring companies have told us that Ross grads are equipped with the technical knowledge to perform at a high level and are exceptionally well prepared to lead in a collaborative team environment.
NEXT PAGE: Loyola Marymount University College of Business Administration
Located in sunny Los Angeles, students at Loyola Marymount University stroll down Palm Walk between classes. LMU’s College of Business Administration undergrad population has grown 50% in the last five years. Courtesy photo
Loyola Marymount University College of Business Administration
Loyola Marymount University made a big splash in our 2024 ranking of the Best Undergrad Business School programs, debuting in our annual list at No. 39. That’s the highest debut ranking of the year.
With thousands of business schools in the United States alone, we admittedly haven’t poured a lot of ink on LMU’s College of Business Administration. We should have paid more attention.
According to Josh Spizman, associate dean of faculty and academic programs, the undergrad population in LMU’s business program has grown an impressive 50% over the last five years. To accommodate, the college has launched an almost dizzying amount of new programs.
That includes a new business core curriculum in the fall of 2020 to align with its mission: “To advance knowledge and develop business leaders with moral courage and creative confidence to be a force for good in the global community.” The Class of 2024 will be the first to graduate under this curriculum this coming May.
It also launched a new Real Estate Certificate Program in 2022 and an Entrepreneurship Certificate just this year. This fall, it will launch a Master in Entertainment Leadership and Management, a joint program with its School of Film and Television, offering a 4+1 option for undergrads to earn their bachelor’s and master’s in five years.
So, LMU, you caught our attention. We’ll be watching.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH JOSH SPIZMAN
We asked Josh Spizman, associate dean of faculty and academic programs, what makes Loyola Business special. Our Q&A is below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
Over the past five years, the undergraduate student population in the College of Business Administration (CBA) has grown by about 50%. We launched a new business core curriculum in fall 2020 that aligned with our mission: to advance knowledge and develop business leaders with moral courage and creative confidence to be a force for good in the global community. The first group of students under this curriculum will graduate in May 2024.
Josh Spizman
To support this growth, we continue to expand our student engagement through student organizations. We now have 16 student organizations supported by the college which deliver over 100 events per academic year. We track student engagement through an innovative program called CBA Advantage, powered by an app called Suitable. For each activity, there is an opportunity to track and reflect on key tenets of our mission: business knowledge; leadership skills; moral courage; creative confidence (entrepreneurial mindset); and global citizenship. Students complete engagement activities over their four-year experience, earning points for each completion. This is a requirement for graduation.
Asynchronous activities, such as Bloomberg Market Concepts and Bloomberg ESG certificates, are part of CBA Advantage as well as internship experiences, competitions, and more! The app provides each student with an e-portfolio capturing a record of engagement, reflections, and preparatory material for career development and interviews.
In 2022, we launched a Real Estate Certificate Program taught and delivered by our real estate executive board advisory members. In 2024, we launched a similar program, an Entrepreneurship Certificate, that is developed and taught by faculty and entrepreneurs, highlighting the power that an entrepreneurial mindset can bring to any discipline. Both programs provide opportunities to earn “stackable credentials” at no cost and enrollment is open to all students across the university.
In 2026, LMU College of Business Administration will celebrate 100 years of business education, and event planning around this significant milestone is underway.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
This fall, we are launching a Master in Entertainment Leadership and Management, a joint program with our School of Film and Television that focuses on the entertainment industry and can be completed in one year. We have seen increased demand to learn about this industry from our undergraduate business students, partly based on data about the type of co-curricular activities that our students are participating in, so we are offering a 4+1 option for our students to continue their education in this field.
An LMU student works in the Bloomberg Finance Learning Lab. Courtesy photo
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
At CBA, we have four Centers for Excellence that provide additional engagement opportunities for our students, which range from programming to competitions to study abroad opportunities and much more. These centers allow students to explore themes or areas that supplement their chosen discipline.
One center to highlight is our Institute for Business Ethics and Sustainability (IBES), which focuses on advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, research, programs, and partnerships. The college itself is a signatory to the UN’s Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) and IBES holds us accountable to weave SDGs throughout our curriculum and the student experience. IBES also organizes the annual International Business Ethics and Sustainability Case Competition. This event provides a great opportunity for our students to not only participate as part of their “Business Ethics and Sustainability” senior-level required business class but also learn alongside students from around the world as they work together to find solutions to address the SDGs. Every two years, CBA shares its commitment to PRME through our “Sharing Information on Progress” report, which details how our college (and the university) are actively working to address some of the world’s toughest challenges.
All of this would not be possible without the close relationship that our students have with our faculty, our second key differentiator. LMU prides itself on its small class sizes and its impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1. Maintaining small classes below 30 enables students to intentionally engage with their peers and faculty. Our faculty are actively engaged in the student experience (no class is taught by graduate students), allowing authentic relationships to develop from mentoring to coaching to advising.
Faculty can often be seen mentoring students on business research or career development, and have even co-written papers, presented at conferences, and taken on other collaborative projects with students. Many of our faculty take active roles in supporting students in intercollegiate competitions.
In the past few years, our students have been successful in competitions such as the Effie Collegiate Brand Challenge, UCLA Bruin Tank Pitch Competition, and the Deloitte Audit Innovation Challenge, to name a few. Close relationships with faculty prepare our students for careers by developing their creative confidence, leadership, and strong analytical skill sets. Opportunities to develop networking and communication skills are an additional benefit.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
Our students receive an education rooted in the Jesuit philosophy of educating the whole person and grounded in a strong liberal arts core curriculum. Our graduates learn that business can be a force for good in the world.
To set them on this path early, all business students take a first-year course, “Business for Good,” where they develop a business plan for a product or service that emphasizes the relationship between societal impact and running a viable business. This approach ensures that all students understand a triple bottom line perspective and can evaluate business scenarios from a “bottom-up” lens. As a result, students are equipped to weave this perspective throughout their entire business curriculum and in their professional lives. This course recently won a Financial Times Responsible Business Education award for innovative teaching.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
LMU students have access to a centralized Career and Professional Development office that organizes various events such as panels, hosts job and internship fairs, and provides one-on-one coaching and resume review, in addition to making sure students have access to cutting-edge technologies to help with their job search. CBA also has an embedded career coach for students.
Many of our departments provide area-specific career programming. For example, the finance department started a remote job shadowing program during the COVID pandemic, which is a way for students to learn about various careers during the summer, even while holding an internship. Many of our student organizations also hold recruiting events throughout the academic year and our centers for excellence provide company site visits as well. Our various advisory boards provide additional opportunities for students to network and receive one-on-one coaching.
Given these opportunities, CBA Advantage ensures that students develop knowledge, skills, and competencies uniquely linked to our mission, which helps differentiate them in the job market.
Business students participate in LMU Startup Weekend. The college has 16 student organizers which organize 100 events per year aimed at a variety of interests. Courtesy photo
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
One of our key beliefs is students should have the opportunity to make the experience what they want. Throughout their time at LMU as an undergraduate student, we hope students will have many memorable moments.
For some, it may be taking part in a national case competition, for others, it might be a speaker event where an executive spoke about a topic that resonated. Some students may look back on their time as a student leader in one of our student organizations and others may consider taking part in our Student Investment Fund to be their signature experience. Perhaps a student will look back and their most memorable moment was being introduced to an alumnus who became a mentor, friend, and maybe even a colleague.
Our job as leaders and educators is to provide a diverse array of opportunities and empower students to create their own signature experiences, and at CBA, we strive to do that every day.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
An LMU student takes in the beautiful campus views. Courtesy photo
CBA Advantage: a requirement for graduation that connects a student’s co-curricular experiences as an undergraduate to an app on their phone where students earn points in a gamified fashion. As a student engages and develops out-of-classroom experiences over their time in CBA, the app provides a space for students to track and reflect on their many experiences. Students also earn points for participating in activities and this feature provides a competitive way for students to engage.
Activities in CBA Advantage can include in-person opportunities such as guest speakers, competitions, club meetings, resume workshops, on-campus work, as well as off-campus experiences such as internships, part-time jobs, business-related certifications, study abroad, and more! The contents of the app serve as a data repository for students to use (and is accessible even after they graduate) as they build their resumes, prepare for interviews, examine cover letters, etc.
This toolkit serves as a resource for students as they transition to becoming young professionals in developing a narrative that articulates how their undergraduate experience has prepared them to be the best candidates for a job.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Over the past few years, some of the biggest employers of our undergraduate business students are Deloitte, EY, JP Morgan Chase, NBC Universal, Nike, Northrup Grumman, PwC, Raytheon, and Walt Disney.
Graduates work at countless other firms and many even start their own companies. A common theme we hear from employers is that LMU students are caring, concerned with the greater good, and focused and passionate about creating social impact.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
The opportunities to network and engage with some of the largest companies in the world are endless when you consider the location, size, and faculty of LMU CBA. Just below “the bluff” of LMU is Playa Vista, which houses a rich ecosystem of companies such as Google, Meta, Verizon, YouTube, and Belkin. From course projects to internships to company visits, CBA students have access to learn from some of the best. Additionally, we have developed advisory boards of alumni and friends of the school for each of the disciplinary areas. These board members serve as mentors and coaches/judges for competitions, and provide valuable business insights at end-of-semester presentations. The boards also work with faculty to ensure our curriculum stays current and cutting edge.
NEXT PAGE: UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School
Students participating in the Kenan-Flagler Career Symposium from 2021. The symposium celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Courtesy photo
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School
When it comes to return on investment for a topped ranked business school, business school prospects from North Carolina have a distinct advantage.
Not only is the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School at top-10 undergraduate business program, finishing No. 8 in our 2024 ranking, it also has the highest ROI for in-state students of any of the 91 schools on our latest list.
On a dollar-for-dollar basis, 2023 Kenan-Flagler graduates who paid in-state tuition can expect to earn, on average, about $$339,002 more than they paid for the degree, according to our ROI analysis.
North Carolina students can expect to pay about $93,216 for their degree if they graduate within four years, but have no scholarship or other financial aid. Class of 2023 graduates reported an average salary of $86,444, or an average income of $432,218 over five years, not taking into account any raises or bonuses. That means UNC Kenan-Flagler in-state grads are bringing in $339,002 more than the cost of the degree after five years on the job. That’s an ROI of 363.67%.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH SHIMUL MELWANI AND JORDAN HALE
We reached out to Shimul Melwani and Jordan Hale to explain the full value of the Kenan-Flagler business degree. Beyond the stellar ROI, Kenan-Flagler delivers an innovate B-school experience that is constantly innovating. It launched a new curriculum revision this semester, and created a series of short courses and special seminars on emerging business topics to keep their program nimble. Topics range from generative AI, to practical Python sills, to data-driven decision making.
It is also launching a new minor on the Business of Health this fall with courses at in four other schools and colleges at UNC.
Melwani is associate dean of the undergraduate business program and associate professor of organizational behavior. Hale is assistant dean. Our Q&A is presented below.
Jordan Hale, at left, and Shimul Melwani. Courtesy photo
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
At UNC Kenan-Flagler, we are excited to highlight three very different innovations that are in line with our key goal of providing students with transformative experiences.
First, as we launch an innovative curricular revision this semester, we start with an intensive two-semester “Introduction to Business” Experience.
Launching with our groundbreaking course, “People, Profit, Planet, and Purpose,” we immerse our students in the multifaceted world of business from day one. The course is crafted to lay a foundation in the interplay between business and society, emphasizing critical trade-offs in business decision-making. Through a rich curriculum that includes business history, philosophy, contemporary articles and a semester-long, hands-on simulation, students are equipped to navigate the complexities of the business world with depth and understanding. As we build out this experience, the second semester will engage students in a leadership course that uses a “upside down, backwards and high touch” experience. This course will prioritize experiential leadership learning, systems and design thinking, and individual and peer reflection, encouraging them to be proactive in their growth and effective in their communication and teamwork skills.
In addition, we are getting ready to move into a new building designed with the student experience at the core. Set to open in fall 2025, Steven D. Bell Hall symbolizes our commitment to student-centered learning and innovation. This state-of-the-art facility makes it possible to expand our Undergraduate Business Program to serve more students and its cutting-edge classrooms are designed to foster dynamic faculty-student interactions. With spaces dedicated to team-based learning and hosting academic challenges, Bell Hall is poised to become a hub of collaborative excellence and intellectual exchange for UNC students and visiting scholars alike.
Last, to keep our curriculum nimble, we will offer short courses and colloquia on emerging business topics. These recognize the importance of a curriculum that responds to the evolving needs of students and prepares them for future challenges and opportunities. Starting in fall 2024, they will cover a variety of critical and emerging topics. From the intricacies of generative AI and practical Python skills to insights into business analytics, data-driven decision-making and digital project management, they are tailored to equip our students with the knowledge and tools essential for success in the modern business landscape.
These initiatives represent our ongoing commitment to providing a transformative educational experience that prepares our students not just for their careers but for leadership roles in an ever-changing society.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
We are launching a new minor on the Business of Health in fall 2024. It will provide a grounding for undergraduate students across UNC interested in careers at the intersection of business and healthcare. It is defined by its interdisciplinary lens as students will take courses at the Business School as well as the Gillings School of Global Public Health, Hussman School of Journalism and Media, the Department of Philosophy in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Carolina Health Informatics Program (CHIP). As a part of the minor, students will complete a capstone course focused on current and on-going transformation in U.S. healthcare.
We are particularly excited about this minor as a plurality of UNC-Chapel Hill’s undergraduate students pursue careers in healthcare and health-related industries. Healthcare, a sector that accounts for approximately 20% of the U.S. GDP, is central to our nation’s economy. North Carolina, with its vast healthcare economy, is continually in search of well-trained talent, making this minor timely and relevant. We are uniquely positioned to offer this minor thanks to our Center for the Business of Health’s deep engagement with UNC’s leading health sciences divisions; schools of social work information and library science, and law; and College of Arts & Sciences departments.
In March 2024, we launched our new tri-continental exchange program, TRicontinental Exchange in Business and Leadership Education (TREBLE). TREBLE begins an exciting new collaboration for UNC with Singapore Management University’s Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) and Copenhagen Business School (CBS) to offer an 18-month immersive cross-cultural business educational experience. Every year, 15 undergraduates from each of the three institutions will spend one-and-a-half years (three academic terms) rotating between three campuses. The 45 TREBLE students will build camaraderie as learn together as a cohort and take a set of specially curated courses at the three partner universities. Courses will be thematically focused on leadership of people, organizations and markets. The inaugural TREBLE cohort will begin their exchange at UNC Kenan-Flagler in August 2025.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kenan-Flagler Business School.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
Our two major differentiators include a balance between global opportunities and a connection to the state of North Carolina, and our commitment to student wellness.
As the nation’s oldest public university, we take pride in our connections to the state of North Carolina through enhancing access to students from almost 50 counties across the state and low tuition costs that enable UNC Kenan-Flagler to provide the highest return on investment for our students. We combine this local focus with a deep focus on building a global mindset. By providing myriad study abroad opportunities, almost 75% of our students have globally relevant experiences. Together, we believe that a balanced commitment to local community with a global perspective prepares our students to be more effective, empathetic, and innovative leaders and make a positive impact in our complex, interconnected world.
Second, student wellness is a cornerstone of our program culture. Central to our initiative is the principle of resilience – empowering students to navigate challenges with grace and adaptability. Our commitment is exemplified by two dedicated full-time wellness coaches as part of the Undergraduate Business Program team, a pioneering move aimed at creating a nurturing and healthy community within the business school. The wellness coaches are instrumental in offering personalized coaching sessions based on individual needs and fostering an environment where students feel supported in every aspect of their well-being.
Their comprehensive approach to wellness extends beyond individual counseling to also include a variety of wellness events, strategic programs and preventative interventions. These initiatives are carefully crafted to support students so they thrive across all dimensions of wellness and ensure they have the tools and resources to maintain mental, physical, emotional and social health. By prioritizing such a holistic understanding of wellness, the program aids in building resilience and cultivating a mindset geared towards lifelong learning and adaptability at work.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
A major differentiator is the “Humility Quotient.” The Undergraduate Business Program (UBP) at UNC Kenan-Flagler is guided by six fundamental principles that shape our approach and decision-making as we engage with our students. Among these core principles, “Be Humble” stands out as a distinctive trait that distinguishes our students in the workforce. Feedback from employers highlights that the humility our students exhibit during internships and their post-graduation roles significantly differentiates them from their counterparts.
This humility, however, is not about being reserved or hesitant to assume leadership positions. Instead, it reflects UNC Kenan-Flagler graduates’ profound recognition of the importance of ongoing learning. Demonstrating humility means they are open to feedback, adaptable in integrating new strategies based on this feedback, and dedicated to achieving excellence in their work through continuous improvement and learning. This mindset accelerates their personal growth and contributes positively to their professional environments.
Second, we pride ourselves on our program developing students with a “Business and….” mindset. Our students begin their time in college with a robust grounding in the liberal arts, taking close to 45% of their courses outside the business school. Almost 50% of our students earn dual degrees and most graduate with a minor outside the business school, from studio art to quantitative physics. UNC’s new undergraduate curriculum, IDEAS in Action provides a dizzying array of opportunities for them to delve into nine focus capacities, some of which include quantitative reasoning, scientific investigation, creative expression, and ethical and civic values. A particularly fascinating course format includes courses that bring together three outstanding professors from different fields to examine common themes from multiple perspectives. This multifaceted business and liberal arts curriculum prepares students to approach the world with inquiry, investigation and creativity.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
Our Career Services and Employer Relations team stand out for their personalized and strategic approach to career development and networking. We prioritize hands-on career advising, maintaining a strong advisor-to-student ratio even as our program grows, ensuring each student receives tailored support for internships and full-time opportunities. We offer a number of Career Treks, co-planned with student clubs, for them to explore various industries – from marketing and finance to sustainability and technology – across North Carolina, the East Coast, Atlanta and California. We’re expand these treks to match evolving student interests and market demands. Our deep connections with our alumni facilitate valuable networking, mentoring and career transition support, highlighted by our “Living In…” series that connects seniors with young alumni in the cities where they have been hired, and support for alumni as they manage career transitions.
We also have an array of global programs which vary in length and focus. From offering Global Immersion Electives (GIEs) across the world to summer international internships, where students work abroad, students delve into diverse cultural landscapes and grapple with real-world business challenges. Students also may engage in more traditional study abroad programs across 19 different countries. Students emerge with enhanced adaptability and agility, attributes that vital for career success and highly valued by employers. The cultural intelligence cultivated in our students by these programs signal to employers a readiness to contribute meaningfully in boundary-crossing careers.
We are also committed to fostering an inclusive environment through identity-focused programming and support. In partnership with our student-run Community, Equity, and Inclusion (CEI) Board, we’ve made significant strides in ensuring that a wide array of student perspectives, particularly those from marginalized identities, are integral to our programming. A standout initiative from the CEI Board is the launch of the “Affinity Group” program. It offers tailored resources and events that cater to the unique needs and interests of various student groups, including first-gen, LGBTQIA+, Black students and more. These groups are actively involved in our orientation and throughout the year, providing valuable networking and support that directly translate to the professional world.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
The strength of our program is its flexibility. Students are encouraged to find their passions and forge their paths. As a result, when asked, each alumnus might have a different answer. UNC Kenan-Flagler is committed to experiential education, and students consider many different experiences to shape their experience while they explore the undergraduate business curriculum.
One example of this is STAR (Students Taking Action to Achieve Results), which combines interdisciplinary education when a cross-functional student team partners with businesses to provide real-world solutions to their complex problems. For our undergraduates, working with MBA students, seasoned UNC Kenan-Flagler faculty and businesses for a final presentation on ways these businesses can tackle a present-day problem is a highlight. They develop professional skills, including problem solving and teamwork, that prepare them for career success. In some cases, STAR teams have traveled to company headquarters to present these solutions in front of company senior-level executives.
Our Global Immersion Electives (GIEs) are also signature experiences our alumni describe once leaving UNC Kenan-Flagler. These experiences are faculty-led, staff supported, and student-facilitated experiences that take our students across the globe. Students begin by taking a course dedicated to understanding the aspect of business they are going to explore while in a different country. This deep academic dive into the beginning of the immersion experience is also spent building relationships with peers, faculty and staff who are participating in the GIE. At the conclusion of the course, students travel to another country, often partnering with students at another university to explore the business topic discussed in the course (including social impact, sustainability, entrepreneurship and venture capital). Students often describe these experiences as life changing, particularly for those students who have never had the chance to travel abroad.
For other students, participating in program-wide initiatives that impact all their peers is their seminal undergraduate business experience, the Undergraduate Business Symposium. In fall 2024, Symposium will celebrate its 40th anniversary. What makes this experience distinct is that Symposium is more than a career fair: It is a project-management course organized and executed by 15 undergraduate business students and two career team members. Symposium offers a unique opportunity for students and companies to connect with each other via workshops, networking sessions and tailored interactions.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
At UNC Kenan-Flagler, our unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled value in education is evident through our mostly consistent ranking as the #1 ROI for undergraduate business programs – a Poets & Quants distinction we hold with pride. Research shows program fees can prevent some students from pursuing a business education and serve as sticker shock to students from backgrounds where costs significantly dictate opportunities, particularly those with significant financial need. In an era where the conversation around higher education costs and its long-term impact on students intensifies, our ability to maintain accessible tuition rates allows our students to graduate largely debt-free. Our ROI is not only determined by lower costs: We redefine ROI by reimagining the essence of investment in our students. It’s not solely about the financial gains; it’s about cultivating an environment where every student, regardless of their background, can access a high-quality education that sets them on the path to success, which has a generational impact for their families, the state of North Carolina and our alumni network.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that makes them so special?
At UNC Kenan-Flagler, our employer relationships are dictated by student interest, employer opportunities, our alumni network and the outreach of our career and employer relations team. We take advantage of these relationships and leverage the complex employee-rich eco-system the state of North Carolina, the Southeast, and the East Coast provides for our students. For these reasons over the past few years our top employers have been Bank of America, Wells fa*gro, E&Y and Deloitte.
Employers continue to value the talent of our UBP students. They tell us that our students are talented and technically on par with their peers from other top programs. Employers also note our students are often quicker to advance in their organizations because of their teamwork and communication skills, key focus areas in the UBP curriculum. Employers appreciate how our students are competitive – not with each other, but with themselves. They aim to continually improve, while finding ways to support their peers as they work in cross-functional teams. Employers praise the ability of our students to get work done, to get it done quickly, work well in teams, and the humility with which they approach their first jobs are all differentiators UBP graduates bring to their roles.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
We’re a warm and fuzzy place! Seriously, we like to define ourselves by the meaningful relationships we build across faculty, staff and students. Our classes have relatively small faculty-student ratios, so faculty members get to know each of their students. Our program facilitates student belonging through weekly community coffee hours, speed-friending events, and open access to student clubs. Our staff takes pride in creating experiences where students learn about themselves as they explore a business curriculum. We are a school that takes pride in providing many firsts: a first global experience; being the first in the family to complete a post-secondary education; being a place where students can have their first difficult conversation about life-altering moral questions and shift their; and being the first place where team-based education enhances their curricular and co-curricular experience. We hope to continue this as we move into a new building with a new curriculum and new innovative program leadership.
NEXT PAGE: Lehigh University College of Business
Antigoni Papadimitriou, teaching assistant professor in the department of management at Lehigh Business, teaches Strategic Management in a Global Environment in Rauch Business Center. Photo by Christa Neu
Lehigh University College of Business
The last decade has already been transformative for Lehigh University’s College of Business. Under the leadership of dean Georgette Chapman Phillips, the college has launched disruptive MBA and master’s programs and grew faculty by 23%.
In the undergraduate program, it overhauled the curriculum while adding a business analytics major as well as minors in fintech and international business.
Last spring, the school opened the new 74,000-square-foot Lehigh Business Innovation Building (BIB) with flexible, high-tech meeting rooms, new classrooms, and study spaces to facilitate collaboration.
Today, the College of Business enrolls about 1,300 business undergrads, 400 business and engineering undergrads, and 300 graduate students.
On June 30, Phillips will step down from the deanship to start her next challenge: Retirement.
Lehigh Business has no plans to pause their transformation. We’re anxious to see what they do.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH NAOMI B. ROTHMAN
We reached out to Naomi B. Rothman, associate professor of management and associate dean and director of undergraduate programs, to tell us about comes next for Lehigh Business.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
Graduates are even stronger and better prepared for business today and tomorrow thanks to our innovative new program developments.
In Fall 2022, we introduced the new Business Analytics major to prepare students with cutting-edge knowledge and skill sets that will enable them to be competitive in the rapidly growing field of business analytics. In this major, students focus on technological tools to extract, integrate, visualize, analyze and interpret data to support business decision making. These skills can be applied to a broad range of industries.
Naomi B. Rothman, associate dean
In Spring 2023, we opened a new, 74,000-square-foot Lehigh Business Innovation Building (BIB). The BIB is focused first and foremost on collaborative student learning, which is essential for preparing students for life after Lehigh, and particularly for working across different fields and disciplines to solve complex problems. This building includes flexible, high-tech meeting rooms, classrooms, and study spaces to facilitate collaboration, as well as open space to encourage a sense of community. It also houses an expanded Bosland Financial Services Lab, the Rauch Center for Business Communications (with video recording studio, coaching rooms and mock interview rooms), a new behavioral research lab, and new Lehigh Ventures Lab.
In Fall 2025 we will open our third inter-collegiate business degree. This time, between Business and Health. This integrated business and health program, an interdisciplinary degree with Lehigh’s new College of Health will train students to become leaders in the health industry. Students from this program will have both an understanding of the core principles of business and an in-depth knowledge of health economics and policy. This program is our newest inter-collegiate program, alongside our two original programs with Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science: (1) the integrated business and engineering honors program (IBE), and (2) the computer science and business honors program (CSB) both of which are more than 20 years old.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
After 10 years, the current College of Business dean, Georgette Chapman Phillips, announced her retirement effective June 30, 2024.
A generous donation from PWC will allow us to expand even further our new Student to Professional co-curriculum and student experiences, to support Lehigh Business students in their journey to become prepared for the competitive job landscape, connected to alumni, mentored by peers and professionals, and ready to make an impact.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
First, Interdisciplinarity. Based on the understanding that complex challenges are often best understood and addressed by bringing diverse experts (and perspectives) together, we intentionally prepare our students to connect knowledge across disciplines and we teach them how to work in (and lead) collaborative interdisciplinary teams, in order to fuel innovative problem solving and collective intelligence. We teach students how to listen, ask questions, give feedback, take others’ perspective, and be less defensive in these teams.
Students practice working collaboratively in cross-functional teams numerous times during their four-year education. We connect our students – across all our departments – to real companies and real problems. Team projects help to translate in-class learning to hands-on-impact. We believe this approach teaches our students to take risks, grow intellectually, cognitively, morally, and even emotionally. This practice, we believe, will prepare our students for careers that make a difference in a dynamic world, and that build a better future.
Students take an intentionally interdisciplinary curriculum from week one of coursework. Our undergrad curriculum sets the stage for both broad and deep learning. Our students gain broad knowledge about business through core courses, deep knowledge about a business discipline (or two) through their majors, and the 33 hours of non-business electives – beyond business – challenge them to broaden their perspective and grow their potential for contribution. We try to remove boundaries across disciplines.
Students find synergies that align with their interests. They find synergies within the Lehigh College of Business – double majoring or minoring across business disciplines – and they find synergies with other Lehigh Colleges – often minoring in psychology, computer science, or international relations, for instance. As a result, students both grow deep roots and explore broad interests through combining majors and minors in eclectic ways.
Second, beyond the classroom, Lehigh has an ethos around creating high-impact, interdisciplinary learning opportunities for all students. Students transform curiosity into action outside of the classroom through Lehigh’s office of Creative Inquiry, that supports a wide range of interdisciplinary initiatives. The opportunities seem almost limitless for teams of students, faculty and external partners to collaborate on projects that have the potential to address the most relevant and complex problems of our times, and to pursue new intellectual, creative, and artistic projects. Lehigh’s Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity & Innovation, established in 2010, empowers students to spark creativity and challenge the status quo through their numerous programs: The Hatchery – student idea accelerator, Eureka! – venture program, Lehigh Silicon Valley, Lehigh Ventures Lab – supporting Lehigh founders, and Design Thinking curriculum.
Students can also spend the summer with Startup Academy working at an early-to-mid stage startup in San Francisco for 10-weeks, or work in a remote internship through Lehigh@Nasdaq Innovation Internship during the semester.
Students in Professor Nevena Koukova’s Marketing Strategy class in the Business Innovation Building at Lehigh University. Photo by Christa Neu
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
The mission of Lehigh University College of Business is to provide an intellectual and professional learning environment that advances knowledge through research and scholarship and that develops future leaders through experiential learning, rigorous analysis and the discipline of a strong work ethic – the hallmarks of a Lehigh University business education. We have a well-earned reputation for being a challenging academic program. Students who are going to be successful at Lehigh Business learn to work hard and carry that with them, ready to accelerate into their careers. But Lehigh Business students don’t just work hard, they are also known for being well-balanced, collaborative, and creative problem-solvers.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
Lehigh Business’ Student to Professional program is a multi-year co-curriculum that supports students’ professional development along their journey from the first semester of college through students’ 3rd year.
Tier 1 students build a foundation for their essential career skills and knowledge through required coursework in their first semester. Tier 2 students engage in community building, cohort based, co-curriculum in the spring semester of their first year. This tier strengthens students’ knowledge and planning in key professional areas. Tier 3 enhances our students’ personal preparation as they actively apply for experiential learning opportunities, including internships. This is a self-paced co-curriculum. Tier 4 allows students to participate in specialized activities/programs organized by major, industry, or skill.
The Student to Professional program at Lehigh Business works closely with the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) to deliver this program, and CCPD offers support to students for two years after graduation.
Our 23 student clubs organize numerous events on campus throughout the year, including the Women in Business annual conference and Lehigh Consulting Summit.
The Business Club Council provides club members with the opportunity for collaboration in experiential learning opportunities, networking, and the development of leadership skills. It also provides exposure to the College of Business degree programs, co-curriculum, events and career awareness. The council serves as a bridge between all clubs, classroom content and industry-specific opportunities. The council provides social organization for all business clubs to develop relationships with their peers, as well as, with prospective business partners and employers.
Indicative of our incredibly strong alumni family, our alumni created the Lehigh Wall Street Council, open to Lehigh alum, parents, and friends to cultivate a Lehigh alumni community within the global financial services industry that supports the advancement of the professional and academic goals of Lehigh alumni, students, faculty and the university.
In that same vein is the Lehigh Finance Mentorship Program. The program provides Lehigh Business finance students with a young alumni mentor, who is working in the financial services industry. The young mentor, in turn, is mentored by a distinguished alumni mentor. Creating connections is more important than ever and our Lehigh alumni, who conceived this program, continue to be a resource for undergraduate students.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
We like to say that at Lehigh College of Business you will enjoy “big university” opportunities with a “small university” feel. We are small enough for you to have personal relationships with faculty, staff and alumni, and you will develop friendships and networks that will last a lifetime.
After all, “the people make the place.” Students feel welcomed into a very special, Lehigh community where students, faculty and staff are working hard, together.
Amidst all our innovative programming our “signature experience” is something quite simple: Lehigh Business offers close relationships with world-class faculty. Our faculty are accessible to students, and our institution is deeply committed to excellence in both teaching and research.
Patrick Zoro, teaching assistant professor in the Perella department of finance at Lehigh Business, teaches Security Analysis and Portfolio Management in the Business Innovation Building. Photo by Christa Neu
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
All our students are engaged in “signature experiences” whether it be on campus and in class projects, class simulations, capstone projects or outside of these traditional learning modalities.
Although our classrooms in the state-of-the-art Business Innovation Building are awe inspiring, learning is not confined to the classroom at Lehigh Business. Students are invited to apply theory to solve real problems in a wide variety of centers—beyond the classroom.
From our many student-led clubs and organizations to worksites across the world and the USA, students can start applying their business education from the very start.
Students have so many additional unique opportunities to have “signature experiences” or global immersion trips, projects or experiences at Lehigh that it is inevitable they will take part in one of them; it’s simply structured into our DNA.
For example, we have numerous study abroad opportunities, and the opportunities continue to grow.
Over 25 years ago, The Tauck Scholars Program, endowed by Arthur Tauck ’53, was established, providing an opportunity for business students to participate in an international internship or other international educational experience during the summer before their senior year with stiped provided.
More recently, Lehigh faculty have developed various programs during the summer and winter breaks. Current Lehigh faculty-led summer programs for Business include Lehigh in Belgium (Leuven), Lehigh in Ireland (Galway), Lehigh in Milan, and Lehigh in Greece. A winter program for January 2024 engages students to learn about real estate development in Dublin, Ireland.
Closer to home, students can work on launching a new start-up through Lehigh Ventures Lab: created in partnership with Lehigh’s Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship Creativity and Innovation. In fact, this lab has helped launch over a dozen new startups.
Nevena Koukova, associate professor in the department of marketing at Lehigh Business, teaches Marketing Strategy in the Business Innovation Building. Photo by Christa Neu
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Over the last two years, our top employers have been EY, PwC, KPMG, Deloitte, Bank of America, Vanguard, Merrill Lynch, BASF, Crowe, Johnson & Johnson, BNY Mellon, J.P. Morgan, Citi, Amazon, Walmart, FTI Consulting, Wells Fargo, Protiviti, Alvarez & Marsal, Prudential, Goldman Sachs, Accenture, Susquehanna International Group, LLP (SIG).
Lehigh recruiters universally described Lehigh graduates as hardworking, resilient, well-rounded and well-balanced. (2022, The Career Leadership Collective Consulting Report)
Top employer partners at Lehigh have shared that Lehigh students and graduates demonstrate strength of content knowledge within their major and exhibit work-based, experiential skill sets within their industry. They are collaborative and understand the value of teamwork in the workplace. Students are highly communicative and articulate with strong abilities to not only listen and process information, but also to problem solve and offer suggestions for creative and viable solutions.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
With the leadership of the College of Business dean, Georgette Chapman Phillips, Lehigh Business has cultivated a culture characterized by innovation and experimentation, collaboration across difference, hard work and grit, and all with a focus on fairness and ethics. Her vision has inspired so many new, innovative changes at Lehigh Business. Built on an already strong foundation and tradition of excellence, she has pushed us to Break Boundaries and her legacy will live on. There’s much more to come. Watch us!
NEXT PAGE: University of Tennessee Knoxville Haslam College of Business
Inside view of the Haslam Business Building from its atrium. Courtesy photo
University of Tennessee Knoxville Haslam College of Business
Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee Knoxville has been one of the most steady risers in our yearly ranking of the best undergraduate business programs in the U.S.
In 2018, it came in 67th out of 88 schools we ranked. It ranked 63rd of 97 schools in 2019, and 64th a year later. By 2022, it had risen to 52nd, and to 49th in 2023.
In our 2024 ranking, Haslam finished 35th of 91 ranked schools, nearly breaking into the top third of all B-schools in the country. It scored highest in Academic Experience. That category is measured solely on what alumni have to say of the program, giving prospective students insider information into life as a Haslam undergrad.
In our alumni survey administered as part of our annual ranking, 96% of Haslam alumni said they would absolutely recommend the program to a friend or family member, perhaps the highest praise a student can bestow on an alma mater.
“In our senior capstone course, we were required to be a part of a business simulation where a group of students from different majors ‘ran a business’ throughout the semester,” one recent alum told P&Q. “It was challenging/exciting to get to work with different students outside your major and collaborate on business decisions. I was able to improve my problem solving and communication skills through teamwork instead of writing a thesis.”
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH LANE MORRIS
Lane Morris, associate dean of undergraduate studies and student affairs and the John W. Fisher Professor of Innovative Learning, tells us Haslam has recently launched an International Business Major, created an emerging technologies course, and expanded its Business Fellows honors program. It’s also breaking ground on a new building this year.
Find out what else is new and special about Haslam in our interview below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
Development of an emerging technologies course early in our business core to stimulate curiosity, innovation, and excitement in our students.
Recent launch of International Business Major. This new major requires that students double major with a second, functional business major, study abroad for a full semester in an immersive experience, and complete an advanced foreign language collateral in their chosen second language.
Expansion of Business Fellows honors program. This three-year honors program is open to the top 10 percent of Haslam students. The program provides an intellectual challenge for high-achieving, academically minded students enrolled in the college. By blending classroom learning and real-world experience, the Business Fellows Program prepares students to be innovative leaders in today’s competitive business climate. Students take smaller pre-business and business core honors courses each semester with other Business Fellows through a flexible academic curriculum. They will also engage in co-curricular activities, such as company site visits, guest speaker sessions and professional development workshops.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
Breaking ground on a new 244,000 gross square-foot business building.
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs?
Lane Morris, Tennessee Haslam Associate Dean
Haslam Undergraduate Business offers a holistic and integrated, college-based student experience that combines academic advising, student engagement, international programs and study abroad, professional and career development in a seamless one-stop shop for students to maximize their collegiate experience.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
Humility and strong work ethic. A willingness to step up and do what is necessary for the team. A desire to have a positive impact on the community that is a signature quality for Haslam grads. Volunteer Spirit of selfless leadership.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
The Haslam Leaders professional development curriculum ensures that ALL undergraduate students gain basic professional and career development skills (i.e.: resume writing, LinkedIn, interviewing, salary negotiation). Recruiters and professionals support content, whether that is by sponsoring a business case to improve the students’ critical thinking skills, feedback on student resumes and elevator pitches, to guest speakers. In addition, the courses utilize various technologies to help prepare students for technology used in the job/internship search (ie: ATS, AI interviews).
Employer of the Day brings 60-plus employers to the Haslam Business Building each semester for students to connect with in a casual environment. Students also participate inVolTreks and professional development trips while being eligible for internship housing scholarships to financially support students.
International Programs and Study Abroad supports students in pursuing study abroad opportunities with extensive academic advising and program selection guidance. HCB graduates who studied abroad earn $3,728.90 more in salary, on average, than those who did not.
Haslam has more than 35 business-focused student organizations that afford students opportunities to gain leadership experience, create community, and engage in real-world applications learned in the classroom (e.g., AMAze student consulting group, committee within AMA).
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
The culture (i.e., family feel) that embraces competition but encourages collaboration. The vibrancy of the community you feel when you walk into the building of students connecting and feeling at home. Students interacting with faculty and staff in the hallways before and after class. You think about the work of many faculty creating a culture of hard work and respect. Other units on campus want to recreate what we have.
Haslam students visiting the PGA Tour during The Business Side of Sports trip to Jacksonville. Courtesy photo
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Top employers include Pilot Company, PepsiCo, Axle Logistics, Dell, TQL, Amazon, Deloitte, JEAR Logistics, HCA Healthcare, KPMG, & Oracle.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
Haslam faculty enjoy working with undergraduates. The college values its undergraduates as much as its MBAs, and it shows in the sustained growth and in its upward trajectory in rankings.
The Haslam College of Business has led the way at the University of Tennessee in fostering a sense of belonging that has resulted in increasing retention and graduation rates. Students can have a small school experience if they wish with the benefit of a large school’s resources and opportunities.
NEXT PAGE: University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management
University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management undergrad ambassadors soak in the sun on campus. Courtesy photo
University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management
There was already a lot going on at University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management when new dean Jamie Prenkert took the reins in July.
The school launched a brand-new undergraduate curriculum in Fall 2022, focused on leadership and teaching students to solve complex problems. In December 2023, it announced a $40 million renovation to 70,000 square feet of its flagship building adding collaboration and study space, reimaging auditorium and atrium to better integrate technology, and creating an experiential learning suite.
And, in 2022, it launched a Center for Inclusive Excellence, signaling the school’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. That was a significant plus when Prenkert considered making the jump to Carlson from the Kelley School of Business where he taught since 2002.
Carlson’s moves in DEI are “consistent with our focus on ensuring we show all people in our community that they matter and that we want to empower them on their path to being their very best selves. We are focused on creating an environment of belonging,” Prenkert told P&Q in this February interview.
With Prenkert’s one-year anniversary as Carlson dean coming this summer, we’ll be watching to see what comes next.
P&Q INTERVIEW WITH JAMIE PRENKERT
Dean Jamie Prenkert tells P&Q about what’s new and special at Carlson in the Q&A below.
What are recent and upcoming program developments and innovations that will enhance the experience of future students?
To better prepare our graduates for the business world of the future, we launched a brand-new curriculum in Fall 2022. Designed to teach students to solve complex problems and take on leadership roles, the curriculum falls under three pillars: People & Planet, Data & Decisions, and Foundations & Impact. Each pillar carries its own signature experience.
Jamie Prenkert, dean of the Carlson School of Management
Recognizing that college is about so much more than the academic skills you learn, the People & Planet pillar helps students get to know themselves and understand what will bring them fulfillment through design thinking courses. This pillar includes coursework in leadership, business ethics, corporate responsibility, and Race, Power, and Justice in business. As part of this pillar, every student has an international experience. This has been a requirement of our curriculum since 2008, when we became one of the first business schools in the U.S. to take this step.
The Data & Decisions pillar features expanded analytical coursework. Based on feedback from employers, every student now takes courses that prepare them to analyze complex information and make data-informed business decisions. This includes R, Excel, business analytics, and a signature experience: the Impact Lab series. In the Lab, every student engages in experiential learning, working with real clients on real problems with real outcomes.
An integral part of our curriculum, and the Foundations & Impact signature experience, is the Impact Core, a two-semester cohort program where students experience courses from each of our majors. They develop foundational skills that every professional needs, while experiencing a course from each program and determining which major(s) best fit their needs and interests. By taking four courses each semester with the same group of students, the Impact Core facilitates strong bonds among the students, which will support them throughout their time at the Carlson School and for decades to come as the foundation of their professional network.
Finally, our Connecting Carlson project will redesign our flagship building, modernizing our space and improving opportunities for collaboration and connection.
Any other notable news coming for 2024 that readers should know?
We’re beginning a significant reimagination to modernize our school – the Connecting Carlson project, which will transform approximately 70,000 square feet of our flagship building. We’ll be adding collaboration and study space, transforming our auditorium and atrium to better integrate technology, and creating an experiential learning suite. The building will be renamed for Marilyn Carlson Nelson, making it the first University of Minnesota – Twin Cities building named after a female philanthropist and one of the only flagship business school buildings in the country named solely for a female industry leader. We’re expecting to complete this project by Fall 2026.
Carlson School of Management is located at the heart of the Twin Cities. Courtesy photo
What are your program’s two biggest differentiators from other top undergraduate business programs? How do these prepare students for their careers?
A key piece of our new curriculum is the Impact Lab series. Through these two courses — Impact Lab Problem Solving and Impact Lab in Action — students work directly with real organizations that are facing real challenges. Every student has the opportunity to develop an understanding of the complexity of real-world business challenges, to define and scope problems, and to work on crafting viable solutions. The world of work often presents problems that are much more layered and complex than those students encounter in the classroom. Through the Impact Lab, first- and second-year students learn how to put their skills into action.
Our unique commitment to both soft skills and hard skills prepares students to succeed in the real world. They take a cutting-edge data skills sequence, in addition to learning about identifying and navigating ethical challenges in business and working effectively as a member of a diverse team. This holistic approach expands beyond the classroom; we also are proud to house an embedded wellness counselor. The counselor, whose office is in the undergraduate program and exclusively serves our students, provides both individual counseling and group activities.
What separates your graduates from other business school graduates?
We tell students to, “Come as you are, leave even greater.” We welcome each student as they are, and strive to provide the resources they need to leave as the best possible version of themselves. As a Carlson School student, every undergraduate completes our well-rounded curriculum that integrates hard and soft skills. When they enter the work world, they not only understand how to read financial documents, create marketing plans, and other foundational business skills, they also understand how to think creatively and work productively as part of a team.
Throughout their time here, our students are challenged to engage in co-curricular activities and take on internships that support their career goals. These experiences, in addition to the career skills they develop here, make it possible for them to “leave even greater” – as a version of themselves that is ready to pursue their most ambitious goals.
Explain the career services, programming, and extracurriculars that give your students an advantage in career outcomes?
We offer career services from Day Zero – our students are first introduced to Career Coaches during Orientation. Then, every student takes two courses taught by a Career Coach: Design Your Life and Design Your Career. In these courses, students learn foundational skills for success in the job hunt and think carefully about designing their college experience to achieve these goals. Through these courses, guaranteed one-on-one career coaching, and other programs, every student interacts with a member of our Student Life & Career Design team at least 22 times during their Carlson School journey.
This model ensures that our students develop strong relationships with Career Coaches, so that they have someone to turn to down the road when they are negotiating offers and making life-changing early career decisions. These services remain available for alumni too. Career coaches are only one piece of our success and belonging team, which includes personalized academic advising, peer mentorship, and a dedicated wellness counselor.
Additionally, there are specialized opportunities for those interested in specific types of careers. That includes consulting, investment banking, or a career based outside the U.S. Through programs and courses, students can visit Chicago, New York City, and/or London. Leveraging the school’s alumni network, current students are able to explore career opportunities in the place they’re interested in being after graduation.
Lastly, undergraduate students are able to participate in our Enterprise offerings, which offer experiential learning with real clients. Through four Enterprises (Brand, Consulting, Funds, and Ventures), students are exposed to a variety of projects supporting for-profit, non-profit, and start-up businesses. These are often mentioned as the most formative experience students have, and position them well for securing competitive roles upon graduation.
When alumni look back on their time in your undergraduate business program, what would they consider to be their signature experience?
Since 2008, the Carlson School has required every student to have an international experience. In an increasingly globalized business environment, we believe that it is essential for our students to be globally competent. Whether they travel for one week or one semester, we are one of the only business schools to ensure that every student has this experience. Many of our alumni consider their international experience to be life changing, both personally and professionally.
The three pillars of our curriculum each house a signature experience. The international experience is part of People & Planet. The Impact Core, where students take an introductory course in each of our majors as part of a cohort, is a piece of our Foundations & Impact Pillar. Finally, the Data & Decisions pillar includes the Impact Lab series, where students put their analytical skills to work to make a difference for a real organization.
What is the most underrated feature of your undergraduate business program and how does it enhance the experience for your business majors?
Our location in the heart of the Twin Cities allows students to connect with Fortune 500 companies from their first days on campus. The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area has the most Fortune 500 companies per capita in the country, with 15 headquartered here in Minnesota in the most recent listing. We are located just one light rail stop from downtown Minneapolis.
The Carlson School does not hold classes on Fridays, allowing our students to take on internships and part-time jobs during the work week. Almost all of our students have an internship experience, with many having multiple throughout their time as a student. These work experiences allow them to take their classroom education directly into the professional world, putting their education in action just a few steps away from our campus.
Which employers are the biggest consumers of your undergraduate talent and what have they told you about your alumni that make them so special?
Many of our students find jobs with one of the 15 Fortune 500 companies headquartered here in Minneapolis. Wells Fargo, Target, General Mills, Ecolab, and Deloitte are among our biggest employers. These companies are tightly connected to the Carlson School, regularly sending recruiters, speaking to classes, attending networking events, and hiring our students as interns. By the time students are seeking full-time employment, they often already have strong relationships with one of these top employers.
We consistently hear that our students perform well throughout the job search process as they are well-prepared to articulate their background/interests and career goals. This preparation is a key piece of our embedded career services model, where students begin learning these skills in our first year. Employers also regularly comment on Carlson School students’ “Midwest work ethic” and their willingness to put in the time and energy necessary to succeed.
What else would you like readers to know about your program?
In addition to supporting our current students, we are committed to providing pathways to education for young people throughout the Twin Cities. Through several pathway programs, we offer free on-campus experiences for students as young as middle school. These programs, such as Analytics U and Business Innovation Academy, give students the chance to experience a university campus, learn about business, and connect with college students, all in a low-pressure format. For first-generation students, these experiences can be life changing and make them believe that college is possible for them.
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