From blockchain to big data, MBA students at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business are up to date with the latest technological disruptions. Over 17% of the class landed jobs in tech in 2018
“You can’t think about how an organization operates today without thinking of a technological application,” says professor John Jacobs, executive director of the Center for Financial Markets and Policy at (pictured below, right).
Indeed, nearly half (45%) of businesses believe their industry will be disrupted by emerging technology—like artificial intelligence, big data, and blockchain—in a major way over the next few years.
John has experienced his fair share of tech disruption during his career. He worked for NASDAQ (a fintech leader for electronic stock-exchange markets) for 30 years before joining McDonough.
An MBA, he explains, is about understanding the different aspects of business, whether it be marketing, finance or HR. And so, all MBA students need to graduate with an understanding of the implications of technological disruption across those areas.
How do MBA students learn about technology?
At McDonough, MBAs learn about trending tech topics in multiple ways.
Georgetown was recently ranked sixth in CoinDesk’s list of Blockchain universities and John began teaching a fintech elective at McDonough last year, with half of his class last term exploring the use of blockchain in NGOs and social-impact initiatives.
Meanwhile, the DC Blockchain Summit attracts 500 attendees across different industries to McDonough each spring, and IBM and mortgage loan firm Fannie Mae help to host hackathons where students access real company data. Bringing tech leaders onto campus is how many students are recruited for post-MBA jobs.
Virtual reality is also something the school is getting excited about. It’s a prime experiential education tool to develop skills in negotiation and decision making while providing MBAs with the ideal environment in which to learn from mistakes.
recently produced a VR trailer inspired by the book ‘Travels of a T-shirt in the Global Economy’ by vice dean and professor Pietra Rivolli, which took participants to a Texan cotton field, providing insight into global supply chains. “VR is brilliant for information retention because the things we experience we remember much better,” Adam Hahn, director of development and innovation at the school (pictured below, right) explains.
In the buzzing big data sphere, McDonough launched an MBA Certificate in Consumer Analytics and Insights last year in response to growing demand across all industries for professionals who can engage with consumer data to problem-solve.
The certificate builds on core MBA coursework through a series of courses, analytics projects, and events allowing students to engage with industry experts. On graduation, MBA students gain a notation on their qualification highlighting the achievement—something that will help set them apart in the jobs market.
Big data initiatives also come from MBA students themselves. McDonough MBA students can improve their data interpretation skills through student-run clubs like HoyAlytics (whose popularity inspired McDonough to launch the analytics certificate). Co-founded by Kenny Tan, now associate director of data analytics for the school’s graduate programs, it focuses on networking, recruiting and tutoring in data analytics.
It was Kenny’s love of numbers that made him pursue an MBA at McDonough, moving away from his research background with a view to building a career in business analytics. “It’s a collaborative, not competitive, community,” he says of the McDonough MBA experience.
This, he says, feeds creativity and innovation. “The basis of computer programming is collaborative so it makes sense that McDonough is too,” he smiles.
What are the career benefits for MBAs?
’ focus on tech translates into a strength in careers. The tech sector is one of the fastest growing industries in the US, with 1.5 million new jobs created between 2010 and 2017.
In a record year for MBA hires, 17.5% of McDonough’s 2018 class went into technology, earning an average base salary of over $116,000. Some of the biggest tech recruiters who hire MBAs from the school include Gallup, an analytics management consultancy firm, and the science and innovation company Danaher.
Outside the tech industry itself, Deloitte is one of the largest recruiters of McDonough MBAs. Adam explains that many of their projects are data-driven and that they actively look for students who are data literate and understand how the shifting technology landscape affects business. Hence why they recruit so heavily from McDonough.
Kenny also identifies consultancy as a big career destination for tech-savvy MBAs because of its focus on big data. “Everything out there is being collected and quantified to find insights to target segments,” he emphasizes, “this is becoming increasingly relevant to consultancy because it’s based on problem-solving.”
Kenny explains that because everything is data-driven, having the skills to understand what hard numbers mean for a company puts you ahead. “When you talk intelligently about data issues and applications interviewers prick up their ears because it’s a valuable skill that they’re all after,” he says.
Student Reviews
Georgetown: McDonough School of Business
GWU - excellent investment for future
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I've been enjoying this school so far. I wouldn't alter it, despite the fact that the school is on a hill and that it requires a lot of walking to get around it. For minority and first-generation students, there are a ton of services available. Even though the usual dorm rooms are modest, there is still plenty of area for storage. We have a ton of alternatives every day in the dining halls since they provide so many different dishes from so many different cultures
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Georgetown is my second home. The pre-professional counselors are incredibly helpful, and I feel supported and inspired to pursue my aspirations. We are certainly ranked as the top research university in the nation. They place a high priority on the development of the students as well as their physical and mental well-being.
Wonderful university
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Fantastic university
Georgetown university is a Fantastic university. The professors are outstanding, there are lots of ways to participate in campus life, and there are numerous groups and organizations where students can get involved. The campus is lovely and always kept clean, and there are people are willing to assist you 24 hours a day whenever you need help.
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Being at Georgetown university has been one of my best experiences. The Professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and very helpful. You will fall in love with Georgetown because of its daily activities, the vibrant students you will encounter, the food served on campus, and the lush surroundings. The housing and dorms are fantastic. There is no better place than Georgetown University if you’re looking to study, discover new things, make lifelong friends, and have fun!
Academically challenging institution
Georgetown University is certainly an academically challenging institution, however, if you ask for assistance when you need it, the workload can be managed. Students are happy to assist one another, and most Professor want you to succeed. Student life is vibrant, the location is excellent and everyone here is friendly and welcoming.
4 Years as an Expat at Georgetown University
Georgetown University provided an exceptional environment for my academic journey as an expat from Italy. As someone who initially felt apprehensive about moving to a new country, Georgetown quickly alleviated my concerns and made my transition incredibly smooth.
One of the standout features of Georgetown is its diverse and welcoming community, particularly for international students. The campus is teeming with students from various corners of the globe, fostering a rich cultural tapestry that made me feel right at home. The vibrant campus life and numerous extracurricular activities offered ample opportunities to connect with fellow students, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
Georgetown's unique setting within the heart of Washington, DC, adds another layer to its charm. While the university is situated in the bustling city, the campus in the historic area of Georgetown provides a distinct and almost intimate atmosphere. This blend creates a truly unique feel and contributes to an unforgettable educational experience.
Initially enrolled in the College with a desire to major in Linguistics and minor in Art & Journalism, I appreciated the flexibility and openness of the Georgetown education system. After my freshman year, I discovered my true passion lay in Marketing and International Business. The university's seamless transfer process allowed me to transition to the McDonough Business School, where I found the perfect fit for my academic aspirations.
Georgetown's commitment to helping students explore and find their academic niche is indeed one of its most commendable qualities. The ability to explore various subjects before settling on a major is a testament to the university's dedication to fostering individual growth and success. The journey from Linguistics to Marketing & International Business exemplifies the beauty of a Georgetown education — a dynamic and supportive environment where students can discover and pursue their true passions.
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