May 13 Roundup
New research shows shift to more flexible masters programs
According to new research from CarringtonCrisp, COVID-19 is going to shape the future model for masters’ programs.
The 2020 Tomorrow’s Masters study, in association with EFMD, reveals there’s more demand for shorter and more flexible learning options and the need for business schools to speed up the diversification of their programs is heightened by the pandemic.
“Competition from traditional providers in global markets, from online providers and from new private entrants offering degrees and alternative qualifications are likely to mean that prospective students will be able to shop around to get the best value for their spend,” says author of the study, Andrew Crisp. “While that does not always mean the cheapest degree around, students will be very focused on outcomes.”
Of the 1,041 students across 35 countries involved in the study, 36% are interested in digital learning and 33% would consider short online courses as alternatives to full-time degrees. Interest in blended learning programs has almost doubled since 2019, from 7% to 12%.
“Even before the pandemic, there was growing interest in alternatives to traditional business masters’ degrees, partly driven by concerns about rising living costs and fees,” he adds. “Modular study options, where students get to tailor their course to suit them, will become more prevalent long-term,” Andrew adds.
Wharton Reveals AI For Business Offering
Wharton MBA alum Tao Zhang and Selina Chin, donated $5 million to establish the business school’s AI for Business course. Led by AI expert, professor Kartik Hosanagar, the course will enable students to explore digital transformation in business.
Tao is a 2002 alum who previously served as co-chairman and co-CEO of Chinese internet company and platform, Meituan-Dianping. Selina graduated the same year and went to serve as the China chief financial officer and vice president of finance for Goodyear Tires & Rubber Co.
“Selina and I share experience and interest in management, tech, startups, and opportunities for leadership in global business which comes together in AI,” says Tao. “Wharton is the ideal setting for us to enable these experiences for such talented students and renowned faculty. We are proud to be engaged with the school and to be a part of jump-starting AI for Business.”
“The advances made possible by artificial intelligence hold the potential to vastly improve lives and business processes,” adds Wharton Dean Geoff Garrett. “Our students, faculty, and industry partners are eager to join in our AI knowledge creation efforts to more deeply explore how machine learning will impact the future for everyone. We are deeply grateful to Tao and Selina for so generously enabling us to explore this opportunity and get AI for Business underway.”
AI for Business will include the development of new coursework for undergraduates and postgraduates, covering the implications of AI technology, competitive strategy, and the impact on society, run collaboratively with professionals worldwide through executive education.
“Our students and professors are energized by the idea that AI is influencing nearly every aspect of humanity and our efforts to understand it can make a difference for years to come,” says Kartik. “I’m very excited to help lead AI for Business since the future of machine learning is happening now – there are unlimited entry points for experiential learning to explore the topic.”
ISB 100th School To Win Triple Accreditation
The Indian School of Business (ISB) has been awarded accreditation from the Association of MBAs (AMBA). It’s now the 100th school in the world to achieve the triple crown––accredited by AMBA, EQUIS, and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)––joining the likes of IE Business School, University of St. Gallen, and Singapore Management University.
“I would like to congratulate ISB on becoming the milestone 100th triple crown school,” says Andrew Main Wilson, CEO of AMBA & BGA. “They have now joined an outstanding group of schools who are justifiably proud of their triple crown status.”
All ISB MBA students and alumni are now a part of AMBA’s global member community, which involves 49,000 students and alumni across 150 countries, with networking, thought leadership, career development, and a variety of benefits.
Read more about the MBA at ISB
