STEM MBA programs go even further by integrating tech-forward skills with leadership training, providing graduates with the tools to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
For international students, a major advantage is the ability to apply for the Optional Practical Training (OPT), a two-year extension to international visas which, if granted, will allow them to work in the US for up to three years after graduation.
By speaking with Chad Wright, an MBA alumnus from Bentley University, and Heikki Topi, associate dean of business at Bentley, we dive into the top benefits of a STEM MBA.
STEM MBA: Bridging the gap between theory and practice
A key advantage of an MBA is the blend of experiential learning and practical application. For Heikki Topi, integrating theory and practice is a cornerstone of Bentley University’s new STEM-designated MBA, contributing to a high return on investment (MBA ROI) for students.
“Integrating theory and practice is one of the key principles. Students discover theoretical concepts through elements linked to real-world scenarios,” says Heikki.
Heikki highlights that learning includes simulations of business situations, use of enterprise-level software, and hands-on projects.
“Most courses involve project work that puts conceptual material into practice over longer periods, such as two- to three-month projects,” Heikki explains.
These immersive experiences are critical for students to apply classroom learning to real-world challenges, adds Heikki.
For Chad (pictured), now chief information officer (CIO) at Boston Dynamics, a leading robotics company, the emphasis on real-world application made the program stand out.
“The program was very experiential, with a lot of group projects and hands-on work such as coding, software development, and business analysis. For me, it formalized a lot of the things I had been doing informally in my career. It both validated my existing knowledge and prepared me for the next step.”
STEM MBA: Mastering technical skills for tomorrow's business world
The Bentley STEM MBA equips students with essential technical and analytical skills, enhancing their job prospects and enabling them to make significant contributions to their organizations.
“Every student in the program gets a foundation in data management, including practical knowledge of SQL, the world’s most popular data management language,” says Heikki.
Heikki explains how Bentley integrates modern concepts into its curriculum to make students invaluable assets to companies, showing how advanced technologies can enhance organizational performance.
“The focus is on how technology-driven opportunities are designed to help organizations achieve their goals,” he says.
“The strength of this program lies in embedding technical capabilities within business practices, which helps students identify these opportunities and lead in the processes required to design and implement effective solutions.”
Bentley STEM MBA students can customize their degree through majors in accounting analytics, business analytics, financial analytics, and information systems and technology.
Bentley’s program equips students with essential tech skills, appropriate to that major, that are directly applicable to business. For example, in Information Systems and Technology students are taught Python.
By focusing on high-demand abilities, the program prepares graduates for roles at the intersection of technology and business, helping them succeed in today’s data-driven economy.
While Chad had technical experience having worked as a systems analyst, Bentley expanded this skill set, while developing his understanding of the business world.
"I had no experience building or managing networks, running data centers, or handling cybersecurity. My master's program gave me exposure to these areas, and it helped me become comfortable with them.
“A decade later, as a CIO, I’m able to draw on those skills and experiences that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise."
STEM MBA: Building a global mindset to succeed in a diverse market
The Bentley STEM MBA fosters a global perspective, both in its student population and the curriculum.
“We have a very global orientation. It's a natural part of any high-level MBA to ask students to evaluate and analyze global issues,” says Heikki.
With strong corporate connections and an emphasis on global business practices, Bentley offers students unique opportunities to develop the mindset needed to succeed in a diverse, interconnected market.
Students benefit from Bentley’s proximity to Boston, which has a diversified economy centered in the financial services, technology, and life sciences/health sectors. This location allows Bentley students to gain exposure to global industries and benefit from the long-standing relationships which Bentley has established in the business community.
“It allows us to serve our international students and prepare them for a global market,” Heikki adds.
These benefits have helped Chad grow his STEM career, and he still finds himself using the skills he acquired during his time at Bentley in his role as CIO.
“A key part of my job is problem-solving—identifying issues, creating solutions, and communicating that plan, which is where those critical thinking and communication skills I gained at Bentley come in—whether it’s presenting ideas, influencing others, or telling the story of how we’re going to solve a particular problem.”
Chad emphasizes that starting with a goal in mind and soaking up all the knowledge you can is critical to success.
“Have a specific goal in mind when starting the program. It’s also important to diversify what you’re learning—balance what you’re doing in your job with what you’re studying to help you grow into new areas,” he concludes.
