URI redesigns MBA to focus on innovation, summer internship

SOUTH KINGSTOWN – The University of Rhode Island has redesigned its one-year Master of Business Administration program to focus on how to manage, design and implement strategic innovation.
“This approach demonstrates to students that strategic decision-making is not sequential, but rather interdisciplinary across all areas of the business,” said Mark Higgins, dean of the College of Business Administration, in a statement. “Disruptive innovation in business is becoming the rule, not the exception, and this new program will ensure our students can thrive and compete.”
URI launched the one-year MBA program in 1995 and three years ago enlisted faculty to comprehensively review the program.
The new program will be team-taught using a faculty cohort using a continuous-improvement framework that will have each two-week module built upon the module that precedes it. Students also will participate in a live case with executives from Hasbro, Inc.
Students also will engage in experiential learning by working with Rhode Island organizations to develop a new process or practice. The program culminates in a summer internship. •