MBA Concentrations and Specializations

Willamette University students in a classroom

MBA Concentrations

Willamette offers a wide range of concentrations for MBA students. Below is an overview of the business concentrations available with Willamette's MBA program.

View our MBA concentrations
Accounting MBA

A concentration in accounting equips you with in-depth knowledge of financial reporting, auditing, and tax regulations. This program is for students who want to be a CPA or work in auditing.

MBA in Entrepreneurship

The entrepreneurship concentration teaches skills for starting and managing your own business or working in a startup. This program is ideal for those who want to create their own ventures.

MBA Concentration in Finance

Finance concentrations emphasize financial management, investments, and risk assessment. This is a good choice for people who want to be a financial analyst, investment banker, or work in corporate finance.

MBA in Global Management

For those interested in international business, the global management concentration explores the complexities of operating in a global marketplace. It covers topics like international marketing, cross-cultural management, and global supply chain management.

MBA in Human Resource Management

This concentration delves into the strategic aspects of human resource management, including talent acquisition, development, and retention. It prepares you for roles in HR leadership and organizational development.

MBA in Management Science and Quantitative Methods

Lean into math and statistics to solve complex decisions. This program helps students hone their skills in analyzing data and problem-solving.

Marketing MBA

A concentration in marketing focuses on consumer behavior, market research, and branding strategies. Utilize this program to pursue a career in advertising, market research, or brand management.

MBA in Operations

This concentration is all about optimizing processes, supply chain management, and data analytics. Students who are interested in business efficiency and operations management should choose this concentration.

MBA in Organizational Management

This program concentrates on understanding the dynamics within organizations, including leadership, culture, and change management. Consider this program if you're interested in management consulting or leadership roles.

Non-Profit Management

This concentration prepares you for leadership roles in government, healthcare, education, or nonprofit organizations. Students will be ready to pursue a management role in public and non-profit companies.

Understanding MBA Specializations

Willamette's MBA program caters to a broad spectrum of career interests and goals. No matter what career you're interested in, you'll be able to find a program that will provide the specialization you need.

Willamette's full-time MBA program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of all the functions within an organization. Concentrations are specific fields of study that allow students to dive deeper into a particular aspect of business. MBA focus areas are a valuable addition, as they demonstrate your expertise and commitment to a particular business discipline.

Choosing your MBA Focus Area

Business concentrations are optional, however, selecting a concentration can offer several advantages. Concentrations can help students become an expert in a particular field and enhance their job prospects.

How to select the right MBA concentration

Self-Assessment

When deciding on a concentration, it's helpful to conduct a self-assessment. Reflect on your interests, strengths, and career aspirations. What area of business excites you the most? Consider your long-term career goals to determine the right path.

Research Concentrations

Familiarize yourself with the available concentrations in Willamette's MBA program. Read about each concentration, its curriculum, and the skills it emphasizes. This research will help you understand the opportunities associated with each area.

Consult with Advisors

Seek advice from academic advisors, career counselors, and professors who can provide insights and recommendations. They can help you understand which concentration might be the best fit based on your skills and interests.

Networking

Connect with current MBA students who have chosen the concentration you're interested in. They can provide real-world insights into the program, its benefits, and the career prospects in that field.

Evaluate Career Opportunities

Consider the employment opportunities and demand for professionals in your chosen MBA concentration. Some fields may offer more competitive job markets than others. Ensuring that your MBA focus area choice aligns with your career prospects is crucial.

Long-Term Goals

Your chosen concentration should align with your long-term career goals. Think about how this specialization will benefit you in the future. Will it make you more marketable and help you achieve your career goals?

Choosing an MBA degree program

Selecting the right MBA concentration is just one aspect of your decision-making process. When choosing a program, you should also consider several other factors.

Factors to consider

Program Reputation

Research the reputation of the MBA program, and the university itself. A reputable program like Willamette’s can open doors to better job opportunities and networking connections.

Faculty Expertise

Investigate the faculty's expertise and experience in your chosen concentration. Experienced and knowledgeable professors can enhance your learning experience.

Location

Consider the program's location and how it may impact your career goals. Proximity to certain industries or companies might be essential.

Networking Opportunities

Look into the networking opportunities the program offers. These connections can be invaluable for your future career.

Internships and Career Services

Explore the program's internship opportunities and career services. Practical experience is crucial for building your resume and securing job offers.

Cost and Financial Aid

Determine the cost of the program and the availability of financial aid, scholarships, or assistantships. Understanding the financial aspect is vital to your decision-making process.

Class Size and Cohort Structure

Consider the class size and cohort structure of the program. Smaller class sizes often lead to more personalized attention and better connections with professors and peers.

Alumni Network

Research the alumni network associated with the program. Alumni can provide mentorship, job referrals, and valuable career advice.

Cultural Fit

Evaluate whether the program's culture aligns with your personal and professional values. A program that resonates with your values is likely to provide a more fulfilling experience.

Accreditation

Make sure that relevant organizations accredit the program, which guarantees the quality of your degree.

Selecting the right MBA specialization is a critical decision that should align with your career aspirations and interests. Willamette's MBA program offers many programs to help students gain an advantage in the job market.

When choosing an MBA program, consider factors like program reputation, faculty, location, networking opportunities, internships, cost, class size, alumni network, and cultural fit. By assessing these factors, you can make a wise choice that leads to success in your desired career.

MBA concentrations at Willamette University