In boardrooms around the world, one topic keeps coming up: artificial intelligence (AI). As one of the most dynamic growth “arenas” (sectors marked by high growth and dynamism) identified by McKinsey Global Institute, AI software and services are expected to contribute as much as US$48 trillion to the global economy by 2040. To keep up, 92% of businesses are raising their AI investments, while 30% are expanding their teams with AI specialists.
However, Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business’ 2025 Data Integrity Trends and Insights report discovered some concerning numbers: 42% of companies report a shortage of skills and resources to run effective data programmes and 60% cite that their organisation is unprepared for AI initiatives when it comes to employee skills and training.
In response, Drexel LeBow has strategically redesigned its MBA curriculum to address these gaps. The revamped programme emphasises technology and innovation, data competency, and leadership and strategic thinking — all critical skills for navigating today’s dynamic, data-driven business environment and the workforce of the future.
Students can customise their MBA with STEM-designated concentrations and gain skills to lead in one of the most dynamic growth “arenas” today: AI. Source: Drexel University, LeBow College of Business
Streamlined for success
Big change starts with smart adjustments. Now a 48-credit programme, Drexel LeBow’s MBA offers a faster path to completion while retaining the intellectual and experiential rigour expected of a top-tier business education.
Why is it structured so? Because it’s what today’s business world demands. The redesign, in content and in format, was guided by feedback from students, alumni, and industry experts.
Furthermore, it reflects industry changes. According to McKinsey’s The State of AI in 2023 survey, 55% of companies have already adopted AI, with further investments accelerating. At the same time, the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs Report 2023 points to the growing need for cross-functional teams that combine data, technology, and business acumen to solve and deploy AI solutions.
Lead with AI
To be truly future-ready, Drexel LeBow’s MBA added a STEM-designated applied AI in business concentration, with courses in AI literacy and strategic framing of business problems, data analytics and model interpretation, human–AI collaboration and augmentation, and ethical AI and bias mitigation. Together, these courses empower students to work effectively with data scientists, converting AI capabilities into business value and leading AI-driven strategic initiatives.
By bridging the gap between business and technology, the MBA enhances employability across industries and instils a deep understanding of responsible AI use and adaptability. For graduates, this means a lasting competitive edge.
“As more organisations adopt AI, the real value won’t just come from the technology, but from how humans engage with it. Professionals who understand both the capabilities and limitations of AI will be able to design solutions that enhance, rather than replace, human judgment,” says Murugan Anandarajan, professor and vice dean, LeBow College of Business.
A new required course in career management and professional development will better help full-time international students reach their goals. Source: Drexel University, LeBow College of Business
Hands-on, career-ready
In today’s job market, AI mastery can matter more than years of experience. According to the 2024 Annual Work Trend Index, 66% of leaders would not hire someone without AI skills and 71% would rather hire a less experienced candidate with AI skills.
That’s why LeBow’s new MBA is hands-on; it’s the best way to ensure modules are effective and not lost in translation.
For example, in an AI-driven “Human Plus” course, MBA students learn decision intelligence — a blend of AI, data, and human judgment to make smarter business decisions — from both faculty and industry experts. Then they put that knowledge to work. In one hands-on project, students step into a simulated emergency room, using AI-powered text mining and predictive modelling to figure out the best way to allocate resources.
Internships are a big part of the programme, too. Supported by market-driven insights and personalised career coaching, job search strategies, and networking opportunities from Drexel LeBow’s new Centre for Career Readiness, MBA students enter the workplace prepared to lead across various areas, including business strategy, marketing, product management, and innovation. The centre is an important addition, with 70% of workplace skills expected to shift by 2030 due to AI.
Meanwhile, the Centre for Applied AI and Business Analytics, led by Executive Director Diana Jones, provides students with opportunities to engage directly with industry professionals, academic mentors, and alumni.
Through AI workshops, analytics competitions, and business and technology events, students develop data literacy, innovative thinking, and professional communication. Past engagements include datathons with Bloomberg, Under Armour, and Comcast; an AI and Data Summit with software company Precisely; and events with companies such as Mastercard, FMC, the Philadelphia Flyers, and Amazon.
Built for what’s next
The future of business belongs to those who can keep pace with change. Graduates of Drexel LeBow’s reimagined MBA emerge as agile professionals ready to fill emerging roles such as big data specialists, fintech engineers, and AI and machine learning professionals.
Their strengths are relevant across several industries. In health care, they support predictive diagnostics and resource optimisation. In finance, they enhance fraud detection and algorithmic trading. In e-commerce, they power smarter pricing and consumer behaviour modelling.
It’s this kind of future-focused education that places Drexel LeBow among America’s 15 largest private universities and the elite 20% of business schools accredited by AACSB (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) International.
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