Foster Hybrid MBA Program rises to #3 in U.S. News ranking of online MBAs

Students attend a Hybrid Program immersion class.

Hybrid MBA Program jumps two spots, named #1 MBA program nationwide for veterans

The UW Foster School of Business Hybrid MBA Program is #3 in the country (tie) in the newly released U.S. News & World Report ranking of online MBA programs, up two spots from last year. The program was also named the best in the nation for veterans, as well as #1 in the Pacific Northwest and tied for #1 in the Western United States.

“It is gratifying to see the program’s excellence being recognized,” says Dan Turner, Associate Dean of Masters Programs. “Our faculty, student outcomes, and commitment to finding innovative solutions to society’s biggest challenges have Foster MBA programs consistently ranked among the very best in the nation. It is an honor for the entire Foster community.”

The publication awarded Foster 95 out of a possible 100 points, which are determined by five metrics, including engagement (making up 30% of a school’s total score), peer assessment (25%), faculty credentials and training (15%), student excellence (15%), and services and technologies (15%). Foster’s engagement was #2 in the nation. U.S. News defines engagement as “promote participation in courses, giving students opportunities to readily interact with their instructors and classmates” and “helping to create an experience rewarding enough that students stay enrolled and complete their degrees in a reasonable amount of time.” The program’s engagement score, which measures student satisfaction and instructor responsiveness, was 98 out of 100.

“The program’s unique combination of in-person immersion and online classes creates tight bonds among our students and with our faculty,” says Hybrid MBA Director Jodey Farwell. “Our students thrive in a collaborative environment. We emphasize the teamwork that is applicable in the workplace. Our students partner on virtual team-driven projects, and engagement with their classmates and faculty occurs during weekly Foster Live sessions.”

Foster’s #1 ranking in MBA programs for veterans was driven by the school’s outreach to the military community, assistance for veterans in financing their education, and incorporating their experiences into the team-based educational approach that distinguishes the program.

“We are particularly proud of this ranking,” says Farwell. “We strive to ensure a diversity of experience in our student community, ensuring an enriching learning environment for all. Our veterans bring unique skills and perspectives, providing an enriching addition to the cohort learning experience. It is our honor to welcome them to the program, and for many, assist in their transition to civilian life.”

The Foster Hybrid MBA curriculum builds a strong foundation in business essentials, while giving students the opportunity to enhance their degree with Hybrid MBA elective courses. The quality of the school’s specialized online MBA courses was reflected with a #6 (tie) ranking among online MBA programs for general management and #10 for business analytics.

“Our students are well-positioned to make an immediate impact in their position, learning skills one day and applying them the next,” says Farwell. “Our curriculum emphasizes real-world business challenges, and we benefit from our tight integration into Seattle’s business community.”

Hybrid program classes are taught by highly respected faculty who are on the forefront of industry research but whose primary priority is their students. In addition to Associate Dean Turner, classes are taught by award winner Professors Elizabeth Umphress among others.

Foster Hybrid MBA students also benefit from a dedicated career management team, who provide programming and workshops on career development, executive presence, and social/emotional skills for leaders in sessions held both virtually and in person at the quarterly immersions. Students have access to one-on-one coaching and may participate in a mentorship program that pairs current students with MBA alumni in senior-level roles across industry-leading companies in consulting, technology, consumer goods, and health care and more.