You Studied Engineering. Now What?

You chose engineering because you love solving problems, thinking analytically, and building things that matter. You worked hard through tough classes, group projects, and late nights in the lab. Maybe you’ve just finished your degree or you're getting close. 

So what’s next? 

Some of your classmates are going into technical roles. Others are thinking about grad school to specialize even more. 

But there’s another option that more and more engineers are exploring especially those who want to lead, innovate, and create something of their own. 

That option is a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at RPI’s Lally School of Management is built for students just like you.

Why Would an Engineer Get an MBA? 

You already have the technical skills. You know how to break down problems, design solutions, and build things from the ground up. 

But what if you also want to lead teams, launch products, or run your own company? 

That’s where an MBA comes in. It gives you the business skills to match your technical knowledge. At Lally, you’ll learn how to: 

• Make data-driven decisions
• Build a business strategy
• Understand markets and customer needs
• Manage projects, budgets, and people
• Pitch ideas and raise funding
• Lead teams and organizations with confidence 

It’s a powerful combination and one that opens up a lot of doors! 

Thinking About Starting Your Own Business? 

If you’ve got ideas for products, platforms, or solutions, you’re already ahead of the game. 

But even the best ideas need a strong business foundation to succeed. 

With an MBA, you’ll learn how to: 

• Test your ideas in the market
• Develop a business model that actually works
• Handle operations, finance, and legal basics
• Build a team and lead effectively
• Attract investors and pitch with confidence 

At Lally, you won’t be doing this alone. You’ll have access to Rensselaer’s rich entrepreneurship ecosystem, including: 

• The Severino Center for Technological Entrepreneurship
• Innovation labs and pitch competitions
• Mentorship from alumni who’ve started successful ventures
• Hands-on startup projects with real-world impact 

So whether you already have a startup idea or want to explore entrepreneurship more seriously, the Lally MBA gives you the tools, training, and support to turn your vision into something real. 

You Don’t Need Years of Work Experience 

You might be thinking, “But I just finished school. Isn’t an MBA for people further along in their careers?” 

Not at Lally. 

Our Full-Time MBA was built with early-career students in mind—including recent grads and those with only limited work experience. We understand where you're coming from, and we’ve designed the curriculum to meet you there. 

You’ll be learning alongside others with STEM backgrounds, gaining skills in business, leadership, and innovation that will give you a serious edge—whether you’re heading into a job, starting your own company, or exploring your next move. 

Where Can It Take You? 

Here are just a few of the paths that open up with an MBA and an engineering background: 

• Startup Founder
• Product Manager
• Technology Consultant
• Engineering or Project Lead
• Strategy Analyst
• Operations or Supply Chain Manager 

Whether you join a startup, a Fortune 500 company, or create your own thing, you’ll have the foundation to lead with confidence and clarity. 

What Makes the Lally MBA Different? 

STEM-Focused and Tech-Friendly 
Because Lally is part of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, our MBA program is built around technical thinking, data analysis, and innovation. 

Designed for Early-Career Students 
We welcome recent grads. You don’t need years of professional experience to join us—just curiosity, drive, and the ambition to do something meaningful. 

Real-World Learning 
You’ll work with real companies, solve real problems, and graduate with hands-on experience you can talk about in interviews (or pitch decks). 

Entrepreneurial Support 
Our resources for startups and student ventures are top-notch. If entrepreneurship is your goal, you’ll find a supportive community here. 

What You'll Learn 

The Lally MBA covers all the key areas you need to become a well-rounded leader: 

• Business Analytics
• Financial and Managerial Accounting
• Marketing and Customer Insights
• Operations and Supply Chain
• Global Business Strategy
• Leadership and Communication
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship 

And you’ll have opportunities to dive deeper into electives that match your goals. 

Program Snapshot 

• Length: 1-year accelerated (36 credits)
• Location: Troy, NY, with access to Northeast tech and business hubs
• STEM-Designated: Yes
• Start Date: August each year
• Scholarships: Merit-based available 

Is This the Right Next Step for You? 

If you’re finishing your engineering degree and wondering what else is out there... 

If you’re thinking about leadership, innovation, or launching something of your own... 

If you want to stand out in a crowded job market with both technical and business skills... 

Then the Full-Time MBA at the Lally School of Management could be exactly what you need.

Explore the program and apply today at lally.rpi.edu or reach out to us with questions. 

We're here to help you take the next step, wherever you want to go.