Designed to open doors to management roles and careers, the Accelerated Science + MBA program enables you to complete both degrees in less time and less cost than it would take to complete them separately. Earn your undergraduate degree in science along with an MBA in five years or less!
Program Overview
As technology continues to reshape the world, there is an increasing need for graduates who can successfully address the managerial, financial and organizational challenges that these technological advances present. Translation of cutting-edge science, software and algorithms into success in the marketplace requires both rigorous disciplinary knowledge and business acumen. The Accelerated Science + MBA program was designed with this in mind. The program enables those in the science and software realms to successfully expand into leadership roles, seamlessly bridging technological and business skills.
The Accelerated Science + MBA program offers students an opportunity to connect discovery and innovation with finance and business. Starting in their undergraduate studies, the program introduces science students to a variety of business principles. By the end of their fifth year at RPI or sooner, students gain an incredible skillset, with a B.S. in a science discipline and an MBA from the Lally School of Management, providing a powerful combination of scientific expertise and business acumen that is highly sought by industry.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
An MBA equips science students with management, finance and business skills, enabling faster growth into leadership roles and expanded career opportunities with managerial and business acumen.
Competitive Edge
In a competitive job market, having both a science degree and an MBA helps differentiate candidates. Become more attractive to employers seeking individuals who can bridge the gap between business and technology.
Higher Earning Potential
MBA graduates typically have a higher earning potential compared to those with only an undergraduate degree. The combination of scientific skills and business knowledge can lead to lucrative positions in management and leadership roles. There’s a strong demand for leaders who understand science, technology, and business. With the rise of AI, blockchain, and numerous tech advancements, this combination places you in a competitive position for higher-paying roles in the marketplace.
Career Advancement
An MBA can accelerate career advancement, leading to faster promotions and higher salary increments, with a reduced need for learning managerial skills “on the job.” There continues to be high demand for leaders with technological and business expertise.
Specialized Learning
You’ll dive into tech-focused subjects such as management, analytics, marketing, strategy, and finance. This is ideal if you love the tech world and want to become a leader in it.
Industry Fit
The MBA coursework is specifically designed for industries that leverage science and technology, so you can apply what you learn directly to your job or future roles.
Innovation Management
Scientists with an MBA can better manage and commercialize innovations, gaining the skills to turn technical ideas into profitable business opportunities. The MBA will provide you with the tools to build a company while understanding business models, funding, and scaling strategies.
Innovation Focus
Learning about innovation, entrepreneurship, and product development are critical in leading projects that leverage technology.
Networking with Techies
Being surrounded by other tech and science enthusiasts, including peers, alumni, and mentors, creates a strong network that can open up job opportunities.
Career Versatility
With an MBA, you gain the ability to move into a wide variety of roles: from software engineering and product development to management, consulting, and entrepreneurship. As part of the program, students will participate in internships or co-ops, gaining technological, business, or entrepreneurial experience.
Adaptability in Emerging Fields
Many technology and science trends, including AI in life science and fintech, require professionals who can bridge science, technology, and business. This background makes you well-suited to thrive in such emerging, high-impact areas.
Problem Solving from Multiple Angles
With an MBA, learn to approach problems from a technical, scientific, and business lens, allowing for innovative solutions that balance product functionality with market needs.
Program Structure
EngMBA students will have slightly higher but achievable workloads than their peers, as the course load can be up to 19 credits per semester during their junior year.
- Students take courses within their chosen engineering discipline during their first three years.
- During their fourth year, students take a mix of science and MBA courses.
- During their fifth year, students focus fully on completing their MBA.
Application Requirements
Students can join the pre-program at the end of their freshman year, and then will apply to the MBA during their junior year.
- Acceptance into the School of Engineering
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above
- Attendance at pre-MBA seminars
- Students must have completed 15 credits at the 4000 level to apply.
To learn more about this opportunity, attend an information session, complete an inquiry form, or simply email us at scimba@rpi.edu.
Program Outcomes
Lally graduates thrive across a wide range of industries that leverage technology and are highly sought after by leading firms such as Google, IBM, GE, Deloitte, Cisco, Credit Suisse, Global Foundries, Raytheon, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lockheed Martin, and Formlabs, among others, at which Lally alumni have impactful roles. With a strong foundation and cutting-edge skills in business, Lally students are exceptionally prepared to excel in diverse sectors, from technology and consulting to finance, data analytics, supply chain, and manufacturing, gaining an edge in today’s competitive job market. Launch a successful career by enhancing your RPI experience with a Lally MBA!
Spotlight
"The Lally School played a pivotal role in advancing my understanding the intersection between business and the life sciences industry. As a student in the Life Sciences concentration, the robust coursework, network, and career development offerings allowed me to secure my current position in the pharmaceutical industry and feel confident in my skill set. The real-world experience in the curriculum were instrumental in preparing me for the workforce and navigating this industry."