Specialized MBA programs combine fundamental knowledge in general business administration with specific knowledge of a niche business topic. By combining knowledge of management, accounting, finance and marketing with industry specific knowledge, delegates are able to thrive in a specialized industry. A specialized MBA can cover a variety of topics depending on the interests of the student. Growing specializations include MBAs in Sports Management, Non-profit Management, Sustainability & Environmental Management, and Healthcare Administration.
While traditional management MBA programs may be right for some individuals, other students are looking to hone in their skills in a specific industry. These individuals will find that a specialized MBA program will give them the opportunity to increase their knowledge pertaining to a specific industry, which enhances both their job prospects and expertise in that field. Please observe the list of popular specialized MBA programs, if your desired industry is not present on the list, please request mrore information to receive a list of programs tailored to your needs.
| MBA programs (43) | Providers (24) |
Specialized MBA programs couple core curriculum of a traditional MBA with industry specific curriculum that is focused on a niche area of business or specific field. While a specialized MBA still lays the same foundation as a traditional MBA, a specialized MBA diverges into industry specific coursework once the basics are covered. There are a plethora of different concentrations to fit every interest or career goal.
Typically, the first year of any MBA program focuses on core business topics and requires the student to complete a course in each of these standard topic areas: Marketing, Strategic Management, Finance, Human Resources, and Accounting. The second year of a specialized MBA program allows the student to hone in their knowledge of an industry that interests them most - whether that may be real-estate or sports management.
In the last decade, specialized MBA programs have been growing in popularity due to the increased need of individuals with specialized knowledge and qualifications. Specialized MBA programs have innovative curriculum that zeros in on more practical applications rather than on general theory. Specialized MBA programs are perfect for students who know exactly what industry they want to work in, as well as more experienced students who are looking to change industries.
An MBA in Aviation Management will prepare students for managerial positions within the airline or aviation industry. This industry is constantly in demand of managers who are prepared and knowledgeable in the unique challenges this of this industry. MBA programs that are specialized in Aviation Management are designed for individuals looking to specialize their skills and have an interest in aviation or airport management.
Find specialized MBA programs in Aviation Management
MBA programs that are specialized in Brand and Product Management are designed to provide students with the knowledge to successfully build a brand and management the image of a product. These programs often explore cultural trends and how to successfully leverage consumer behaviors in order to form a strong and successful brand. The brand image is often the most valuable - if not priceless - asset of a business. Learn how to turn products into icons by participating in an MBA program specialized in Brand and Product Management.
Find specialized MBA programs in Brand & Product Management
MBA programs that are specialized in Asian Business are tailored to give participants a unique understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with entering the quickly emerging markets in Asia. Asia is a growing market that businesses can no longer ignore. However, prior to entering these markets, businesses must employ experts on both cultural customs and political systems. Participating in an MBA program in Asian business will enable graduates to understand and analyze necessary elements before launching a new business venture in Asia.
Find specialized MBA programs in Asian Business and Emerging Markets

An MBA in Communication and Public Relations is designed for individuals aspiring to work within public relations, advertising and communication. Graduates with an MBA in Communications and Public Relations will have unique expertise in how to manage external communications of a business, analyze and produce a media strategy, implement successful campaigns, and create general good will towards the company.
Learn more about specialized MBA programs in Communication & Public Relations
The internet has facilitated the growth of online retail businesses and e-commerce. MBA programs specialized in e-commerce aim to give participants the skills to grow businesses through this avenue. MBAs that are specialized in e-commerce prepare delegates to use the internet, social media outlets, adwords, and SEO to improve business and marketing practices while increasing traffic and driving sales.
Find MBA programs specialized in E-commerce
MBA programs in economics offer individuals knowledge about activities such as analyzing economic data and trends, allocating and planning necessary resources, and tackle pricing strategies. Students should emerge from an MBA specialized in economics with a firm grasp of macroeconomics, statistics, and labor economics, as well as the ability to apply these theories from text-book to real-world business scenarios. Upon graduation, delegates will be equipped to work in a variety of positions including, banking & finance, governmental positions, consulting, researching, and more.
Learn more about specialized MBA programs in Economics
One may not immediately visualize how MBA programs could benefit the education sector, however many schools are run similar to businesses. Educational facilities also need managers who can allocate resources, hire personnel and strategize for the future. Graduates with an MBA in Education will be equipped to work within the area of educational administration and be knowledgable how to make the most out of a school's limited resources.
Find specialized MBA programs in Education
MBA programs in Energy offer delegates the opportunity to obtain a practical understanding of the energy industry. These individuals with gain insight into various aspects of this industry including trading in the oil and gas market, resource management, asset valuation and supply chain logistics. However, the overarching goal of an MBA in Energy is to provide participants with the knowledge to analyze trends in the oil and gas industry, which allows for better business decisions.
Learn more about MBA programs in Energy
MBA programs in Engineering allow individuals to learn both the technological side of engineering and the more abstract, managerial side of business. By combining both of these elements, students will have a well-rounded viewpoint and perspective, which allows them to be more strategic in their decision-making process. This unique ability to rectify two seemingly divergent view-points into one cohesive solution, will prove to be a highly competitive asset in today's job market.
Find an MBA program specialized in Engineering
With the growing concerns associated with the environment, MBA programs specialized in Environment and Sustainability are becoming increasingly popular and important. Curriculum in an MBA program in Environment and Sustainability offers a comprehensive look at this growing industry, which encompasses many different academic areas including engineering, business, law, policy, and environmental science.
Learn about MBA programs specialized in Environment & Sustainability

The healthcare industry comprises of hospitals, clinics, small physicians offices, or even insurance companies. MBA programs in Healthcare Administration aim to provide participants with the skills necessary to solve unique problems that arise in this industry. After completing an MBA in Healthcare Administration, students will prepared to work in senior and managerial level positions in the healthcare industry.
Find a specialized MBA program in Healthcare Administration here
Individuals with an MBA in Hospitality and Tourism will be equipped with the knowledge to enter into a number of positions within in this popular industry including, hotels, restaurants, convention centers, travel agencies, and event planning companies. Although the curriculum of an MBA specialized in Hospitality and Tourism includes elements of marketing, strategy, finance and economics, the overarching goal is to cultivate advanced managerial skills in order to provide customers with superior experience.
Learn more about MBA programs in hospitality & Tourism
MBA programs with a specialization in Information Systems focus on providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the technology systems that facilitate day-to-day business operations. Individuals with an MBA in Information Systems will be prepared to make strategic decisions regarding the implementation and management of information and technological systems.
Find an MBA program in Information Systems
Not to be confused with a Finance MBA, Investment Management MBA programs concentrate on areas of wealth, asset and fund management, as well as advanced analytical skills that go beyond a general business MBA. Categories covered may include hedge funds, complex derivatives and investment strategies. Additionally, an MBA in Investment Management will prepare individuals to enter into managerial roles in an array of finance companies and investment institutions.
Learn more about MBA programs in Investment Management
Joint and dual degree MBA programs offer students the ability to receive an MBA in conjunction with another master's program. This intensive study option allows students be flexible when it comes to possible career tracks, while being highly sought after by employers. Popular MBA joint programs include Juris Doctor, MSc in various topics, MPA , and MD.
Find more info about joint/dual degree MBA programs here
Leadership MBA programs focus on providing individuals both business theory and best practice knowledge in order to develop analytical thinking and problem solving skills in the area of leadership. An MBA in Leadership also recognizes how soft skills play an important role in the making of a good manager. As such, MBA programs in Leadership may have elements of communication, critical thinking and teamwork mixed into the standard MBA curriculum.
Learn more about MBA programs in Leadership
Project Management is becoming an increasingly important area of business. Organizations in various industries are in demand of individuals who are knowledgeable in areas of Project Management. MBA programs specializing in Project Management give delegates the opportunity to learn about functional time management and how to implement strategic organizational change in order to improve efficiency.
Learn more about MBA programs in Project Management
MBA programs in Public Policy aim to provide future business leaders with knowledge of how business is affected by government and how the two interact and influence each other. A vast majority of governmental decisions such as privatization, deregulation, antitrust laws, trade barriers, and environmental policy greatly affect business interests. MBA programs in Public Policy will equip individuals with knowledge of how to navigate and comply to changes in public policy.
Find an MBA program in Public Policy
MBA programs in Real Estate are often interdisciplinary and encompass a broad set of academic departments. MBAs in Real Estate will expose participants to architecture and design, construction management, law, finance and investment, as well as negotiation.
Learn more about MBA programs in Real Estate

An MBA in Risk Management enables participants to gain a thorough understanding of risk management in both theory and practice. Programs typically encompass areas of law, finance, and economics - to provide participants with the skills to reduce risk in the corporate and public sector.
Find a specialized MBA in Risk Management
Sports Management MBA programs allow individuals to turn their passion for athletics into a career. This increasingly popular area of MBA study focuses on strategic thinking needed for managing the business behind professional sports enterprises. Upon completion of an MBA in Sports Management, delegates will be prepared to manage various aspects of the business side of athletic teams and events.
Learn more about MBA programs in Sports Management
MBA programs with a concentration in Strategic Management focus on providing students with the skills to manage complex strategic decisions in both established organizations and start-ups. Delegates with an MBA in Strategic Management will be able to implement change and steer an organization towards a profitable and sustainable future.
Find an MBA program in Strategic Management
Supply Chain Management is concerned with the logistical planning and flow of resources through the chain of suppliers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers. MBA programs in Supply Chain Management focus on providing individuals with the knowledge to manage complex relationships in the area of procurement, manufacturing and logistics.
Learn more about MBA programs in Supply Chain Management
For individuals seeking a career in technology management, an MBA in IT combines the study of business administration with a unique focus on technology. Graduates with an MBA in Technology Management will be prepared to solve the challenging problems facing the technology sector and transition into managerial roles.
"The hotelier of the future needs to be a great leader, smart communicator and financial expert. The Glion Online MBA teaches me such skills and is therefore an ideal program to enhance my career. Only nine months after starting the program, I have been promoted to Resident Manager of our flagship property Banyan Tree Phuket, and I am sure that the master's degree will enable me to achieve my goal of becoming a General Manager."
Johannes Rabl
Resident Manager, Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand