Another Perspective on MBA Program Alignment: An Investigation of Learning Goals

Authors

Robert D. Costigan, St. John Fisher UniversityFollow
Kyle E. Brink, Western Michigan University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2015

Keywords

fsc2015

Abstract

In recent AMLE issues, Rubin and Dierdorff (2009, 2011) reported a marked misalignment between the competencies needed for managerial effectiveness and those that are being taught in required MBA courses of AACSB-accredited business programs. We extend their work by investigating the pervasiveness of this curricular misalignment. We consider whether the learning goals of MBA programs are also misaligned with key managerial competencies. Through an analysis of the learning goals of 250 MBA programs, we found that learning goals are mostly in alignment with the competencies that lead to managerial success. Explanations for the conflicting findings between our learning goal study and Rubin and Dierdorff’s (2009) study are provided, along with recommendations for reducing curricular gaps and suggestions for future research.

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.5465/amle.2013.0315

Publication Information

Costigan, Robert D. and Brink, Kyle E. (2015). "Another Perspective on MBA Program Alignment: An Investigation of Learning Goals." Academy of Management Learning & Education 14.2, 260-276.

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