Duquesne University Launches Flex MBA to Meet Evolving Student and Market Needs

This forward-thinking graduate business program is designed to meet the evolving needs of today's working professionals while remaining aligned with the University's mission of providing innovative, student-centered education focused on ethical leadership and practical relevance.

When surveyed, prospective students consistently emphasized the importance of flexibility, customization, financial considerations, and accelerated completion times. In response to this need, the School of Business embarked on a seven-month journey that included stakeholder feedback sessions, benchmarking against peer and aspirant institutions, and in-depth market research using data from sources such as AACSB, EAB and the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).

According to GMAC's 2023 Prospective Students Survey, 69% of respondents indicated that online learning offers the flexibility they need to pursue a degree, and nearly half prefer self-paced, on-demand classes. The Flex MBA directly addresses those preferences by providing courses in both online and hybrid formats, allowing students to choose a schedule and modality that best fits their personal and professional lives.

The Flex MBA reflects our deep commitment to meeting students where they are—academically, professionally, and personally. It's a mission-driven program built for impact, rooted in our values, and informed by what learners need most today.

FLEX MBA students can complete the 33-credit program in as few as four semesters. They can enhance their education by adding electives or embedding a graduate certificate at no extra cost or time, offering an unmatched level of expertise. Certificate options include Analytics and Information Management, Supply Chain Management, Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Executive Leadership.

As an MBA student, I chose to pursue a certificate in Entrepreneurship to enhance my skills and expertise in this area, giving me a competitive advantage in the market. The Flex MBA offers a unique opportunity to integrate a certificate without additional credits, enabling me to enhance my qualifications quickly and cost-effectively. This is a great opportunity for professionals who value continued learning and growth or want to advance their careers efficiently.

Unlike many traditional MBA programs, the Flex MBA also includes foundational modules available online 24/7, allowing students from various academic backgrounds to strengthen core business knowledge on demand. The program's design eliminates the need for fundamental coursework, streamlining the student experience while maintaining academic rigor.

The redesigned program includes courses with hands-on experiences, real-world case studies, and executive guest speakers that help students connect theory to practice. The customized curriculum focuses on technology, preparing graduates for an evolving workforce that requires employees to be tech-fluent across business functions. The School provides access to professional development workshops on career readiness skills such as resume building, salary negotiation, and strategic communication. 

The School of Business’s values are interwoven throughout the curriculum through "wisdom themes" focused on ethical leadership, sustainability, data-driven decision-making, global awareness, and entrepreneurial thinking. These themes support the School's goal of preparing responsible leaders to drive innovation and change in business and society.

With the Flex MBA, Duquesne is aligning its academic offerings with employer expectations and student aspirations. The program leverages existing institutional strengths and offers a flexible, difference-making, and relevant path for professionals ready to lead.

To learn more, visit the FLEX MBA's webpage or read the University's Press Release.