The iMBA from University of Illinois Gies College of Business is a comprehensive online MBA program designed for working professionals. Named "#1 Biggest B-School Innovation of the Decade", this AACSB-accredited program offers 72 credit hours of engaging coursework.
Instructors:
English
English
Course Start Date:
Spring 2025
Applications Deadline:
February 06, 2025
Duration:
36 Months
Upcoming Events
₹ 20,75,000
Overview
The iMBA program at University of Illinois Gies College of Business offers a transformative online learning experience. This AACSB-accredited program delivers comprehensive business education through 18 courses totaling 72 credit hours.
Why Master of Business Administration (Online MBA)?
The iMBA stands out for its innovative approach to online education, affordability, and flexibility. The program offers six specializations, including four core areas and two electives, allowing students to customize their learning journey.
What does this course have to offer?
Key Highlights
Weekly live sessions
Team-based learning
AACSB accreditation
Pay-as-you-go tuition
No GMAT/GRE required
World-class faculty
Career support services
Who is this programme for?
Working professionals seeking career advancement
Emerging business leaders
Innovative thinkers
Professionals from diverse industries
Career changers
Minimum Eligibility
Bachelor's degree from accredited institution
Professional work experience preferred
English proficiency
No GMAT/GRE required
Who is the programme for?
The iMBA program features a comprehensive admission process focusing on academic achievement and professional experience. Students complete 72 credit hours through 18 courses structured around core specializations and electives.
Important Dates
Selection process
How to apply?
Curriculum
The curriculum combines core business fundamentals with specialized knowledge across six areas. Students complete four required specializations and choose two additional focus areas from various options.
There are 10 semesters in this course
The program consists of 18 courses totaling 72 credit hours, delivered through a combination of live lectures, team projects, and hands-on assignments. Core specializations cover essential business areas, while elective specializations allow for customization based on career goals.
Core One: Strategic Leadership & Management
The program offers a comprehensive set of courses focused on key areas of leadership, organizational management, and strategic decision-making. The Leadership and Teams course delves into the dynamics of leading teams and managing individual performance, emphasizing the development of leadership skills essential for guiding diverse teams in various organizational contexts. The Managing Organizations course focuses on the foundational principles of organizational behavior, exploring how organizations are structured, how teams function, and the impact of leadership on overall organizational performance. Strategic Management provides students with tools and frameworks to analyze business environments, craft strategic initiatives, and implement organizational strategies to achieve long-term goals. Finally, the Core 1 Capstone course allows students to integrate and apply the knowledge gained from earlier courses in a real-world business scenario, providing hands-on experience in tackling complex business challenges and developing actionable solutions. Together, these courses provide a robust framework for understanding and navigating the complexities of leadership and management in contemporary organizations.
Leadership and Teams (BADM 508)
Managing Organizations (BADM 509)
Strategic Management (BADM 544)
Core 1 Capstone (MBA 590)
Core Two: Managerial Economics and Business Analysis
The program offers a blend of courses designed to strengthen students' ability to make informed business decisions using statistical methods and economic principles. The Statistics for Management Decision Making course equips students with the statistical tools necessary for analyzing data and making decisions in business contexts, focusing on applying quantitative techniques to solve real-world problems. Microeconomics for Business introduces students to the foundational economic concepts that govern market behavior, supply and demand, and pricing, helping students understand how microeconomic factors influence business decisions. The Money and Banking course explores the functioning of financial systems, covering topics such as the role of banks, central banking, and monetary policy, providing essential knowledge for understanding the broader financial environment in which businesses operate. Finally, the Core 2 Capstone course provides an opportunity to apply all the learned concepts in a practical, integrative project that simulates the challenges of managing a business, allowing students to demonstrate their ability to analyze and solve complex business issues. Together, these courses provide a comprehensive foundation in economic and statistical analysis, preparing students to make data-driven decisions in the business world.
Statistics Management Decision Making (BADM 572)
Microeconomics for Business (FIN 574)
Money and Banking (FIN 571)
Core 2 Capstone (MBA 590)
Core Three: Value Chain Management
This set of courses offers students a deep understanding of key managerial areas, focusing on both operational and financial aspects of business management. Marketing Management provides insights into strategies for positioning products, understanding customer behavior, and managing brand equity. The course emphasizes the development of effective marketing strategies in competitive and ever-changing markets, equipping students with the tools necessary for addressing marketing challenges. Process Management focuses on optimizing business processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness within organizations. Students learn techniques for analyzing, designing, and managing business processes, driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. Managerial Accounting introduces financial decision-making tools, emphasizing the interpretation of financial data for strategic planning, budgeting, and performance evaluation. This course empowers students with the skills needed to assess financial health and make informed decisions. The Core 3 Capstone integrates the knowledge gained throughout the program, offering students the chance to apply their learning to real-world scenarios. This course serves as a culmination of the core curriculum, requiring students to tackle complex business challenges and provide innovative solutions. Collectively, these courses equip students with a robust set of skills to manage marketing, processes, and financial operations effectively in diverse business environments.
Marketing Management (BADM 520)
Process Management (BADM 567)
Managerial Accounting (ACCY 503)
Core 3 Capstone (MBA 590)
Core Four: Financial Management
This set of courses provides advanced knowledge in accounting, finance, and strategic business management, building on previous business concepts to equip students with the expertise needed to thrive in complex financial environments. Accounting Measurement, Reporting, and Control (Financial Accounting) focuses on the essential aspects of financial accounting, emphasizing the measurement, reporting, and control mechanisms that are crucial for understanding and managing an organization's financial position. It covers key principles and practices in preparing financial statements and reports, ensuring students gain a solid foundation in accounting for decision-making and internal controls. Investments delves into the principles and strategies involved in the investment process, examining the various asset classes, risk-return trade-offs, portfolio management, and the role of financial markets. This course provides students with the tools to analyze investment opportunities, evaluate their potential, and make informed decisions in a global investment landscape. Corporate Finance builds on these concepts by exploring the financial management practices within a corporation. It covers topics such as capital structure, corporate governance, risk management, and value creation, giving students the knowledge to make strategic financial decisions that enhance the value of an organization. Finally, the Core 4 Capstone integrates learning from the entire program, allowing students to apply their accumulated knowledge to real-world business problems. This culminating course challenges students to synthesize their skills in accounting, finance, and business strategy, providing them with the opportunity to develop and present solutions to complex business challenges. Together, these courses prepare students for leadership roles in finance and accounting, enabling them to navigate the financial complexities of modern organizations effectively.
Accounting Measurement
Reporting
and Control (Financial Accounting) (ACCY 500)
Investments (FIN 511)
Corporate Finance (FIN 570)
Core 4 Capstone (MBA 590)
Focus Area Specialization: Global Challenges in Business
This set of courses is designed to provide students with the essential tools to manage and lead in the global business environment, focusing on strategic, cultural, and marketing aspects of international business. Global Marketing introduces students to the complexities of marketing in a globalized world, examining the strategies and practices required to understand diverse international markets, tailor products to meet the needs of different cultures, and effectively compete in global markets. The course covers key topics such as market research, global consumer behavior, pricing, distribution, and integrated marketing communications across borders. Global Strategy expands on this by exploring how businesses develop strategies to compete on an international scale, considering factors such as globalization, competitive dynamics, and the strategic decisions needed to enter and grow in foreign markets. It emphasizes the development of frameworks and tools for managing multinational organizations and addressing challenges that arise from operating in different cultural, economic, and regulatory environments. Multiculturalism in Management and the Workplace focuses on the critical role that cultural diversity plays in modern organizations. It examines how cultural differences influence management practices, leadership styles, team dynamics, and communication within the workplace, preparing students to lead diverse teams and navigate the challenges of multicultural environments. The Focus Area Capstone serves as the culmination of this learning, allowing students to apply their knowledge of global marketing, strategy, and multicultural management in real-world business scenarios. Through this capstone, students gain practical experience in addressing complex global challenges, developing strategies, and making decisions that are informed by their understanding of the global business environment. This comprehensive suite of courses equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead effectively in international markets and diverse organizational settings.
Global Marketing (MBA 547)
Global Strategy (MBA 548)
Multiculturalism in Management and the Workplace (MBA 599)
Focus Area Capstone (MBA 590)
Focus Area Specialization: Entrepreneurship and Strategic Innovation
This set of courses focuses on developing the entrepreneurial mindset and strategic capabilities necessary for fostering innovation and leading successful business ventures. Strategic Innovation introduces students to the frameworks and tools used by organizations to create and sustain competitive advantages through innovation. The course explores how businesses can transform their operations, offerings, and business models to remain competitive in an ever-changing market landscape. It emphasizes the strategic management of innovation, from idea generation to implementation, and highlights how companies can foster a culture that supports continuous innovation. Fostering Creative Thinking complements this by providing students with techniques and practices to enhance their creative thinking skills, which are crucial for generating innovative ideas and solutions in business. The course explores methods to overcome mental barriers to creativity, as well as ways to create an environment conducive to idea generation and problem-solving. Entrepreneurship: From Startup to Growth focuses on the practical aspects of launching and scaling a new business. Students learn about the challenges and strategies involved in starting a company, managing its growth, securing funding, and navigating the various stages of the entrepreneurial journey. The course covers business planning, market analysis, operational strategies, and scaling strategies, offering students a hands-on approach to entrepreneurship. The Focus Area Capstone provides an opportunity for students to apply their knowledge of innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship to real-world projects, where they can develop strategic plans and innovative solutions for business challenges. Through this capstone experience, students gain the skills and insights needed to lead and grow entrepreneurial ventures, making them well-prepared to drive strategic innovation in any organization. Together, these courses offer a comprehensive view of how to foster innovation and lead successful entrepreneurial ventures in the modern business world.
Strategic Innovation (MBA 551)
Fostering Creative Thinking (MBA 552)
Entrepreneurship: From Startup to Growth (MBA 553)
Focus Area Capstone (MBA 590)
Focus Area Specialization: Digital Marketing
This series of courses delves into the evolving landscape of digital marketing and the tools needed to navigate it effectively. Digital Marketing Analytics equips students with the skills to use data-driven insights to shape marketing strategies. The course covers key analytical tools and techniques for measuring and optimizing digital marketing performance, including web analytics, SEO, social media metrics, and conversion tracking. Students learn how to interpret and leverage data to make informed marketing decisions that drive business growth. Digital Media and Marketing builds on this foundation by exploring the role of digital media in marketing strategies. The course focuses on the various digital channels available, such as social media, search engines, content marketing, and online advertising. Students learn how to design integrated marketing campaigns that utilize these channels to engage with customers, build brand awareness, and drive conversions. Marketing in Our New Digital World offers a broader view of how digital transformation has reshaped the marketing industry. It addresses emerging trends such as influencer marketing, automation, personalization, and the shift toward data-centric decision-making. The course also explores the impact of new technologies like AI and machine learning on marketing practices, helping students understand how to harness these tools for competitive advantage. The Focus Area Capstone allows students to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout these courses in a practical, real-world project. They work on a digital marketing challenge, using analytics, digital media strategies, and innovative techniques to develop comprehensive marketing solutions. Together, these courses provide students with the expertise needed to thrive in the dynamic digital marketing environment, preparing them to lead and innovate in the rapidly evolving field of digital marketing.
Digital Marketing Analytics (MBA 542)
Digital Media and Marketing (MBA 543)
Marketing in Our New Digital World (MBA 545)
Focus Area Capstone (MBA 590)
Focus Area Specialization: Business Analytics
This series of courses offers a comprehensive approach to business analytics, providing students with both technical skills and strategic insights needed to make data-driven decisions across various business functions. Introduction to Business Analytics with R introduces students to the fundamentals of business analytics using R, a powerful programming language for statistical computing and data analysis. The course covers key concepts in data analysis, including data cleaning, visualization, and the use of statistical models to derive insights from business data. Introduction to Business Analytics: Communicating with Data focuses on the importance of effectively communicating analytical findings to non-technical stakeholders. Students learn how to create compelling data visualizations and presentations that highlight key insights and support decision-making, emphasizing the role of storytelling in data communication. Data Toolkit: Business Data Modeling and Predictive Analytics builds on these foundations by teaching students how to construct business models and apply predictive analytics to anticipate future trends. The course includes hands-on experience with tools for data modeling, regression analysis, and forecasting, all aimed at improving business decision-making processes. The series continues with Applying Data Analytics in Marketing, where students explore how data analytics can optimize marketing strategies. This course delves into customer segmentation, campaign analysis, and customer lifetime value prediction, helping students understand how to use analytics to target the right audiences and measure the effectiveness of marketing efforts. Similarly, Applying Data Analytics in Accounting focuses on the use of data analytics in the accounting and finance sectors. Students learn how to leverage analytics to improve financial reporting, detect fraud, optimize budgeting and forecasting, and make more informed investment decisions. These courses collectively prepare students to apply data analytics across various business domains, enhancing their ability to leverage data to drive strategic initiatives and create value within organizations.
Introduction to Business Analytics with R (MBA 561)
Introduction to Business Analytics: Communicating with Data (MBA 562)
Data Toolkit: Business Data Modeling and Predictive Analytics (MBA 563)
Applying Data Analytics in Marketing (MBA 564-1)
Applying Data Analytics in Accounting (MBA 564-2)
Focus Area Specialization: Mergers and Acquisitions
This set of courses offers an in-depth exploration of the finance and accounting aspects of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), equipping students with the skills to navigate complex financial transactions in the corporate world. Finance of Mergers and Acquisitions delves into the financial strategies, valuation techniques, and risk management involved in M&A activities. The course covers key concepts such as deal structuring, financing options, and the financial implications of mergers and acquisitions, giving students the tools to analyze and execute M&A transactions effectively. Investment Banking Concepts focuses on the role of investment banks in facilitating M&A transactions, providing a deeper understanding of the investment banking industry and its processes. Students learn about the methods used by investment banks to assess and advise on mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate finance transactions, including the due diligence process, financial modeling, and negotiations. Finally, Mergers and Acquisitions and Other Complex Transactions offers a detailed examination of the accounting and legal aspects of M&A and other complex transactions, emphasizing the importance of financial reporting, tax considerations, and regulatory compliance. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of how M&A deals are structured from an accounting perspective, including how to manage post-transaction integration and value realization. Together, these courses provide a robust framework for understanding the financial, strategic, and regulatory challenges involved in M&A, preparing students for careers in investment banking, corporate finance, and M&A advisory roles.
Finance of Mergers and Acquisitions (FIN 572)
Investment Banking Concepts (FIN 573)
Mergers and Acquisitions and Other Complex Transactions (ACCY 532)
Electives
This set of courses equips students with essential skills in financial analysis, risk management, project management, and global business strategies, preparing them for leadership roles in a variety of industries. Financial Statement Analysis for MBAs provides students with the knowledge and tools needed to evaluate financial statements, assess the financial health of companies, and make informed decisions based on financial data. The course emphasizes the interpretation of balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, helping students develop critical thinking skills necessary for analyzing corporate performance. Risk Management and Innovation focuses on the identification, assessment, and mitigation of financial and operational risks in a dynamic business environment. Students explore strategies for managing risk while fostering innovation, balancing risk-taking with the pursuit of new opportunities. This course prepares students to navigate complex risk landscapes and make strategic decisions that drive business success. Project Management introduces students to the principles and practices of managing projects effectively, including planning, execution, monitoring, and completion. The course emphasizes project leadership, resource allocation, and risk management, enabling students to handle complex projects across various industries. Infonomics explores the economic value of data and its role in decision-making, strategy development, and organizational innovation. Students learn how to leverage data as a strategic asset, exploring topics such as data governance, analytics, and the monetization of data. Finally, Global Business Horizons provides an overview of the global business environment, focusing on emerging markets, international trade, and global business trends. This course helps students understand how to navigate global business challenges and seize opportunities in an interconnected world. Together, these courses offer a comprehensive toolkit for future business leaders, focusing on the integration of financial analysis, risk management, project execution, and global business strategy in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
Financial Statement Analysis for MBAs (ACCY 531)
Risk Management and Innovation (ACCY 574)
Project Management (BADM 589)
Infonomics (MBA 565)
Global Business Horizons (MBA 546)
Programme Length
The program typically takes 24-36 months to complete, with flexibility to extend up to 5 years. Students can adjust their course load each term to balance work and study commitments.
Tuition Fee
The total program cost is approximately $23,904 USD (₹2,075,000). Students pay per course enrolled, with no upfront payment required. Financial aid and scholarships covering up to 70% of tuition are available for eligible students.
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Learning Experience
Students engage through live lectures, team projects, and weekly office hours. The program emphasizes collaborative learning and real-world application of concepts through case studies and hands-on projects.
University Experience
Students benefit from a comprehensive online learning environment with access to faculty, career services, and networking opportunities. The program facilitates global connections through team projects and interactive sessions.
About the University
Established over 100 years ago, Gies College of Business is a purpose-driven business school at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The college serves more than 8,000 degree-seeking students, including 7,000+ online learners, and has exceeded 2.6M online course enrollments globally. In 2017, the college was renamed following a $150 million gift from alumni Larry and Beth Gies. The institution focuses on innovative programs, leading-edge curriculum, and experiential learning opportunities designed to empower students to turn big ideas into meaningful actions.
8000
Total Enrollment
7000
Online Students
98%
Undergraduate Placement Rate
Affiliation & Recognition
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Higher Learning Commission
Association of American Universities
Career services
The Office of Career & Professional Development provides comprehensive support through an innovative approach integrating professional development into coursework. Services include personalized career coaching, professional development resources, and extensive networking opportunities. The Gies Professional Pathway helps students plan and document their professional growth throughout their academic journey. Career advisors prepare students through coursework, experiential learning, and networking opportunities, maintaining strong partnerships with global companies. The office organizes multiple career fairs annually, featuring more than 200 participating firms, and provides extensive interview preparation and resume review services.
200
Career Fair Participants
95%
Placement Success Rate
12
Professional Development Programs
Course Start Date:
Spring 2025
Applications Deadline:
February 06, 2025
Duration:
36 Months
Upcoming Events
₹ 20,75,000
Whom you will learn from?
Learn from top industry experts who bring real-world experience and deep knowledge to every lesson. The instructors are dedicated to help you achieve your goals with practical insights and hands-on guidance.
Instructors
Academic Director, Assistant Professor of Business Administration
Hayden Noel is a Clinical Associate Professor of Business Administration at the University of Illinois, where he has been part of the faculty since 2007. He has progressed through various academic roles, starting as a visiting assistant professor and advancing to his current position in 2019. Dr. Noel specializes in consumer information processing and memory, with a notable record of teaching excellence recognized through multiple awards, including being named Professor of the Year for various programs. He earned his Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of Florida in 2002 and currently serves as the Director of Residential MBA Programs and Gies Case Development Coordinator, while also facilitating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His research contributions include numerous publications in prominent journals, focusing on advertising effectiveness and consumer behavior.
Adjunct Instructor of Business Administration
Kevin Hartman is an accomplished professional in the field of business analytics and digital marketing, currently serving as the Head of Analytics for the Consumer, Government, and Entertainment sectors at Google since 2015. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, earned in 1998, and has extensive teaching experience as an adjunct instructor at both the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business. His teaching focuses on courses such as Digital Marketing Analytics and Introduction to Business Analytics, where he equips students with essential skills in data collection, analysis, and visualization for real-world applications. Additionally, Hartman is actively involved in advisory roles for the Notre Dame Executive Business Council and has held various positions in analytics and consulting prior to his current role at Google.
Testimonials
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Faculties
These are the expert instructors who will be teaching you throughout the course. With a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, they’re here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Get to know the people who will help you reach your learning goals and make the most of your journey.
Instructors
Academic Director, Assistant Professor of Business Administration
Hayden Noel is a Clinical Associate Professor of Business Administration at the University of Illinois, where he has been part of the faculty since 2007. He has progressed through various academic roles, starting as a visiting assistant professor and advancing to his current position in 2019. Dr. Noel specializes in consumer information processing and memory, with a notable record of teaching excellence recognized through multiple awards, including being named Professor of the Year for various programs. He earned his Ph.D. in Marketing from the University of Florida in 2002 and currently serves as the Director of Residential MBA Programs and Gies Case Development Coordinator, while also facilitating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. His research contributions include numerous publications in prominent journals, focusing on advertising effectiveness and consumer behavior.
Adjunct Instructor of Business Administration
Kevin Hartman is an accomplished professional in the field of business analytics and digital marketing, currently serving as the Head of Analytics for the Consumer, Government, and Entertainment sectors at Google since 2015. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago, earned in 1998, and has extensive teaching experience as an adjunct instructor at both the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Notre Dame Mendoza College of Business. His teaching focuses on courses such as Digital Marketing Analytics and Introduction to Business Analytics, where he equips students with essential skills in data collection, analysis, and visualization for real-world applications. Additionally, Hartman is actively involved in advisory roles for the Notre Dame Executive Business Council and has held various positions in analytics and consulting prior to his current role at Google.
Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this course. We aim to provide clear and concise answers to help you better understand the course content, structure, and any other relevant information. If you have any additional questions or if your question is not listed here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for further assistance.
The program typically takes 24-36 months to complete, with up to 5 years allowed
No, GMAT/GRE is not required for admission
The total program cost is approximately $23,904