Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines a foundational MBA core with specialised study in operations, supply chain and process management. Core coursework typically covers finance, marketing, strategy, leadership and accounting to ensure broad managerial competence. Management and Operations specialism modules commonly include operations management, supply chain strategy, service operations, project management, quality and process improvement, operations analytics, and technology-enabled operations (e.g. digital supply chains and operations information systems).

Students engage in applied learning through team-based consulting projects, case method instruction and an integrative capstone or practicum. Elective options allow deeper focus on topics such as sustainable operations, procurement and sourcing, logistics, forecasting and inventory management, predictive analytics for operations and operations strategy. Many students also take complementary courses in data analytics, organisational behaviour and negotiation to strengthen cross-functional leadership skills.

Typical programme structure

• Core MBA curriculum in the first phase to build foundational business knowledge.
• Specialist coursework in operations and supply chain topics combined with quantitative methods.
• Experiential projects with industry partners or the Global Business practicum as an integrative learning component.
• Electives and optional workshops in analytics, technology in operations and leadership development.

Entry requirements

• A recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline; transcripts demonstrating strong academic performance.
• Relevant professional experience is typically expected; applicants often have several years of work in business, engineering, consulting, government or related fields.
• Standardised test requirements (GMAT or GRE) may be flexible or considered alongside the full application—check the school’s current guidance for policy details.
• Application materials usually include a current résumé, one or more essays or personal statements, and professional references or recommendation letters.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) may be required unless exempted under the programme’s policy.
• Successful candidates demonstrate quantitative aptitude, leadership potential, clear career goals and the ability to contribute to team-based learning.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles that require both strategic thinking and operational expertise. Typical positions include operations manager, supply chain manager, logistics director, operations analyst, process improvement lead, project manager and management consultant. The skillset is applicable across industries such as manufacturing, technology, healthcare, retail, financial services, government and non‑profit organisations.

The programme prepares graduates for roles that span tactical execution and strategic transformation: redesigning processes to raise efficiency and quality, implementing supply chain resilience initiatives, deploying analytics to improve forecasting and capacity planning, and leading cross-functional teams through change. Alumni also pursue leadership tracks that combine operations experience with general management responsibilities.

Why study at Georgetown University

• Georgetown’s location in Washington, DC provides access to a concentration of multinational organisations, government agencies, NGOs and consulting firms, supporting applied projects, internships and employer engagement.
• The McDonough School of Business emphasises responsible leadership and global perspective, integrating ethical and policy considerations into business education—valuable for operations roles that intersect with regulatory and societal issues.
• Faculty expertise spans academic research and practical industry experience in operations, supply chain, analytics and management, and the school hosts centres and initiatives that foster collaboration between students and practitioners.
• Students benefit from strong career services, employer networks and alumni connections across sectors, aiding recruitment into operations, consulting and leadership roles worldwide.
• Opportunities for experiential learning—such as consulting practicum, corporate projects and global experiences—allow students to apply operations tools to real organisational challenges before graduation.