Rice University

What you'll study

The MBA in Management and Operations builds on the core MBA curriculum—covering finance, marketing, strategy, leadership and accounting—while offering a suite of specialised courses and experiential projects focused on operations. Typical modules include Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Operations Strategy, Service Operations, Project Management, Business Analytics for Operations, Process Improvement and Quality Management. Electives and seminars often cover advanced topics such as logistics and transportation, manufacturing systems, procurement and sourcing, demand forecasting, inventory optimisation, and technology-enabled operations (including digital supply chains and operations analytics).

Students engage in applied learning through case studies, simulations and team-based field projects with corporate partners. Capstone experiences or practicum options allow students to work on real operational challenges—optimising workflows, redesigning supply chains or implementing Lean/Six Sigma initiatives—under faculty supervision. Many students also pursue complementary coursework in data analytics, information systems and entrepreneurship to broaden their operational toolkit.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent and demonstrable quantitative skills. Admissions assessors look for academic achievement, professional experience, letters of recommendation, a current résumé, and a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme. Standardised test scores (GMAT or GRE) are commonly submitted, though some applicants may qualify for a waiver depending on background and experience. International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency if their prior education was not in English. Shortlisted candidates are usually invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Management and Operations concentration move into a wide range of operational and leadership roles across industries. Common career paths include operations manager, supply chain manager, logistics and distribution manager, procurement and sourcing specialist, production manager, operations analyst, and roles in operations strategy or continuous improvement. Alumni also enter consulting practices that specialise in operations and supply chain transformation, or take on product operations and programme management roles in technology firms. The degree is also a foundation for progression to senior leadership positions such as director of operations or chief operating officer in established companies and startups alike.

Why study at Rice University

Rice's Jones Graduate School of Business is known for its intimate class sizes, collaborative culture and strong links to industry in Houston and beyond. The university's location provides proximity to major energy firms, healthcare systems, logistics hubs and a growing technology sector, offering abundant opportunities for internships, corporate projects and recruiting. Students benefit from experienced faculty who combine research expertise in operations and supply chain with practical industry engagement, and from experiential learning resources such as consulting practicums and business labs. The broader Rice network—including alumni and interdisciplinary centres—supports career development and entrepreneurship for graduates pursuing operational leadership roles.