Qualitative study investigates motivations and experiences of students in unique STEM MBA program, highlighting implications for diversity.
A Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in rural Mississippi has recently launched a pioneering STEM MBA program with concentrations in Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Healthcare Management, and Accounting. This qualitative study investigates the motivations, expectations, and experiences of the inaugural cohort of students enrolled in this unique program. Using in-depth semi-structured interviews, the research explores key factors influencing student enrollment decisions, including career advancement aspirations, interdisciplinary skill development, and the program’s accessibility and flexibility. Additionally, the study examines how concentration choices align with professional goals, the perceived relevance of the curriculum to industry demands, and the impact of faculty engagement on student satisfaction. Through thematic analysis, the findings highlight the program’s role in bridging STEM and business education within the HBCU context, emphasizing its potential to prepare underrepresented professionals for leadership in technology-driven industries. The study also offers implications for program development, industry partnerships, and educational policies that support diversity in STEM business education.
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Babu et al. (2026) studied this question.
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