Maryland Smith School Debuts Accelerated One-Year MBA for AI Era

The new program departs from traditional compressed models by avoiding reliance on credit waivers or prior business coursework. Associate Dean Rosellina Ferraro emphasizes that the curriculum was purpose-built from the ground up rather than serving as a truncated version of the school's existing two-year degree. The framework centers on a "leadership for a rewired world" theme, addressing modern challenges such as global supply-chain shifts, climate disruption, and the rapid integration of large language models across all business functions.

At the core of the experience are Execution Labs, which provide a consistent spine of action-based learning. Students partner with corporate entities to solve problems involving risk management, strategic decision-making, and tech-enabled value creation. Dean Prabhudev Konana notes that the program aims to equip graduates with the analytical discipline required to navigate high-stakes, uncertain environments. By delivering professional-grade work products throughout the year, participants are expected to gain immediate credibility in the job market, balancing the efficiency of a shorter timeline with the depth of a full-scale MBA.