MBMichael G. Foster School of Business logo

Michael G. Foster School of Business Unclaimed

Business Education & MBA Programs

foster.uw.edu

Seattle, WA, United States

Michael G. Foster School of Business at the University of Washington is a leading school offering undergraduate, MBA and master’s programs with a strong commitment to inclusive, practical learning.

Michael G. Foster School of Business at the University of Washington is a leading business school that educates a diverse community of students and professionals for responsible leadership in a global economy. The school offers a broad range of degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and executive education, including an on‑campus flagship MBA, professional‑level MBA programs, and specialized master’s programs, as well as extensive opportunities for experiential learning, mentoring, and career preparation. It emphasizes rigorous inquiry paired with real‑world impact, encouraging students to apply what they learn to address complex business challenges and social value in a responsible, ethical way. The school serves a wide range of learners—prospective and current students, alumni, faculty and staff, and corporate and community partners—through a comprehensive ecosystem that includes career services, mentorship, and a network of centers and interdisciplinary initiatives. Notable areas of activity span entrepreneurship, leadership and strategic thinking, sales and marketing, and consulting, with global study opportunities and collaborations that connect classroom learning with industry practice. The Foster community is committed to inclusion, diversity and equity and to creating an environment where people feel seen, heard and supported and where belonging is fostered across all programs and activities. This combination of people, programs and partnerships supports a student‑centered, outcomes‑oriented approach to education, with a strong emphasis on preparing graduates for careers in technology, finance, consulting, operations, and entrepreneurship, as well as for lifelong learning and meaningful professional impact. The school’s mission and activity reflect a focus on producing capable, ethical leaders who contribute to society through business.

to better humanity through business.

What we offer

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Enhance your leadership skills with a top-ranked MBA program focused on experiential learning and career advancement.

foster.uw.edu/graduate-programs/mba-programs/

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Prepare for leadership roles in technology and business with hands-on AI-driven learning in the MSIS program.

foster.uw.edu/academics/degree-programs/master-of-science-in-information-systems/

Executive Development Program

Accelerate your leadership journey with this intensive nine-month program for aspiring executives.

foster.uw.edu/executive-edu/executive-programs/executive-development-program/

Entrepreneurship Certificate

Gain essential skills for launching and managing startups through the Entrepreneurship Certificate.

foster.uw.edu/centers/buerk-ctr-entrepreneurship/entrepreneurship-certificate/

Business Management Certificate

Enhances business acumen and leadership skills for career advancement.

foster.uw.edu/executive-edu/executive-programs/business-management-certificate/

Global Business Certificate

Enhance your global business acumen through targeted education designed for Foster MBA students.

foster.uw.edu/centers/gbc/mba-programs/certificate/

Certificate of International Studies in Business

Enhance global business skills through experiential learning and international immersion.

foster.uw.edu/academics/certificates-and-minors/certificate-of-international-studies-in-business/

Health Innovation Challenge

Empowers interdisciplinary teams to innovate solutions for health improvements.

foster.uw.edu/centers/buerk-ctr-entrepreneurship/entrepreneurship-competitions/uw-health-innovation-challenge/

Environmental Innovation Challenge

Empowers students to design and implement innovative solutions for environmental challenges.

foster.uw.edu/centers/buerk-ctr-entrepreneurship/entrepreneurship-competitions/eic/

Dempsey Startup Competition

Empower student entrepreneurs by providing mentorship, resources, and competition to realize their startup dreams.

foster.uw.edu/centers/buerk-ctr-entrepreneurship/entrepreneurship-competitions/dempsey-startup-competition/

Consulting and Business Development Center (CBDC)

Empowers small businesses with student-led consulting to drive growth and community development.

foster.uw.edu/centers/consulting-and-business-development-center/

Center for Leadership and Strategic Thinking (CLST)

Empowering leaders through innovative research and educational programs.

foster.uw.edu/centers/leadership/

Center for Sales and Marketing Strategy

Empowers businesses through cutting-edge sales and marketing research and insights.

foster.uw.edu/centers/center-for-sales-and-marketing-strategy/

Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Seattle

Accelerate the growth of your innovative startup with expert mentorship and funding opportunities.

foster.uw.edu/centers/creative-destruction-lab/

Market segments

Leadership development and executive education

Programs and partnerships that build strategic leadership, executive decision‑making, and cohort-based skills for managers and senior leaders.

Entrepreneurship and startup acceleration

Mentorship, accelerator streams, competitions, and experiential coursework that help student and seed-stage ventures validate models, access funding, and scale.

Applied information systems and AI commercialization

Graduate-level applied AI and information systems education, prototyping, and industry-facing streams that produce deployable products and support technology commercialization.

Sales and marketing strategy and research

Evidence-based sales and marketing research, executive engagement, and practitioner programs that inform go-to-market strategy and revenue optimization.

Small business consulting and community economic development

Student-led consulting, community engagement, and development initiatives that deliver advisory services, impact metrics, and growth support for local and disadvantaged small businesses.

More information about our offering

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The Foster School offers an on-campus flagship MBA along with professional-level and specialized master’s programs, emphasizing experiential learning and career preparation tailored to today's business landscape.

  • Gain Real-World Experience
    Access hands-on projects and career support that connect classroom learning to practical business challenges.
  • Experience Immersive Learning
    Engage in a rigorous full-time program designed to cultivate leadership potential through interactive learning.
  • Develop Global Leadership Skills
    Enhance your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities through a globally oriented curriculum.
  • Balance Work and Study
    Customize your learning experience with flexible scheduling to accommodate your professional life.
  • Broaden Your Expertise
    Explore diverse fields with specialized master's programs that complement your MBA education.

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program at the Foster School of Business equips students with advanced skills in technology and business to thrive in a data-driven world.

  • Develop AI-Powered Solutions
    Students engage in courses that focus on integrating AI technology to create innovative solutions, preparing them for leadership roles in tech.
  • Tackle Relevant Challenges
    The hands-on approach in the curriculum ensures students learn to apply theoretical knowledge to actual problems faced in the industry.
  • Present Real-World Solutions
    Students showcase their projects to industry experts, honing their pitching and presentation skills while receiving valuable feedback.
  • Collaborate Across Disciplines
    The program promotes collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, enhancing problem-solving capabilities with varied perspectives.
  • Enhance Career Readiness
    Students benefit from a dedicated career services team helping them achieve their career goals in technology and business.

Executive Development Program

The Executive Development Program (EDP) is a nine-month, work-compatible certificate designed for experienced professionals preparing for senior leadership. You’ll build broad-based business acumen while strengthening your leadership capabilities in a collaborative, high-level learning environment.

  • Strengthen Leadership Skills
    Participants enhance their leadership abilities through collaborative learning and real-world applications.
  • Flexible Learning Duration
    Designed for busy professionals, this program offers flexibility while delivering intensive learning.
  • Immediate Implementation
    Curriculum focuses on real-world applications, allowing immediate integration into job roles.
  • Designed for Managers
    Tailored specifically for experienced managers aiming to elevate their executive potential.
  • Enhance Learning Experience
    Interactive retreats provide deep dives into critical leadership topics with expert faculty.
  • Collaborate and Network
    Build lasting connections with fellow participants to enhance learning and growth.

Entrepreneurship Certificate

The Entrepreneurship Certificate equips participants with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of starting new ventures. Covering essential startup topics such as new venture creation, venture capital, and technology commercialization, this program prepares students to thrive in entrepreneurial settings. Open to graduate students from Foster and other departments, the certificate complements their academic pursuits with real-world application and opportunities for hands-on learning.

  • Covers Essential Startup Concepts
    Gain comprehensive insights into various aspects of launching and managing a startup, enabling informed decision-making and innovative thinking.
  • Engage in Real-World Projects
    Students participate in competitions and projects that simulate real entrepreneurial challenges, enhancing practical understanding.
  • Accessible to Graduate Students
    Provides valuable learning opportunities for graduate students across various disciplines, fostering a diverse learning environment.

Business Management Certificate

Comprehensive part-time certificate for early to mid-career professionals. Learn key business principles and leadership skills necessary for advancing your career in a flexible format that respects your schedule.

  • Learn Core Principles
    This feature ensures you gain a solid foundation in essential business concepts, equipping you with the knowledge needed for successful leadership.
  • Flexible Scheduling
    Designed for busy professionals, this feature allows you to balance your studies with work commitments, maintaining your career trajectory.
  • Engage In-Person
    These events enhance the learning experience by promoting networking and deeper interactions with peers and faculty.

Global Business Certificate

Certificate focusing on global business practices for Foster MBA students.

  • Prepare For International Business Roles
    Equip students with the insights and skills necessary to navigate complex global business environments, enhancing their career prospects in international roles.
  • Exclusive Access For MBA Students
    This certificate is specifically designed for Foster MBA students, providing them with targeted resources and networking opportunities tailored to their unique educational journey.
  • Gain Real-World Experience
    Students engage in competitions that simulate real-world business challenges, promoting teamwork, problem-solving, and global business strategies.
  • Expand Global Perspectives
    Participants have the chance to experience different business cultures firsthand, enriching their understanding of global markets.

Certificate of International Studies in Business

The Certificate of International Studies in Business provides an integrative academic supplement to the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, equipping students to meet global business challenges through study abroad, foreign language immersion, and specialized coursework.

  • Gain Real-World Experience
    Participate in internships and international experiences that prepare you to navigate global business challenges.
  • Develop Global Competence
    Through immersive studies and practical applications, enhance your understanding of international business dynamics.
  • Exclusive Access for Foster Students
    This certificate is specifically designed for students enrolled in the Foster School of Business.

Health Innovation Challenge

The Health Innovation Challenge builds on the strengths of the University of Washington to provide a platform for interdisciplinary student teams to work on new solutions to existing health or healthcare problems, new approaches to helping people live healthier lives, and new products or services to bring to market.

  • Foster Collaboration Across Fields
    Encourages collaboration between students from various academic disciplines to innovate and create holistic healthcare solutions.
  • Receive Immediate Feedback
    Offers teams a platform to present ideas to experts and receive feedback that can refine their work and may also attract funding.
  • Create Tangible Solutions
    Involves developing working prototypes that address real health challenges, enhancing practical learning experiences.
  • Build Professional Relationships
    Facilitates networking with healthcare professionals, enhancing students' career prospects and mentorship opportunities.

Environmental Innovation Challenge

Competition mobilizing students to solve environmental problems with prototyped solutions.

  • Supports Innovative Project Development
    Encourages students to bring their innovative ideas to life with financial assistance and recognition.
  • Engages Students in Critical Thinking
    Promotes active learning by allowing students to address real-world environmental issues through creative solution development.
  • Fosters Teamwork and Diverse Perspectives
    Brings together diverse students with various backgrounds to innovate and create comprehensive environmental solutions.
  • Creates Ongoing Opportunities
    Offers students multiple chances to engage, learn, and contribute innovative solutions each year.

Dempsey Startup Competition

The Dempsey Startup Competition offers students the chance to pitch their innovative startup ideas for a chance to win prizes and gain valuable experience in entrepreneurship. Participants have access to mentorship, opportunities for funding, and connections within Seattle’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

  • Gain Mentorship And Visibility
    Participants receive guidance from industry experts and gain visibility through presentations and networking with potential investors.
  • Pitch Innovative Ideas
    Students showcase their business concepts in front of a panel of judges for the chance to win prizes and further their entrepreneurial endeavors.
  • Build Professional Relationships
    Participants can form valuable connections that may lead to partnerships, mentorships, or investments in their startups.
  • Utilize Educational Resources
    Competitors benefit from workshops and resources that support skill development in areas vital to running a successful startup.

Consulting and Business Development Center (CBDC)

The Consulting and Business Development Center (CBDC) builds pathways for businesses to thrive, offering consulting services through student-led initiatives that focus on small business growth and community impact.

  • Measure Business Growth
    Track the significant revenue increases and jobs created for small businesses through comprehensive metrics.
  • Deliver Practical Solutions
    Engage students in real-world consulting projects that address specific challenges faced by small businesses.
  • Enhance Business Opportunities
    Forge partnerships that facilitate business expansion, providing essential resources and support to underserved communities.
  • Foster Social Impact
    Drive positive change by supporting the development and sustainability of small businesses that contribute to local economies.

Center for Leadership and Strategic Thinking (CLST)

The Center for Leadership and Strategic Thinking (CLST) is the country’s preeminent academic source for education and research in leadership and strategic thinking. It supports individuals and organizations in developing leadership skills, strategic thinking, and practical applications for real-world challenges.

  • Forge Valuable Partnerships
    CLST collaborates with corporations to provide tailored leadership training that meets specific organizational needs, aiding in the development of effective leaders.
  • Advance Leadership Education
    Offers cutting-edge educational resources and research initiatives to empower the next generation of leaders with strategic thinking skills.
  • Cultivate Emerging Leaders
    Provides unique programs designed to equip students with essential leadership skills, promoting their growth as future business leaders.
  • Enhance Coaching Skills
    Facilitates peer coaching opportunities that foster collaboration and self-development among participants, promoting inclusive leadership.

Center for Sales and Marketing Strategy

The Center advances sales and marketing research, providing actionable, data-driven insights and fostering collaboration between industry leaders and academic experts.

  • Drives Performance Improvement
    Delivers actionable insights derived from robust data analysis to enhance marketing strategies and business outcomes.
  • Fosters Innovative Solutions
    Facilitates collaborative research that addresses real-world marketing challenges, enhancing business performance.
  • Connects Leaders and Experts
    Offers exclusive access to thought leaders, industry events, and practical resources aimed at driving business innovation.
  • Expands Professional Network
    Engages participants in a vibrant network of scholars and executives through workshops and conferences, promoting knowledge exchange.

Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) Seattle

CDL-Seattle pairs scalable seed-stage science and technology ventures with mentors, providing essential guidance and resources to enhance growth.

  • Receive Expert Guidance
    Benefit from personalized mentorship tailored to your business's unique challenges and growth potential.
  • Connect to a Strong Network
    Collaborate and network with like-minded entrepreneurs and investors to drive your business forward.
  • Utilize Essential Resources
    Leverage various resources to enhance your startup's development and market readiness.
  • Innovate in Healthcare
    Target significant healthcare problems using advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes.
  • Enhance Manufacturing Processes
    Apply innovative technologies to streamline and enhance manufacturing operations for scalability.

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