Howard University is located in the heart of Washington, D.C., in the United States. Founded in 1867, the university has grown into one of the nation’s most respected learning institutions. Its motto, ‘veritas et utilitas,’ means truth and service. These pillars underpin everything Howard University does today.
The university has produced numerous graduates who have changed the world. Former Vice President Kamala Harris, writer, professor, and Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison, and actor and playwright Chadwick Boseman, among many others. This legacy of excellence lives on in its graduate programs, which prepare students to lead with purpose.
Dr. Mariko Carson, Director of Graduate Affairs at Howard University School of Business, spoke with MBAGRADSCHOOLS to share what exactly makes Howard’s MBA experience stand out.
Howard University School of Business offers various graduate school programs. Their MBA programs include the Howard MBA, the Online MBA, and the Online Executive MBA.
Dr. Carson shares, “We currently offer three different programs. We offer our MBA program; it is available online and in-person.” (00:22)
The online and in-person options allow MBA candidates to tailor their learning to their schedule and preferred learning style.
The MBA program has a strong focus on purpose and leadership. The small class sizes make for a personal, hands-on learning journey. It is a two-year, full-time, in-person program that consists of 48 credit hours. Professors directly engage with students, and driven peers push you further.
There are also various dual degree programs available. International applicants can apply for the fall semester to the in-person Full-time MBA or a joint degree program.
The Online MBA is a full-time, online program. The coursework is 48 credit hours, made up of 11 core courses and five elective courses.
The program is ideal for early to mid-career professionals looking to grow as business leaders. Diverse leaders and entrepreneurs working in the public, nonprofit, and private sectors make up the Online MBA cohort.
The program fosters authenticity and global learning. There is a strong focus on ethical management, problem-solving, and decision-making in business.
This program is a full-time, online program. The program helps experienced professionals fast-track their career development. The program focuses on sharpening technical skills to improve leadership and management capabilities. The course covers finance, management, innovative business practices, and accounting topics.
Moreover, the program includes a Strategic Management Capstone and international experiences. The program consists of 42 credit hours across 14 courses. Courses include Legal and Ethical Issues in Business, Managing Technology and Innovation, and Marketing Strategy, among other courses.
The different MBA programs match different lifestyles, schedules, and experience levels. This ensures there is a match for every student’s needs.
Dr. Carson explains that Howard University was founded to “provide education for individuals who were otherwise unable or unauthorized to receive education at some of the other institutions around the Washington, D.C. area.” (00:39)
Howard University established its School of Business in 1970, and the school quickly made history as the first university in the Washington, D.C. area to earn AACSB accreditation.
She adds, “We’re very proud of that accolade. We have continued to receive tons of awards and recognitions. We are one of the only nationally ranked schools of business at an HBCU, which is a historically black college or university.” (01:21)
In fact, Princeton Review has ranked it the #1 Greatest School for Minority Students from 2004 to 2025. And it ranks #2 in the U.S News Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) 2026. Additionally, it ranks #70 in the Fortune Best Business Schools and MBA Programs for 2026.
Howard University School of Business has a long-standing reputation of academic excellence and a rich history in the Washington, D.C. area. Its mission to empower global leaders in the spirit of truth and service continues to drive everything they do.
Howard has never stood still. In line with its innovative spirit, the school continues to adapt in response to industry trends.
As industries shift toward technology and AI, the business school has redesigned its education format to offer online and flexible options to meet students where they are. This helps students overcome barriers to furthering their education.
Dr. Carson states, “We’ve had to adapt to the changing climate of higher education.” (02:29) She further emphasizes, “I think that that’s actually what makes Howard University special. [Its ability] to adapt and be creative as an institution.” (02:45)
The school continues to compete at the highest level, striving to ensure students receive the best education and resources possible.
Howard’s learning environment is supportive yet rigorous. Dr. Carson elaborates, “We operate in a very nurturing learning climate but with a sense of understanding that you will be held to the highest standard.” (03:11)
There is also a strong sense of community on campus. Success is a shared goal. Students are not just a number or an anonymous face in the lecture hall. Faculty know their students personally and encourage each student to reach their full potential.
Dr. Carson underscores, “I believe that that’s one of the primary differentiators with our programs. We know who all of our students are. We are holding them to the standard, and we are not going to allow them the opportunity to sell themselves short. But we do it all in the spirit of love. That’s what makes Howard University’s learning culture very unique.” (03:50)
Campus life reflects that same community-driven atmosphere. The school offers an active student life with plenty of events, clubs, and organizations, and a strong athletics program.
Beyond a rich campus life, the school’s location means that there is plenty to do and see in the U.S. capital. Moreover, the professional networking opportunities are endless in a city that is home to countless company headquarters, NGOs, and policymaking organizations.
Howard University School of Business offers something rare: a legacy of excellence blended with genuine care for its students. Since its founding in 1867, Howard has consistently opened doors for ambitious and driven students.
Its MBA programs, from the flexible Online MBA to the immersive full-time Howard MBA, offer students academic rigor and a supportive community. Nationally recognized and backed by one of the most powerful alumni networks in the U.S., Howard prepares graduates to drive positive change for today and tomorrow.
Do you want to study an MBA? Read more inspiring stories from MBA graduates and see if it is the right next step for you.
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