An MBA is more valuable than ever in the age of AI

As AI’s impact on the business world accelerates, the race to upskill is on.

But preparing for success in an AI-driven business landscape still requires the core skills of an MBA education — skills like leadership, collaboration, and critical thinking.

That’s the argument of Andrew Knight, WashU Olin Bank of America professor, senior advisor to the chancellor, and executive director of the Bauer Leaders Academy.

Amidst the accelerating pace of change and the necessary technical skills acquisition, developing the ‘soft skills’ that are at the center of an MBA program is a wise investment.

—Andrew Knight

In a recent white paper, Knight acknowledged the speed of AI-driven change in business. Companies are integrating artificial intelligence into every facet of their operations and expect employees to be equipped to work with the new technology. That expectation is leading many workers to seek out specialized AI skills.

At the same time, Knight argued that the skills that have been a part of the MBA curriculum for decades are more important than ever. Leaders must determine how to implement the new technology and build teams around using it effectively.

In fact, research shows that successful AI implementation in an organization requires the skilled leadership taught in leading MBA programs.

“Amidst the accelerating pace of change and the necessary technical skills acquisition, developing the ‘soft skills’ that are at the center of an MBA program is a wise investment,” Knight wrote.

Read Knight's paper about the vital role of an MBA in the age of AI.