This Small New England B-School Just Added An AI Track To Its MBA

The Dolan School of Business at Fairfield University in Fairfield, Connecticut has added an AI concentration to its MBA program — becoming one of a growing number of B-schools in the U.S. and Europe to do so 

Fairfield University’s Charles F. Dolan School of Business has introduced a concentration in artificial intelligence as part of its Master of Business Administration program, becoming one of a growing list of schools in the U.S. and Europe with such programs. The new option is intended to prepare students to lead AI-related projects and manage the integration of artificial intelligence in business environments, the school announced.

The concentration combines coursework in AI fundamentals with classes in business strategy, analytics, and management. According to the university, the goal is to equip MBA students with both the technical understanding of artificial intelligence and the leadership skills required to apply it effectively and ethically in the workplace.

“An MBA in AI bridges the gap between technical AI knowledge and business acumen,” says Mousumi Bose-Godbole, associate professor of marketing and director of the MBA program, in a news release. “It helps data analytics to support strategic decision-making.”

PROGRAM RESPONDS TO WORKPLACE REALITIES

The program includes training in areas such as machine learning concepts, data analysis, and ethical considerations around AI deployment. Students also develop practical skills for using AI to address organizational challenges and support data-informed decision-making.

The launch follows a rise in workplace adoption of AI tools. According to recent Gallup data cited by the university, the share of U.S. employees who report using AI in their roles at least a few times a year has nearly doubled over the past two years, climbing from 21% in 2023 to 40% in 2025.

MBA student Evan Mansfield, who will be the first to graduate with the AI concentration, said the program appealed to him because it combines technical learning with applied business relevance. 

“I believe an understanding of AI is crucial for students entering the workplace over the next couple of years,” Mansfield says in a news release from the school. “This program offers a balance between learning how AI models work and learning how to use them to solve real-world problems.”

NEW CONCENTRATION FOLLOWS LAUNCH OF AI INSTITUTE

Fairfield Dolan’s MBA program allows students to customize their degree through a range of concentrations, including finance, marketing, and analytics. The AI concentration adds to that portfolio, giving students the option to specialize in a field that is increasingly important across industries.

The new offering also aligns with broader institutional initiatives around technology and innovation. Earlier this year, Fairfield launched its Artificial Intelligence and Technology Institute, aimed at supporting interdisciplinary research, education, and workforce development in AI and related fields.

Fairfield enrolls more than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students across five academic schools. The Dolan School enrolls approximately 2,300 undergrads and around 400 grad students across its business programs; despite its size, it is a frequent honoree in the annual U.S. News & World Report specialization rankings. Located in Fairfield, Connecticut, the Jesuit Catholic university draws students from 46 countries and 44 U.S. states.

DON’T MISS HOW U.S. NEWS RANKS THE TOP U.S. B-SCHOOLS BY MBA SPECIALIZATION IN 2025 and THE TOP U.S. & EUROPEAN MBA PROGRAMS WITH AI CONCENTRATIONS

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