JMU's MBA program named among Princeton Review’s Top 50 Online MBA Programs for 2027
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James Madison University’s MBA program has been named one of the nation’s Top 50 Online MBA Programs for 2027 by The Princeton Review, earning the No. 37 spot in the organization’s annual ranking.
The recognition comes as JMU’s College of Business continues to expand its MBA curriculum and integrate artificial intelligence into business education, giving students practical experience with technologies shaping the modern workplace.
The college’s efforts also align with JMU’s larger student-centered goals outlined in The Madison Promise, which calls for the university to enhance the purpose, value and impact of a JMU education by aligning curriculum with workforce needs and expanding career-connected learning.
The Princeton Review’s ranking highlights the MBA program’s hybrid format, cloud-based learning system, innovative course content, and collaborative student experience. The ranking also reflects the program’s emphasis on providing working professionals with a flexible MBA experience while preparing them to navigate rapidly changing business environments.
That preparation increasingly includes artificial intelligence.
This year, JMU’s MBA program piloted a new elective, MBA 678: Special Topic: Introduction to AI Practices in Business. Co-led by COB faculty members Matt Rutherford and Mert Tokman, the course gives MBA students hands-on experience with AI tools and models through practical exercises, group assignments and conversations with industry guest speakers.
“Our MBA students are already working across industries being transformed by AI,” said Tokman. “They all need AI fluency, which is quickly becoming as fundamental as financial literacy. It’s part of being a credible decision maker when technology, strategy and ethics intersect,” added Tokman.
AI-focused learning is part of a broader effort across the college. Faculty are incorporating AI into 40 courses and programs, with instruction embedded into existing coursework.
“The college’s vision is clear: every College of Business graduate should be able to demonstrate applied experience with AI that is relevant in today’s workforce,” said Michael Busing, dean of the college.
The Princeton Review’s recognition adds to the program’s national profile as JMU continues to adapt its graduate business education to meet the needs of today’s workforce.
