Washington DC is full of art, history, a vibrant culture, and a world-renowned business school
Study an MBA in DC to experience a historic, vibrant city which is the hub for top companies. There's also the chance to study at one of the world's best business schools
Washington, DC, is iconic as the center of American politics, and for its many monuments, from the Lincoln Memorial to the White House to the Smithsonian.
Nestled within the city on a sloped street lined with cafes and shops is world-renowned Georgetown University, with a top MBA offering a modern curriculum and access to career opportunities and connections in various fields.
Here are four reasons to study for your MBA in the US capital:
1. You’ll join an innovative business school
Georgetown McDonough: School of Business boasts a top MBA program, which consistently ranks well. In the Financial Times Best Global MBA ranks it 32nd, and in the US News Best MBA ranking it stands at 22nd.
McDonough's curriculum has rigorous theoretical courses emphasizing ethical leadership, and specialized electives and intensive learning experiences, which allow students to tailor their coursework and further strengthen skills in their preferred field.
Kendall Deighan (pictured), a second year MBA student, used this expansive curriculum to customize her MBA to her background in marketing, and her interest in the food and beverage industry.
However, she found the soft skills learned during her strategy classes were the most beneficial, particularly Leadership Communications. Kendall explains how the experiential nature of this course helped her understand how to be a more empathetic, inspiring leader.
"You work on improving your public speaking in a business setting, and then you do different simulations around challenging business scenarios you might have in the future.
"One of the simulations is how to lay someone off, and thinking about how to make a decision about human capital," she explains.
Zoe Davis, also a second year MBA, was drawn to Georgetown because of its ability to provide a general business education while allowing her to foster her passion for sustainability.
“I tailored my MBA search to programs that had a certificate in sustainable business or a major in sustainability, and Georgetown was particularly exciting because of the tie to policy.
“I figured doing business school in the nation's capital, at a place like Georgetown which has so many opportunities available, would give me the policy exposure without needing to tack on another degree,” she adds.
2. You can customize your studies through extracurriculars
Zoe (pictured) used Georgetown’s array of extracurricular opportunities to enhance her studies and develop her passion for sustainability.
“Georgetown has a center called Business for Impact, which focuses on experiences while you're on campus,” she explains.
Business for Impact’s mission is to use business for good. It looks to solve the world's most pressing issues through impactful student experiences, which include direct action with global companies, non-profits, and government.
Through this center Zoe has taken programs that have fostered her interest in sustainability. One program taught B Corp certification, a key ESG designation, which meant connecting with local businesses and people at the forefront of the B Corp community in DC.
She also became an Impact Fellow through Business for Impact, where she had weekly fireside chats with people in the DC area that worked in the impact investment space.
“I didn't realize how rewarding all the extracurriculars would be. I didn't realize how much was going on that would really help me understand where I wanted to take my career,” Zoe says.
3. You’ll live in a vibrant, historical city
Of course, one of the major advantages of Georgetown is its location in Washington, DC, with its history, connections to the government, and vibrant culture.
You can wander along the National Mall up to the Lincoln Memorial and head to the Capitol Building, the White House, or the Washington Monument. You can also go to one of the world’s most famous museums, the Smithsonian, for free. The city is highly accessible, with electric scooters and bikes all over the city to rent.
Georgetown's campus is appealing with the advantage of intimacy and camaraderie within a larger city.
"In Georgetown, there's a little main street with cafes and the campus. Then you can go downtown where all the government buildings are, and you see more of the commerce. It's interesting, just exploring all the different neighborhoods," adds Kendall.
4. You’ll have access to an assortment of top companies and institutions
For Kendall, access to top companies in the field she is passionate about has been one of the most significant advantages of her MBA.
Despite its association with the government, Georgetown and DC have excellent access to companies across sectors, such as Nestlé, which Kendall utilized.
"Nestlé has a strong relationship with Georgetown. I was able to meet with different alumni who had been in the program and talk to them about opportunities," she says.
Kendall interned at Nestlé last summer, working in the coffee enhancers team on a TikTok social media campaign. She has now been offered a full-time job at Nestle, starting after graduation this summer.
Zoe used the Business for Impact center to achieve her internship. During the Impact Fellow program, she was paired with an organization who employed her over the summer.
Zoe worked with i2Capital, a conservation finance organization, that finds innovative ways to fund conservation projects.
“I was really excited by their motivation. And by the way that they were trying to find different levers to pull in the finance world to increase impact,” Zoe says.
For both Zoe and Kendall, Georgetown’s MBA and its location in DC has catapulted their skills and connections and established their career path.
"This has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. I did not realize how much I needed this MBA as a catalyst for my career.
"The education and the curriculum, that's just one piece of it. The experience, the people you meet, the professors you get to interact with, and the research you do. All of that is truly a holistic experience. Of course, it's a large investment, but it pays off in many ways," says Kendall.
George Washington University is a good respected institution with strong programs in various studies, including project management, international affairs, politics, medicine and etc. The university provides students with good opportunities for internships and networking.
GWU has a diverse student body and a reputation for academic excellence.
David
Verified
18/08/2023
On Campus
Safety on campus
I have had an amazing experience at Georgetown University. The classes are enjoyable, the professors are exceptional, and I feel like I am receiving a worthwhile education. The people and faculty at this institution are extraordinary, and I have discovered my true self while being here. Additionally, I always feel secure on campus, as it is the safest place in town.
Daniella
Verified
4/04/2023
On Campus
Georgetown is on top!
I've been enjoying this school so far. I wouldn't alter it, despite the fact that the school is on a hill and that it requires a lot of walking to get around it. For minority and first-generation students, there are a ton of services available. Even though the usual dorm rooms are modest, there is still plenty of area for storage. We have a ton of alternatives every day in the dining halls since they provide so many different dishes from so many different cultures
Student
Verified
1/03/2023
On Campus
Physical and mental health
Georgetown is my second home. The pre-professional counselors are incredibly helpful, and I feel supported and inspired to pursue my aspirations. We are certainly ranked as the top research university in the nation. They place a high priority on the development of the students as well as their physical and mental well-being.
Student
Verified
1/03/2023
On Campus
Wonderful university
Georgetown University is wonderful. The school's amazing diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The athletes are extremely committed to their sport, and the campus is amazing. The dorms are excellent! They are comfortable and spacious. If you ever find yourself bored on campus, you can always go off campus; it's fantastic. You'll never get bored dining in the cafeteria because the food is so delicious on campus.
Student
Verified
28/02/2023
On Campus
Academics
The university's academics are what really set it apart; the lecturers are kind and motivating. Although it can be challenging to connect with the majority of students because they are so intense and competitive, social life and student life are what you make of them. It is undoubtedly a very difficult four years that are challenging to get through. But in the end, it strengthens you and provides you with a wealth of knowledge and incredible prospects.
Student
Verified
28/02/2023
On Campus
Fantastic university
Georgetown university is a Fantastic university. The professors are outstanding, there are lots of ways to participate in campus life, and there are numerous groups and organizations where students can get involved. The campus is lovely and always kept clean, and there are people are willing to assist you 24 hours a day whenever you need help.
Student
Verified
28/02/2023
On Campus
Review of Georgetown university
Being at Georgetown university has been one of my best experiences. The Professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and very helpful. You will fall in love with Georgetown because of its daily activities, the vibrant students you will encounter, the food served on campus, and the lush surroundings. The housing and dorms are fantastic. There is no better place than Georgetown University if you’re looking to study, discover new things, make lifelong friends, and have fun!
Student
Verified
28/02/2023
On Campus
Academically challenging institution
Georgetown University is certainly an academically challenging institution, however, if you ask for assistance when you need it, the workload can be managed. Students are happy to assist one another, and most Professor want you to succeed. Student life is vibrant, the location is excellent and everyone here is friendly and welcoming.
Student
Verified
7/02/2024
On Campus
4 Years as an Expat at Georgetown University
Georgetown University provided an exceptional environment for my academic journey as an expat from Italy. As someone who initially felt apprehensive about moving to a new country, Georgetown quickly alleviated my concerns and made my transition incredibly smooth.
One of the standout features of Georgetown is its diverse and welcoming community, particularly for international students. The campus is teeming with students from various corners of the globe, fostering a rich cultural tapestry that made me feel right at home. The vibrant campus life and numerous extracurricular activities offered ample opportunities to connect with fellow students, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling university experience.
Georgetown's unique setting within the heart of Washington, DC, adds another layer to its charm. While the university is situated in the bustling city, the campus in the historic area of Georgetown provides a distinct and almost intimate atmosphere. This blend creates a truly unique feel and contributes to an unforgettable educational experience.
Initially enrolled in the College with a desire to major in Linguistics and minor in Art & Journalism, I appreciated the flexibility and openness of the Georgetown education system. After my freshman year, I discovered my true passion lay in Marketing and International Business. The university's seamless transfer process allowed me to transition to the McDonough Business School, where I found the perfect fit for my academic aspirations.
Georgetown's commitment to helping students explore and find their academic niche is indeed one of its most commendable qualities. The ability to explore various subjects before settling on a major is a testament to the university's dedication to fostering individual growth and success. The journey from Linguistics to Marketing & International Business exemplifies the beauty of a Georgetown education — a dynamic and supportive environment where students can discover and pursue their true passions.
In conclusion, Georgetown University provided not only a top-notch academic education but also a transformative and enriching experience. From the welcoming international community to the unique campus setting and the flexibility to explore diverse academic paths, Georgetown stands out as a beacon of higher education that truly caters to the individual journey of each student.
