Digital and AI specialism launched for part-time MBA students

Warwick Business School has unveiled a new Digital and AI specialism for its part-time MBA programmes as it aligns its courses with the demands of a rapidly evolving business landscape. 

The new specialism will be offered on the Executive MBA, Global Online MBA, and Accelerator MBA at both Warwick and WBS London at The Shard, helping students learn more about AI technologies, digital transformation, and data-driven decision making. It joins existing specialisms in Social and Environmental Sustainability, Entrepreneurship, and Healthcare. 

The new specialism is aimed at non-technical managers and senior leaders so they can cut through the hype and prepare their team and organisation for the AI age. 

Ross Ritchie, Professor of Operations Management and Associate Dean (Postgraduate Business and Management Programmes), said: “AI is no longer a niche topic - it’s an imperative for any business strategy. 

“We’ve designed this specialism to help our MBA students not only understand the technology but lead its implementation in their organisations. It’s about equipping them with the tools to make informed, ethical, and impactful decisions in a digital-first world.” 

The Digital and AI specialism will include modules on AI for Business Leaders, Digital Transformation and Digital Frontiers, digging into topics such as AI strategy, generative AI, machine learning, AI integration, and predictive analytics. 

Students will also explore the implications of AI on leadership, operations, and innovation, with practical applications embedded throughout the curriculum. 

Mo Moeini, Associate Professor of Information Systems and Course Director for the Global Online MBA, said: “We are seeing a fundamental shift in how businesses operate, driven by data and AI tools. 

“This specialism is designed for professionals who want to be at the forefront of that change. It’s not just about learning the technology, it’s about understanding how to harness it to create value, drive transformation, and develop a strategic plan for AI adoption. 

“As a School for the Change Makers, we give managers and leaders the tools to bring their bold ideas to life.” 

The launch comes at a time when demand for AI-related skills is surging across industries. And yet cutting-edge research by the School’s AI Innovation Network found managers need to understand when and how to use AI, and when human judgement is needed. 

Future-proofing with an AI-focused MBA

Hila Liftshitz, Professor of Management at WBS, found that in a creative task consultants using AI performed 40 per cent better, but when it came to strategic decisions they were 20 per cent worse. 

The School’s new specialism aims to meet this increasing demand for AI leadership by combining rigorous academic research with real-world case studies to give students a truer understanding of the nuances involved. 

Plus, the flexible delivery model - whether online or in-person - ensures accessibility for working professionals. 

“This is about future-proofing our graduates,” added Professor Ritchie. “We want them to leave WBS not just with a qualification, but with the confidence and leadership skills to thrive in a world shaped by digital disruption.” 

From January 2026 all part-time MBAs will have the Digital and AI specialism available.