Management Education Evolves with AI and Digital Technologies

Management education is undergoing significant transformation as educational institutions adopt artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. Universities are updating their curricula, forming industry partnerships, and preparing future leaders for an AI-driven world.

In recent years, AI and digital technologies have revolutionised various sectors, including education. Management studies are no exception, shifting from traditional classroom lectures to practical, real-world problem-solving, collaboration with industry experts, and staying abreast of technological advancements.

Universities and business schools are adapting rapidly to these changes to ensure their graduates possess the skills needed for today’s job market.

Institutions are updating their curricula, incorporating hands-on experiences, and strengthening industry connections to bridge the gap between traditional management education and the demands of the digital economy.

We spoke with three prominent professors about how institutions are addressing the evolving needs of management education in the AI and digital age: Dr. Anand Kulkarni from MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Prof. Manuel Rincon from Woxsen University, and Dr. D. John Aravindhar from Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS).

AI’s rise has reshaped the global business landscape, increasing the demand for tech-savvy managers. Business schools worldwide have recognised this shift and are adapting their programmes accordingly.

Dr. Anand Kulkarni of MIT-WPU explains how AI and machine learning are integrated into management studies. “We have developed courses in AI for HR management, business analytics, and finance,” he says, noting that blockchain, cybersecurity, and AI sales prediction models are now key components of their curriculum.

At Woxsen University, Prof. Manuel Rincon highlights their innovative approach. “Our MBA in Data Analytics, AI, and Machine Learning allows students to gain dual specialisations,” he says. The programme blends AI and ML expertise with essential business skills like marketing and finance, including practical elements such as internships and case studies.

Woxsen’s BBA (Hons.) in Data Science & AI prepares students with skills in data visualisation, AI-driven strategies, and management reporting. The curriculum includes real-world applications and interdisciplinary learning, covering fields like law and architecture.

Dr. D. John Aravindhar from HITS describes their collaboration with IBM, offering an MBA in Business Analytics that covers predictive analytics, marketing metrics, and data visualisation. “Workshops on neural networks and data visualisation provide advanced hands-on training,” he notes.

The rapid development of AI has created a skills gap, with students often finding themselves unprepared for the demands of the job market. Institutions are addressing this by ensuring their curricula are industry-relevant and providing practical applications.

Dr. Kulkarni emphasises MIT-WPU's commitment to industry-relevant curricula, with regular input from industry experts. Prof. Rincon explains Woxsen’s approach of designing curricula based on market needs, and Dr. Aravindhar highlights HITS’s focus on practical training and certifications.

Institutions are also adopting innovative assessment methods to ensure authenticity and prevent misuse of AI tools. As AI and digital technologies continue to advance, management education worldwide is evolving to meet these new challenges and opportunities.

By integrating AI into their programmes and fostering industry partnerships, these universities are setting new standards for management education and preparing their students for success in an increasingly digital world.