VCU Evening MBA to offer brand leadership concentration in spring 2025
By Megan Nash
The VCU School of Business is partnering with the VCU Brandcenter to launch a brand leadership concentration in its Evening MBA program starting in spring 2025. The concentration will prepare students for leadership roles across the industry, building skills in creative problem-solving and strategic brand management.
“The new brand leadership concentration is an exciting addition to our MBA program,” said Austen Gouldman, executive director of Graduate Studies at the VCU School of Business. “Our goal is to develop business leaders who can think strategically and manage the creative process behind successful brands.”
The concentration will integrate the Brandcenter’s expertise in storytelling and brand experience with the School of Business’s strengths in strategic decision-making.
“Launching this new brand leadership concentration is an exciting milestone for Brandcenter and the School of Business. As the landscape for business evolves, it’s more critical than ever to blend creativity with strategic business acumen,” said Vann Graves, executive director of the Brandcenter. “By partnering with the School of Business, we are able to equip students with a unique skill set that combines the best of both worlds.”
The concentration features courses taught by Brandcenter faculty, focusing on practical marketing frameworks and the ins and outs of brand management in today’s market.
Coursework will include classes on brand design for brand managers, creative thinking and cultural impact. Students will explore creative strategies, conduct cultural research and examine design’s role in branding through hands-on projects and real-world applications.
“This is an exciting opportunity for master’s students to enroll in elective courses in brand leadership,” said Sharon Rauch, associate director of extension programs. “Students will be able to tap into their creativity and apply newly enhanced skills to brand management.”
The Evening MBA program offers online and in-person learning to suit working professionals. The brand leadership concentration courses will be offered in a synchronous online format.
Interested applicants have until Nov. 1 to apply for the Spring 2025 program. For more information, visit business.vcu.edu/graduate-programs.
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