Academic City University College has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Northern Kentucky University (NKU), USA to offer a STEM-focused Masters of Business Administration.

The program, expected to commence next year, will include courses taught at both Academic City’s campus and NKU’s College of Business.

The first year will take place at Academic City, after which students will complete their remaining credits at NKU.

Upon completion, Academic City students will receive an MBA in STEM from NKU.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Cady Short-Thompson, President of NKU said, “This partnership with Academic City is pivotal in our commitment to expanding cross-cultural collaboration in the northern Kentucky region.”.

“This opportunity will allow us to enrich the learning experience for both students and educators and enhance our research capabilities at home and overseas,” she added.

Prof. Fred McBagonluri, President of Academic City speaking at the MoU signing ceremony noted “Africa’s aspiration for industrialisation demands a new breed of leadership—one that excels in the effective management of resources, embraces informed decision-making and relies on data-driven insights.”

According to him, “This partnership with NKU to offer the STEM-MBA is groundbreaking, and the first of its kind in the subregion. 

"Academic City is excited to partner with a world-class institution renowned for its quality education and innovative programs, setting a new standard for leadership development in Africa.”

Numerous studies have shown international students have a significant economic impact on their educational communities and the United States.

The NAFSA: Association of International Educators reported that international students studying at U.S. colleges and universities contributed more than $40 billion and supported nearly 400,000 jobs to the U.S. economy during the 2022/23 academic year.

“The STEM-focused MBA partnership with Academic City is one of many international initiatives NKU maintains to deepen cross-cultural connections and broaden opportunities for students of all backgrounds,” says Dr. Hassan R. HassabElnaby, Dean of the Haile College of Business.

“By bringing in new perspectives and skilled workers, we will continue to boost the northern Kentucky economic market and strengthen the workforce in our region.”