What is an MGM?

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Overview

Choosing a graduate business degree is an important decision, and Thunderbird’s Master of Global Management (MGM) stands apart. Unlike traditional programs such as the MBA, the MGM prepares leaders to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and rapidly changing world. It combines the strengths of international business, public policy, and global affairs with immersive applied learning, making it one of the most versatile and future-focused graduate degrees available.

The MGM is ideal for students who want to:

  • Gain a global perspective on management and leadership.
  • Build cultural intelligence to succeed across borders.
  • Engage in hands-on international experiences like Thunderbird’s Global Challenge Lab.
  • Broaden or pivot their careers into international business, NGOs, government, or global consulting.

Key features

  • Ranked No. 1 Master’s in Management by Times Higher Education/Wall Street Journal’s most recent ranking (2019).
  • Two-year, highly customizable program with 17+ concentration options ranging from global digital transformation to healthcare delivery, sustainability, creative industries, and data science—or design your own.
  • Applied global consulting experience through the Global Challenge Lab at no additional cost.
  • Flexible curriculum: 18 credit hours of core courses, 24 elective credits for concentrations and languages, plus career development.
  • International network: Connect with Thunderbird’s world-class alumni community across 140+ countries.

Why choose an MGM instead of an MBA?

  MBA MGM
Core focus Emphasizes foundational business concepts and domestic operations. Focuses on global markets, cultural intelligence, and cross-border strategies.
Curriculum Traditional business disciplines and case studies. Courses in international trade, geopolitical risk, cultural intelligence, and sustainability, paired with immersive global experiences.
Leadership and development Prepares leaders for corporate roles, often within domestic markets. Develops leaders for complex, multicultural environments requiring adaptability and cross-border communication.
Career outcomes Well-suited for roles in finance, consulting, and domestic industries Opens doors to careers in multinational corporations, NGOs, global supply chains, and international organizations.

Understanding the MGM

Thunderbird's No. 1 ranked Master of Global Management prepares graduates for global careers across industries and sectors. The curriculum sits at the intersection of global business, public administration, and international studies and offers over 17 concentrations as well as international applied learning opportunities. 

See how the Master of Global Management core curriculum overlaps with other master's programs:

Graphic depicting percentages of overlap between the Thunderbird School of Global Management's Master in Global Management and a normal MBA.
* Core curriculums based on average overlap of various program core curriculums in 2020.

How Our Students Describe the MGM

Frequently asked questions

Is an MGM better than an MBA?

Not better—different. While MBAs focus on domestic business fundamentals, Thunderbird’s MGM develops global leaders who can adapt to diverse markets, cultures, and industries. If your goal is to work across borders or lead in international contexts, the MGM gives you the edge.

Who should pursue a Master of Global Management?

The MGM is designed for professionals who want to:

  • Launch or advance careers in multinational corporations, NGOs, or government.
     
  • Gain cultural intelligence to lead international teams.
     
  • Build expertise in global business strategy and emerging markets.
     
  • Pivot into global management from another field.

What makes the MGM unique?
  • Required Global Challenge Lab: an international consulting project at no additional cost.
     
  • 17+ concentrations to customize your degree.
     
  • Strong emphasis on cultural intelligence and sustainability.
     

A world-class alumni network in 140+ countries.

What career opportunities does the MGM open?

Graduates step into roles such as:

  • Global marketing manager
     
  • International business consultant
     
  • Supply chain director
     
  • Sustainability and ESG strategist
     
  • Cross-border project manager
     
  • Policy advisor or NGO leader

How long does the program take to complete?

The MGM is a full-time, two-year program designed to fit students at all career levels.

Can I design my own concentration?

Yes. In addition to 17 set concentrations, you can design a track that aligns with your career goals and passions.

How global is the Thunderbird MGM experience?

Very. From the Global Challenge Lab to international electives and a globally diverse student body, every part of the program emphasizes cultural intelligence and cross-border leadership.

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Phone: 602-496-7000

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