Mike Ilitch School of Business boasts fastest-growing M.B.A. program in the Midwest
Since 2015, total enrollment in Wayne State University’s Mike Ilitch School of Business has increased by nearly 50 percent to more than 4,300 students. During that same period, graduate enrollment has more than doubled to 1,400—earning the Ilitch School the fastest-growing part-time M.B.A. program in the Midwest and one of the top-five fastest-growing in the entire country.
Dean Robert Forsythe credits a combination of strategic decisions and external forces for the dramatic growth, which defies enrollment trends in graduate business programs across the country.
“We have launched several new programs and partnerships that have drawn more applicants while simultaneously improving the admissions process and the overall student experience,” Forsythe said. “But let’s be honest—the resurgence of Detroit as a destination and the historic investment of Mr. and Mrs. Ilitch definitely helped.”
Mike and Marian Ilitch are legendary Detroit entrepreneurs and philanthropists, whose $40 million gift—along with additional support from other generous friends and alumni—made it possible to build a new, state-of-the-art facility at the corner of Woodward and Temple in The District Detroit. The building opened to students in the fall of 2018, immediately enhancing their access to internships and career opportunities.
“Planting the Ilitch School flag in the heart of the city’s sport, entertainment and business community forever cements our place as Detroit’s Business School,” Forsythe said.
Learn more about Detroit’s Business School.
