Georgetown’s New Master’s in International Business and Policy: A Game-Changer for Dubai

Introduction

Beginning in September 2025, Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business will launch a groundbreaking Master’s in International Business and Policy (IBP) program in Dubai. This innovative degree aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to navigate the complex interplay between business and international affairs, making it a significant addition to Georgetown’s education offerings globally.

Bridging Business and International Affairs

The Master’s in International Business and Policy serves as a nexus between two critical fields: business and international relations. This program recognizes that modern businesses don’t operate in silos; they interact dynamically with policymakers, influential politics, and broader global economic trends. By examining how business influences policy and vice versa, the program prepares students to engage strategically in the global economy, making it ideal for both public and private sector professionals.

Tailored for a Global Landscape

Georgetown’s new program in Dubai builds on nearly a decade of success from its IBP program offered in the U.S. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable growth, innovation, and social impact, aligning with current global needs. This focus positions graduates to lead organizations effectively within increasingly interconnected markets while addressing pressing global challenges.

Expanding Georgetown’s Regional Impact

With the launch of IBP Dubai, Georgetown expands its footprint in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and South Asia (MENASA), a region recognized as pivotal to global trade and energy dynamics. This initiative marks Georgetown’s second program in the region, complementing the existing Executive MBA offered at the DIFC Academy. The new degree highlights the university’s commitment to being a key player in global diplomacy and economics.

Degrees and Career Advancement

Graduates of the IBP program will receive diplomas from two esteemed Georgetown entities: the McDonough School of Business and the School of Foreign Service, both of which are highly ranked in their respective fields. Awarded accolades such as #2 for international business by U.S. News & World Report and #1 by Foreign Policy magazine, these schools offer wide-ranging career support. Participants will benefit from one-on-one coaching, in-class sessions, assessments, and exclusive networking events, joining a vast alumni network of over 220,000 professionals who excel in government, business, and nonprofit sectors.

Expert Faculty and Curriculum Flexibility

Courses for the IBP program will be taught by Georgetown faculty from its campuses in the U.S. and Qatar, ensuring that participants receive input from experts with rich global and regional knowledge. The program is structured modularly, allowing participants to blend their studies with ongoing professional commitments. This flexibility fosters an engaging educational experience with immediate relevance and impact.

A Unique Learning Structure

The program spans ten months, incorporating seven in-person modules—each lasting six days—alongside one online course. Five modules will take place in Dubai at the DIFC Academy, while students will also embark on two international immersion experiences in Jakarta, Indonesia, and Georgetown’s Washington, D.C. campus. This diverse exposure enriches their understanding of global business practices and policy-making.

Social Action Project

A unique feature of the IBP program is the Social Action Project, where students will design and implement initiatives aimed at fostering meaningful social change. This experiential learning component allows graduates to apply their academic skills to real-world challenges, further emphasizing the program’s commitment to social impact.

Application Process and Candidate Profile

Applications for the inaugural cohort in Dubai are now open. Georgetown is looking for candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of work experience, although a background in business or policy is not a prerequisite. This approach welcomes a diverse range of perspectives, enriching classroom discussions and collaborative projects.

Further Information

For prospective students interested in this transformative educational opportunity, more details can be found at Georgetown Dubai’s IBP Program.

With this launch, Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business aims to reshape the landscape of international business education in Dubai and beyond.