Celebrating 10 Years of the iMBA® Program
Ten years ago, Gies College of Business reimagined what an online MBA could be. Today, the iMBA serves learners across the globe and continues to shape the future of business education.
A Decade of Innovation
In 2016, the iMBA launched with 114 students. Today, it has served more than 12,000 learners and currently enrolls more than 4,600 students. It has become one of the most recognized online MBA programs in the world.
The vision for the iMBA takes shape.
A new model for business education is introduced.
Learners gather in person for the first time.
Students travel to Brazil for the inaugural immersion experience.
Recognized by Poets&Quants.
Named by Poets&Quants.
Expanding opportunities for specialized business expertise.
Offering learners additional flexibility and value.
Developed in partnership with Carle Illinois College of Medicine and College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences.
The University of Illinois secures the registered trademark.
A Decade of Recognition and Impact
Over the past 10 years, the iMBA has helped redefine what online graduate business education can be. Along the way, the program has earned national recognition for its innovation, quality, and learner experience.
Designed for Engagement and Connection
Through live interaction with faculty, collaboration with classmates around the world, and opportunities to connect in person, learners build meaningful relationships that extend far beyond the classroom.
The Early Adopters
Every milestone begins with someone willing to take the first step. Meet the early adopters who helped launch the iMBA – and see where that journey has taken them.
How Ibeabuchi (iMBA ’19) is building scalable legacy at Major League Soccer
May 12, 2026
Chidozie Ibeabuchi’s career has evolved from supporting individual athlete transitions in the NFL to leading large-scale, proactive player engagement initiatives as Vice President at MLS, guided by his “Human First” philosophy.
From Sales Rep to Strategist: How Gies iMBA helped Roberto Martinez make career pivot
Apr 02, 2026
Roberto Martinez has navigated a series of pivots, restarts, and a moment of reckoning on his way to earning an MBA from Gies College of Business and a 40% return on investment.
They took a chance on the iMBA – now they’re leading what’s next
Mar 25, 2026
Two members of the first iMBA cohort reflect on how taking a risk on a new kind of online MBA reshaped their careers and what it says about the program 10 years later.
The Numbers Behind a Decade of Impact
The numbers tell the story of a decade of growth, global reach, and lasting impact.
What Comes Next for Business Education?
What’s next for business education in the age of AI? In this unique conversation, Gies College of Business Dean Brooke Elliott sits down with Poets&Quants Founder John Byrne to discuss affordability and innovation in higher education, the future of MBA programs, online learning, artificial intelligence, global talent.
The discussion explores how business schools are adapting to rapid technological disruption, evolving student expectations, and changing workforce demands.
Why We Trademarked the iMBA®
After a decade of innovation and impact, the University of Illinois secured a registered trademark for the iMBA name – recognizing the distinctive identity and influence of the program in graduate business education.
Join the Celebration
For 10 years, the iMBA has been shaped by the learners, alumni, faculty, and staff who believed in a new model for business education. Share your story, celebrate your connection to the program, and help us mark this milestone year.
Your Turn
For ten years, the iMBA® has helped professionals advance their careers without putting their lives on hold. Join a global community of learners shaping the next decade of business leadership.