YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) Manoogian Simone College of Business and Economics is pleased to announce a recent publication by AUA professor Dr. Agassy Manoukian, adjunct lecturer Dr. Vahe Odabashian, and Dr. Vlad Vaiman of California Lutheran University.
Published in The International Journal of Management Education, the study presents a descriptive audit of 100 U.S. MBA programs accredited by AACSB, analyzing how core courses are distributed across five major business domains. The journal has an impact factor of 7.4, and a typical rejection rate above 80%, which makes this achievement especially significant, particularly in the field of management, where publishing in high-quality journals is notably challenging.
The relevance and quality of MBA programs have increasingly come under scrutiny. Critics question their applicability across different economic and cultural contexts and whether they adequately prepare graduates for today’s volatile business environment. Some scholars have even challenged the necessity of MBA programs, arguing that they may be outdated or disconnected from real-world demands. Over the years, AUA has also experienced a gradual decline in MBA enrollment, reflecting a similar global trend.
According to the authors, the study introduces a new perspective that connects employer-driven requirements with contemporary technological and societal needs. It stands out for mapping MBA curricula against a holistic framework encompassing management, functional areas, and PESTEL factors — political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental.
Reflecting on the study’s significance, Dr. Manoukian said, “It is apparent that the business education environment is at a critical juncture. MBA programs must adapt, just as businesses do, to address the unprecedented challenges brought about by technological progress and social change. This granular, fact-based analysis, paired with its timely emphasis on aligning MBA education with digital disruption and sustainability, provides actionable insights that challenge the conventional model and redefine the value of the MBA in an ever-changing global economy.”
Two recent AUA alumni, Ovsana Tshagharyan (BAB ’24) and Nane Khachikyan (BAB ’24), were involved in the research from its inception. They helped select, classify, and analyze the 100 U.S. MBA programs and their curricula, and contributed to drafting several sections of the paper. Both are listed as co-authors — a rare accomplishment for young professionals at the start of their careers.
The International Journal of Management Education has provided free access to the article until December 20.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.