Stack your way to an MBA
We are excited to announce that when you complete the 1-year online Master of Science in Management (iMSM) program from Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, your credit hours can be applied directly toward the online Master of Business Administration (iMBA) program if you are accepted to the program. This is…
An interview with future iMSM graduate, Manmit Kaur
Manmit excelled at her career as a project manager. She was organizing conferences all around the world for global leaders in both the private and public sectors. But while her career was exciting, it was also very stressful. And, ultimately, Manmit felt that management consulting was her true calling. Earning a master’s in management had…
Coursera University Partners are Recognized Among Forbes Top 10 List of “New Ivies”
For a second year, Forbes has recognized a top ten list of “New Ivies.” These university graduates are said to be “outpacing most Ivy Leaguers in the eyes of employers” with similarly selective admissions processes and rigorous coursework. Among the 10 ranked public schools, Coursera proudly partners with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the University…
Q&A with Joshua David Tarfa, Gies iMSM Graduate
Meet Joshua David Tarfa, a Nigeria-based senior product manager and recent graduate of the University of Illinois’ Gies College of Business Master of Science in Management (iMSM). In just one year, he completed his degree, secured two promotions at work, and managed his own freelance design business. We sat down with Joshua to hear about…
Embracing Lifelong Learning: Steve’s Journey Leads to the University of Illinois
How taking one course paved the path toward a master’s degree In today’s ever-changing world, the pursuit of knowledge is a lifelong journey, and Steve Reeves’ educational path is proof. At 67 years old, Steve is an inspiration, showing that age is no barrier to learning. His story that culminates with the University of Illinois…
Gies College of Business Wins the Coursera Trailblazer Award for Online Education: Voices of...
Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois has been honored with the Trailblazer Award at the September 2025 Coursera Connect conference, recognizing its bold leadership in reshaping online education. From launching the very first degree with Coursera to pioneering tools like Coursera Coach and AI avatars, Gies has consistently pushed the boundaries of…
Paving the way to a management career in one year through Gies
Photo credit: (Paul L. Newby, II /UW-Madison Wisconsin School of Business) When it comes to earning an advanced degree like the Master of Science in Management (MSM) from Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), time is of the essence for many learners. This was the case for Karl Galko, as…
How the iMSM Empowered Korede Oludiran to Reimagine His Business and Redefine His Career
After over 15 years of leading IT projects across public and private sectors, Korede Oludiran knew process improvement and change management inside out. But when he launched his own management consulting firm, Echo Oscar Inc., in Ottawa, Canada, he realized something was missing. His technical expertise alone wouldn’t unlock the next level of growth. He…











