Reimagined online “Blue MBA” will elevate global leadership in ocean innovation

March 18, 2026

The University of Rhode Island has officially launched a new version of the Blue MBA program. The reimagined two-year, part-time program focuses on advancing knowledge, solutions, and talent for tomorrow’s ocean economy challenges and opportunities. The online graduate program has been updated with flexibility in mind, while retaining its commitment to an interdisciplinary approach that prepares business leaders for their next promotion.

Students will gain valuable access to the latest research, technology, and tools needed to excel in the ocean economy space. Additionally, students will have an experience that blends business expertise with ocean and sustainability efforts.

The program is designed to be a signature offering from the Ocean State’s premier public university. Faculty members from the URI College of Business, Graduate School of Oceanography, and College of Environmental and Life Sciences collaborated to deliver an integrated and streamlined curriculum that meets today’s learners where they are.

“We approach the ocean as an ecosystem, an economic driver, and as a source of inspiration for innovation and stewardship,” said Blue MBA Program Director Jay Oliver, Ph.D. “We want students, alumni, partners, and communities to see URI as the premier place to explore opportunities to advance their careers and make a difference in the world.”

The Blue MBA leverages URI’s longstanding partnerships with those in the blue economy space and commitment to ocean science, coastal resilience, and workforce development. URI routinely collaborates with industry and the U.S. Navy and serves as a home for partnerships that have helped shape Rhode Island into a hub for undersea technology. This has led Ocean Engineering Professor James Miller to refer to Rhode Island as the “Silicon Valley of underwater technology.”

Beginning in the fall of 2026, the program will be offered 100% online, with blue economy content being integrated into all the coursework. As part of the program, networking opportunities will be held each June at URI’s Bay Campus in Narragansett.

“URI is redefining what it means to integrate ocean research with real-world business impact,” said College of Business Dean Sean Edmund Rogers. “The new online version of the Blue MBA program builds on decades of momentum. The innovative, flexible program will help Blue MBA students prepare for opportunities in ocean business and innovation in the state, the region, and the world.”

To learn more about the Blue MBA, please visit www.uri.edu/bluemba.