Gies College of Business: A Pioneer in Online Education Honored with Trailblazer Award
In a remarkable acknowledgment of its innovative approach to online education, the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois has been awarded the prestigious Trailblazer Award at the Coursera Connect conference held in September 2025. This award is a reflection of Gies College’s exceptional leadership and pioneering efforts in transforming the landscape of online business education. With groundbreaking initiatives such as the introduction of the first degree program in collaboration with Coursera, and the development of tools like Coursera Coach and AI avatars, Gies College continues to push the boundaries of accessible and high-quality education.
Today, students from across the globe have the opportunity to enroll in three master’s degree programs offered by Gies College in partnership with Coursera. These programs include the Master of Business Administration (iMBA), the Master of Science in Management (iMSM), and the Master of Science in Accountancy (iMSA). Furthermore, the college provides access to stackable open content in artificial intelligence, underscoring its commitment to innovation and to meeting the diverse needs of students worldwide. The true essence of this pioneering spirit, however, is best captured through the voices of the global learners who have experienced the transformative impact of Gies Business education.
Flexible Learning for Diverse Lifestyles
The flexibility offered by Gies College’s online programs has been a game-changer for many students with varying lifestyles. Chelsea Doman, a single mother of four, discovered that the Gies iMBA program was perfectly suited to her busy schedule. She reflects, “When I saw Illinois had an online MBA with Coursera, it was like the heavens opened.” The structure of the program enabled her to efficiently manage her family responsibilities, work, and studies, all without the requirement of a GMAT score. Chelsea pursued the program primarily for the joy of learning and the goal of achieving a comprehensive understanding of business.
Similarly, Tom Fail, who was employed in the EdTech sector, appreciated the program’s unique blend of online flexibility and in-person networking opportunities. He highlights, “With this program, you get to blend the benefits of networking and having a hands-on experience that you’d get from an in-person program, with the flexibility of an online program.”
Global Community and Real-World Application
For Ishpinder Kailey, an Australian learner, the iMBA program served as a bridge from a background in chemistry to a leadership role in business strategy. She states, “This degree gave me the confidence to lead my business from the front.” Ishpinder also emphasizes the program’s global reach and collaborative environment, describing the professors as exceptional and the peer learning from a global cohort as a tremendous asset.
Joshua David Tarfa, a senior product manager based in Nigeria, recently completed the 12-month MS in Management (iMSM) degree program. He found that the skills and knowledge gained during the program were directly applicable to his professional role. He recounts, “From the very beginning, I could apply what I was learning. I remember taking a strategic management course and using concepts from it immediately at work.”
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning and Connection
The Gies experience extends beyond graduation for many learners, fostering a sense of community and lifelong learning. Dennis Harlow shares how the iMSA program connected him to a global network, stating, “Even though it’s online, I felt like I was part of a community. The connections I made with peers and instructors have been amazing.” Similarly, Patrick Surrett highlights the program’s flexibility and ongoing engagement, saying, “I believe in lifelong learning and this program made it possible. It truly is online by design.” These experiences illustrate Gies College’s dedication to nurturing a supportive global community and promoting lifelong learning.
Online with Gies Business: A Degree That Works for You
The esteemed Trailblazer Award bestowed upon Gies College of Business is not merely a recognition of the school’s pioneering approach to online education but also a testament to the achievements and experiences of its learners. From balancing family and careers to pursuing personal growth and professional impact, Gies students around the world thrive in a flexible, rigorous, and supportive environment. Their stories exemplify the community, innovation, and opportunities inherent in learning with Gies.
For those interested in pursuing an online degree with the University of Illinois Gies College of Business, there are numerous programs available that cater to a wide range of interests and career goals. These programs offer a unique blend of flexibility, real-world applicability, and global community engagement, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to advance their education and career.
For more information about the programs offered by Gies College of Business, prospective students can explore the various options available on Coursera. With the continued evolution of online education, Gies College remains at the forefront, shaping the future of business education and empowering learners worldwide to achieve their goals.
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