On the edge of hypercompetition in higher education: the case of the MBA

Abstract

Purpose Hypercompetition has long been recognized as a significant problem in almost all manufacturing industries. Service industries are also experiencing the problems of hypercompetition. Now, it seems to be spreading to higher education with significant consequences. This paper aims to describe the movement toward hypercompetition and the implications specifically for the MBA program. Design/methodology/approach This paper directly compares the experiences of industrial hypercompetition with what is developing within universities. Since businesses are typically farther along in the process of responding to hypercompetitive markets, they provide insight into what educational institutions might expect to occur and how they could respond to this threat despite the differences between these two types of organizations. Findings The paper finds that technological change, globalization, and increased competition are the most important environmental challenges facing MBA programs today. Technology, in particular, seems to be acting as the principle disruptor of the traditional MBA model. Additionally, corporate MBA programs and international competition have become important considerations. The important question is will Peter F. Drucker be correct that traditional universities will be severely challenged by technology‐based competition? Originality/value This paper provides useful information on hypercompetition and the implications specifically for the MBA program.

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