Individualized Concentration

An individualized field of concentration allows GWSB students who have a clear career objective that falls outside of current concentration options to create a designed program of study that fits their own specific interests. Students pursuing an individualized concentration work with a full-time member of the GWSB faculty to design the proposal, which is then approved by the Individualized Field Faculty Review Committee.

Program of study

The individualized concentration varies greatly depending on the individual student's objectives. Past individualized concentrations pursued include small business management, health administration, human resource management, strategic management, and supply chain management.

Proposal and application process

As part of the application process, students must create a proposal that includes five existing courses at GW; at least three courses (9 credits) must be within GWSB. Consortium classes may not be included in the proposal. At least three courses (9 credits) must be taken in residence.  

Students develop their full proposal based on extensive research and with the assistance of a GWSB faculty member who focus in related fields. Complete criteria and application directions can be found in the Individualized Concentration Application Packet. GWSB students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 in order to submit an individualized concentration proposal. Proposals must be submitted before the start of junior year.

The individualized concentration application process typically takes 10 to 12 weeks from initial research to receiving the faculty committee’s final decision. Students are advised not to take proposed courses prior to approval of the individualized concentration.