Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved from a tool for automation into a strategic meta-capability that reshapes managerial cognition, organizational design, and ethical accountability. While AI’s impact is often examined within isolated business functions, research seldom conceptualizes it as an integrated, cross-disciplinary pillar of MBA education. This qualitative integrative study develops an ethically grounded framework situating AI across nine core MBA domains, ranging from Production and Marketing to Catholic Social Teaching.

Drawing on the Resource-Based View, Dynamic Capabilities Theory, Stakeholder Theory, Institutional Theory, and Socio-Technical Systems Theory, the study conceptualizes AI as a systemic force that enables predictive intelligence, enhances organizational adaptability, and advances ethical governance maturity. Through a synthesis of peer-reviewed literature and normative reflection, the study proposes the Theory of Algorithmic Stewardship (TAS), which emphasizes the critical balance between technological sophistication, structural reconfiguration, and moral responsibility.

The study contributes to management and business ethics scholarship by framing AI governance as a core strategic responsibility rather than a mere compliance concern. The findings have significant implications for MBA curriculum redesign and the development of future-ready executive leadership.