London Business School has claimed first place in the Financial Times ranking of the top European business schools. Published on Monday, the table reveals that UK schools are riding high: the three biggest climbers are all British.Meanwhile HEC Paris retains its no 2 spot behind LBS and INSEAD, established in France, rose from fifth to third in the ranking of the best 85 European business schools.
The UK’s University of Bradford School of Management and University of Edinburgh Business School surged 16 places to no 42 and no 55 respectively. Cambridge Judge Business School rose 15 places to no 14.
The ranking is a composite of individual rankings by the FT: MBA, Executive MBA, Masters in Management and Executive Education. It is designed to measure the quality and breadth of schools’ entire portfolios.
“MBA programs and the ability to offer companies custom training that responds promptly to their needs are keys to a school of management,” said Bruno Busacca, dean of Italy’s SDA Bocconi, ranked seventh.
It is this breadth of strength that puts LBS ahead of the pack: it is first for its full-time MBA program and third for its EMBA and customized executive education programs.
Richard Bland, head of employer engagement at LBS, told BusinessBecause that a strong program mix contributed toward the school retaining its crown.
LBS’ Masters in Management and full-time MBA salaries also rose to $77,006 and $154,147 respectively. But Richard said “we look beyond remuneration”, pointing out that students are setting up their own businesses or joining start-ups.
Cambridge Judge climbed three spots in the MBA ranking and 12 places in the EMBA table. Also, it appeared this year for the first time in both open enrolment and custom executive education rankings.
At 55, University of Edinburgh Business School can put the gains down to its Masters in Management: the school fell down the table last year after failing to get its MiM ranked.
“A key part of our rise is the re-entering into the ranking of the MSC in Management,” Ian Clarke, dean of University of Edinburgh Business School, told BB.
But he added that “just chasing the rankings is the wrong thing to do”. He puts the school’s success down to a combination of factors — enhancing dialogue with business and boosting diversity, among others.
The University of Bradford School of Management rose this year thanks to its first appearance in the FT’s EMBA ranking.
Other top UK schools ranked this year include University of Oxford: Saïd at no 10, Imperial College Business School at no 12, and Cass Business School and Lancaster University Management School. Overall, British schools moved up one place in the ranking on average.
French business schools fell by one place on average. EMLYON Business School fell 15 places, while EDHEC Business School fell eight, although both are still in the upper echelons of the table.
Toulouse Business School led the French risers, soaring 14 places after getting its EMBA ranked for the first time. Other top French schools include ESSEC Business School and Grenoble GSB.
INSEAD has the top salary for full-time MBA programs at about $155,000. Spain’s IE Business School is close behind with $152,000, a 104% increase on pre-MBA pay. Spain places two schools in the top-10 overall: ESADE and IESE, both based in Barcelona.
Eugenia Bieto, director of ESADE Business School, said: “The fact that ESADE has won top positions in all the Financial Times European rankings reflects…. Our ability to adapt to the changing economic and business environment.”
German schools have the top salary rises for MiM programs. Graduates of WHU Beisheim earn the most in this group, at around $98,000 on average. ESMT is the top ranked school in Germany, followed closely by Mannheim Business School.
For EMBA programs, excluding joint courses delivered with non-European schools, graduates of Swiss school IMD have the highest pay, an average salary of around $261,000.
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
professors
The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
