An ex-scientist reveals how an MBA from Copenhagen Business School opened her up to an exciting opportunity with one of the biggest Danish pharmaceutical companies, Lundbeck
Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing industries among MBA students. In fact, according to a Bloomberg survey, it is now the most sought-after career path behind consulting, tech, and finance. Danish pharmaceutical companies, including the likes of Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck, offer some of the most exciting opportunities to MBA grads.
Plus, Denmark is currently one of the most promising countries to begin a pharma career for MBAs. Not only there is a strong tradition of collaboration between the Danish pharma industry, universities, and the public health sector, the Scandinavian nation’s pharma sector is projected to draw in a revenue of almost $3 billion by the end of 2024.
So, how do you get your foot in the gold rush?
Former scientist Vasundhara Vigh is one graduate who managed to secure a lucrative role as a business partner at one of the biggest Danish pharmaceutical companies: Lundbeck. She reveals how an MBA from helped her shift from a career in the lab to entering one of the business world’s fastest growing fields.
Why the Copenhagen Business School MBA?
Vasundhara never intended to leave the lab. She initially pursued a degree in biotech in the US and entered straight into medical laboratory management, a field that immersed her in DNA sequencing and scientific research. That changed when Covid hit.
Returning to India and beginning a new role in business development, she then realized she wanted something different out of her career. “I wanted to formalize my knowledge of business,” she says.
To achieve this shift from science to business development, Vasundhara decided to search for MBAs abroad.
When evaluating different schools internationally, the CBS program stood out for several reasons—the first being the program’s compact, one-year structure, which suited her better than the commitment of a two-year degree.
The school’s small MBA class size of just 37 was also an important factor. “I come from science, so I knew that in a large class, I would just feel drowned,” she explains.
A third key element was the sustainability focus embedded in the CBS MBA curriculum. Some of the program’s core modules include Managing Sustainable Corporations and Innovation Management, which are designed to teach future leaders social responsibility.
This focus, on top of the opportunity to study in Copenhagen—a hub for biotech and pharma—sealed the deal.
What skills did you learn?
Once the semester was underway, a class that particularly stood out to Vasundhara was Human Resource Development, since it focused on building communication skills, as well as featuring guest speakers from leading Danish companies.
“It was fascinating to learn about the people side of business and how organizations grow from within,” she continues.
She also partook in the school’s Leadership Development Program, which runs throughout the year and includes self-assessment tools and coaching techniques.
“It was a journey of self-discovery,” Vasundhara adds. “I learned that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to leadership.”
The school’s emphasis on cross-cultural learning was another highlight for Vasundhara. Opportunities to take classes like Transnational Management and Global Strategic Marketing gave her key insight into managing across cultures and understanding different communication styles.
“The MBA program was designed to ensure we understood cultural differences and their impact on business,” she says. “That’s not something I would have learned working in a biotech lab.”
How did you a land a job with one of the biggest Danish pharmaceutical companies?
With Denmark’s well-established pharmaceutical industry, Vasundhara knew it would be an ideal place to apply her biotech background in a business setting. She was further encouraged by the fact that CBS MBA grads regularly enter roles with the biggest Danish pharmaceutical companies such as Novo Nordisk, LEO Pharma, and ALK.
“The alumni network is very strong,” she says, noting that through the MBA she was able to connect with professionals across industries and learn about various companies’ expectations.
After graduating, Vasundhara leveraged both the extensive CBS alumni network as well as the school’s career support services to land her current role at Lundbeck—a position that draws on both her scientific and newly acquired business knowledge.
Vasundhara says the MBA’s impact has been invaluable, particularly in the ways she approaches day-to-day tasks.
“Leadership skills are so intertwined with my everyday work. I use coaching techniques frequently and approach tasks with a strategic mindset, using frameworks to identify synergies.”
Another major benefit of the MBA is that it provided her with a lasting support system. Upon leaving CBS, Vasundhara received advice not just from professors, but also from the career team, who offered guidance on the transition from academia to the job market.
“They prepared us for life after the MBA, which was essential for me, as my background in science didn’t naturally prepare me for this transition,” she says.
Now, aiming to pay it forward, Vasundhara operates as a CBS Career Mentor for other MBA students attempting to land jobs with Danish pharma companies.
By fully embracing her MBA journey at CBS, Vasundhara has not only transformed her career, but also discovered a lasting community that values her scientific background and unique perspective.
Student Reviews
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
Monthly checkups, good acedmic tutoring
Copenhagen business school impresses me every single time I think about the school as a whole. What’s particularly impressive is how they always check in to ensure everyone is on the same page. Whether it's through small group discussions or one-on-one feedback sessions, the professors really take the time to make sure no one is left behind. They’re always available for follow-up questions and give tailored feedback that helps students understand where they can improve and how to apply what they’ve learned to real-world situations. It's clear that at CBS, the focus is on learning, not just getting paid. The professors are not just there to deliver lectures but are deeply invested in making sure every student is progressing.
The professors.. 👌🏾
The professors at Copenhagen Business School are genuinely excellent and play an essential role in developing students with extensive real-world experience. What stuck out to me was how supportive they are outside of lectures and class time. They are always willing to answer inquiries, whether concerning the course material or career advice, and many of them work beyond of usual hours to assist students.The instructors' accessibility fosters an environment in which you feel encouraged, not only intellectually, but also in terms of personal growth and future career goals. It's apparent that they care significantly about helping students achieve.
