A mainland Chinese business school has topped the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking for the first time, while the top five places are dominated by intercontinental programs — highlighting the increasing global nature of executive training.The joint program — delivered by Tsinghua and INSEAD (Tiemba) — jumped two spots to top the 2015 executive MBA ranking. Its alumni have the second-highest average salaries — $324,000 — and Tiemba is also ranked second for career progression.
The EMBA offered by Kellogg School of the US and Hong Kong’s HKUST takes no 2 in the ranking.
Completing the top-three, the Trium EMBA, a joint venture between HEC Paris of France, London’s LSE and New York’s Stern School, dropped from first to third place.
Meanwhile, 26% of EMBA graduates reported starting their own company during their course or since graduating. This represents a sea change from the traditionally corporate-centric nature of EMBA programs, with many students funded by their employers.
For the fourth year in a row, the top five ranking spots go to the same international programs. The program offered by Columbia and London Business Schools is at no 4; the EMBA at UCLA Anderson and National University Singapore at no 5.
London Business School’s EMBA program is ranked first for international diversity for the second year. The course is divided into two cohorts based in London and Dubai, with students coming from 52 countries.
LBS joins other top UK schools ranked, among them London’s Imperial College Business School, Cass Business School, and Cambridge Judge.
But five schools from five different countries are ranked for the first time this year. Singapore’s Lee Kong Chian School of Business is the highest new entrant at no 35, and Queen’s Smith School of Business of Canada has jumped the highest, climbing 32 spots to no 67.
While joint programs dominate the top of the table, there are notable high-rankings for standalone EMBAs. These include IE and IESE Business Schools of Spain, and CEIBS in China.
The EMBA ranking rates the best 100 programs for senior executives, based on a survey of business schools and their students from the class of 2012. The ranking measures how successful alumni have been in their career, including in terms of salary and seniority.
Students’ main motivations were learning about management, networking, and increasing earnings.
Yet there has been a rise in the number hoping to start their own companies: 17% of graduates rated starting a company as the joint most important reason for enrolling in the program.
At Oxford University’s Saïd Business School, more than 50% of graduates have launched a business. Saïd graduates also have the highest salaries three years after graduating.
This has prompted a shift in the education of executives, with entrepreneurship and other classes now common. Julia Marsh, executive director for leadership programs at LBS, said evolving programs to keep them fresh and relevant “is critical”.
Christoph Loch, dean of Cambridge Judge, said the school is focusing on “the real-world challenges and opportunities facing business executives in an entrepreneurial environment”.
More than 90% of the entrepreneurs at all the schools rated their new skills as important in their decision. And three-quarters said that both the school and their alumni network were helpful when launching their start-up.
Some 40% raised equity only from their own savings, or from family and friends.
Yet only 40% of the entrepreneurs derive most of their income from their company, although they tend to earn more than corporate workers — $194,000 compared with $171,000.
To see the full ranking, visit: http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/executive-mba-ranking-2015
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
