European MBAs continue to be on the rise in 2019. But who have been ranked among the best European business schools this year?
The ranking of the best business schools in Europe has been released by the Financial Times (FT). HEC Paris claims top spot, overtaking London Business School, which has held the top spot for the last five years, sitting in second place in this year's ranking.
The good news for HEC Paris comes in the same year that the FT knighted its Executive MBA program as the best in the world, the first European school to hold the top spot in this category since 2015.
Rising from sixth place to a podium finish in this year's European business school ranking is Italy’s SDA Bocconi School of Management, which takes third place. The University of St Gallen retains its fourth place ranking from 2018.
The Financial Times European Business School Ranking, ranking 95 European schools overall, takes into account the ranking of each school’s MBA, Executive MBA, Master’s in Management, and two non-degree Executive Education rankings produced by the FT throughout the year.
The UK and France boast some of the best business schools in Europe
Overall, French schools have a strong showing in 2019’s ranking, with six schools finishing in the top 20, and 26 schools featuring overall. INSEAD and Essec Business School place well in fifth and seventh position respectively, while EMLYON, EDHEC, and ESCP Europe also slot into the top 20.
This comes in the face of considerable public funding cuts to French business schools, who must look elsewhere to sustain their accounts.
EMLYON Business School this year announced a restructuring of their financial model, selling off stakes to private investors in a plan to raise $110 million to reduce its reliance on the publicly funded chambers of commerce and industry (CCIs). Their top twenty ranking suggests a bright future for the school.
In the face of Brexit and political uncertainty, UK business schools have continued to perform strongly in the European business school ranking. The UK equals France with six schools in the top 20, and has 21 schools featured overall.
The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School comes in at 10th, with Cambridge Judge (16th), Warwick (17th), Imperial College Business School (18th), and Cass Business School (19th) finishing close behind.
Germany also has much to celebrate, with ESMT Berlin in ninth place, becoming the first German school to finish inside the top 10.
A strong year for Europe
The rankings cap off what has been a strong year for European business schools. While US programs have seen a 13.7% decrease in international applications, European programs have continued to grow, slowly but steadily. 56% of European programs reported an increase in application numbers this year.
Europe as a study destination remains as popular as ever, with five of the top 10 study destinations found in Europe—UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, and Spain.
The Top 20 European Business Schools 2019
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
