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Deutsch Executive MBA at EBS and Durham: Who is the programme suitable for?
The Executive MBA from EBS University and Durham University is aimed at experienced professionals who aspire to a leadership position or are already working in a managerial role. It particularly targets managers, specialists, and executives from various sectors such as industry, consulting, IT or engineering, as well as founders who wish to specifically develop their business and international skills. The programme is suitable for graduates from different disciplines who want to acquire high-level management and leadership expertise alongside their career and plan the next step in their top management career.
Which formal admission requirements do you need to meet?
To be admitted to the Executive MBA, you must fulfil the following criteria:
- A first university degree (for example, a bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in any discipline with at least 180 ECTS credits or an equivalent recognised qualification.
- At least two years of qualified professional experience after completing your university degree.
- Proof of English language skills: at least TOEFL iBT 95, IELTS 7, Duolingo English Test 125 or proof by an English-language undergraduate degree or at least two years of professional experience in an English-speaking country. For a study-related period abroad, a valid TOEFL or IELTS is mandatory.
- Passing the aptitude test: a valid result in one of the following tests – GMAT, GRE, Business Admissions Test (BAT), EBSgrad Test or CAT. The evaluation is based on the current percentile tables of the test providers.
- Successful individual selection interview in which motivation, communication and social skills are assessed.
You should bring discipline, perseverance and initiative. Analytical skills, solution-oriented thinking as well as very good communication and teamwork skills are essential. Openness to new perspectives, intercultural sensitivity and the ability to inspire others are crucial for a leadership role in an international context. You should enjoy taking responsibility and actively shaping change.
What content and skills does the Executive MBA at EBS University impart?
In the Executive MBA programme at EBS University in partnership with Durham University, you acquire comprehensive business and management knowledge as well as modern leadership skills. The curriculum focuses specifically on internationality, practical relevance, and personal development, and includes the following thematic focal points:
- Global skills and intercultural perspectives: Deepening of international management methods and insights into global economic trends.
- Leadership and change management: Development of your leadership personality, teaching techniques for team and organisational management, dealing with diversity, ethics, and sustainability.
- Business analytics and digitalisation: Acquisition of analytical skills, data analytics, use of artificial intelligence, and utilisation of modern management tools.
- Strategic financial management and performance control: Balance sheets, key figures, financial planning, and risk management for sustainable corporate governance.
- Innovation and transformation competencies: Development and implementation of innovation processes, management of complex change projects.
- Marketing and operations: Future-oriented marketing management and control of sustainable business operations.
- Personal career training: Individual coaching, talent diagnostics, training in personal branding, negotiation techniques, as well as soft skills for international executive management.
Practical application phases in company projects, case studies, excursions, and a capstone project on a real business case are compulsory components. Additionally, you have the opportunity to attend language courses (e.g. German, French, Spanish, Chinese) at the EBS Language Center.
How is the Executive MBA study structured and organised?
The Executive MBA is organised alongside employment and usually lasts 18 to 24 months. The courses combine on-site modules at both locations with digital learning and intensive project phases:
- Hybrid model: The courses mainly take place in compact block form on extended weekends (Thursday to Saturday). On-site phases alternate with digital learning formats.
- Kick-off with Social Impact Challenge: Right at the beginning, you work in international teams on a practical project and present concrete solution concepts.
- Project Field Study: In-depth practical experience through analysis and handling of real company issues in cooperation with partner companies.
- Capstone Project (master’s thesis): Completion with a strategically oriented practical project, which can take place in cooperation with companies.
- International study format: Individual modules as well as exchange or study stays take place at the renowned Durham Management Centre (UK).
- Mentoring and coaching: Individual support by experienced executives, regular career workshops, and leadership talks.
The programme is conducted in English and offers flexibility to combine work and studies. The close integration of theory, practice, and personal development runs through all semesters.
What career prospects does the EBS – DBS Executive MBA open up for graduates?
The Executive MBA at EBS University qualifies you specifically for demanding leadership tasks in various industries. Due to the international orientation, strong corporate network, and career coaching, versatile opportunities arise:
- Assumption of senior management positions in top management of companies, corporations, or medium-sized enterprises – e.g. as managing director, department head, head of strategy, or CFO/CEO.
- Careers in consulting at major management consultancies, leading auditing firms, or as in-house consultant for transformation processes.
- Excellent entry opportunities in international companies (e.g. McKinsey, BCG, Accenture, KPMG, Mercedes Trucks, LinkedIn), often facilitated by the EBS alumni and cooperation network.
- Self-employment and founding of your own start-up or family business through sound entrepreneurial and strategic training.
- Leadership roles in the international environment with the degree from both – German and British – partner universities and associated networks.
According to the university, 100% of graduates find a new position corresponding to their qualifications within three months of graduation.
Where do the on-site phases and study modules of the Executive MBA take place?
The programme is offered as a double degree between EBS University in Oestrich-Winkel (Germany) and Durham University (UK). The physical organisation is structured as follows:
- Main study location is the EBS Campus Rheingau in Oestrich-Winkel, Hesse – a modern study environment with seminar and group work rooms, coaching hubs, and campus life.
- International modules and study stays are completed at the Durham University Business School in the United Kingdom. Here you gain networking experience and international perspectives.
- Additional digital learning phases take place online and ensure maximum flexibility in balancing work with studies.
Through the international cooperation, you benefit from two renowned university locations, intercultural learning experience, and worldwide contacts.
What costs are incurred for the Executive MBA programme and what financing options does EBS University offer?
For the Executive MBA at EBS University with double degree, the total costs amount to 44,950 Euro. This amount covers all study modules, examination fees, support services, and the use of university infrastructure at both locations.
- Travel costs, accommodation, and living expenses (especially abroad) are not included in the tuition fee and must be calculated individually.
- Funding options: EBS University offers various scholarship programmes, early enrolment bonuses, as well as access to educational funds and low-interest loans. Cooperation with banks also enables individual financing solutions.
- Tax advantages: Under certain conditions, costs can be claimed as work-related expenses in income tax.
The university supports the search for suitable financing and relies on individual advice regarding scholarships, partial funding, and the combination of different financing methods.
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