You will also enjoy a multilingual and multicultural environment. European business schools often offer exchange opportunities, international projects, and study trips to both enhance the learning experience and help students develop professionally and personally.
Here, we spoke to students from leading European business schools about why they chose to study in Europe, and why it is such a popular destination for those aiming to excel in their careers.
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International study in Europe can broaden your horizons
For many students, Europe offers the chance to study in a diverse, international environment with access to top-tier education and global networks.
For her IMBA, Emma Rugazoora, from Uganda, chose Spain’s IE Business School, based in Madrid. “I picked IE for its focus on innovation and impact-driven leadership,” she says.
“Spain is a country rich in culture and I enjoyed exploring different regions. I also quickly built meaningful connections with classmates from different parts of the world and discovered new interests and career paths I hadn’t considered before.”
And introduce you to new culinary experiences
Marianne Keketso Mbatha, from South Africa, opted to do her MBA at IESE Business School, another top institution based in Spain. She relished the opportunity to develop on both a personal and professional level, with IESE’s practical, case-based learning and focus on leadership and entrepreneurship providing an environment where she could develop her critical thinking and leadership skills.
Though, Marianne adds that she was particularly attracted to the experience of living in a new country, which turned out to be the highlight of her MBA journey.
"The mix of cultures, languages, and perspectives really appealed to me—not just academically, but also because I love traveling, trying new foods, and learning about different ways of life," she explains.
“What I most enjoyed about studying in Spain is how warm and welcoming the people are. And the food is incredible! I love how there is such a strong culture of being outdoors."
Business schools in Europe offer strong collaboration opportunities
Europe was the first choice for Chinye-Nwoko Oghenefejiro, from Nigeria, who chose the region for its distinct cultural benefits, including opportunities to cross borders and gain experience that spans different business cultures.
“I wanted an environment that would be inclusive for me as an African and a woman,” she explains. “I also wanted an environment that I could be part of after my graduation in terms of opportunities for collaboration, and Europe is well known for that.”
Chinye-Nwoko earned her EMBA at ESADE Business School in Barcelona and enjoyed travelling to Japan, Germany, and the US during her studies. She highlights one particular opportunity to consult for a social enterprise in Ghana as setting the course of her professional career post-graduation.
European business schools are globally respected
When enrolling in his MSc in Business, Donald Muchiri Kariuki chose BI Norwegian Business School, based in Oslo, because of its “strong international reputation”.
The MSc in Business at BI is highly regarded, placing among the best business schools in the 2024 Financial Times European Business Schools Ranking. For Donald it also offered core classes that would build his knowledge in finance, and optional classes that would allow him to develop in other areas of interest.
Classes at the school were highly interactive and involved analyzing many interesting case studies, he says, adding that faculty were always available to assist students.
“They always push students to be the best versions of themselves.”
European business schools can prepare you for diverse pathways
When it came to deciding where to earn his MBA, Kenya’s Alex Mwangi Wambugu, whose background was in development finance, was clear: “Europe and especially London was a key factor in my decision-making. As one of the world's financial hubs, London offers numerous opportunities to engage with financial institutions, many of which have operations and influence in Africa,” he says.
While he gave particular focus to finance courses after entering the MBA program at London Business School, the curriculum helped him gain insights into other fields such as marketing and operations, helping him become a more well-rounded candidate.
For students considering an MBA, Alex offers this advice: “Gain an understanding of the unique value-add that each school offers and how it will fit in with your individual experience and goals.”
A degree from a European business school will standout on your resume
Of course, while enrolling in a business master’s can help you unlock new cultural experiences and expand your mindset, a key reason for making the jump to business school is professional development.
A degree from a top European school can significantly enhance your career opportunities, feels Nigeria’s Blessing Ehinomen Ebare, who earned her master’s at University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
“Earning a master's degree from a globally recognized institution enhanced my credibility and competitiveness in the global job market," she says. “It also demonstrated my commitment to continuous learning and professional development, positioning me as a qualified candidate for advancement and leadership roles within my field.”
Blessing adds that the MBA catalyzed her career advancement, opening doors to higher-level opportunities and enabling her to progress along the professional ladder.
For more info about what it's like to study in Europe, the opportunities for personal and professional development, and tips on how to make it a reality, download our BusinessBecause Study In Europe Guide
