Over two years, students will study in both Europe and the US earning two degrees—a Master in Management (MiM) from ESSEC in France and a Master in Business Analytics (MSBA) from the Tepper School in Pennsylvania.
The ESSEC MiM ranks among the world's best programs, according to the Financial Times. As a STEM-designated degree, Tepper's MSBA will offer ESSEC students the attractive opportunity to work in the US after graduation under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) initiative.
The OPT allows STEM degree students to stay in the US for up to 12 months on an F-1 student visa and then apply for a 24-month extension. This means that STEM students can work in the US for up to three years after graduation, without requiring an H1-B visa in this period.
However, the cost of the dual degree rivals that of an MBA program with students paying full tuition fees at each institution. Currently, ESSEC’s MiM degree costs $43,712 for EU nationals and around $50k for international students. At Tepper, students will pay around $72k for the MSBA program.
Launching the dual degree, the partnership aims to give students essential skills to face today’s global business challenges.
“By joining forces, we will position our students for a truly global experience that prepares them to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world,” said Isabelle Bajeux-Besnainou, dean of Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business.
To further the global interconnectivity of the degree, the schools are also exploring opportunities for exchange programs at ESSEC’s campuses in Singapore and Morocco.
“This partnership will provide invaluable access to a multicultural environment, increased knowledge sharing, and interdisciplinary collaboration, contributing to our common overarching goal of preparing leaders for impactful careers,” said Vincenzo Vinzi, dean and president of ESSEC Business School.
Next Read:
How To Choose The Best Master's Degree For You