What is life really like for an MBA student at Copenhagen Business School? We spent the day on campus to find out
The building where students take the bulk of their classes backs on to a park next to Copenhagen Zoo. But there are no elephants in the classroom. Everyone knows why they are here: sustainability.It’s what associate dean and professor of Business in Society on the Copenhagen MBA program, Andreas Rasche (pictured below, right), wants to run through the entire program. He believes that’s the only way for a business school to send a credible message to students that they’re committed to sustainability.
I had the privilege of attending one of his classes recently, on labor rights. The overarching question for his students to discuss was, ‘Are companies responsible for the social and environmental problems at their suppliers?’
It was my first experience in an MBA classroom, but I was quickly shown that the MBA students from Copenhagen Business School I’ve spoken to over the past year don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk.
Quickly after Andreas’s presentation, the discussion broke out, and moved towards child labor.
One student argues that children should be given access to education rather than forced into work. A classmate pushes back, claiming that this is a luxury issue—what if that child doesn’t have access to free education and instead has to work to feed and support their family?
Posing the question of whether sweatshops are an appropriate way of reducing poverty then sparks further discussion—one student, who grew up in an area of India where sweatshops are prominent, brings in his real-life cultural perspective.
Andreas says that this platform for discussion is the essence of the MBA classroom. It’s about the promotion of ideas, creating innovation, and forcing students to think.
After the initial debate, students are walked through a case study by Andreas, before being split into groups to continue their discussion.
Andreas says this is part of his plan to move away from an old-style lecture model. He says that this isn’t the case at some other business schools, where colleagues of his still teach case studies in the traditional way.
“When you do this [group work], you make the students talk. When you’re teaching cases, you have to be innovative, creative.
“When it is one group, there are a select few who lead the discussion. When they are in groups, everyone is involved.”
In September, The Economist’s Bartleby column—a weekly column about management and the world of work—spoke about the ‘wisdom of crowds’, and the fact that in big groups people are more aware of the views of others, and thus herd towards the majority view.
Indeed, the same article referenced a paper by three American academics—Ethan Bernstein, Jesse Shore, and David Lazer—that found intermittent collaborators, those kept informed of peers’ thoughts now and then, solved challenges as much as those who worked independently, and had a better average solution.
Discussion and collaboration are key aspects of the MBA at . James Bryce Smith, a current student on the Copenhagen MBA, explains that the diversity of his cohort coaxes out the best of cultural learning during classes.
“It brings a lot of different perspectives. One of the big learnings has been how many different ideas you can get the more brains you put in,” he says. “Good things come out of that.”
James, who has a background in marketing and chose the Copenhagen MBA to transition his career towards sustainability, adds that there is a really good balance between classroom discussions, guest speakers, and case study problems.
“This sort of discussion and reflection really does help to anchor it within your brain,” he says. “You can relate it to your own experiences and your future plans, and that’s what helps you to understand and retain it.”
James is keen to explore entrepreneurship during his time on the MBA, but it must be a startup with sustainability at its core.
“At this stage of my career I want to make a positive impact in the world, and not just work for a traditional 20th century organization that is exploiting planetary resources,” he explains.
The nature of the MBA cohort at Copenhagen Business School means he can draw on the experience of Christian Mahler (pictured below, right) one of his classmates with a background in entrepreneurship and startups in Berlin.
Christian chose the program because of its keen attention to entrepreneurship. Eight weeks in, he says that the pace of learning and the breadth of topics covered means students are given a holistic overview of the business world.
“It’s very fast moving,” he adds. “Personally, I am still at day one, and I really want to be open to any subject and information. I want to keep this mindset for as long as possible.
“I will decide later where the journey will take me, but it will be somehow in entrepreneurship, building up businesses. Where exactly, I want to be open to that.”
Prashant Singh (pictured below, right) another current MBA student at , echoes James and Christian’s sentiments. “The classroom and professors are so approachable,” he explains.
Prashant, who has a background in engineering and worked as a consultant in India before the MBA, adds that the welcoming nature in the Copenhagen classroom makes a pleasant change from his past education.
In India, he explains that you have to address your professors as Sir, or Madam. The easy communication in the Copenhagen classroom fosters an atmosphere for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Sustainability was a key pull factor in his decision to embark on the program as well, he says.
“I wanted to go for something that can provide direction and, of course, sustainability, which is very close to my heart.
“Since Copenhagen stands for sustainability, that’s what brought me here.”
Student Reviews
Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
CBS: efficient international network
CBS has always been ranked among the best universities in Europe and this means that it has become a sign of professionalism and success.
The academic level is great thanks to the good teachers and the atmosphere is proactive and challenging. Lots of events are planned every week and this helps you to find your own way.
CBS is not only a business school, it is a great and efficient international network.
Good academic career
I did my Bachelors at CBS and their academic excellence and career opportunities led me to pursue my Masters in Accounting, Strategy and Control. I was very lucky to go on an exchange in Singapore for one semester it boosted me to get a career in a global firm. I like that it is super modern and has all the facilities for the business student in 2019. Especially, I liked the library and Bitlab where I spent most of my time studying. However, note that it is very demanding and studying here is no joke. Everything is very competitive and you are among the most excellent business students in the country. The interaction with international students helped me to see different perspectives in business and culturally and I was lucky to make friends from any part of the world. CBS is like a brand in Denmark. Every serious business company prioritizes us over any other Danish university and also it is free for European citizens. Overall, I have a very satisfying experience at CBS and I'm looking to continue my academical career even further.
CBS is one of the best!
All I have to say regarding my experience at CBS is that it is AMAZING. Having been tutored by world-class academic staff, I can definitely support that I am receiving the best of quality regarding my studies in Digital Marketing. Staff is very friendly and easy to approach. In addition, the facilities we enjoy are top class and meet any demands. Keep in mind that, EU citizens do not pay any fees. Student life might be non-existent here, but the location of the University in The very center of Copenhagen has a huge variety of choices to offer to students regarding their entertainment. Accommodation might be a problem, but early research of the market can be very useful. In addition, the University promotes diversity. In CBS University you can meet people from the whole world which is quite interesting. I definitely suggest CBS for any student who he's interested in pursuing a career in marketing or business.
The ideal business school
I have been enrolled in this university for 2 semesters. What I took from this experience is that there is nothing better out there for those looking for professional growth while being guided by some of the top-notch professors in Scandinavia. They have a really strong focus in technology and digital transformation and they are up to date to guarantee you land a job in the modern fast-evolving world. They also embrace diversity which means many students come from any part of the world and it takes the entire learning experience to another level. You simply learn from every other student cause everyone has different experiences and background which makes you open your mind and see the world from a different angle. In Denmark, even businesses prioritize people who graduate from CBS as it's commonly perceived as the most prestigious university for business graduates.
A Place of Personal Growth
In CBS you can expect an environment of proactive thinking and growth.
The university staff is always open to help and to debate. The teaching methods balance theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling the student with capacity and confidence to enter the job market successfully. The existence of students from all over the world stimulates discussion and promotion of different cultures, ideas and perspectives. I highly recommend this university for students in business-related areas.
Environment
The environment here is really great. Despite the well organized buildings and libraries, there are also places for students to just stay and relax also even study in the corners of each campus. The professors are mostly really nice and try to interact with students a lot. So, to sum up, the environment is really nice for studying here.
Quality education
Quality education where it emphazises the importance of academic. No finger to put on this aspect of the school.
However, sometimes the administration and IT can be lacking a bit, but in general a really good choice for education!
Best Time!
Classes are challenging and conducted in a professional manner. CBS offers a wide range of possibilities to develop outside of the classes! Libraries and other facilities on the campus are very well adjusted to the student needs.
A heavily theory-based curriculum combined with an ever-stimulating environment
I am currently a Master student at CBS, but I have also completed a Bachelor's Degree in this university. I am quite satisfied with my studies and the teaching level. However, when compared to other business schools, it becomes apparent that most courses at CBS strive to find a good balance between theoretical insight and real-life examples. Compared to my exchange university, the projects that I have found myself writing at CBS have a far less practical application and also leave little room for creativity. If the teaching is heavily theoretical, on the bright side, the university arranges a number of events throughout the year to encourage students to apply their knowledge, in the form of career fairs, case competitions, and other events organized by student associations. In my experience, teachers are very easily approachable and happy to answer your questions. A foreign student like me will find a more international environment at Master level, since the number of international (or at least non-Scandinavian) students enrolled in the Bachelor programs is quite low. However, all communication (both oral and written) from teachers and the university offices is always in English. Administrative offices, student guidance services, the career center, and the international office are definitely worth a mention. All of the requests that I have had throughout the years have always been met with kindness, promptness and efficiency.
