Acting, cooking, and climbing mountains. Some business schools serve up the unexpected on their MBA syllabus
In a classroom of 20 MBA students, there’s a good chance every individual will have a different reason for being there.For some, it's all about building a business network; for others, it's about getting a higher salary. The reasons are many and varied.
Yet it is the unexpected delights which often distinguish one MBA syllabus from the next—whether this is the opportunity to get in touch with your artistic side, to learn how to improvise, or even to change the lives of the least fortunate.
Here's nine business schools with an MBA syllabus covering things you might be surprised to find:
1. Get in touch with your creative side,
In the business world, it is not uncommon to be asked to ‘think outside the box’. Thinking creatively and in an unconventional way can separate the great from the good.
The ‘Friday Forum’ series on the Lisbon MBA syllabus embraces this, incorporating regular ‘out of the box experiences’ as part of their program.
This changes from week to week, and is as varied as sampling European cuisine, learning how to write a book in a day, to exploring the famed Portuguese Fado culture. Each session is similar in pushing Lisbon MBA students out of their comfort zones and into the mentality of letting creativity take over.
2. Become an explorer, Cass Business School
An MBA is not unlike climbing a mountain—it can be an uphill struggle at times, with challenging circumstances, but can provide wonderful outcomes and views at the top.
The Expeditionary Society (XPS) at Cass has taken this metaphor to heart, taking its MBA students into the world’s great wildernesses. The expeditions encourage leadership and teamwork in the frequently adverse conditions in which their explorers find themselves.
Now in its third year, the XPS has trekked to the South Pole, explored the ancient Lost City in Colombia, and climbed Mount Fansipan—one of southeast Asia’s highest mountains.
3. Adopt the philosophical position,
The great ancient Greek philosophers, like Plato and Aristotle, shaped our understanding of the human nature and behavior.
Cranfield’s MBA adopts the position that the key to great business leadership might be through understanding human nature. Choosing an elective module entitled ‘Leaders as Thinkers’ offers the philosophical perspective which may very well give students the upper hand in challenging situations.
In a globalized world where business perspectives vary greatly, this philosophy module on the MBA syllabus teaches students to ‘articulate their position in situations where ‘the right answer’ does not exist’.
4. Work for a soccer club,
Liverpool, north-west England, the home of The Beatles and the fateful Titanic, also proudly boasts one of the world’s most prestigious and successful soccer clubs, Liverpool FC.
For those not fortunate enough to wear the shirt, the Football Industries MBA at Liverpool Business School offers students the exciting opportunity to work at institutions like Liverpool FC. and Manchester City.
Offering a soccer-shaped lens of marketing, leadership, and innovation, among others, offers a lucrative pathway into the great soccer clubs from which the ‘beautiful game’ earns its name.
5. Rebuild business in post-conflict society, University of Notre Dame: Mendoza
War, along with the tragic loss of human life, can critically damage infrastructure and industry, bringing a society to its knees. Learning how to rebuild post-conflict societies is a complex challenge, and one which starts with business.
This is the drive behind the ‘Business on the Frontlines’ program on the MBA at Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. Students work to define the problems that post-conflict societies face, and work with local industry to repair and rebuild.
Since its initiation in 2008, the program has worked to empower disadvantaged women in Palestine, revitalized agriculture markets in East Timor, and tackled youth unemployment in Rwanda.
6. Paint like a professional, IEDC Bled School of Management
Renowned Spanish painter Pablo Picasso was never one to shy away from pushing boundaries—his distinctive paintings, once met with shock and revulsion, are now appreciated as masterpieces of creativity.
Like the trailblazers of the artistic community, MBA students at IEDC Bled are taught to embrace creative leadership in the business world, as part of the syllabus. At the Center for Arts and Leadership, creativity and socially responsible leadership is nurtured through painting, sculpture, and drawing classes.
Through inspiring and encouraging artistic creation, the school aims to create leaders who become ‘artful in their behavior and solutions’.
7. Think on your feet, MIT Sloan
Curveballs and plot twists can be a worst nightmare for business professionals. As circumstances drastically change, there is a fine line between staying afloat and letting chaos take over.
Thinking on your feet can often be the solution. The hallowed art of improvisation, favored by performers on shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway?, offers the secrets and skills of rapid decision-making to MBA students at MIT Sloan.
Daena Giardella, course director of Sloan’s ‘Improvisational Leadership’ module, illustrates how improvisation “teaches us to take risks and to respond confidently in the moment to whatever happens”.
8. Mastering mindfulness,
"Living 24 hours with mindfulness is more worthwhile than living 100 years without it."
This belief, one of the founding principles of Buddhism, reveals the importance of keeping a calm head and remaining mindful in the face of daily challenges. The stressful environment of an MBA might seem to be at odds with this; on the contrary, Rotterdam School of Management sees mindfulness as the groundwork of their MBA.
The MBA leadership retreat removes students from the classroom and surrounds them with nature, everywhere from Catalonia to South Africa.
“During an MBA, participants get a lot of new information in a very short amount of time,” comments Dr Daan Stam, academic professor of RSM’s MBA. The retreat is breathing space, a chance to download and process all of this information.
9. Getting ‘touchy feely’,
Making tracks in the business world pins largely on your ability to build personal relationships with the people around you. Sometimes, this involves getting out of your comfort zone and really getting to know people.
Nicknamed the ‘touchy feely’ course, Stanford’s ‘Interpersonal Dynamics’ syllabus module forces MBA students to break down their barriers and interact with their peers on a personal level.
Enhancing emotional intelligence and reinforcing positive feedback systems is all part of creating the rounded, respected professionals for which Stanford is famous.
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
Studying at a top level
At City, University of London, academics are known for their dedication to student success. They employ interactive teaching methods, generally in small class sizes, and prioritize personalized learning above traditional lectures. Group projects, debates, and hands-on activities help students stay involved and retain knowledge. What stands out is the instructors' frequent check-ins with students, whether through additional study sessions, comprehensive feedback, or simply being available to answer queries. They demonstrate a genuine interest in students' personal and academic development, making their assistance absolutely outstanding.
This place is amazing
My experience at City, University of London, has been great. The lectures are where it's at; our presenters are industry specialists who transform complex subjects into captivating narratives that leave you wanting more. They are enthusiastic about teaching and employ novel approaches to bring their subjects to life. I've witnessed firsthand their desire to go above and beyond, whether by staying late after class or sharing additional materials. They are committed to ensuring every student's success, and it is evident that they are invested in our educational path.
Genuinely assistance and care
City, University of London, has been a fantastic experience for me. The instructors are specialists in their subjects, and their passion and participation in teaching is encouraging. They are constantly accessible to answer questions and offer assistance, making the learning experience genuinely exceptional. The school and surrounding region are great, with a lot to do and see. I've enjoyed my time here and value the high-quality education I've gotten. The university's commitment to providing entertaining and helpful lectures has made a significant difference in my academic career.
The value of good education
My experience at City University, London, has been extraordinarily beneficial. The lecturers are kind and actually care about their students' success, going above and beyond to ensure we understand the content. The academic environment is excellent, and the university fosters a strong sense of community. The professors genuinely care about their students, and there are numerous tools accessible to help us throughout our studies and beyond. I am glad for the opportunity to study here, and I value the university's commitment to student success.
