Business programs that develop tomorrow’s leaders

The 21st century throws a unique gauntlet at leaders. They face challenges like never before. There are breakneck technological advances to keep up with and teams in multiple countries to unite. To overcome such challenges, they need new skills to succeed.

The best postgraduate degrees today give executives the tools and tenacity to thrive in this fast-changing environment in an increasingly complex world. For example, MBA programs are no longer confined to traditional business models. Many leading institutions offer programs that cover the intersection of finance and technology, preparing graduates to lead in the face of rapid technological shifts within the financial sector. This equips them to understand emerging trends like blockchain and cryptocurrency.

MSc Finance degrees are also evolving. Top programs include courses in behavioral finance, allowing graduates to understand the psychological factors influencing financial decision-making. This will help future leaders navigate global markets and make sound financial decisions.

More importantly, by bridging the gap between theory and practice, these postgraduate degrees are cultivating a new generation of leaders with the agility, critical thinking, and specialized knowledge to rise above the complexities of today’s world. If this is something that you’re seeking, here are four universities that offer top business programs:

Source: American University of Sharjah

The School of Business Administration at the American University of Sharjah emphasizes experiential learning, offering hands-on experience and professional certifications. Source: American University of Sharjah

American University of Sharjah

Founded in 1997, the American University of Sharjah has quickly established itself as a leader in the region. With an alumni network that includes ministers and business leaders, the university nurtures an entrepreneurial mindset, preparing students for the ever-evolving world of business.

Home to the School of Business Administration (SBA), students can pursue various programs, including the MBA, MSA, MSF, Master of Science in Economics and Policy (MSEP), and PhD in Finance.

The MBA uses a blended learning approach that combines online and in-person instruction. This flexibility caters to various learning styles and allows for self-paced study. The MSA program equips students with advanced accounting knowledge and techniques for a successful career in public or private accounting. It can also significantly enhance the chances of passing the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.

Source: American University of Sharjah

For those seeking expertise in finance, the MSF program is for you. It hones the analytical skills necessary to thrive in today’s global financial environment and prepares for the CFA level II certification exam. Meanwhile, the PhD program offers unique research opportunities and prepares graduates for academic careers. A partnership with the University of South Carolina, Darla Moore School of Business, allows PhD-BA students to spend a year abroad, gaining valuable international experience and earning degrees from both institutions.

The best part? All SBA programs prioritize experiential learning, with hands-on experiences, professional certifications, and industry exposure woven into the curriculum. Pair that with state-of-the-art facilities, including recording labs, a Bloomberg trading floor, a professional clothing closet, and diverse workspaces, and students have all the tools they need to thrive. No wonder SBA graduates are consistently sought-after by employers in the UAE.

The SBA’s reputation is further bolstered by its highly diverse faculty and student body. Both are renowned experts in their respective fields. Interested? Learn more about SBA programs here.

Porto Business School has triple international accreditation from AMBA, AACSB, and EFMD, a rare distinction achieved by only two percent of global business schools, highlighting the excellence of its MBA programmes. Source: Porto Business School/Facebook

University of Porto

With over 30 years of experience in providing executive education and training, Porto Business School – under the world-acclaimed University of Porto — holds many accolades, such as the 34th spot on the 2023 Financial Times ranking, 38th place in 2023 QS Executive MBA Ranking and the prestigious AACSB accreditation.

The triple-accredited (AMBA, EFMD and AACSB) one-year International MBA — with a two-year part-time option — trains students in management, entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Faculty members deliver this immersive programme with a strategic blend of industry-relevant topics such as management and innovation.

Students gain international exposure as well through Immersion Week at a partner school abroad (with an option for another two experiential weeks in China and Europe), exchange opportunities, and business case competitions (Porto Business School has an excellent track record of winning). 

The English-taught Executive Master in International Business is a mix of theoretical foundations as well as both hard and soft skills for successful project management. Students can attend Innovation Master Classes taught by national and international lecturers — addressing topics such as Strategy and Innovation, Design Thinking, Leadership, Data Mining or Digital Transformation — and even choose to earn a double degree (Executive Master in International Business by Porto Business School and an MSc from the University of Stirling).

The setting for these programmes? Vibrant Porto, voted Best European Destination thrice. Their campus is just as dynamic — it is open 24/7 and bears the distinction of being the first Portuguese school to have a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold-certified building as well.

At Copenhagen Business School, students can select from over 30 postgraduate programmes, each offering its own unique specialisation. Source: Copenhagen Business School/Facebook

At Copenhagen Business School, students can select from over 30 postgraduate programmes, each offering its own unique specialisation. Source: Copenhagen Business School/Facebook

Copenhagen Business School

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, a postgraduate programme from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) could be a good launchpad. Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark, CBS is one of the largest business schools in Europe and one of the country’s eight universities.

CBS is known for its innovative and collaborative learning environment. Classes are small and led by world-class faculty, and the student body is diverse, representing over 50 nationalities. Such rich cultures and perspectives create a stimulating learning environment where you’ll be challenged to think outside the box and develop your unique voice. At the same time, it can help you build a strong international network that will benefit you throughout your career.

CBS offers many master’s programmes, including the MSc in Economics and Business Administration, the MSc in International Business and Politics, and the MSc in Economics and Finance. All are taught in English and designed to give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in today’s global business world.

If you’re looking for an MBA programme to help you take your career to the next level while doing good for the planet, the Copenhagen Full-Time MBA at CBS is an excellent option. Core courses and elective concentrations let you tailor your studies to your interests and goals. You can choose from four concentrations: Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship, Finance, or Governance and Sustainability. What you learn can be immediately applied to the real world through the Integrated Strategy Project, where you tackle a strategic business challenge with a local company.

At Warwick Business School, you learn, build a second home and forge friendships with peers from across the globe. Source: Warwick Business School Facebook

At Warwick Business School, you learn, build a second home and forge friendships with peers from across the globe. Source: Warwick Business School Facebook

University of Warwick

Warwick Business School (WBS) has been the alma mater for many leaders since 1967. From its roots within the University of Warwick, WBS has become the university’s largest department, boasting a vibrant alumni network of over 53,000 in 167 countries.

WBS offers a range of top-ranked postgraduate programmes, including the Global Online MBA, which ranks third in the world according to the Financial Times Online MBA Ranking 2024. Other top programmes like MSc Business Analytics, MSc Business with Marketing, and MSc Accounting & Finance cater to diverse interests. No matter which programme you join, you’ll cultivate critical thinking and develop a drive to make a positive impact.

Designed for future “change-makers,” WBS’s programmes push students to learn, debate, and challenge the status quo. These rigorous courses equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in their careers and make a difference.

Aspiring business leaders can pursue an MBA at WBS and develop the expertise to make an immediate global impact. Gain new perspectives, connect with a global network, and invest in your future through various study options. Choose from full-time, part-time, online, or on-campus programmes at Warwick or The Shard in London. You can tailor the programme to your needs.

For those seeking a research career, WBS offers PhD programmes like the MRes/PhD Finance & Economics and Doctor of Business Administration. These programmes combine structured training with mentorship from leading academics, preparing you for success in top universities or global organisations. Just ask Veriko Ichkiti, current doctoral researcher, PhD Business & Management.

“Academic training, conferences, and seminars offered by WBS enrich our knowledge and skills, eventually leading to high-quality research output, setting a foundation for a successful academic career,” she says. 

*Some of the institutions featured in this article are commercial partners of Study International