The Durham-EBS Executive MBA offers an ideal part-time opportunity for you to advance your career and prepare for your future. Benefit from the teaching experience delivered by two renowned European universities: EBS Universität & Durham University.
Durham University and EBS Universität have partnered to offer a distinctive EMBA programme. This programme is designed to enhance your leadership skills and broaden your global business perspective with two degrees in just 18 months. You will experience a blend of academic theory and practical application in the historic setting of Durham in the UK and the scenic Rhine region of Germany. Become part of the alumni networks of two renowned European universities and benefit from their strengths and traditions. The Durham-EBS Executive MBA is an investment in your future that will enable you to make a difference in the global business world.
The future necessitates a new approach to business practice and new leaders who place as much emphasis on societal values as on business success. The future needs executives with the ability to think internationally, work creatively, reflect, and act strategically. Study at two renowned European universities to become a leader who makes a difference.
Empowering future success
Advance your career without compromising your commitments Experience the unique flexibility of our Executive MBA (EMBA) programme with a choice of two study locations: EBS Universität and Durham University. Designed for experienced managers, our programme prioritises the compatibility of study and work. You can choose all optional modules to suit your schedule and study either in Germany, the UK or both. This gives you a personalised and enriching EMBA experience.
International and inspirational The Durham-EBS Executive MBA encourages the development of business acumen to facilitate better decision making in a dynamic and volatile environment. In addition, the programme affords the opportunity to develop an executive skill set and an international network. During the programme you will work with peers who represent a range of academic backgrounds, nationalities, job functions, industry sectors and companies. Diversity makes the difference. Cohorts are normally represented by a range of academic backgrounds, including business and economics, the social, natural and physical sciences, computer science, law, medicine, and others. Typically, students represent 6 to 10 nationalities, range in age from 28 to 50, and come from diverse professional backgrounds such as aerospace, aviation, automotive, banking and finance, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, consulting, consumer products, engineering and technology, energy and power generation, IT, law, logistics and transport, healthcare, retail, and NGOs. Some students may hold professional qualifications obtained through certified training programmes.
We make studying an experience. Experience two weeklong residential stays in Durham, an optional week in Silicon Valley, as well as group events and guest speakers throughout the programme. We start by focusing on you and your fellow students with personal introductions and an introduction to Durham University Business School. We then partake in a two-day offsite experience in the charming English Lake District, where enduring relationships are formed. Together with your peers you will develop mindfulness and self-awareness techniques that will help guide you through the programme and your career. Later in the programme, as part of an exclusive cooperation, you will have the opportunity to study the entrepreneurial and start-up culture of Silicon Valley for a week at the University of San Francisco’s School of Management.
Working together to build a network that lasts a lifetime. You'll get access to a combined network of over 210,000 graduates through Durham University and EBS Universität alumni associations. Durham University Business School serves more than 36,000 alumni in over 140 countries and EBS Universität’s network includes over 12,000 graduates who serve in senior positions around the world.
Click on the logos to learn more about Durham University and EBS Universität:
About Durham University
Established nearly 200 years ago, Durham University is the third oldest university in England. Durham is one of the world’s leading Business Schools and is among an elite group of schools worldwide that carry the internationally recognised triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA and EFMD/EQUIS). Triple accreditation, or the “Triple Crown”, is achieved by only a select few of the best business schools in Europe. All programmes combine academic excellence and incisive research with exceptional global business connections. Durham works with partners around the world to push boundaries.
About EBS Universität
Founded in 1971, EBS Universität is one of the oldest privately-owned universities in Germany and is known for its competence, excellence, alumni, and business networks. Under the aegis of the private, state recognised EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht, EBS offers a unique portfolio consisting of Bachelor’s, Law, Master’s, and Doctoral programmes as well as first-rate executive education for working professionals. EBS is renowned for excellent research results together with a strong focus on practical application. In 2016, the EBS became part of the non-profit foundation SRH.
Perspectives
The first step towards a successful future
After completing your Executive MBA programme many options are open to you – from taking on greater responsibility within your current firm or progressing into a different job function. Many Durham-EBS EMBA graduates work successfully in senior positions.
Applicants who have gained experience in any sector including business, consulting, finance, legal, scientific, technology, and other professional fields are well positioned to further develop their career through the Durham-EBS Executive MBA.
Our strong network
This programme will serve as the cornerstone of your international career and support your continued development by providing you with:
Ongoing mentoring, guidance, and support from our experienced programme directors.
The opportunity to work with a certified coach at EBS to reassess your life goals and career path.
Access to an extensive alumni network - Durham University Business School has over 36,000 alumni and EBS Universität has a global alumni base of over 12,000 individuals.
Ongoing operational support from our team of academic and EMBA programme experts for all your needs.
Access to an online career platform, supported by Durham University Business School, to enhance your additional skills.
Membership of Hatfield College at Durham University, giving you access to local services and dedicated student support.
A dedicated student support service to assist you with any challenges you may encounter during your studies.
Success stories
A successful network - our alumni.
Our demonstrated expertise in imparting knowledge, skills and different approaches to solving business problems is proven in a strong network of alumni, many of whom work in top positions in business. By studying the Durham-EBS Executive MBA you will become part of the alumni networks of both Durham University Business School and EBS Universität. Alumni of the Durham-EBS Executive MBA outline their motivations and experiences below.
The Executive MBA is completed on a part-time basis and instruction is delivered primarily in monthly three-day modules over 14 months, followed by a 4-month strategic business project. With an emphasis on in-person delivery, you will engage with professors, fellow students, and programme materials designed to optimise the learning environment.
Programme structure of the Executive MBA
Students enjoy a one-week residential at Durham University in September of their first and second year, during which they complete one core module. The other core modules are taught at the EBS campus in Oestrich-Winkel, Germany. Students may take all their optional modules at EBS or at Durham, or a combination of both locations. In addition, students may participate in a one-week elective module on New Venture Creation offered by the University of San Francisco School of Management.
Study content
This is what you learn during the Durham-EBS Executive MBA
You will complete nine core modules, three elective modules from a range of electives offered, and the capstone strategic business project within 18 months. Two residential stays at Durham University are held respectively in September of the first and second year. To enable students to broaden their international educational experience, a special week-long elective module is offered in Silicon Valley through our cooperation with the University of San Francisco School of Management.
Study content
Core modules
The core modules enable you to develop deeper knowledge of business strategy and functional expertise. Two of the core modules are completed during the residential stays in Durham. Modules are held monthly typically from Thursday to Saturday and include:
Accounting
Boardroom Exercise
Economics for Global Business
Finance
Leading and Managing People
Marketing
Operations and Technology
Strategic Management
Sustainability and Ethics
Elective modules
During the second term you will select three elective modules from several options. The electives allow you to tailor your study focus to match your professional interests, needs and goals. Elective modules are offered at both EBS Universität and Durham University, with an additional option of studying in the United States. The elective modules typically include the following:
Advanced Finance for Business
Business Analytics
Leading Change
Management Consultancy
Negotiation
New Venture Creation (typically offered in San Francisco)
Project Management
Residential weeks
Students enjoy residential stays at Durham University during the first and second year of their studies. The first-year residential enables you to get to know your fellow students, be introduced to the programme, and become familiar with Durham University and the city of Durham.
Considerable time is dedicated to group formation and relationship building. This occurs through a range of indoor and outdoor activities in Durham and the Lake District National Park. During this time, you will get to know your fellow students better, make valuable contacts, and further develop your personal skills. You will also complete your first core module during this week, Leading and Managing People.
The second-year residential focuses on the Boardroom Exercise core module, a real-life management simulation that draws from learnings gained in the previous modules. The course is highly interactive, and students work with non-executive directors of UK companies and organisations as they refine their work.
New Venture Creation elective module
The New Venture Creation elective module enhances the international component of your studies with additional experience abroad. You will immerse yourself in an entrepreneurial environment and dynamic business culture while studying the development and launch of new business ideas. During this one-week module you will attend lectures at the University of San Francisco School of Management, visit start-ups in Silicon Valley, and learn from industry leaders who have founded successful businesses, which in prior years have included the Cisco, Intel, Salesforce, and The North Face.
Strategic business project
As you approach the culmination of your studies, you will have the opportunity to explore a business issue or contemporary challenge in your company, industry, or sector, utilising the experience, knowledge and skills developed in the programme in a final strategic business project.
Leadership training
In addition to exceptional knowledge transfer, the programme promotes individual leadership skills and professional development. Throughout the programme you have many opportunities to develop your leadership approach and capabilities.
During your studies you will be working in interdisciplinary, international teams of students. You will sharpen your analytical and problem-solving skills while refining your communication skills and ability to convince others of your ideas.
Learning will take place through a combination of teaching, group work and discussion. You will work on business case studies to recognise, evaluate and resolve various business challenges faced by organisations. You will draw on contemporary business practice, theory, and research to analyse the underlying issues and propose real-world solutions.
AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is a global not-for-profit organisation that brings together educators, students and businesses to achieve a common goal: to educate the next generation of leaders. Since 1916, AACSB has stood for the highest standards of quality, providing quality assurance, business education information, and learning and development services worldwide.
In 2022, EBS Universität was reaccredited by Wissenschaftsrat, the German Council of Science and Humanities, for the next 5 years.
This academic seal of quality is awarded to non-governmental universities whose performance in teaching and research meets recognised scientific standards. The period of accreditation by the Wissenschaftsrat is for a maximum of ten years, depending on the outcome of the review process. The Wissenschaftsrat is one of Germany’s most critical science policy advisory bodies and advises the federal and state governments on developing universities, science and research. In the multi-stage accreditation procedure, which includes the submission of a self-report by the university and a visit to the university by an external group of experts over several days, the university is evaluated in eight key areas. These include its academic quality in research and teaching, its structures and equipment, and its quality assurance and development.
All study programmes at EBS Universität are accredited by the Accreditation Council and are reviewed regularly in cooperation with the accreditation agency FIBAA.
The superordinate Foundation Akkreditierungsrat is an association of the German federal states aiming for quality assurance in learning and teaching at German universities. Since 2018, following the conversion of the German accreditation process, the Akkreditierungsrat has focused on the decision of accreditations. These are based on reviews of the accreditation agencies on programme accreditations as well as system accreditations. Thus, the Akkreditierungsrat plays an essential role in the final evaluation of the respective study programme. The Accreditation Council only accepts expert reports from accreditation agencies that have the EQAR registration of the Accreditation Council. The degree programmes at EBS Universität have been assessed by FIBAA, which is notably recognised in business and economics.
AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) is a global not-for-profit organisation that brings together educators, students and businesses to achieve a common goal: to educate the next generation of leaders. Since 1916, AACSB has stood for the highest standards of quality, providing quality assurance, business education information, and learning and development services worldwide.
The Association of MBAs (AMBA) is a prestigious organization dedicated to upholding the standards of excellence in business education. Established in London in 1967, AMBA has been instrumental in accrediting MBA programs worldwide, ensuring that they meet rigorous criteria in terms of curriculum, faculty, and student support. With a global membership comprising business schools, MBA students, and graduates, AMBA fosters a network of professionals committed to continuous learning and development in the field of business administration. Its accreditation serves as a hallmark of quality, providing assurance to prospective students and employers alike. AMBA's influence extends far beyond the United Kingdom, shaping the landscape of business education on an international scale.
EQUIS, the European Quality Improvement System, stands as a hallmark of excellence in business education across Europe and beyond. Established by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD), EQUIS accreditation represents rigorous evaluation and continuous enhancement of business schools worldwide. Since its inception in 1997, EQUIS has played a pivotal role in shaping the standards of business education, fostering innovation, and driving excellence in management teaching and research. With its emphasis on internationalization, corporate connections, and academic rigor, EQUIS accreditation signifies a commitment to delivering high-quality business education that prepares graduates to thrive in a globalized marketplace.
I would recommend the EMBA to all ambitious people who want to expand or refresh their knowledge, who are willing to broaden their horizons and are open to new topics, perspectives and people.
In today's busy business environment there is less time to gain and broaden experience and to grow into new positions. The Durham-EBS Executive MBA solves this by combining your current work with knowledge and skills gained though studying for a higher level qualification. This programme is aimed at anyone with management, personnel and/or budgetary responsibility who wants to sharpen their leadership skills further and broaden their expertise.
Characteristics and skills
We set high standards to ensure our EMBA students are of a high calibre. We require students to have well-developed analytical and reasoning powers. You also need to have an appetite to learn and work hard, have excellent communication skills, be able to work under pressure and be motivated to make a difference.
Application process
Admission requirements and application
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA trains managers who help shape and drive the economy. This process begins by selecting the right people for the Executive MBA Programme.
Admission requirements
Begin your application by submitting the following documents:
A university entrance qualification and a Bachelor's degree with at least 180 ECTS or an equivalent recognised qualification
Proof of at least five years professional experience by the programme start date
OR
A Master's degree with at least 90 ECTS or an equivalent recognised qualification
Proof of at least three years professional experience by the programme start date
AND
A curriculum vitae in English
University diploma and transcript(s) in both original language and English
Demonstrated proficiency in English (English language certificate or other accepted proof)
A personal motivation letter
Please apply online and upload your documents via our application portal. We will check them immediately. We look forward to meeting you at an individual selection interview if you meet the requirements.
It is advisable to apply before July of the year you wish to start.
Application process
Applicants will be invited to participate in an informal admission interview conducted jointly by the EBS and Durham programme directors during which they will have the opportunity to showcase their academic and professional achievements, discuss professional goals, and gain further insights into the programme.
Scholarships may be awarded to well-qualified applicants who demonstrate significant achievements of either an academic or professional nature or a combination of both. Well-qualified female applicants who demonstrate outstanding academic ability and/or professional achievement or potential may be considered for a “Women in Business” scholarship.
We look forward to welcoming you onto the Durham-EBS Executive MBA programme.
Tuition fees and funding
An investment in your future
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA is an investment in a high-quality educational experience and your career. You need to plan the following investment for the Durham-EBS Executive MBA study programme:
Tuition fees in total: 44,950 euros (for 18 month, including all fees)
Early application bonus:
Apply by March 31, 2025 and benefit from a EUR 6,000 bonus
Apply by May 31, 2025 and benefit from a EUR 3,300 bonus
We aim to enable all excellent applicants to study - regardless of their economic situation. Your performance, motivation and personality are decisive here. There is a wide range of options for financing a study programme. In many cases, it makes sense to combine various options. Take a look at the possibilities of scholarships and student funding. Here, you can find out which option is best for you.
Choosing a course of study is a big decision. It has a strong influence on the whole life that follows. Often studying involves leaving home and is the first step into an independent life of one’s own.
Order information material about this degree programme and get more information about study contents, admission requirements, tuition fees and financing options.
Interested in more than one study programme?
Infomaterial on several study programmes can be ordered here.
