The first batch of 21 professionals in the Cologne-Rotterdam Executive MBA started the 24-month-long program in September.
The participants will receive dual degrees—MBA from the Business School of the University of Cologne (UoC) and the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM).
“The programme offers an innovative, highly international and flexible learning experience,” says Prof. Ulrich Thonemann, managing director of the Business School of the University of Cologne.
RSM Dean Professor Steef van de Velde adds, “The excellent reputation and the international orientation of both schools will provide our students with new perspectives and ideas, enabling them to approach their future challenges in a more comprehensive way.”
Class Schedule
Classes take usually place in Cologne on every two weekends in average (typically Friday evening and Saturday) One residency week as well as at least one elective course takes place in Rotterdam.
The program involves two study trips to locations such as China, England, Italy, Costa Rica or USA.
Celebrating Diversity
The hallmark of a truly international program is the diversity it offers. The EMBA cohort comprises 29 % female and 38% international candidates. With an average age of 33, they have an average work experience of 8 years.
The professional background is equally diverse. The sectors include consulting and professional services; chemical and pharmacy; logistics and supply chain; software; energy and utilities; financial services and insurances; health and medical science; manufacturing and construction; and engineering and law.
Students’ Viewpoint
What is it that draws professionals to go in for EMBA? Alexander Holbach, research engineer at BASF, who is among the participants says, “Challenges and exciting questions during my projects drew my interest to work at the interface between innovation and management.
“I would like to combine administration and strategy development more deeply with my technical background. The Executive MBA programme will improve my management skills and open my mind for new ideas,” he adds.
Miriam Schmid, Associate Clinical Program Director at UCB Biosciences GmbH, feels the program would help her learn about current business management and leadership concepts. She also looks forward to new impulses and insights from conversations and discussions with fellow students and the faculty.
“The Cologne-Rotterdam EMBA ensures a high academic standard, with two well-known, established universities providing the programme. In addition, the schedule and the geographic proximity allow me to attend this programme,” she says. (the distance between Cologne, Germany and Rotterdam, The Netherlands, is around 250 Km by road, covered in around 3 hours by car).
How to apply
The program has a rolling admission process. The completed application form could be submitted at any time before the final deadline. In view of the limited number of seats, it is advisable to submit the form as early as possible.
Eligibility criteria
Professional achievements and goals: a minimum of four years of postgraduate work experience. This experience should demonstrate clear evidence of solid career progression.
Academic qualifications require a good track record with a university degree or equivalent qualifications and proficiency in the English language. The candidates should also display leadership abilities and experience in managing people or projects.
Application process
After the first evaluation, the admissions committee at Cologne University will confirm whether the candidate will be invited for an in-person admissions interview. The first admission interview will take place in Cologne on Campus and takes about 45 minutes.
In this interview, if the candidate is able to convince the admission committee of the qualifications and motivations, a second interview will be scheduled with a representative from the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University.
The second Interview takes place on Campus in Rotterdam or via Skype. If the second interview is also successful we are pleased to welcome you in the programme. The entire process takes about 2-3 weeks after receipt of application.
The tuition fees for the program is 48,000 Euro.
