FAQ

Show all / Hide all

How do we ensure the exclusive nature of the IEMBA at the SML?

The value of an IEMBA degree can never be universally guaranteed. Instead, it is contingent on the individual student or employer’s use of the qualification. If the sought-after goals are achieved in a given program of study, then a program can be considered highly valuable.

Because these days an increasing number of EMBA programs are producing an ever-increasing number of graduates, the exclusive nature of a qualification, along with its ability to meet individual requirements, plays an important role in the selection process.

The SML guarantees its graduates this exclusivity:

Regardless of the continually growing number of students, class sizes in the IEMBA program are strictly limited to 20 participants. An IEMBA degree from the SML thus means membership in a small and select group — an ideal basis for targeted networking and career management.

The alumni network—what does it really do for students?

The term “alumni” is nowadays evoked endlessly at universities. Often the alumni network is even promoted as a guarantee of a successful career.

Seen realistically, however, being an alumni will not automatically lead to career advancement. Those who are reluctant to engage with others will not do so actively within such a network, either.

With its strong focus on relationship management, the IEMBA program at the SML gives students the competencies to proactively build international relationships.  Exclusive circles, weekend “recharges” and other similar events make it easier for alumni to build up networks and targeted contacts.

Why are class sizes limited to 20 students?

The SML values the individual development and progress of its students. With class sizes limited to 20 participants, the lecturers can engage with each student’s development and address their problems individually. Moreover, the small class size enables close contact among the students, which promotes mutual support and meaningful networking.

Why is the IEMBA program in English?

An excellent command of the language used in negotiations, usually English, is a must for successful leaders in the international arena. Finding the right, nuanced formulation, using negotiation techniques in a flexible and targeted way, understanding the thoughts and decision-making processes of others, often revealed through language, and recognizing and using important key words - these are all essential skills for succeeding in the business world. This cannot be accomplished through pure translation from one’s mother tongue; to be convincing you have to “live” the language.

It is thus a great advantage to participants of the IEMBA program that English is the working language from day one. They not only learn English but also develop their command of the language step by step.

Why don’t you use the GMAT to conduct the admissions assessment?

The GMAT measures mathematical, analytical-logical, and quantitative skills and knowledge. As such it tests a fairly limited range of topics and is above all geared towards young persons with their first professional qualification behind them. Intensive memorization of the test content usually leads to good test results.

In contrast, the IEMBA program at the SML is designed for students with extensive professional experience. It is oriented towards participants who have proven themselves through their seniority and their analytical problem-solving ability.
The ability to memorize facts is not a decisive qualification for participants. For this reason the GMAT is not an ideal assessment tool to measure a candidate’s suitability for the program.