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International MBA Program
Field of study
International MBA Program
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Overview of the International MBA Program
The International MBA program is an intensive one-year graduate business program designed for early-career professionals (with a minimum of one year of work experience) who seek to elevate their management skills in a global context, aiming to fast-track their development into future leaders and entrepreneurs.
Program Structure and Duration
The program spans 3 semesters and comprises 11 modules (40 contact hours each) plus a capstone project (60 hours), totaling 500 contact hours of instruction and project work.
International Learning Environment
All teaching, materials, examinations, and student support services are delivered in English, making it ideal for international students and ensuring a fully English-speaking academic environment. Students from various countries and industries participate, creating a rich multicultural cohort where peer learning and networking across cultures thrive.
Curriculum and Academic Foundation
The curriculum has been carefully curated in collaboration with WSB’s experienced faculty, drawing on over two decades of MBA education expertise. The curriculum is built upon the core components of a traditional MBA – including strategy, finance, marketing, human resources, and operations. These additions reflect the evolving needs of modern business, emphasizing digital transformation and cross-cultural leadership alongside classic business disciplines. Graduates of the program will be prepared for roles such as business analyst, marketing manager, financial consultant, project leader, or general manager in international enterprises, or to launch their own entrepreneurial ventures.
Learning Approach and Graduate Competencies
This program focuses not only on business knowledge but also on the development of international and digital competencies, innovation, leadership, sustainability, and ethical management. Through case studies, real-world projects, and interactive learning, students will acquire a global mindset and the ability to lead diverse teams ethically and effectively. The curriculum has an applied orientation – theories are linked to practice so that students build skills they can immediately apply in their jobs. The curriculum has been carefully curated in collaboration with WSB’s experienced faculty, drawing on over two decades of MBA education expertise. Graduates emerge with a holistic understanding of business and enhanced soft skills, prepared to tackle strategic challenges in an interconnected, technologically driven world. Graduates who fulfill all program requirements are awarded the MBA degree – an internationally recognized credential that can accelerate career advancement and leadership opportunities, and become part of a global alumni network of MBA graduates and professionals.
Study Formats and Delivery Options
Two delivery options are available for this MBA: a Hybrid version that blends online learning with an on-campus residency in Poland, and a 100% Online version that offers maximum flexibility. Both formats cover the same curriculum and learning outcomes; the choice allows students to select a format that best fits their professional schedule and learning preferences. In the sections below, we detail the intended learning outcomes, delivery format specifics, curriculum structure, study plan, module descriptions, and the capstone project that crowns the MBA experience.
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Upon successful completion of the MBA program, graduates will be able to:
- Strategic and Innovative Thinking: Integrate knowledge from all major business functions to analyze complex problems and formulate innovative, strategic solutions in a rapidly changing global environment.
- Effective Leadership and Teamwork: Demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to collaborate within diverse and multicultural teams, motivating others and managing change to achieve organizational objectives.
- Digital Competence: Apply modern information technology and digital tools in management contexts, leveraging IT strategies (e.g. digital transformation, data analysis) to improve business processes and drive innovation.
- Global and Intercultural Fluency: Exhibit a global business perspective and intercultural communication skills, adeptly managing across cultures and international markets while respecting diversity and inclusion principles.
- Ethical and Sustainable Management: Incorporate ethical reasoning, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability into decision-making and management practices, balancing profit goals with societal and environmental considerations.
- Critical Analysis and Decision-Making: Utilize analytical techniques and evidence-based approaches to interpret financial reports, market data, and operational metrics, enabling informed decision-making and effective problem-solving across disciplines.
These learning outcomes ensure that graduates not only grasp theoretical concepts but can also apply them in practice—leading with integrity, driving innovation, and navigating the complexities of international business.
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The MBA is offered in two formats to accommodate different needs: a Hybrid (Blended) version, which includes an in-person residency component, and a Fully Online version. Both formats maintain the same academic rigor, curriculum, and faculty expertise, differing only in the mode of delivery and networking opportunities.
Hybrid MBA Version (Blended Learning with Residency)
The hybrid MBA combines the convenience of online learning with the rich experience of face-to-face engagement. The coursework is primarily delivered online during the regular semesters, while incorporating a 10-day on-campus Summer School in Poland between the two semesters. During this 10-day residency, students come together at the WSB campus (or another Polish partner institution) for an intensive academic and cultural immersion. This summer session features a mix of academic activities and networking events, including:
- Interactive Workshops & Case Studies: In-person seminars led by faculty and industry guests, focusing on applied skills and integrating knowledge from the first semester’s modules.
- Company Visits and Industry Networking: Organized visits to Polish or international companies, providing exposure to European business practices and opportunities to engage with executives and managers.
- Cultural Experiences: Guided cultural excursions, historical tours, and social activities that allow students to experience Polish culture and heritage firsthand, strengthening intercultural awareness and cohort camaraderie.
- Peer Networking: Team projects and social events that enable participants to build a global professional network with classmates and local business leaders.
During the residency, participants gain first-hand insight into the European business context and foster international camaraderie. Poland’s dynamic economy and rich history serve as a backdrop for learning; for many students, highlights include exploring cultural landmarks in Polish cities and observing how both local and multinational companies operate and innovate in an EU market. This residency is a highlight of the hybrid program, as it blends online and face-to-face learning to maximize educational value. Students benefit from the flexibility of online study and also gain the advantages of in-person interaction — such as spontaneous discussion, hands-on activities, and relationship-building — which enrich the learning experience. The on-campus component helps to cement the cohort community and provides a context for intercultural exchange, aligning with the program’s emphasis on global and intercultural management.
Outside of the summer school, hybrid MBA students follow a structured online learning schedule. During the semesters, courses are delivered through a combination of live online classes (typically in the evenings or weekends to accommodate working professionals) and self-paced e-learning modules. For example, a course might involve weekly live webinar sessions for discussions and group work, supplemented by asynchronous activities such as video lectures, readings, and online forums. This approach preserves flexibility while maintaining regular real-time engagement with faculty and peers. All assessments (projects, exams, presentations) are conducted online during the semester, so apart from the summer residency, no further travel is required. By the end of the program, hybrid students will have formed strong personal connections through the residency and gained practical insights from the study visits — all in addition to the full academic curriculum.
Online MBA Version (100% Online Delivery)
The online MBA is delivered entirely online, providing maximum flexibility for students who may not be able to travel or who prefer a fully remote learning experience. The online format is carefully designed to mirror the engagement and depth of an on-campus program by balancing synchronous and asynchronous learning. In fact, the program is structured to be roughly 50% synchronous (live) and 50% asynchronous (self-paced) in its delivery, ensuring that students have ample live interaction as well as the freedom to learn on their own schedule.
Synchronous components: Each module includes live class sessions (via video conferencing platforms) where students and professors meet in real time. These sessions may occur on a weekly or biweekly basis (e.g., evenings or weekends), and typically involve interactive lectures, group discussions, case study analyses, and Q&A. Live sessions recreate the seminar experience, allowing students to engage directly with faculty and collaborate with classmates. In addition, the program incorporates periodic virtual guest lectures or panel discussions featuring industry experts and alumni, broadening students’ exposure to current global business trends and best practices. Students can ask questions, present ideas, and work on team activities, gaining immediate feedback and building a sense of community despite being geographically dispersed.
Asynchronous components: Alongside the live sessions, each course provides rich asynchronous content that students can access at any time. This includes pre-recorded video lectures, multimedia presentations, readings, and practical exercises available through the online learning platform. The program utilizes a state-of-the-art Learning Management System (LMS) which centralizes all content, discussion forums, and assignment submissions, ensuring an organized and user-friendly online experience. Students might watch lecture segments, complete online quizzes or simulations, participate in discussion boards, and work on assignments at their own pace each week. The asynchronous materials are designed to be engaging and interactive – for instance, narrated presentations and real-world case examples – to reinforce learning outcomes outside of live class time.
This bichronous learning design (blending synchronous and asynchronous) offers the best of both worlds: it gives students the flexibility to manage studies around their work and personal life, while also providing regular live engagement that keeps them accountable and connected. Throughout the online program, instructors hold virtual office hours and provide feedback via email or the learning management system, ensuring that support is readily available. All students, regardless of format, have full access to university resources such as digital libraries, databases, and career development services. Support is available through faculty office hours, academic advisors, and tech support to ensure a smooth learning experience. Group projects are facilitated via collaborative tools, so students still gain teamwork experience.
Even without an in-person residency, online MBA students develop a strong global network through virtual networking events, team projects, and possibly optional meet-ups or study trips (if offered separately). The fully online format is ideal for those who require maximum location independence. It upholds the same academic standards and covers the same content as the hybrid version, with the difference being the mode of interaction. Students graduate with the same MBA degree and capabilities – ready to lead and innovate – having completed a rigorous program entirely through cutting-edge online education methods.
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The MBA curriculum is structured to cover all essential knowledge areas of business administration, augmented by specialized content in IT management and intercultural competence. The program comprises 11 courses (modules) of 40 hours each, delivered over two semesters, plus a Capstone Project (60 hours) that synthesizes learning across disciplines. The course sequence is intentionally designed: the first semester builds a foundation in key business disciplines, while the second semester offers advanced and integrative topics, including strategic management and the new concentration modules.
This design is inspired by the proven structure of the WSB MBA program. For instance, WSB’s Executive MBA (3 semesters, 500 hours) covers a comparable range of subjects, including core modules like Strategic Management, Finance and Accounting, Human Capital Management, as well as electives in areas such as CSR and Intercultural Management. Adapting that framework to two semesters, the International MBA ensures coverage of all key topics in a streamlined format. In line with the WSB MBA structure, the program ensures coverage of core MBA topics (e.g., strategy, finance, marketing, HR, operations). Core Business Disciplines: The program covers fundamental business domains such as strategic management, finance & accounting, marketing, human resource management, and operations. These provide students with a solid grounding in managing organizations, understanding financial information, creating value for customers, and optimizing operations. Each core module emphasizes practical application – for instance, analyzing real financial statements in the accounting module or crafting a marketing plan in the marketing module.
New Concentration Areas: Two modules focus on emergent areas critical to modern managers. IT Management and Digital Transformation addresses the strategic use of technology and information systems in business, reflecting the increasing importance of digital skills for MBA graduates. Intercultural Management concentrates on managing people and projects in a multicultural context, aligning with the program’s aim to produce leaders who are comfortable in international environments. The inclusion of these topics is a direct response to industry demand for digitally savvy managers and culturally fluent leaders; notably, WSB’s own MBA offerings have evolved to incorporate digital transformation and intercultural organization content.
Ethics and Sustainability: Recognizing the growing emphasis on responsible business, the curriculum features a dedicated Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility module. This course ensures that students understand the ethical implications of managerial decisions and the importance of sustainable business practices. It reinforces the program’s commitment to ethical management and ties directly into one of the key intended learning outcomes (ethical and sustainable management).
Integrated Approach: While each module has specific objectives and topics, the program encourages cross-functional thinking. Case studies and projects often span multiple disciplines – for example, a business simulation might require teams to make marketing, finance, and operations decisions concurrently. The faculty coordinate to align content where appropriate (such as using a common case company across courses), so students can see how the different pieces of business management fit together. This approach culminates in the Capstone Project, which requires students to apply knowledge from all modules to a comprehensive business challenge.
Teaching Methods and Materials: All courses employ interactive and experiential learning methods. Students engage with case studies, simulations, group projects, and discussions to apply theory to real-world scenarios. Readings include textbooks, academic articles, and current business news or case reports, all provided in English. To support diverse learning styles, instructors use a mix of lectures, visual presentations, and hands-on exercises. Assessment methods vary by module and may include examinations, individual assignments, team projects, presentations, and participation in discussions. (For example, some modules have a final exam, while others require a major project or case analysis.) The use of English is consistent throughout, ensuring that students practice professional business communication in English as they learn the concepts. Quality assurance is maintained in line with WSB’s academic standards and any international partner requirements.
In practice, the First Semester focuses on foundation-building: courses like Economics, Accounting, Marketing, Operations, Human Resources, and Finance provide core analytical and functional skills. The Second Semester emphasizes application and specialization: courses in Leadership, Strategic Management, IT Management, Intercultural Management, and Business Ethics allow students to synthesize knowledge and address complex, real-world issues, supported by the Capstone Project.
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Study Plan by Semester
The following table presents a recommended study plan, showing the distribution of modules across the two semesters of the program. Each module represents 40 contact hours of instruction. The capstone project (60 hours) is carried out primarily in the third semester.
Semester 1 (Fall) Hours Semester 2 (Spring) Hours Semester 3 Hours Managerial Economics & Global Business Environment 40 hours Leadership & Change Management 40 hours Capstone Project (cross-disciplinary) 60 hours Financial Accounting & Analysis 40 hours IT Management & Digital Transformation 40 hours Marketing Management 40 hours Intercultural Management 40 hours Operations & Supply Chain Management 40 hours Business Ethics & Corporate Social Responsibility 40 hours Organizational Behavior & HR Management 40 hours Strategic Management 40 hours Corporate Financial Management 40 hours Subtotal Semester 1: 6 modules, foundation 240 hours Subtotal Semester 2: 5 modules 200 hours Subtotal Semester 3: capstone 60 hours Total Program Contact Hours: 500 hours Delivered 50% synchronously and 50% asynchronously (both components are mandatory for achieving the intended learning outcomes).
Note: The above sequence is illustrative. Minor adjustments to the order of modules may occur (for instance, some cohorts might take Corporate Financial Management in the second semester rather than the first). However, all listed modules will be completed within the one-year timeframe. The Summer School (Hybrid format only) takes place during the break between Semester 1 and 2 and includes approximately 40+ hours of combined academic and experiential learning activities, which complement the modules but are not counted separately in the contact hours total.
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Below are brief descriptions of each module in the program, including the module’s title, objectives, and main topics covered:
- Managerial Economics and Global Business Environment (40 hours): This module provides a foundation in economic principles and how they apply to managerial decision-making and the analysis of the global business environment. It examines how broad economic forces impact managerial decisions, including the challenges of risk and uncertainty in forecasting. Objectives: equip students with tools to understand market forces, economic indicators, and the macroeconomic context affecting businesses. Students learn to interpret supply and demand dynamics, market structures (perfect competition, monopoly, etc.), and the implications of fiscal and monetary policy on business conditions. It also covers international trade dynamics, such as the impact of tariffs, trade agreements, and exchange rates on business opportunities. The course explores globalization and trade: how international economic environments and exchange rates influence firm strategy. Main topics include: microeconomic concepts of consumer demand and production costs; market equilibrium analysis; pricing strategies under different market structures; analysis of global trade and tariff impacts; gross domestic product (GDP) and inflation trends; monetary and fiscal policy tools; exchange rates and foreign trade; and scenario planning for political-economic risks. By the end, students will be able to apply economic reasoning to forecast business trends and to make informed decisions that consider both domestic and international economic conditions.
- Financial Accounting and Analysis (40 hours): This module introduces the “language of business” – financial accounting – and how to analyze financial statements for decision-making. Objectives: enable students to understand and prepare basic financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement) and to analyze a company’s financial health using ratio analysis and other tools. Students learn how transactions are recorded and how financial statements are constructed in accordance with international accounting standards (IFRS/GAAP). They also discuss the importance of ethical financial reporting and the limitations of accounting information. Main topics include: accounting principles and the accounting cycle; revenue and expense recognition; preparation of financial statements; analysis of profitability, liquidity and solvency through financial ratios; cash flow analysis; and interpretation of financial reports to glean insights into operational performance. Through practical exercises, such as preparing simplified financial statements and performing case-based financial analysis, students gain the ability to communicate financial information and use it to support managerial decisions. An understanding of accounting fundamentals lays the groundwork for more advanced finance topics later in the program and ensures that graduates can converse effectively with financial professionals and interpret business financial health.
- Marketing Management (40 hours): This module focuses on developing a strategic marketing mindset in an era of global competition and digital media to create value for customers and competitive advantage for the firm. Objectives: teach students how to analyze markets and consumer behavior, segment and target markets, and craft effective marketing strategies and campaigns. Students will learn to formulate a marketing plan aligning with business strategy and to use key marketing mix elements (product, price, place, promotion) effectively. Main topics include: market research methods and analysis of consumer insights; segmentation, targeting, and positioning (STP) strategies; brand management and value proposition design; product development and lifecycle management; pricing strategies and revenue models; channels and distribution (including supply chain considerations in delivering value); and integrated marketing communications (advertising, digital marketing, social media, CRM). Students engage in case studies of international marketing successes and failures, and they may simulate marketing decision-making (for example, adjusting a marketing mix in response to market feedback). Emphasis is placed on both traditional marketing principles and modern trends (such as e-commerce and analytics) to reflect the changing marketing landscape. By course end, students can develop a coherent marketing strategy for a product or service and understand how to adapt marketing tactics in different cultural or global market contexts.
- Operations and Supply Chain Management (40 hours): This module examines how businesses deliver products and services efficiently and sustainably, covering both operations management and supply chain logistics. Objectives: provide students with tools to analyze, design, and improve organizational processes for higher productivity, quality, and customer satisfaction. Students also learn how to manage supply chains in a global context, ensuring that inputs and products flow effectively from suppliers to customers. Main topics include: process analysis and improvement (including methodologies like Lean management and Six Sigma for quality improvement); operations strategy and competitive priorities (cost, quality, speed, flexibility); inventory and supply chain management techniques (e.g., just-in-time inventory, demand forecasting), global sourcing and outsourcing decisions; project management fundamentals; and the role of technology (such as ERP systems) in operations. Attention is given to continuous improvement and sustainable practices, reflecting how quality management and environmental considerations can be integrated (for example, optimizing processes to reduce waste or carbon footprint, aligning with green operations principles). Additionally, students discuss supply chain risk and resilience (e.g., how to manage disruptions in global supply networks). Through case studies and quantitative exercises, such as analyzing a production workflow or solving a capacity planning problem, students learn to increase operational efficiency and deliver value to customers. By mastering these topics, students will be equipped to improve processes and contribute to a firm’s profitability and sustainability efforts.
- Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management (40 hours): This people-centered module combines organizational behavior (OB) theory with human resource (HR) management practices. Objectives: help students understand how individuals and groups behave within organizations and how to apply that understanding to manage talent effectively. It prepares students to foster a positive workplace culture and improve organizational performance through people practices. Main topics include: motivation theories and employee engagement strategies; team dynamics and effective teamwork; leadership styles and their impact on organizational climate; communication and conflict resolution in the workplace; HR functional areas such as recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, and compensation strategies. The course also touches on organizational design and culture, including the impact of national and corporate culture on behavior, and how to shape a strong, inclusive organizational culture in a global company. Contemporary workforce trends (such as remote work, virtual teams, and generational diversity) and their implications for OB/HR are also discussed. Through case studies and role-playing scenarios, students practice diagnosing organizational issues (like low morale or high turnover) and designing HR interventions to address them. By the end, students can critically assess how organizational policies and leadership behaviors influence employee performance and learn techniques to build high-performing, diverse teams aligned with the company’s strategic goals.
- Corporate Financial Management (40 hours): Building on accounting fundamentals, this module dives into managerial finance and corporate financial decision-making. Objectives: equip students with the concepts and analytical tools to make sound financial decisions that maximize organizational value. Students learn how to evaluate investment opportunities, finance those investments wisely, and manage financial risks. Main topics include: time value of money and discounted cash flow analysis; capital budgeting techniques for evaluating projects (NPV, IRR, payback period); cost of capital and basics of capital structure (debt vs equity financing decisions); financial markets and instruments; working capital management (managing cash, receivables, inventory); and financial risk management (including an introduction to exchange rate or interest rate risk for global firms). The course may involve case analyses such as deciding whether to pursue a capital investment or valuing a business for acquisition. Students will practice constructing cash flow projections, performing break-even and sensitivity analyses, and considering the trade-offs between different financing options (e.g., issuing stock vs. taking loans). By understanding these concepts, future managers will know how to argue for strategic investments, assess the financial viability of projects, and ensure the financial stability of their business units or new ventures. This module also reinforces the importance of ethical considerations in finance (such as transparency and responsibility in financial reporting and decision-making).
- Leadership and Change Management (40 hours): This module zeroes in on the capabilities needed to lead organizations and people through growth and change. Objectives: develop students’ personal leadership styles and skills, and provide frameworks for effectively managing organizational change. While all managers must lead at some level, this course is specifically about intentional leadership development and the processes of initiating and sustaining change in a business. Main topics include: classic and contemporary leadership theories (from trait and situational leadership to transformational and servant leadership models); emotional intelligence and developing one’s leadership presence; managing diversity and inclusion as a leadership competency; power and influence tactics within organizations; and change management models (such as Kotter’s 8 Steps, Lewin’s change model, or ADKAR). Students learn how to craft a vision and communicate it, how to overcome resistance to change, and how to build coalitions for change. They also examine case studies of successful and failed organizational transformations to glean best practices. The importance of fostering an innovative, adaptive culture and leading through crises or disruptions is also highlighted, preparing students to be agile and resilient leaders. A portion of the course involves self-reflection and feedback (for example, leadership style assessments or simulations) so that students improve their self-awareness as leaders. Often, students create a personal leadership development plan as part of this module, identifying strengths to build on and areas for growth over the course of the MBA. By the end, students should be able to formulate a change management plan for a given organizational challenge and demonstrate improved leadership competencies, including the ability to inspire and guide teams through uncertainty and innovation.
- IT Management and Digital Transformation (40 hours): This cutting-edge module addresses the strategic role of information technology in organizations and how to manage digital transformation initiatives. Objectives: give students an understanding of how digital technologies can enable new business models, streamline operations, and create competitive advantage, as well as how to manage IT projects and initiatives from a managerial perspective (rather than a technical-developer perspective). Main topics include: overview of enterprise information systems (such as ERP, CRM, and business intelligence systems) and their impact on business processes; digital transformation strategy – leveraging emerging technologies like cloud computing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation to innovate and improve efficiency, and exploring new digital business models (such as platform-based businesses, fintech, and e-commerce strategies); IT project management and governance (including agile methodologies and aligning IT projects with business strategy); cybersecurity basics and managing IT risk in a digital context; and the challenges of change management in implementing new technologies (user adoption, training, cultural shifts). Real-world case studies might include examples of companies that successfully transformed their operations through technology, as well as cautionary tales of IT project failures. Students might engage in an assignment to propose a digital improvement for a business scenario, considering both technical and human factors. By completing this course, students will be literate in key IT concepts and able to converse with both technical teams and executives about technology initiatives. They will understand how to champion digital innovation in their future organizations and ensure such projects deliver business value.
- Intercultural Management (40 hours): This module prepares students to manage and lead in a cross-cultural environment, which is an essential skill in international business today. Objectives: increase students’ awareness of how culture affects management practices and to develop the skills needed to communicate, negotiate, and lead effectively across cultures. Main topics include: frameworks for understanding cultural differences (such as Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, Trompenaars’ model, or the GLOBE study) and how these differences manifest in workplace values, communication styles, leadership expectations, and decision-making. Students learn about managing multicultural and virtual teams (often spread across countries), overcoming communication barriers and leveraging diversity for creativity and problem-solving. The course covers international business etiquette and negotiation tactics in different cultural contexts, as well as expatriate management and cross-cultural training techniques. Another important aspect is organizational culture – how corporate culture interacts with national cultures, and how to shape a strong, inclusive organizational culture in a global company. Learning methods might involve analyzing cross-cultural case incidents (e.g., an American manager working in Asia, or a multicultural team project scenario) and sharing experiences from the diverse student cohort. By the end of the module, students will have enhanced cultural intelligence (CQ) and be equipped with strategies to manage diversity, resolve intercultural conflicts, and adapt management approaches to fit local contexts while maintaining global cohesion.
- Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility (40 hours): This module explores the ethical responsibilities of businesses and managers, and the concept of sustainability in business operations and strategy. Objectives: ensure that students can recognize ethical dilemmas in business and respond to them in line with professional standards and social responsibility. It also aims to instill an understanding of how businesses can be a force for positive social and environmental impact (not just profit). Main topics include: ethical theories and frameworks for decision-making (utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, etc., applied to business scenarios); corporate governance and the role of boards in ensuring ethical compliance; common ethical issues in management (fraud, corruption, insider trading, conflicts of interest, fair labor practices, etc.) and how to address them; designing and implementing codes of ethics and compliance programs; stakeholder theory and managing stakeholder interests; the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and how CSR initiatives are implemented (like environmental sustainability programs, social enterprise models, community engagement, and philanthropy); the triple bottom line approach (people, planet, profit) and the rising importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. Global frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are examined as guiding benchmarks for corporate responsibility. Case studies may include both ethical failures (corporate scandals) and exemplary CSR programs of global companies. Students will debate issues like balancing shareholder value with stakeholder needs, or how to handle ethical ambiguity in different countries’ contexts. By the end of this course, students are expected to formulate ethically sound solutions to business dilemmas and to propose CSR strategies that align with a company’s mission and values, thereby reinforcing their capability to lead responsibly and sustainably.
- Strategic Management (40 hours): As a capstone academic module, Strategic Management ties together knowledge from all prior courses to focus on how organizations develop and execute strategy for long-term success. Objectives: teach students the frameworks and tools for analyzing an organization’s external environment and internal capabilities, and for formulating, selecting, and implementing strategies that achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. Main topics include: the strategic management process and levels of strategy (corporate, business, functional); industry and competitive analysis (using tools like PESTEL for macroenvironment and Porter’s Five Forces for industry structure); internal analysis of resources and core competencies (value chain analysis, VRIO framework); strategy formulation (cost leadership, differentiation, focus strategies; innovation and blue ocean strategies; growth strategies like market expansion, diversification, mergers and acquisitions); and strategy implementation, including organizational structure, change management, and balanced scorecards for translating strategy into action. Given the international scope of the program, the course also covers global strategy – how firms enter new markets and adapt to different national contexts – as well as considerations of innovation strategy in the face of rapid technological change. The course also emphasizes strategic agility – the ability for organizations to pivot quickly and innovate in response to disruptions and emerging opportunities. Students engage in comprehensive case studies of companies in various industries, diagnosing strategic issues and recommending plans. Many cases integrate functional areas (finance, marketing, operations, etc.), testing students’ ability to apply a general management perspective. Often, there is a major project or simulation (for example, developing a strategic plan for a hypothetical or real company), which serves as a practice run for the capstone. By the end, students will have a toolkit for strategic analysis and decision-making, and the ability to approach business challenges holistically. This capstone module reinforces all prior learning, making them well prepared for general management roles. In some cases, insights from capstone projects are adopted by partner companies or inform new business ventures by graduates, underscoring the tangible impact of the MBA experience.
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The Capstone Project is the culminating experience of the MBA program, intended to integrate knowledge from all modules and demonstrate mastery of business management in a practical, real-world context. It accounts for 60 hours of guided project work (spread over the second semester, though it may start with preliminary research or proposal work earlier) and is often the cornerstone of the program, allowing students to apply theories to a comprehensive business challenge.
Project Scope and Objectives: Students (individually or in small teams) identify a significant business problem or strategic opportunity to address. This could take the form of a consulting project for a real company, a business plan for an entrepreneurial venture, or a research-driven analysis of a management issue. The project is cross-disciplinary, requiring consideration of strategy, marketing, finance, operations, HR, and other relevant areas to develop a well-rounded solution. For example, a team might develop a market entry strategy for a company expanding to a new country, design a turnaround plan for an underperforming division, or create a comprehensive business plan for launching a new product line or start-up. The chosen topic should allow the student(s) to demonstrate strategic thinking, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving using tools learned throughout the program.
Process: Early in the second semester, students propose their capstone topic and scope, which must be approved by faculty. They are then assigned a faculty supervisor (or mentor) who guides them through the project. Regular check-ins and workshops may be scheduled to help students apply research methods, gather and analyze data (which may involve market research or data analytics), and sharpen their strategic recommendations. If the project involves a partner company, students might interface with the company's management to gather information. Many participants choose capstone topics related to their own employer or industry, which can deliver immediate value to their organizations and showcase the student’s ability to drive positive change.
During the project, students employ skills from across the curriculum:
- From Managerial Economics and Marketing, they might analyze market trends and customer data to inform their strategy.
- Using Financial Management and Accounting, they conduct financial projections, budgets, or investment analyses to ensure their recommendations are financially sound.
- They draw on Operations knowledge to assess feasibility and efficiency, and on HR/OB insights to consider implementation issues like team structure, leadership and organizational changes needed.
- IT Management concepts could be crucial if the solution involves digital tools or transforming processes with technology.
- Throughout, they uphold the principles of Ethics and CSR, evaluating the ethical implications and sustainability of their recommendations.
- They apply Strategic Management frameworks to tie everything together into a coherent strategic proposal.
Deliverables: The capstone typically culminates in a comprehensive written report and a presentation or defense. In the report, students outline their analysis (with data, models, or research to support it) and present their solutions or strategy, often including an implementation roadmap and risk assessment. The presentation, delivered to a panel of faculty (and possibly industry experts or the partner company’s representatives), allows students to demonstrate their communication and persuasion skills. They must field questions and show deep understanding of the project domain. This simulates a real executive scenario, such as pitching to investors or briefing a board of directors. Often, final presentations mimic a boardroom pitch, giving students experience in high-stakes communication.
Integration and Impact: The Capstone Project is where students prove that they can synthesize MBA knowledge for real-world application. It reinforces all the intended learning outcomes: strategic thinking, leadership (especially if done in teams), digital savvy, intercultural awareness, and ethical reasoning. It also serves as a bridge to the next stage of their career – the project output can be used to demonstrate capability to employers or investors. In some cases, the insights and recommendations from capstone projects have been implemented by the partner companies or have inspired new ventures led by the students themselves, demonstrating the tangible impact of the MBA experience. Upon completion of the capstone and the program, students will have not only an academic qualification but a significant piece of applied work in their portfolio, showcasing their ability to tackle complex business challenges holistically.
In summary, the International MBA provides a comprehensive and modern business education in just one year that balances theory with practice. Whether through the hybrid or online format, students gain the knowledge, skills, and networks to accelerate their careers and lead with confidence on the global stage of modern business. With its innovative curriculum and flexible delivery options, this MBA enables students to advance their education without pausing their careers, immediately bridging academic learning with real-time professional application. This program is an ideal pathway for today’s ambitious professionals aiming to become innovative, responsible leaders in a digitally-driven, interconnected, multicultural business world.
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6 900 PLN
until end of June
8 900 PLN
1 July – 30 July
13 000 PLN
standard price
The final tuition fee depends on the date of enrollment.Important Notice:
The tuition fees listed on this page apply to international students.
They may be different from the fees applicable to Polish citizens. It is possible to arrange individual installments.All available discounts applicable to WSB University are available here.
*The discounts listed below do not apply to MBA and postgraduate studies: Executive MBA, Master of Business Administration (Partner of the course: EY), Master of Business Administration (MBA SME), ACCA in Polish - Financial management and accounting in an international environment, and ACCA STRATEGIC PROFESSIONAL.
Discounts valid at the WSB University cannot be combined; choose the most advantageous one!
