Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA)
- EMBA Expert
- Jul 28
- 20 min read
The Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) program is one of the premier graduate-level business programs designed for experienced professionals seeking to elevate their leadership capabilities, broaden their business acumen, and expand their networks. Vlerick Business School, with its rich history and strong ties to the global business community, offers an EMBA program that balances academic rigor with practical experience, making it ideal for senior professionals looking to advance their careers.
Table of Contents:
Introduction to Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA)
Founded in 1953, Vlerick Business School is widely recognized as one of Europe's leading business schools. With campuses in Ghent, Brussels, and Leuven, Vlerick consistently ranks among the top business schools globally. It is accredited by prestigious bodies such as AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, which attests to the quality and global recognition of its programs.
Vlerick’s Executive MBA program is designed for professionals with a strong career trajectory who want to deepen their expertise in business management, expand their leadership abilities, and make an impactful change in their organizations. What sets the Vlerick EMBA apart is its personalized approach and its focus on real-world learning.
Why Choose Vlerick for Your EMBA?
International Focus: The Vlerick EMBA places a strong emphasis on global business and entrepreneurship. With a curriculum that draws on cutting-edge research and practical experiences, students gain exposure to international markets, ensuring they are equipped to manage global organizations effectively.
Highly Experienced Cohort: Students in the Vlerick EMBA are typically senior professionals with at least 8 to 10 years of work experience. This brings diverse perspectives to class discussions and fosters collaboration among peers from different industries.
Flexible Learning Model: Vlerick’s Executive MBA is designed to accommodate busy professionals. The modular structure allows participants to attend weekend residencies and engage in online learning, making it easier to balance work, study, and personal commitments.
Reputation and Accreditation: The Vlerick EMBA is internationally recognized for its quality. As one of the few business schools with triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA), Vlerick ensures that its graduates receive a world-class education that is highly respected by employers globally.
Program Focus Areas
The Vlerick Executive MBA focuses on several key areas crucial for today’s business leaders:
Leadership: Developing leadership capabilities to guide teams, inspire innovation, and make strategic decisions.
Global Business Strategy: Understanding how to drive business growth in global markets and navigating the complexities of international business.
Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Gaining the tools to innovate and launch new business ventures or transform existing organizations.
Financial Acumen: Deepening understanding of financial management to make informed decisions that drive business value.
Technology and Digital Transformation: Preparing for the evolving digital landscape and learning how to leverage technology in business.
Table: Key Benefits of the Vlerick Executive MBA
Benefit | Details |
International Recognition | Vlerick is triple-accredited (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA) and ranked among the top global business schools. |
Global Networking | Opportunities to connect with a network of professionals and alumni from around the world. |
Practical Learning | A curriculum focused on real-world challenges with immediate application to your career. |
Leadership Development | Focus on enhancing leadership and management skills, with personalized coaching and mentoring. |
Flexible Format | Modular, weekend-based schedule allows professionals to maintain work-life-study balance. |
What Makes Vlerick EMBA Unique?
Customizable Learning: Students can tailor their EMBA experience by choosing elective courses that match their career goals, such as strategy, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. This flexibility ensures that every student’s educational journey aligns with their professional ambitions.
Personalized Support: Vlerick’s EMBA program provides individualized career coaching, leadership assessments, and executive mentoring, giving students the tools to grow both personally and professionally.
Collaborative Learning Environment: The program encourages collaboration with diverse peers, giving students the chance to exchange ideas and challenge each other’s perspectives, all while building long-lasting business relationships.
Impactful Projects: The Capstone Project offers a unique opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world setting. Working with an organization on a strategic business challenge, students gain practical experience that can directly impact their careers and their company.
Admissions Requirements and Process for Vlerick EMBA
The admissions process for the Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate strong leadership potential, a commitment to personal and professional growth, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the program's diverse cohort. The process is thorough and transparent, ensuring that both the candidate and the school are aligned in expectations and goals.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Vlerick EMBA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Educational Background: A bachelor's or master's degree from a recognized university.
Professional Experience: At least four years of full-time and relevant work experience
English Proficiency: Proficiency in English, as the program is conducted in English.
Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership experience and potential.
Application Process
The application process for the Vlerick EMBA is structured to assess the candidate's fit for the program and vice versa:
Online Application: Candidates begin by submitting an online application through the Vlerick application portal. This includes personal details, academic history, professional experience, and a statement of motivation.
Admissions Test: After reviewing the application, selected candidates are invited to take the Vlerick Business School Admissions Test (VBAT). This test assesses analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and business acumen.
Interview: Candidates who perform well in the admissions test are then invited for an interview. The interview is conducted online via Zoom and focuses on understanding the candidate's motivations, career aspirations, and alignment with the program's objectives.
Admission Decision: Within two days of the interview, candidates are notified of the admission decision. Successful candidates receive an offer to join the program.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Vlerick offers several scholarships to support candidates financially:
Innovative Entrepreneurship Scholarship: For candidates with a strong entrepreneurial background or aspirations.
Social Impact Scholarship: For candidates committed to making a positive social impact through their work.
Female Empowerment Scholarship: To encourage and support female leaders in business.
These scholarships cover up to 20% of the Executive MBA tuition fee. Candidates can apply for these scholarships after being admitted to the program. Additionally, financing options such as loans and country-specific grants may be available. For instance, professionals in Flanders can utilize the KMO Portefeuille to partially fund their program.
The admissions process for the Vlerick Executive MBA is designed to identify individuals who are not only academically qualified but also possess the leadership potential and professional experience to thrive in a rigorous and dynamic learning environment. By ensuring a strong alignment between the candidate's aspirations and the program's offerings, Vlerick fosters a cohort of professionals who are poised to make significant impacts in their respective industries.
Curriculum Overview and Specializations
The Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) curriculum is strategically designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of modern business management while allowing participants to tailor their education to their individual career goals. The structure balances rigorous academic theory with practical, real-world application, ensuring students are equipped to make immediate, impactful contributions in their organizations.
Curriculum Structure
The Vlerick EMBA program is split into core modules, electives, international experiences, and a Capstone Project. Together, these components form a learning journey that develops leadership, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
Table: Key Components of the Vlerick EMBA Curriculum
Component | Details |
Core Modules | Foundation courses in business essentials such as strategy, marketing, finance, and operations. |
Electives | Specialized modules that allow students to delve deeper into topics relevant to their goals. |
Leadership Track | Includes personal leadership coaching, assessments, and development workshops. |
Capstone Project | A real-world consultancy project where students solve a challenge for a real business. |
Global Modules | International study trips to explore cross-border business and culture. |
Core Modules
The core curriculum focuses on essential business disciplines and managerial skills:
Strategic Management
Marketing Management
Corporate Finance
Operations & Supply Chain
Organizational Behavior
Accounting and Control
Digital Transformation
Entrepreneurship & Innovation
These modules are delivered through a mix of lectures, group projects, case studies, and experiential simulations, fostering a dynamic and interactive learning environment.
Leadership Development Track
Vlerick places a strong emphasis on leadership development, offering a structured and personalized track that includes:
360° Leadership Assessment
Executive Coaching
Team Dynamics and Conflict Resolution
Change Management Workshops
Students regularly reflect on their personal leadership style and work to strengthen their communication, influence, and decision-making abilities.
Electives and Specializations
The EMBA program offers a suite of elective modules that allow students to tailor their learning. Electives change yearly, but typical topics include:
Digital Business Models
Sustainable Business
Corporate Innovation
M&A Strategy
Advanced Negotiation Techniques
Data-Driven Decision Making
By choosing electives that align with their industry or personal aspirations, students can shape their MBA to deliver maximum professional impact.
Capstone Project
The Capstone Project is a key highlight of the Vlerick EMBA. Students work in teams or individually to tackle a strategic challenge for a real company. This hands-on project requires applying knowledge gained throughout the program to deliver actionable recommendations to a client.
This project often becomes a launchpad for further opportunities, including internal promotions, business ventures, or career pivots.
Global Modules and International Exposure
Vlerick integrates international business experiences into the curriculum to provide students with a global mindset. Past global modules have taken students to places like:
Silicon Valley – for insights into entrepreneurship and innovation.
China or India – to explore emerging markets and manufacturing ecosystems.
South Africa or Brazil – to understand social entrepreneurship and inclusive growth.
Students visit multinational companies, engage with international faculty, and immerse themselves in local economic and cultural realities, which enhances their ability to lead across borders.
The Vlerick EMBA curriculum is crafted to provide both breadth and depth across key business disciplines. It blends academic excellence with practical learning through projects, international experiences, and leadership coaching. With the flexibility to choose electives and engage in real-world consulting, the curriculum ensures that graduates are not just business thinkers, but also doers — ready to lead transformation within their organizations and industries.
Program Duration and Flexibility
The Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) program is uniquely structured to accommodate the demanding schedules of senior professionals and entrepreneurs. With its modular, part-time delivery format, the program is designed to ensure that participants can continue working full-time while pursuing a transformative academic experience.
Duration of the Program
The Vlerick EMBA spans approximately 18 to 24 months, depending on the student's pace and choice of electives. The program is delivered in modular blocks, typically on weekends, which allows professionals to plan their learning around work and personal obligations.
Standard Duration: 24 months
Accelerated Options: Some candidates may complete the program in as little as 18 months by taking intensive electives and working ahead on their Capstone Project.
Modular Format: What It Means
The program is structured around monthly weekend residencies combined with online learning sessions in between. Each residency is an immersive 2–3-day module focused on a specific topic, allowing for deeper engagement without long interruptions to the student’s work schedule.
Table: Key Features of Vlerick EMBA Flexibility
Flexibility Feature | Details |
Weekend Format | Classes typically take place on Fridays and Saturdays. |
Online Learning | Supplementary online content, discussions, and assignments between modules. |
Optional Electives | Choose electives based on your availability and interest. |
Customizable Timelines | Extend the program duration in consultation with the academic team. |
Remote Access to Resources | Full access to the virtual library, tools, and faculty via online platforms. |
Ideal for Working Professionals
The Vlerick EMBA has been built with the full-time working professional in mind. Whether you’re a mid-career manager, senior executive, or entrepreneur, the program's flexible design allows you to:
Apply what you learn directly to your job.
Balance your workload by planning ahead with faculty and support staff.
Continue your professional trajectory without interruption.
Location Flexibility
The core modules are delivered on Vlerick’s campuses in Brussels and Leuven, which are easily accessible to professionals across Europe. Participants can attend in-person sessions while also accessing pre- and post-module resources online.
Personal Learning Path
Another key aspect of flexibility is the personalized learning experience. Students can design their own paths through:
Elective Modules: Choose areas of specialization aligned with personal goals.
Capstone Project Timeline: Decide when and how intensively to engage in the final business project.
Leadership Coaching: Schedule one-on-one coaching sessions at times that suit your calendar.
Support for Busy Schedules
Vlerick provides administrative and academic support to help students manage the demands of the program. Services include:
Dedicated EMBA Program Coordinators
Flexible Assignment Deadlines (within reason)
Access to Online Recordings and Learning Materials
Academic Advising for Schedule Planning
Students also benefit from a tight-knit cohort that offers peer support and collaboration. The culture encourages work-life balance, with faculty understanding the pressures faced by working professionals.
The Vlerick EMBA stands out for its highly flexible and adaptive structure, which allows professionals to integrate learning into their busy lives without putting their careers on hold. Whether you're managing teams, leading projects, or running a business, Vlerick’s modular delivery format, online support, and personalized paths ensure that you can succeed academically while staying active professionally. This flexibility is a cornerstone of the program’s appeal and effectiveness.
Global Exposure and International Residencies
In today’s interconnected world, successful leaders must be able to navigate global markets, manage cross-cultural teams, and respond to international business challenges. The Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) integrates significant global exposure into its curriculum, giving participants firsthand experience in diverse business environments through international residencies, cross-border collaboration, and global networking opportunities.
Why Global Experience Matters
Global business exposure is a cornerstone of executive education, helping professionals:
Understand how business practices differ across cultures.
Explore new markets and industries.
Engage with international executives and entrepreneurs.
Build a global professional network.
Strengthen adaptability and cultural intelligence.
The Vlerick EMBA emphasizes this through well-structured international experiences that challenge students to think globally and act strategically.
Table: Highlights of Vlerick EMBA Global Residencies
Component | Details |
International Study Trips | Week-long immersive business trips to leading and emerging global markets. |
Partner Schools and Networks | Collaborations with top-ranked global business schools for knowledge exchange. |
Global Business Projects | Real-world assignments with international companies or NGOs. |
Cross-Cultural Leadership | Workshops focused on managing diverse teams and international business ethics. |
Alumni Global Access | A global alumni network in over 100 countries across various industries. |
International Residencies: Where and What
The Vlerick EMBA typically includes two major international residencies that take place in both developed and emerging economies. While the locations may vary slightly year to year, the structure and goals remain consistent.
Silicon Valley, USA
Focus: Innovation, entrepreneurship, and venture capital.
Activities: Visits to tech startups, venture capital firms, and innovation hubs. Workshops with tech founders and business model disruptors.
Outcomes: Learn how cutting-edge ideas are scaled and financed in one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.
Shanghai, China (or Bangalore, India)
Focus: Understanding business in emerging markets.
Activities: Site visits to manufacturing firms, multinationals, and local enterprises. Lectures on market entry strategies, cross-cultural management, and local regulations.
Outcomes: Gain insights into the complexities and opportunities of operating in fast-growth economies.
These residencies are not merely observational; they involve hands-on projects, consulting cases, and cultural immersion, ensuring that students apply classroom concepts in real-world contexts.
Experiential Learning Abroad
Each international trip is designed to challenge assumptions and expose students to different management practices. Key features include:
Company Visits: Engage directly with executives in leading and disruptive organizations.
Workshops & Panels: Attend seminars and roundtables with industry experts and local leaders.
Cultural Activities: Experience the socio-cultural context of doing business abroad.
Students often say that these residencies are transformational, helping them develop a truly global mindset and prepare for international leadership roles.
Global Classroom Environment
Beyond residencies, the Vlerick EMBA fosters a global perspective within its cohort:
Students come from diverse professional backgrounds and nationalities, enriching discussions with international viewpoints.
Guest speakers include CEOs and thought leaders from multinational companies.
Elective modules often include globally relevant topics such as sustainable development, international finance, and cross-border negotiation.
Global Network and Alumni Access
Vlerick boasts a powerful alumni network with over 23,000 professionals worldwide. As a Vlerick EMBA student and graduate, you benefit from:
International networking events hosted in major business cities.
Access to alumni chapters across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Collaboration opportunities with alumni on global ventures and consulting projects.
The global exposure embedded in the Vlerick EMBA equips students with a nuanced understanding of international business, preparing them to lead confidently across cultures and economies. Through international residencies, global projects, and a diverse learning environment, the program ensures that its graduates are not just business leaders — they are global change-makers capable of thriving in any market.
Career Services and Alumni Network
One of the defining strengths of the Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) is its commitment to supporting your professional growth, not just during the program but long after graduation. From personalized career coaching to global alumni engagement, Vlerick offers a robust support system designed to help executives navigate career transitions, refine their leadership identity, and expand their professional influence.
Career Development Services
The Vlerick Career Services team provides tailored support to EMBA students, recognizing that most participants are already mid- to senior-level professionals seeking advancement, transformation, or even entrepreneurial paths.
Key career support offerings include:
Individual Career Coaching One-on-one coaching sessions with certified career advisors who help clarify goals, refine personal branding, and develop effective career strategies.
Leadership and Personal Branding Workshops Hands-on sessions designed to align your leadership style with your career ambitions. Topics include strategic networking, executive presence, and career transitions.
Career Development Seminars Exclusive events focused on C-level skills, global mobility, and sector-specific trends, often featuring guest speakers from leading companies.
Access to Vlerick Career Portal A curated online platform offering job opportunities, recruitment insights, and employer connections tailored to executive-level candidates.
Entrepreneurship Support For students looking to launch their own ventures, Vlerick provides access to its entrepreneurship hub, startup mentors, and investment partners.
Table: Vlerick Career Services vs. Traditional MBA Career Services
Feature | Vlerick EMBA | Traditional MBA Programs |
Career Coaching | Personalized, senior-level strategy sessions | Generalized career planning |
Job Search Support | Executive search guidance, industry networking | Campus recruitment focus |
Leadership Branding | Executive presence, board-readiness training | Resume and cover letter reviews |
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem | Startup mentorship, venture capital connections | Basic startup support |
Alumni-Driven Opportunities | Peer-to-peer consulting and global job referrals | Often passive alumni involvement |
Alumni Network: Global and Active
Graduating from Vlerick connects you to a powerful network of over 23,000 alumni across 100+ countries. This is more than a directory — it’s an active community that fuels collaboration, learning, and opportunity.
Alumni benefits include:
Global Alumni Chapters With active chapters in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, there are regular meet-ups, speaker events, and networking forums.
Lifelong Learning Alumni receive invitations to exclusive executive education seminars, online courses, and webinars.
Mentorship and Peer Support Many alumni volunteer as mentors for current EMBA students or offer opportunities within their organizations.
Business Referrals and Partnerships A large number of business collaborations and hiring opportunities originate from alumni-to-alumni introductions.
Executive Career Transitions & Outcomes
The Vlerick EMBA is not just about skill development — it’s a career accelerator. Graduates have gone on to:
Secure C-suite promotions in multinational firms.
Transition into entrepreneurship or build advisory portfolios.
Pivot across industries (e.g., from engineering to finance).
Take on global leadership roles with international assignments.
Join boardrooms or assume non-executive director positions.
Students benefit from the credibility and international recognition of the Vlerick brand, as well as the visibility that comes with being a part of a high-impact peer cohort.
Vlerick’s career services and alumni network are critical components of the EMBA experience. Through tailored coaching, leadership development tools, and access to a thriving international network, the school empowers its students to take control of their career trajectories. Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, shift industries, or launch your own venture, the Vlerick EMBA provides the guidance and connections needed to make it happen.
Vlerick EMBA Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Investing in an Executive MBA is a significant financial decision — and the Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) is no exception. However, Vlerick offers a transparent fee structure along with a range of scholarships and funding options to make the program more accessible to deserving candidates. The school views the EMBA as a long-term investment in leadership growth and career transformation, and it supports students accordingly.
Program Tuition
As of the most recent intake, the tuition fee for the Vlerick Executive MBA is:
€45,000 (subject to change annually)
This fee includes:
All tuition and teaching materials
Personal leadership coaching and career support
International modules (excluding travel and accommodation)
Access to the Vlerick Online Learning Platform
Meals and refreshments during on-campus modules
Participation in alumni networking events
Vlerick emphasizes value over cost — with the program designed to deliver measurable ROI in terms of career advancement, personal growth, and strategic impact.
Table: What’s Included in Vlerick EMBA Tuition
Included in Tuition | Details |
Core and elective modules | Complete access to all academic content |
Career services and executive coaching | Personalized leadership and career guidance throughout the program |
International residencies (academic component) | Global immersion experiences (travel/lodging extra) |
Course materials and digital resources | All textbooks, case studies, and digital learning tools |
Alumni membership and lifelong access | Invitations to alumni events, lifelong learning sessions |
Payment Terms
Vlerick offers flexible payment options for tuition:
Full payment upfront: Discount options may be available for early payment.
Instalment plan: Spread over multiple terms, often aligned with program phases.
Employer-sponsored payment: Invoices can be split between individual and corporate sponsors.
Students are encouraged to speak with Vlerick’s finance team to develop a custom payment plan that aligns with their financial situation.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
To support diversity and accessibility, Vlerick provides multiple scholarships that cover up to 20% of tuition fees. These are awarded on a competitive basis after admission.
Available Scholarships:
Women in Leadership Scholarship Designed to support and empower women who aspire to senior leadership roles.
Entrepreneurship Scholarship For candidates with a strong entrepreneurial track record or startup aspirations.
Non-Profit and Social Impact Scholarship For professionals working in NGOs, government, or social enterprises.
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship For candidates from underrepresented regions or industries in the EMBA space.
Application Process:
Scholarships can be applied for after admission.
Most require a short essay outlining motivation and impact.
Final decisions are made by the scholarship committee.
External Financial Support Options
Students based in certain countries may qualify for local or regional funding schemes. In Belgium, for example:
KMO-Portefeuille: A government subsidy that allows Flemish SMEs to receive up to 30% reimbursement for management training programs like the EMBA.
Tax Deductions: Some expenses may be tax-deductible depending on personal income and location.
Additionally, many students fund their education through:
Employer Sponsorships
Private Bank Loans
Education Loan Programs through international providers
Vlerick offers documentation and support for students applying for financial assistance or negotiating employer sponsorship.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Many EMBA participants report that they recoup their investment within 2 to 3 years through promotions, salary increases, or business growth. The network, personal brand uplift, and strategic toolkit gained through the program often open doors to opportunities that otherwise would not be accessible.
The Vlerick Executive MBA is a premium program backed by financial flexibility and a strong commitment to supporting students through scholarships and structured aid. With a range of merit- and need-based scholarships, as well as employer and government funding options, Vlerick ensures that qualified candidates can access the transformational power of an EMBA, regardless of financial background.
Vlerick EMBA’s Impact on Career Growth and ROI
The Vlerick Executive MBA (EMBA) is more than just an academic credential — it’s a catalyst for meaningful professional transformation. Whether your goal is to climb the corporate ladder, transition into a new industry, launch a business, or enhance your leadership abilities, the program is designed to generate real, measurable outcomes.
Career Growth and Trajectory
Key areas of career growth include:
Promotions to C-level or Director-level roles
Transitioning to international positions
Switching industries or functions
Entrepreneurial ventures and startup success
Board appointments or advisory roles
Table: Career Impact Statistics from Vlerick EMBA Alumni
Career Milestone | % of Alumni (Based on Recent Data) |
Promoted within 12 months of graduation | 59% |
Switched industries post-EMBA | 43% |
Moved into general management or C-suite roles | 37% |
Launched their own business | 22% |
Reported significant salary increase (20% or more) | 65% |
Took on a global/international role | 48% |
Source: Vlerick Business School Alumni Career Survey
How the EMBA Drives Career Impact
The value of the EMBA comes from a combination of:
Strategic Mindset Development The program equips you with a holistic understanding of how businesses operate, enabling more effective decision-making and executive-level thinking.
Real-World Application Through the Capstone Project and consulting assignments, you solve real business problems, often gaining visibility within your organization or industry.
Leadership Branding and Coaching The emphasis on personal leadership, combined with career coaching and executive presence training, prepares you to lead change and influence at a senior level.
Global Perspective The international modules sharpen your cross-cultural leadership skills, increasing your suitability for multinational roles.
Access to Opportunities via the Vlerick Network With alumni in top companies worldwide, many graduates secure opportunities through internal referrals and collaborative ventures.
ROI: Tangible and Intangible Returns
The return on investment (ROI) of the Vlerick EMBA is not limited to financial gains — although those are often substantial. It also includes:
Faster Career Progression: Graduates accelerate into senior roles ahead of industry averages.
Higher Market Value: A Vlerick degree enhances your credibility and makes you more attractive to recruiters.
Increased Confidence and Credibility: Armed with advanced knowledge, global experience, and strategic acumen, graduates lead with conviction.
Lifelong Network Access: The relationships built during the EMBA — with faculty, peers, and alumni — provide enduring career support.
The career impact of the Vlerick EMBA is undeniable. From promotions and salary increases to launching businesses and gaining international mobility, alumni routinely experience outcomes that exceed expectations. Backed by expert faculty, a dynamic peer group, and lifelong career support, the program delivers both quantifiable ROI and transformational professional growth.
Why Choose Vlerick for Your Executive MBA?
Choosing the right Executive MBA (EMBA) program is a strategic decision — one that can reshape your professional trajectory and personal growth. The Vlerick Business School EMBA stands out not just for its academic rigor, but for its commitment to empowering dynamic professionals with global perspectives, innovative thinking, and transformative leadership skills.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of why Vlerick is consistently ranked among Europe’s top EMBA programs.
Key Reasons to Choose Vlerick EMBA
Key Strength | Why It Matters |
Triple Accreditation | One of the few business schools worldwide with AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS accreditations. |
Leadership Development | Personalized coaching, executive presence training, and 360° feedback assessments. |
Global Exposure | International residencies in key business hubs like Silicon Valley and Asia. |
Flexible Format | Modular weekend schedule allows professionals to balance work, life, and study. |
Real-World Impact | Capstone projects, live consulting cases, and immediate workplace application. |
Diverse Cohort | Work alongside seasoned professionals from various sectors and regions. |
Powerful Alumni Network | 23,000+ alumni across the globe, active in over 100 countries. |
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem | Support for launching startups, from ideation to mentorship and funding advice. |
Academic Excellence
Vlerick’s faculty are not only accomplished academics but also industry consultants and board advisors. They bring real-world relevance to every classroom session, blending theory with practice and ensuring you are exposed to cutting-edge business insights.
The school is affiliated with KU Leuven and Ghent University, two of Belgium’s top universities, enhancing its credibility and international standing.
Leadership That Transforms
Unlike many EMBA programs that focus only on business functions, Vlerick prioritizes leadership transformation. You’ll develop not just the skills, but the mindset required to lead in complexity, influence stakeholders, and drive innovation.
Leadership development is embedded throughout the program via:
Executive coaching
Personal leadership journey mapping
Team dynamics workshops
Peer feedback and reflection exercises
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Whether you want to lead change inside an organization or create a company of your own, Vlerick offers unmatched support. Through its entrepreneurship platform, you can access:
Startup incubation resources
Pitch competitions and venture labs
Mentorship from experienced founders and investors
Graduates have gone on to found successful ventures in tech, sustainability, consulting, and beyond — some of which began as Capstone Projects.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Vlerick fosters a truly international and inclusive learning environment. The EMBA classroom is a mix of professionals across industries, nationalities, genders, and career paths. This diversity enhances peer learning and prepares you to lead multicultural teams in a globalized world.
Value Beyond Graduation
A Vlerick degree is not just for your résumé — it’s a lifelong asset. Alumni benefit from:
Exclusive networking events and conferences
Continuous learning through online and in-person seminars
Global alumni chapters and mentoring programs
Conclusion: Is the Vlerick EMBA Right for You?
If you're a mid- to senior-level professional seeking a flexible, internationally recognized EMBA that delivers leadership transformation, real-world impact, and global perspective, then Vlerick is a top-tier choice. It’s a program for those who don’t just want to understand business — they want to lead it.
FAQs
1. What is the Vlerick Executive MBA program?
The Vlerick EMBA is a part-time, flexible program designed for mid- to senior-level professionals who want to elevate their careers while continuing to work.
2. Where is the Vlerick EMBA offered?
The EMBA is offered at Vlerick’s campuses in Brussels and Ghent, Belgium.
3. What is the duration of the Vlerick EMBA?
The program runs for approximately 18 months, with classes typically held every other week on Fridays and Saturdays.
4. Who is the ideal candidate for the Vlerick EMBA?
Experienced professionals with at least 5 years of work experience who are seeking to develop leadership skills and business acumen.
5. Is the Vlerick EMBA internationally recognized?
Yes, Vlerick is triple-accredited (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB), placing it among the top 1% of business schools worldwide.
6. What are the admission requirements?
Applicants must submit a CV, academic transcripts, essays, references, and complete an admissions interview.
7. Is the GMAT required for admission?
No, the GMAT is not mandatory, but candidates must demonstrate analytical and quantitative skills.
8. What is the cost of the Vlerick EMBA?
Tuition is approximately €41,500, which includes all course materials and international trips.
9. Does the EMBA include international exposure?
Yes, students participate in global immersions, which include study trips and international business challenges.
10. Can I continue working while doing the EMBA?
Yes, the program is designed for professionals to balance work, study, and personal commitments.
11. What subjects are covered in the Vlerick EMBA?
Core topics include strategy, finance, marketing, operations, and leadership, with electives in innovation, digital transformation, and more.
12. What leadership development opportunities are included?
The program features a Personal Development Portfolio (PDP) with coaching, reflection, and leadership labs.
13. Does the program offer career services?
Yes, Vlerick provides career coaching, networking events, and access to a global alumni network.
14. Is there any group or project work?
Yes, students work on live business projects and group assignments, including a final Capstone project.
15. What are the teaching methods used?
A blend of interactive lectures, simulations, case studies, and real-world consulting projects.
16. Are there networking opportunities?
Absolutely. You’ll network with peers, professors, guest speakers, and alumni across industries.
17. What is the average class profile?
Students typically have 10–15 years of experience, with diverse nationalities and professional backgrounds.
18. Are scholarships available?
Yes, partial scholarships are available based on merit and financial need.
19. Is knowledge of Dutch required?
No, the program is fully taught in English.
20. How do I apply for the Vlerick EMBA?
Applications are submitted online via Vlerick’s official website, with rolling admissions throughout the year.
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