Top Asian EMBA by Financial Times

The Financial Times EMBA Rankings of 2007 provides a snapshot of the most prominent Executive MBA (EMBA) programs in Asia and their positions on the global stage. The rankings highlight the competitive nature of business education in Asia, the increasing international influence of global business schools, and the interconnectedness of educational programs across borders. Several Asian EMBA programs are recognized globally, and their inclusion in the rankings demonstrates their prestige and ability to meet the demands of modern business leaders.

At the very top of the Asian EMBA rankings is the Kellogg/HKUST Business School, a joint program between Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). Ranked first in Asia and holding the top position in the global rankings, this program stands out for its rigorous academic environment, international orientation, and focus on leadership development. The Kellogg/HKUST EMBA is well known for combining Western business practices with insights from Asia’s dynamic economies, offering participants a truly global perspective.

Following closely is Washington University Olin Business School, located in China and holding the seventh spot globally. This program represents another successful collaboration with international influence, blending advanced business strategies with the specific challenges of conducting business in China. Its strong academic foundation, diverse curriculum, and focus on strategy and leadership make Washington University’s Olin EMBA a popular choice for experienced professionals in Asia and beyond.

Another key player on the list is INSEAD, a European business school with campuses in France and Singapore. Ranked ninth globally, INSEAD is a reflection of the international appeal of European institutions in Asia. Known for its diverse, international student body, INSEAD offers a comprehensive EMBA program that combines innovative leadership strategies with a strong emphasis on cross-cultural collaboration. Its Singapore campus acts as a hub for students from Asia and other regions, focusing on global business challenges and opportunities.

The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), which shares the distinction of being located in both China and Hong Kong, ranks 15th globally. CUHK is celebrated for its academic rigor, emphasis on leadership development, and strong network in Asia and beyond. Its dual presence in Hong Kong and China allows students access to two of the most dynamic business environments in Asia, enhancing the learning experience by combining East and West perspectives.

The China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), based solely in China, holds the 23rd position globally. CEIBS is a leading EMBA program in Asia and has established itself as a top choice for executives looking to gain insights into Chinese markets and international business. CEIBS represents a strong partnership between Europe and Asia, focusing on leadership development, innovation, and strategic decision-making in dynamic business environments.

Another prominent institution in Asia is the University of Hong Kong (CUHK), which is tied at 32nd globally with the University of Western Ontario’s Ivey Business School, a collaborative Canadian/China EMBA program. This connection allows students to experience the global perspective of Western business strategies alongside the practical, dynamic challenges of the Asian market. This joint program offers participants the opportunity to engage with international business practices while fostering cross-cultural leadership skills.

The National Sun Yat-Sen University in Taiwan ranks 43rd globally, reflecting its strong position in Asia’s competitive EMBA landscape. The university has a focus on leadership and strategic problem-solving in the context of Taiwan’s business climate, which offers unique opportunities for executives to engage with regional industries.

Additionally, National Taiwan University’s College of Management, which is ranked 50th globally, provides excellent learning opportunities for executives seeking a deep understanding of both regional and global business issues. As one of Asia’s oldest and most prestigious universities, National Taiwan University continues to build its reputation in the business education space by combining rigorous academics with practical business insights.

While Asia boasts strong and competitive business schools, the Helsinki School of Economics, which has campuses in Finland, South Korea, and Singapore, holds a 77th global ranking. This demonstrates the increasingly interconnected nature of business education and highlights how Nordic educational institutions have found their niche within Asia by combining European leadership strategies with regional adaptability.

These rankings collectively reflect the changing landscape of global business education in the context of globalization. Many of the EMBA programs listed, particularly those tied to U.S., European, and Canadian institutions, emphasize leadership development, international business, and the ability to adapt to regional market changes. Asia itself is a rapidly growing economic hub, and the presence of well-established EMBA programs within the region demonstrates the demand for experienced, globally minded leaders capable of addressing its unique economic opportunities.

These top EMBA programs provide executives with invaluable tools, strategic thinking, and leadership development opportunities to succeed in an increasingly competitive and interconnected global market. They provide access to world-class faculty, diverse cohorts of peers, and extensive networks, all of which contribute to the learning experience.

Financial Times EMBA Rankings 2007 top Asian EMBA programs:
(Asia Rank, Name, Country, World Rank)
1. Kellogg/HK UST Business School - China/HK - 1
2. Washington University Olin - China - 7
3. Insead - France/Singapore - 9
4. Chinese University of HK - China/HK - 15
5. Ceibs - China - 23
6. CUHK - China - 32
6. University of Western Ontario : Iver - Canada/China - 32
8. National Sun Yat-Sen University - Taiwan - 43
9. National Taiwan University - College of Management - 50
10. Helsinki School of Economics - Finland/S.Korea/Singpoare - 77

FT 2007 MBA Rankings (Top 10 list):
1. University of Pennsylvania: Wharton School
2. Columbia Business School
3. Harvard Business School
3. Stanford University Graduate School of Business
5. London Business School
6. University of Chicago Graduate School of Business
7. Insead France/Singapore
8. New York University: Stern School of Business
9. Dartmouth College: Tuck School of Business Administration
10. Yale School of Management

Source: Financial Times 2007