Global EMBA Ranking - Wharton ranked No. 1

According to Whitefield Consulting Worldwide's 2008 rankings, the top 25 EMBA programs represent the most prestigious and high-performing business schools worldwide, based on a variety of criteria such as faculty quality, program structure, alumni outcomes, international reach, and the strength of global partnerships.

At the top of the 2008 Whitefield Consulting Worldwide rankings is the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, which holds the number one position. Wharton, known for its academic rigor and strong business research, has consistently proven to be a leader in the field of business education. Wharton’s EMBA program is celebrated for its comprehensive curriculum, distinguished faculty members, and ability to connect students with Fortune 500 companies and industry networks. The Wharton program focuses on financial analysis, strategic thinking, leadership development, and innovation, providing students with both the academic foundation and practical insights necessary for their professional journeys. Its consistently high placement in global rankings and its extensive alumni network solidify its status as one of the premier choices for EMBA candidates worldwide.

Following closely behind Wharton in the number two position are Columbia Business School and London Business School (LBS), which share a joint ranking. These two iconic business schools are known for their prestigious EMBA offerings, exceptional faculty expertise, and unparalleled global networks. Columbia Business School and LBS have partnered in innovative academic strategies to ensure a globally interconnected program that allows students to gain insights from both North American and European business contexts. Their program focuses on leadership development, international finance, and strategic decision-making, providing students with cross-cultural experiences and a strong international perspective. The combination of LBS’s and Columbia’s expertise offers EMBA students an enriching and comprehensive learning experience, thereby making them competitive candidates in a global business environment.

Taking the number three position in 2008 is the Trium consortium, which combines the expertise of HEC Paris, the London School of Economics (LSE), and New York University’s Stern School of Business. Trium is unique in its approach, offering a collaborative and global EMBA experience that combines the strengths of these three world-class institutions. This program stands out because of its innovative, multi-campus structure and its strong emphasis on international business strategy, leadership, and cross-border collaboration. With a combination of European and American business insights, Trium provides students with a holistic and multicultural perspective, preparing them for leadership in a globalized economy.

The fourth position in the 2008 rankings is occupied by Kellogg/Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), an alliance that combines one of the United States' leading business schools with one of Asia’s top institutions. The Kellogg-HKUST EMBA program offers students a unique opportunity to gain insights into both Western and Asian business practices. This strategic partnership focuses on developing strategic leadership, decision-making, and international perspectives while offering flexibility to its candidates. The diverse student body, international faculty, and focus on collaboration make this program one of the most dynamic and globally-oriented EMBA offerings. Its ability to combine American rigor with Asian perspectives highlights its strength in preparing professionals for the challenges of a global economy.

Rounding out the top five is Instituto de Empresa (IE Business School), located in Spain. Instituto de Empresa has become one of Europe’s top business schools, offering a distinctive and innovative EMBA program. The school emphasizes innovation, entrepreneurship, leadership, and strategy, catering to experienced professionals looking to build strong careers in international business. Known for its innovative and entrepreneurial approach to teaching, IE Business School focuses on creating adaptable and forward-thinking leaders. The program emphasizes experiential learning, with a strong focus on case studies, real-world simulations, and business projects, which allows students to engage deeply with the material and apply their learning directly to contemporary business challenges.

In the sixth position is the University of Chicago Booth School of Business (GSB). Known for its strength in research and its focus on analytical rigor, Chicago Booth offers one of the most respected and academically challenging EMBA programs in the world. The program combines a strong foundation in economics, strategy, and finance with practical application and leadership development. The University of Chicago has a long history of producing innovative business leaders, and its EMBA program continues this tradition by focusing on leadership development, strategic thinking, and decision-making. Its distinguished faculty members and strong academic program make it a popular choice for EMBA candidates worldwide.

The seventh spot in the 2008 rankings belongs to INSEAD, a global leader in business education with campuses in Europe and Asia. INSEAD is known for its international perspective and emphasis on global business strategy, cross-cultural learning, and leadership development. The INSEAD EMBA program draws students from all corners of the globe, with diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, which enhances the learning experience for all participants. Its program focuses on strategic decision-making, innovation, leadership, and global collaboration, providing students with a truly international and transformative business education.

London Business School (LBS) occupies the eighth position in these rankings. LBS is a staple in the top ranks of global business education, offering a distinguished EMBA program with a focus on leadership, strategy, and innovation. Known for its distinguished faculty members and strong research output, London Business School provides EMBA students with unique opportunities to engage with a diverse student body and international business leaders. With a well-established global network and partnerships, LBS offers an experience that emphasizes leadership development, strategic insight, and global business acumen.

The rankings demonstrate that the top EMBA programs globally are not only located in North America but also extend to Europe and Asia. They combine traditional academic rigor with modern, innovative approaches to leadership and strategy, preparing their graduates for the most challenging leadership roles worldwide. These programs bring together diverse student bodies, outstanding professors, innovative teaching methods, and strong career opportunities for their alumni. The 2008 Whitefield Consulting Worldwide rankings provide a valuable resource for EMBA candidates considering their options, offering insights into the most globally recognized programs based on both prestige and results.

Below is the ranking of Top 25 EMBA programs by Whitefield Consulting Worldwide 2008:

Rank 08 , Rank 07, Schools

1 , 5 Wharton
2 , 2 Columbia/London Business School
3 , 1 Trium HEC/LSE/Stern
4 , 3 Kellogg / Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
5 , 4 Instituto de Empresa
6 , 6 Uni of Chicago (GSB)
7 , 14 INSEAD
8 , 7 London Business School
9 , 10 Chinese Uni of Hong Kong
10 , 18 Cass Business School (City University of London)
11 , 13 IMD
12 , 11 Kellog / WHU-OTTO Beisheim
13 , 8 Purdue / Tias / CEU / Gisma
14 , 9 Fuqua (Duke University)
15 , 16 Olin: Washington Univ
16 , 12 IESE Business School
17 , 17 Ceibs
18 , - Thunderbird School of Global Management
19 , - National U of Singapore
20 , 24 Stern (NYU)
21 , 25 RSM Erasmus Univ
22 , 21 ESSEC/Mannheim
23 , - U of Michigan: Ross
24 , - UCLA: Anderson
25 , - OneMBA