Hello all,

I am questioning about which course / degree would be the most usefull for me.

I am a French mechanical engineer, with 10 years experience and I have been working in Asia for 7 years now.
I have strong technical background and I want to gain more knowledge about business such as strategy, marketing, finance...

I have 2 goals:
- Get good course quality in order to gain good knowledge
- Get a degree or diploma that would help me in my career in order to have more responsibilities and be able to move to a management position overseeing different departments (such as subsidiary manager, business unit manager, business developer...). As I work for French company and may come back in France at some point, I'd like a degree or school well recognized in France.

I want to keep working during this study therefore I am looking for online options.

From my research I have found few opportunities:
- EMIB from ESCP
- MSc International Business Management from EDHEC
- MBA from one UK university (Liverpool for example).

What do you think about these options? Which one could be the best fit according to my goals?

I am also open to other ideas if any!

Thank you in advance for your help and for all the information I already found on the forum.

Gameiro

Looking at EDHEC's online MSc in International Business Management and remember past concerns about the ESCP 'degree', I'll share my assessment:





1. EDHEC Online MSc in International Business Management:


This program appears to be a strong contender for your needs:


- It's a Master of Science degree (120 ECTS), triple-accredited internationally.


- The curriculum covers key areas you're interested in: strategy, finance, marketing, and international business.


- It's designed for working professionals, with an 18-month online format.


- EDHEC is a top-tier French business school with international recognition.


- The program includes a consulting project and personalized career coaching (YouDrive).


- It has a diverse, international cohort with an average age of 30, which aligns well with your experience level.





2. ESSEC Executive Master in Digital Transformation:


While not detailed in your initial options, this could be relevant:


- It's from another prestigious French business school (arguably more prestigious in Paris).


- The focus on digital transformation could be valuable for your goal of overseeing different departments in today's business environment.


- It's also designed for working professionals with a 100% online format.





3. ESCP EMIB:


Given the concerns about accreditation, experience and recognition, I would not recommend this option.





4. MBA options:


The often-mentioned MBA programs (Boston University, University of Illinois, Birmingham) remain stronger options than Liverpool, especially if you're looking for a more general management education.





My Recommendation:





1. EDHEC Online MSc in International Business Management:


This program now seems to fit your goals and situation best. It offers:


- A recognized degree from a top French school


- Curriculum aligned with your interests


- Flexibility for working professionals


- Strong focus on international business


- Career development support





2. ESSEC Executive Master in Digital Transformation:


Consider this if you're particularly interested in leading digital transformation initiatives. However, it may be less broad than the EDHEC program.





3. Reputable Online MBA programs:


These remain good options if you prefer a more general management degree with strong international recognition. However, they may not have the same network benefits in France as the French programs.





Key Considerations:


- The EDHEC program balances French recognition and international business focus.


- Both EDHEC and ESSEC programs will be well-regarded in France, supporting your potential return.


- Consider the specific curriculum of each program and how it aligns with your career goals.


- Look into each program's networking opportunities and alumni networks, as these can be crucial for career advancement.





I recommend reaching out to alumni of these programs, particularly those who have transitioned into roles similar to your target. Their insights on how the programs have impacted their careers in France and internationally could be invaluable in making your final decision.

[Edited by StuartHE on Sep 26, 2024]

I'm an EDHEC alum, so I asked: Our online MSc degrees are private degrees, not recognized by the French state.

Thanks a lot Stuart and Duncan for all these information.

I will look into the ESSEC Executive Master in Digital Transformation as I was not aware of this degree.

I'll also reach out alumni of these different training.

Thanks again!