Leadership & Strategy
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Choose acceleration and growth
You make the real impact with your leadership. Determining and executing a future-proof strategic direction when everything is in motion requires vision, guts and realization power. Your development and that of your team determine the success and future-proofing of your organization. Self-awareness and knowledge of the business – the market, technology and business substantiation – is your starting point. In the leadership and strategy programs of Nyenrode Business Universiteit, our professors, subject teachers and coaches give you the acceleration and the current building blocks you are looking for.
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Joost van Gestel Scholarship for Entrepreneurs
A true entrepreneur is someone with the unique skills to turn ideas into reality. To foster the true entrepreneurial spirit, this alumnus wants to support young entrepreneurs who have started their own business or have concrete plans to do so, to realize their dreams and pursue full-time studies at Nyenrode.
The recipients of a scholarship:
- Cannot attend Nyenrode without it;
- Follow a full-time program at Nyenrode Business Universiteit;
- Intend to actively contribute to the student associations NCV or JCV;
- Are willing to contribute to the Nyenrode Scholarship Fund themselves after completing their studies.
Do I have the possibility of going on exchange or doing an internship?
In the master's phase of the program, students participate in the Global Immersion Program (GIP) as part of their specialization track. Through the GIP, students, along with faculty and program management, will explore and gain firsthand experience of how specific businesses operate in practice, in addition to attending lectures at partner universities. This program includes one week abroad, with the location varying depending on the specialization track you choose.
While an internship is not a mandatory part of the curriculum, it is an option. However, taking part in an internship may require extending your study duration.
How can I balance my personal life with the academic life at Nyenrode?
The workload at Nyenrode can be challenging, as it requires full-time class attendance, self-study management, and collaboration on projects with peers. We recommend creating a study schedule and staying organized with your time (Nyenrode’s coaches are available to assist you if needed). By doing so, you can excel academically while also making the most of student life. Joining the student associations will provide opportunities to meet people and participate in various activities.
It is important to note that some classes are mandatory, and some are not. Once you receive the curriculum, you will know exactly which ones you must attend. Please take into consideration that the classes continue during the summer holidays.
Do I need to join the student association?
What happens if I fail the pre-master?
If you fail the pre-master, you cannot start with the Master's degree and you cannot start again the year after.
How can I get exempted from doing the pre-master?
Everyone with a HBO bachelor has to do the pre-master. For some students with a WO bachelor it is possible to get a (partial) exemption from the pre-master. To find out whether there are eligible for this, you will need to hand in your full application so that our Admission’s Advisor can check. For more information, check out our master starters page.
Can I work while following my master's degree?
Yes, it’s possible to work alongside your studies. Some students take on part-time jobs, such as working at a restaurant or having an online job. However, be mindful that your schedule includes mandatory classes, so you’ll need to plan carefully. Balancing work, classes, and involvement in the student association requires good organizational skills.
What is the workload like in the master's program?
The workload of the master's phase is lower than the pre-master, but you will still have a 40 hour workload (lecture + self study) per week. For the pre-master's, the workload heavily depends on your background and what studies you have previously done, as some courses might not be necessary for you to follow. Still, we advice to not have a job on the side, as the load might be intense with classes almost everyday of the week.
Is the program suitable for international students?
Absolutely! Nyenrode offers a multicultural environment with students from various countries. Classes are conducted in English, and both campuses provide support to help international students integrate academically and socially.
What happens if I don’t meet the English requirements?
To meet the English language requirement (minimum B2 level), you can:
- Take classes at a language institute that follows the Cambridge English methods to prepare for the Cambridge C1 exam.
- Opt for online tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
We’re here to guide you if you need support in selecting the right option.
What happens if I don’t meet the math requirements?
If your math grade doesn’t meet the admission criteria, you can take an additional math test. We recommend the OMPT-A, which allows you to schedule an online exam at your convenience. Alternatively, you can take classes and an exam through James Boswell, which requires in-person attendance.
Is campus housing furnished?
Yes, all rooms in Breukelen are fully furnished. They include a bed (with pillows, linens, and a duvet), a wardrobe, a desk with chairs, and a bookcase. Depending on the room type, you’ll have access to either a kitchenette or a shared kitchen.
What are the main differences between the Amsterdam and Breukelen campuses?
The key difference lies in the student experience:
- Breukelen: Living on campus is mandatory. It’s a close-knit environment where you share a room with a roommate, attend classes together, and return to the campus community. This creates a unique and immersive "bubble" experience.
- Amsterdam: You have more independence and flexibility to choose where to live. While students form close bonds, the experience offers greater freedom to separate your academic and personal life after classes.
The curriculum, teaching methods, exams, and tuition fees are the same at both locations.
What is the program’s dropout rate?
Our dropout rate is very low—approximately 95–98% of students graduate on time with their cohort. From the beginning, we work closely with students to ensure the program is the right fit. Rarely, students withdraw due to personal circumstances, health issues, or because the program doesn’t meet their expectations.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, it’s possible to work alongside your studies. Some students take on part-time jobs, such as working at a restaurant or having an online job. However, be mindful that your schedule includes mandatory classes, so you’ll need to plan carefully. Balancing work, classes, and involvement in the student association requires good organizational skills.
What is the workload like in the program?
The program requires approximately 40 hours per week, including:
- 16–20 hours of classes
- 3–4 hours of sports activities (a part of the program)
- 10 hours of group work
- 8–10 hours of independent study
Classes are held between 8:30 AM and 7:00 PM. To progress to the second year, students must meet minimum ECTS requirements.
What’s the best journey from orientation to application?
We recommend joining your child at one of our in-person events or encouraging them to attend an online session. These events provide all the key information about the program, admissions process, and important deadlines.
It’s a good idea to attend an event at both of our locations—Amsterdam and Breukelen—so your child can get a feel for each campus. This experience can help them decide which location suits them best.
Next, consider signing up for a “student-for-a-day” experience, a personal information session, or an admissions webinar (if available). These options offer deeper insights into the program and the steps ahead.
Throughout the application process, our program advisors are available to answer any questions and provide guidance.
When your child feels confident and ready, they can complete the application on our program page. For specific details about the process, refer to our application page for further guidance.
Can I combine modules from different tracks?
Is there a fixed order in the modules?
Can I pause the program?
489 news articles
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Leadership in Times of Disruption
Type: CommunityPublication date: 3/19/2025Rapid technological advancements, AI, and changing regulations are reshaping the market at an unprecedented pace. This calls for a new approach to leadership. We spoke with Kitty Koelemeijer from Nyenrode Business University about navigating these disruptive times. "You need to be open-minded, and that takes courage."
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5 Tips to organize your tech, data, and AI capabilities more efficiently
Type: EducationPublication date: 3/17/2025The digitalization of society means that your organization will increasingly need to learn how to use and organize technology, data, and AI.
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"People Want to Change, But Not Be Changed"
Type: EducationPublication date: 3/12/2025Showing sincere interest in others is a crucial success factor in change management, says Erik Maier, lecturer at Nyenrode Business University. "Taking the time to listen to someone's story ultimately helps you achieve more."
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Formar chairman of Nyenrode Foundation Board André Olijslager passed away
Type: About NyenrodePublication date: 3/4/2025On February 24, former chairman of the Nyenrode Foundation Board André Olijslager passed away. Besides being a member of the Foundation Board, André was also an alumnus, guest speaker and a welcome guest at meetings.
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Royal Honor for Prof. Dr. Paul Hilbers
Type: About NyenrodePublication date: 2/14/2025King Willem-Alexander has appointed Prof. Dr. Paul Hilbers as Commander in the Order of Orange-Nassau.
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Bretton Woods 2.0: the role of the IMF and the World Bank in a changing world
Type: About NyenrodePublication date: 2/14/2025The international relations in the world are shifting, which also has consequences for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. In a world dealing with the consequences of climate change and an increasingly fragmenting global economy, these institutions have an important role to play. This is the message of Professor Emeritus Paul Hilbers in his emeritus speech on February 14.
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Social value top 25 Dutch companies: Minus 30 percent
Type: ResearchPublication date: 2/7/2025The 23 largest AEX–listed companies in the Netherlands collectively cost society more than they yield. The total financial value of these companies is offset by a negative social and ecological balance of minus 30 percent. Two out of three AEX companies do make a positive contribution. The negative total balance is mainly caused by a small number of companies, including steel producer ArcelorMittal and Shell. Heineken also scores ‘red’, and Unilever is also remarkably low. Philips, on the other hand, is doing very well and is in first place in the ranking.
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Impact Case: "Research Valorization through Open-Source Software"
Type: ResearchPublication date: 1/29/2025The goal that the researchers of the Statistical Auditing Group at Nyenrode Business University have set is to make the work of auditors easier and more efficient. Thanks to the development of advanced statistical methods and their integration into open-source software, they are paving the way for more transparency in auditing and greater accessibility of statistical methods.
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The Covey Challenge: what drives you?
Type: EducationPublication date: 1/21/2025What are your natural behaviors and thoughts—essentially, your patterns? A fun and effective way to uncover this is through the Covey Challenge. Participants engage in a variety of playful and active tasks in competitive team settings. By making decisions, managing time pressure, and finding your place within the group, you gain insights into your (often unconscious) patterns.
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Innovation as a driver of sustainable progress
Type: ResearchPublication date: 1/20/2025Innovation should not only drive economic growth but also support sustainability and inclusivity. This is the key message from Professor Erik Brouwer during his inaugural lecture on January 17. “The future of broad-based prosperity depends on our willingness to collaborate and embrace innovation as a catalyst for change.”
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Micky Adriaansens appointed Chair of Nyenrode Business University
Type: About NyenrodePublication date: 1/16/2025Effective February 1, 2025, Micky Adriaansens will be appointed as the new Chair of Nyenrode Business University. Adriaansens served as Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate from 2022 to 2024 in the Rutte IV cabinet. She has also been a member of the Senate and the managing director of the consultancy firm Twynstra Gudde.
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"Adam Smith shows how ethics and economics go hand in hand"
Type: OpinionPublication date: 12/12/2024“We’ve come out of a time when companies were expected to focus solely on profits. But in his writings, Smith actually rejected the ‘greed is good’ mindset of neoliberalism.”
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It's about taking leadership of your own story
Type: EducationPublication date: 12/9/2024As owner of Zakelijkheid in Cultuur, Jacqueline Stolmeijer-Arends advises companies in the cultural sector on management and supervision. The Executive MBA program at Nyenrode Business University confirmed her in the idea of starting her own business.
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Driving sustainable change: Key insights by Prof. Dr. Ir. André Nijhof and Dr. Nicolas Chevrollier
Type: CommunityPublication date: 11/27/2024As we face the challenges of climate change, social inequality, and resource scarcity, the need for sustainability transitions has never been more critical. The elective Sustainability and Systemic Change of the Modular MBA offers a transformative learning experience for those committed to contribute to these transitions. By focusing on systemic approaches and personal reflection, participants are empowered to identify and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable value creation.
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How to create a future-proof strategy in a rapidly changing digital world
Type: EducationPublication date: 11/26/2024For businesses, organizations, and governments, responding to the opportunities and challenges of digital advancements is crucial. But how do you ensure a strategy that stands the test of time? Wolter Lemstra, lead faculty member for Digital Strategy and Transformation at Nyenrode Business University, offers five practical tips.
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Nyenrode celebrates 78th Dies Natalis with theme 'Leaders of the Future'
Type: CommunityPublication date: 11/21/2024On November 20, 2024 Nyenrode Business University celebrated its 78th Dies Natalis. Members of the Nyenrode community, including students, alumni and staff gathered in large numbers to celebrate this special anniversary.
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A purpose-driven MBA for changing global business
Type: CommunityPublication date: 11/15/2024Prepare to lead future business shifts with impact-driven skills.
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Five inspiring and fun books for you to read
Type: CommunityPublication date: 11/15/2024New titles for fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.
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Graduation Ceremony Full-time MBA Class of 2024
Type: CommunityPublication date: 10/23/2024On the 3rd of September, a great Full-time MBA graduation ceremony took place.
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Corporate finance: "Put the focus back on society"
Type: ResearchPublication date: 10/14/2024Companies have power but take too little responsibility. This is what Willem Schramade, Professor of Sustainable Finance, states in his inaugural lecture on October 11. “In order to be successful in the long term, directors must also steer on the social and ecological value of their business."
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