Master of Science - Accounting
Aalto University’s Master of Science in Accounting program is de...
MSc in Economics and Business Administration - International Design Business Management
Aalto
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The MSc in Economics and Business Administration - International Design Business Management (IDBM) program at Aalto University is a unique, interdisciplinary master's program that combines design, business, and technology. The program is tailored for students who wish to bridge the gap between creative design processes and business strategy. It focuses on the development of design-driven business models that foster innovation and respond to global challenges. The program emphasizes strategic thinking, leadership, and the ability to manage creative teams, making it ideal for those aspiring to lead design-driven organizations and influence business growth through design. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to take on key roles in global design business environments, working at the intersection of creativity, management, and technology.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the IDBM program is carefully structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of both design and business principles. The program is project-based, with an emphasis on hands-on learning. Core courses include subjects such as design management, business strategy, marketing, product and service innovation, user-centered design, and entrepreneurship. Elective courses offer further specialization in areas like sustainable design, service design, and digital transformation. The program encourages collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, fostering interdisciplinary teamwork and problem-solving. Practical application of knowledge is a key element, with students working on real-world projects, often in partnership with industry leaders. The program culminates in a master’s thesis, which is a research project that allows students to explore a current challenge in the field of design business management.
Research Focus: Aalto University places significant emphasis on research within the IDBM program. The research focus is centered on the integration of design thinking with business and technological innovation. Students engage with cutting-edge research topics such as design-driven innovation, the role of design in business transformation, sustainable design practices, and the digitalization of the design process. The research at Aalto University contributes to the development of new business models that leverage design as a strategic resource. Students also have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects, contributing to the university’s broader research initiatives in design management, innovation, and business development. This research is interdisciplinary, combining insights from design, business, technology, and sustainability to address complex challenges faced by businesses today.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a cornerstone of the IDBM program at Aalto University. The program’s close connections with the global design and business sectors provide students with numerous opportunities to engage directly with industry leaders and practitioners. Students work on projects sponsored by real companies, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge to solve tangible problems faced by businesses. These projects cover a wide range of industries, from consumer products and tech to healthcare and sustainable design. The program also offers internships and collaborations with companies, providing students with valuable work experience and professional networking opportunities. Through these engagements, students gain a deeper understanding of the demands and expectations of the design business world, positioning them for success in their future careers.
Global Perspective: The IDBM program at Aalto University is inherently global, with a strong international orientation. The program attracts students from all over the world, creating a multicultural learning environment. This diversity enriches the academic experience and enhances the development of global leadership skills. Aalto University’s strong international partnerships with universities, design firms, and business organizations worldwide allow students to participate in exchange programs, joint research projects, and international internships. The curriculum incorporates global trends in design, innovation, and business, ensuring that students are prepared to work in an increasingly interconnected world. The program’s global perspective is also reflected in its teaching approach, which encourages cross-cultural collaboration and prepares students to manage design-led businesses in diverse international contexts.
Location
Aalto
Score
Tuition Fee
€ 17000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: €100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- English language test waiver is applicable if the Bachelor's, Master's, Licentiate, or Doctoral degree is in English language.
Standardized Test Requirements:
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): Overall score of 315 or higher is required.
- Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): Overall score of 600 or higher is required.
Aalto University in Finland offers a variety of scholarships to support international students who wish to study at one of the leading universities in Europe. These scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial burden of tuition fees and help students focus on their studies while living in Finland.
Aalto University Tuition Fee Scholarships: Aalto University offers scholarships specifically for international students who are required to pay tuition fees. The scholarships cover either partial or full tuition fees for master’s degree students from non-EU/EEA countries. The scholarship amounts range from 50% to 100% of the tuition fee, depending on the applicant’s academic achievements. Scholarships are awarded based on the strength of the application and the applicant’s academic background.
Aalto University Scholarship for Living Expenses: While the primary focus of the scholarship program is to assist with tuition fees, some additional financial support is available for students to help cover living expenses. These scholarships are typically awarded to students who already receive a tuition fee scholarship but need further assistance to cover their living costs.
Graduates of the MSc in Economics and Business Administration - International Design Business Management program from Aalto University are well-equipped to pursue diverse and impactful careers that combine design thinking, business acumen, and innovation management. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares graduates for roles in various industries, including design, technology, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Design Manager: Design managers are responsible for overseeing the design process within a company. They ensure that design initiatives align with business goals and strategies, managing teams of designers and other creative professionals. Graduates can take on design management roles in companies that focus on consumer goods, digital products, and services, driving the creation of innovative solutions while managing resources and budgets.
Product Manager: As a product manager, you would oversee the development and lifecycle of products, from conception to launch. Graduates of the IDBM program are well-suited for product management roles in industries such as consumer electronics, tech, automotive, and manufacturing. They leverage their knowledge of design thinking to ensure that products are not only functional but also meet user needs and business objectives.
Innovation Manager: Innovation managers drive the development and implementation of new ideas, technologies, and business models. They work across departments to foster a culture of creativity and ensure that the organization remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Graduates can find opportunities in tech companies, consulting firms, and startups, helping organizations integrate design thinking into their innovation strategies.
Business Development Manager: Business development managers identify new growth opportunities for organizations. They create strategies for expanding into new markets, partnerships, and product offerings. Graduates of the IDBM program can take on business development roles in multinational companies, startups, or design agencies, leveraging their expertise in design and business strategy to drive long-term success.
Service Designer: Service designers focus on the creation and improvement of services by understanding customer needs and designing services that deliver better user experiences. Graduates can work in sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, and finance, creating customer-centric services that meet market demands while fostering business growth.
Brand Strategist: Brand strategists develop and implement strategies to build and maintain a strong brand identity. They work closely with marketing and design teams to create a consistent brand experience that resonates with consumers. IDBM graduates with their understanding of design and business are well-prepared to take on roles in brand consulting agencies or in-house brand management teams.
Consultant (Design & Business Strategy): As consultants, IDBM graduates can work with organizations to enhance their design processes, improve business strategies, and optimize innovation practices. They can work at design consultancies, management consulting firms, or independently, helping clients leverage design thinking to solve complex business problems.
Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Many graduates choose to start their own businesses, capitalizing on their skills in design and business management to create innovative products or services. The IDBM program provides the tools necessary to launch and manage startups, particularly those focused on design-driven innovation. Graduates can enter industries such as digital technology, consumer products, or sustainable design.
UX/UI Designer: Graduates can specialize in user experience (UX) or user interface (UI) design, focusing on creating digital interfaces that are intuitive, functional, and visually appealing. These roles are highly in demand in industries such as tech, gaming, and e-commerce, where digital products are central to the business offering.
Digital Transformation Manager: Digital transformation managers help organizations adapt to the digital era by integrating new technologies and digital processes. IDBM graduates can guide businesses through digital changes, helping them incorporate design thinking and innovation to create more agile and customer-focused operations.
Creative Director: As a creative director, you would lead the creative team in a design-focused organization, overseeing the visual and strategic direction of design projects. Graduates with a strong foundation in both business and design are well-positioned for roles that require leadership in creative industries like advertising, design agencies, and media.
Sustainability Manager: Graduates can pursue sustainability-focused roles that incorporate design and business strategies to create sustainable products and services. As a sustainability manager, you would help companies develop and implement environmentally friendly practices that also contribute to long-term business success. This career is growing in importance, especially in industries such as fashion, automotive, and technology.
Corporate Strategy Consultant: Graduates with an interest in strategy can work as corporate strategy consultants, advising companies on how to integrate design innovation into their long-term business plans. This role requires strong analytical skills, business insight, and the ability to influence strategic decisions that shape the direction of the organization.
Marketing Manager: Marketing managers develop and execute marketing strategies that promote a company’s products or services. They work closely with design teams to ensure that the marketing materials align with the brand’s vision and messaging. IDBM graduates can take on marketing roles in various industries, utilizing their design-driven approach to create compelling campaigns.
Academic/Researcher in Design Business Management: Graduates who are interested in research and academia can pursue careers as researchers or professors in design business management. They contribute to the academic field by exploring new models for design-driven innovation and publishing research on topics such as design thinking, entrepreneurship, and business strategy.
Corporate Communications Manager: Corporate communications managers ensure that a company’s internal and external communications align with its business objectives. Graduates with expertise in both design and business can work in corporate communication, leveraging their understanding of design strategy to build strong, engaging messages that connect with stakeholders.
