Duration

Full time-1 year

Μοde of Delivery

On site, Online

Language of Delivery

Greek - English

Start Date

October 2026

Location

Athens, Greece

UCLY

Description

The International Master of Business Administration (iMBA) is a high-level, internationally oriented postgraduate programme designed to develop professionals with strategic thinking capabilities and the ability to make effective decisions in a complex and constantly evolving global environment.

The programme provides a comprehensive understanding of how modern organizations operate and how international markets function, with a strong focus on the factors that drive sustainable competitiveness and business growth.

Through the analysis of real-world business challenges and scenarios, students strengthen their ability to make well-informed decisions with direct and meaningful business impact. The learning approach bridges theory and practice, utilizing contemporary tools in management, strategy, and business analysis.

At the same time, the programme cultivates strong leadership capabilities and critical thinking, preparing graduates for demanding roles in multicultural and international environments.

Graduates of the iMBA are equipped to assume positions of responsibility in leading organizations and businesses in Greece and internationally, contributing actively to strategic transformation, growth, and the creation of long-term value.

The programme is delivered in collaboration with ESDES Business School, the School of Management of Université Catholique de Lyon, which is recognized among the leading management schools in France.

The school holds the prestigious international AACSB accreditation, an achievement earned by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and high-quality education.

In addition, it is a member of the Conférence des Grandes Écoles (CGE) and holds accreditations from EFMD Global and BSIS, ensuring the continuous alignment of its educational activities with the highest international standards in academic quality, research, and professional development.

Objectives of the programme

The objectives of the programme reflect its commitment to providing meaningful and practical education for professionals who are required to operate effectively in a demanding international business environment.

  • Develop strong strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities in complex business settings.
  • Gain an in-depth understanding of organizational operations and the factors that shape international competitiveness.
  • Analyze complex business challenges and formulate well-founded strategic decisions.
  • Utilize contemporary management and analytical tools to address real-world business challenges.
  • Develop leadership capabilities and operational agility in multicultural environments.
  • Prepare for positions of significant responsibility and for leading strategic initiatives with tangible business impact.

The International MBA combines academic excellence with the practical application of business knowledge, preparing graduates for managerial and leadership positions across a wide range of industries and organizations.

  • Internationally recognized MBA degree delivered in collaboration with ESDES Business School
  • Partnership with an institution accredited by AACSB, one of the most prestigious international business school accreditations
  • Faculty with extensive academic credentials and professional experience
  • Practical, interactive learning based on real-world business cases
  • Development of strategic, leadership, and managerial competencies
  • Networking opportunities with academics, business leaders, and industry professionals
  • Enhanced career prospects in Greece and internationally
  • AACSB accreditation referenced on the diploma awarded to graduates of the programme’s partner institution, where applicable under institutional regulations and degree-awarding policies.

International Ranking

For the fourth time, ESDES is ranked among the top 100 Master in Management Programmes by the Financial Times.

For the second consecutive year, Esdes Business School is featured in the QS Business Master’s Rankings 2026! This recognition confirms the school’s position among the best business schools in the world.

Structure of the Programme of Studies

The programme is structured around three interconnected thematic areas, designed to comprehensively develop the analytical, managerial, and strategic capabilities required for leadership in today’s international business environment.

Understanding the international business environment and the factors that shape the operation of markets and organizations.

Courses:

  • The Legal and Political Environment of International Business
  • Economics for Responsible Executives
  • Assessment and Management of Global Risks
  • Cross-Cultural Management and Communication
  • Markets and Competitiveness

Development of leadership, strategic, and managerial skills for effective performance in multicultural and complex environments.

Courses:

  • International HR, Leadership and Management
  • Negotiations
  • Strategy for Developing a Sustainable Business & CSR
  • Developing and Management of International Projects
  • Ethical Issues and International Development

Strengthening analytical thinking and strategic decision-making capabilities through applied tools and business analysis.

Courses:

  • Research Methods for Business & Dissertation
  • Digitalization in an International Economy
  • Financial Corporate Analysis
  • Business Strategy Game
  • Supply Chain & Distribution

More information

The International MBA provides graduates with a strong competitive advantage, enhancing their access to high-responsibility roles and accelerating their career advancement in strategic and fast-growing sectors of the global economy.

Graduates can pursue careers in areas such as:

  • Business Development
  • Marketing & Brand Management
  • Finance & International Financial Services
  • Management Control
  • Consulting & Strategy
  • Supply Chain & Logistics
  • International Trade
  • Senior Management and General Management positions within multinational organizations.

The programme is offered in person through scheduled classes at our facilities, located at 68 Syngrou Avenue (next to the “Syngrou–Fix” Metro Station). At the same time, through our modern educational platform, participants have the option to attend classes online via live distance learning (synchronous e-learning) as well as on demand through recorded sessions. These options are designed to support and enhance the learning process.

  • Degree in Higher Education (TEI, TEI, Colleges, etc.) from National and/or International Institutions.  
  • In some cases, candidates who do not have a first degree but who have significant professional experience may be admitted to the programme, after an interview.
  • IELTS English language certificate, or other equivalent level certificate.

The registration process is simpler and shorter than ever!

You can register in the following ways:

Α) Online

You can download the registration form here and send it completed to admissions@ist.edu.gr,along with the necessary registration documents (to view them click here) and proof of deposit (to view the bank accounts click here.)

B) By visiting IST College

The IST College Administrative Staff will be at your disposal to help you register. All you need is to come to IST College, bringing with you the necessary registration documents, to view them click here.

The way the already affordable IST College tuition fees are paid is very flexible. In consultation with IST College financial services, it is possible to pay in instalments or in a lump sum with a corresponding discount.

In addition, your Education Advisor will inform you about the financial and social criteria that will secure you a tuition fee subsidy of up to 30%, supported by the IST College Student Support Fund.

You can also apply for one of the Scholarships offered by IST College, announced periodically by IST College, in collaboration with well-known companies and organisations. For more information click here.

It is important to note that by paying your tuition fees, apart from attending the courses, you will also enjoy a range of privileges and services at no extra charge such as:

  • Registration
  • Use of the IST College Library
  • Participation in the Examinations
  • Use of the IST College Modern Education Platform
  • Issuance of all certificates of study, grades and certificates from both IST College and the partner university
  • Participation in seminars, events and conferences organised and offered by IST College
  • A card that ensures preferential prices in college-affiliated shops of various sectors and services

Download the Study Guide (here)

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