MBA with specialisation in Engineering

In an era where technological advancement and innovation are paramount, the engineering sector is at the forefront of shaping the future. Recognising the critical intersection of engineering prowess and strategic management, Wittenborg offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme with a specialisation in Engineering. This programme is tailored for professionals who aspire to ascend to leadership roles within the engineering industry.

Our MBA in Engineering uniquely integrates the technical rigour of engineering with the strategic insights of business management. The programme is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to lead complex engineering projects, manage diverse teams, and drive innovation within their organisations. Offered to both full-time and part-time students, and taught entirely in English, this programme attracts a diverse group of ambitious professionals from around the globe.

The curriculum offers a comprehensive blend of engineering expertise and business acumen. Students will delve into subjects such as project management, operations management, technology innovation, along with sustainability in engineering practices.

This specialisation not only enhances the students’ engineering skills but also hones their capabilities in leadership, strategic thinking, and financial management within the context of engineering. Through a mix of theoretical learning, practical case studies, and collaborative projects, the programme prepares students to tackle the global challenges of engineering management.

Graduates of the MBA in Engineering are well-prepared to take on pivotal roles such as chief engineering officers, project managers, or consultants, providing strategic direction and ensuring the successful delivery of engineering solutions. They are equipped to foster innovation, optimise project outcomes, and contribute to the strategic goals of their organisations in various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, technology, and beyond.

We invite applicants who have a background in engineering or related fields, along with a minimum of 3-years' professional work experience, to apply for this transformative programme. Join us at Wittenborg to enhance your expertise and become a leader in the ever-evolving world of engineering.

Course structure

The MBA programme is delivered in a ‘block format’, with 2 modules being covered every 6 weeks. Core module classes are inter-disciplinary - you study shared modules with master students from different business management specializations. Due to the rolling entry (6 times a year) groups are dynamic, extremely international, and diverse.

The modules are delivered intensively over consecutive days in the 'block format', which means that each module has 6 days of teaching, split into two blocks of 3 days. Teaching methods include group work, case studies, presentations, and live projects. The course is delivered through a variety of approaches including lectures, presentations, tutorials and case studies, with an emphasis on interactive learning. Each module is taught by two lecturers, often a full-time Wittenborg lecturer and a guest lecturer from a partner university. Modules also include regular guest speakers from the industry.

Areas of study

Management subjects address key issues of strategy, marketing, operations, human resources, accounting and financial planning, studied in parallel with deeper international corporate finance and investment modules. Options include consultancy and multi-unit management. Students acquire research skills, which they can apply to academic or industrial projects.

Syllabus

Semester 1

• Human Resource Management
• Marketing Management
• Management Accounting & Finance
• Operations Management
• International Management
• Information Management

Semester 2

• Engineering Project Management
• Technical Innovation & Product Development
• Business Statistics
• Strategic Management
• Zero-Energy Buildings & Energy Transition

Throughout the programme: Research Methods, 3 Project weeks, leading to the Final Project

The engineering industry is a vast and multidisciplinary field that drives innovation and development across the global economy. It encompasses a range of sectors, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering, each contributing uniquely to the advancements in infrastructure, technology, and services. Here is an exploration of the critical aspects defining the engineering industry today, providing the context for Wittenborg’s specialised MBA programme in Engineering.

1. Rapid Technological Advancements: Technology is a core component of the engineering sector, with rapid advancements shaping new methodologies and capabilities. From automation and robotics in manufacturing to AI and IoT in smart city developments, engineers must continually adapt to integrate these technologies effectively within their projects.

2. Sustainability and Environmental Impact: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable practices within engineering to address environmental concerns such as climate change and resource depletion. Sustainable engineering practices not only seek to minimize environmental impact but also aim to engineer solutions that enhance sustainability through renewable energy projects, waste reduction technologies, and sustainable construction practices.

3. Infrastructure Development: As urban populations grow, so does the demand for robust infrastructure. This encompasses not only transportation and utilities but also the development of sustainable urban spaces. Engineers play a pivotal role in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure that meets these increasing demands while balancing economic and environmental considerations.

4. Globalization of Engineering Projects: Engineering projects often span multiple countries, requiring coordination across different cultural and regulatory landscapes. This globalization demands engineers who are not only skilled in their technical domains but also adept at navigating international project management and cross-cultural collaborations.

5. Regulatory and Safety Standards: The engineering field is heavily regulated to ensure safety and efficacy. Engineers must comply with numerous standards and regulations, which can vary significantly from one region to another. Understanding and managing these regulatory frameworks are crucial for the successful delivery of engineering projects.

6. Innovation in Engineering Design and Methods: Innovation is at the heart of engineering, driving the development of new materials, techniques, and technologies. Engineers must be on the cutting edge of design and methodology to create more efficient, durable, and cost-effective solutions.

7. Project Management and Efficiency: Effective project management is essential in engineering to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to specifications. Engineers with advanced project management skills can significantly enhance the efficiency and success of complex projects.

The MBA with a specialisation in Engineering at Wittenborg is designed to prepare graduates to excel in this dynamic industry by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and innovate in various engineering fields. By integrating business management principles with engineering expertise, the programme develops leaders capable of managing complex projects, driving innovation, and leading teams in a competitive global environment. Join us to become part of this vibrant industry, shaping your future as a leader in engineering.

Graduates of the MBA programme with a specialisation in Engineering from Wittenborg are highly equipped to face the challenges and seize the opportunities in the dynamic field of engineering. This advanced degree blends technical engineering expertise with strategic business management skills, opening doors to a variety of high-level career paths in diverse industries. Here are several potential career opportunities for graduates:

1. Project Manager: Specialising in engineering projects, these managers are responsible for planning, executing, and finalising projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan.

2. Operations Manager: In manufacturing and production industries, operations managers with an engineering background are crucial. They manage the creation and delivery of products, overseeing the entire production process, optimising operations, and ensuring the effective use of resources.

3. Engineering Consultant: These professionals provide expert advice in their areas of specialisation, helping clients with the development, optimisation, and implementation of complex engineering solutions. They often work for consulting firms or operate as independent contractors.

4. Product Development Manager: Leading the development of new products, these managers work to merge customer needs with business and engineering capabilities. They manage product development from conception through to launch, ensuring that products are competitive and meet market demands.

5. Quality Assurance Manager: QA managers ensure that engineering outputs meet necessary standards of quality and safety. They develop quality control processes to maintain the integrity of engineering projects and products.

6. Supply Chain Manager: Professionals in this role manage the end-to-end supply chain operations, integrating logistics and supply chain management principles with engineering processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in production and distribution.

7. Sustainability Specialist: Given the increasing importance of sustainable practices, specialists in this area focus on developing and implementing strategies that minimise environmental impact while also being economically viable.

8. Risk Management Specialist: These specialists identify and mitigate risks associated with engineering projects and operations. Their role is crucial in ensuring that projects are not only successful but also compliant with legal and safety standards.

9. Entrepreneur/Startup Founder: Leveraging their engineering and business expertise, many MBA graduates choose to start their own companies or venture into new business areas, developing innovative products or services within the engineering sector.

The MBA with a specialisation in Engineering at Wittenborg not only prepares students for advanced roles within the engineering sector but also equips them with the strategic, managerial, and analytical skills needed to lead in the global market. This comprehensive education opens up a breadth of opportunities for leadership and innovation, making our graduates highly sought after in the competitive engineering landscape.

• a Bachelor degree or equivalent recognised qualification;

It is not necessary to have obtained a Bachelor degree from the domain of Business Administration.

• 3 years professional experience;

Applicants are requested to provide 2 reference letters from which at least one is a reference from a company or organization where they have worked before;

English Language Requirements

IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL Equivalent. Click here for an overview of the equivalent scores.
The TOEFL Code of Wittenborg is 4889.

With its work experience requirement, the admission requirements reflect the national requirements in the Netherlands for entry into a professional Master such as the Wittenborg MBA. The English language proficiency level requirement is ½ a point higher than the minimum national requirements in the Netherlands.

Selection procedure

There is no specific selection procedure for students wishing to enter the MBA, however non-EU (visa) students are “screened” according to their background, in order for the institute to be able to guarantee their immigration status.

The screening comprises of an interview, collection and correlation of all IND required documents, including proof of sufficient funds, taking into account any scholarships provided by Wittenborg (Orange Tulip Scholarship, for instance) or by third parties (NUFFIC, EU, etc).

Details on Scholarships at Wittenborg can be found at http://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-financial-assistance.htm 

Applicants are required to provide a motivation letter in which they describe the reasons for choosing Wittenborg’s programme, as well as the reason for wanting to study in the Netherlands (international students). Student motivation is important as the programmes are demanding and especially for international students there is a criteria that they complete at least 50% of all their credits in a year.