Introduction to the MBA with Specialisation in Smart Industry

The MBA with specialisation in Smart Industry is a programme designed to train future business administrators to understand the implications of exponential technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced robotics, and cognitive automation. This programme guides students through the process of critical analysis, planning, and implementation of innovative digital businesses and operation strategies from a practical business point of view.

Course Details

• Course Name: MBA with specialisation in Smart Industry
• Course Type: MBA Master of Business Administration (Full-Time)
• Course Sector: Business & Technology
• Course Duration: 18 months
• Credits: 90 European Credits
• Entry Points Per Year: 6 x entry dates per year possible
• Next Starting Date(s): 11 May 2026, 24 August 2026, 12 October 2026, 30 November 2026
• Degree or Qualification: Master of Business Administration (MBA) Accredited by FIBAA & NVAO
• Location: Amsterdam Campus
• Tuition Fee: 23,300- (Complete programme)
• Language of Instruction: English
• Scholarship Award: Wittenborg MBA Scholarship | More Scholarships

Programme Pathways and Specialisations

The MBA programme offers various specialisations, including:

• MBA with specialisation in International Management
• MBA with specialisation in Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• MBA with specialisation in Sport Business
• MBA with specialisation in Education
• MBA with specialisation in Health & Social Care
• MBA with specialisation in Hospitality
• MBA with specialisation in Nursing
• MBA with specialisation in Accounting
• MBA with specialisation in Applied ICT
• MBA with specialisation in Engineering
• MBA with specialisation in Finance
• MBA in Applied Artificial Intelligence
• MBA in Cyber Security
• MBA with specialisation in Clean Technology
• MBA with specialisation in Smart Industry
• MBA with specialisation in Digital Transformation
• MBA with specialisation in Data Analytics

Course Content

The Wittenborg MBA is delivered in a block format, with 2 modules being covered every 6 weeks. The classes are interdisciplinary, and students study shared modules in Semester 1 with MBA students from different business specialisations.

Areas of Study

Semester 1

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

Semester 2

• Semester 2 provides students with four compulsory modules that build on the core modules from Semester 1.
• In addition to that, students follow 5 modules from the chosen specialist "pathway" Smart Industry.
• Semester 2 Specialist Modules:
  • Artificial Intelligence in Business
  • Business Statistics
  • New Smart Economy
  • Cyber Security in Integrated Autonomous Business Operations
  • Strategic Management

The Industry

Technology changes at an accelerated pace, and where you bring technology, ICT, and business together, you can lead the way. This MBA Degree responds to the challenge of the fourth Industrial Revolution and the Digital Transformation of industries.

Career Prospects

MBA graduates are often fast-tracked into senior management positions, and this MBA program has been designed for those who wish to pursue senior management positions or as preparation for further study in business, such as a DBA, or a PhD.

Entry Requirements

• A Bachelor degree or equivalent recognised qualification
• 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

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.

Target Groups

The main target groups for the MBA Smart Industry program are:

• Dutch or other EU graduates who are working in an organisation, managing people or processes, and are looking to improve their career opportunities within their current employment position.
• Dutch, or other EU graduates who have been working in an organisation, managing people or processes, and are looking for a full-time MBA program that will increase their employability chances in an international market with a focus on the Smart Industry
• International graduates in the Netherlands, who have completed a Bachelor degree and have worked in an organisation with responsibility managing people or processes, who are looking to improve their career opportunities, either at their current employer or in the search for a new opportunity with a focus on the Smart Industry.
• International students worldwide, from business or non-business fields, with a proven number of years managing people or processes within an organisation.

Outline:

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Semester 1:

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

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Semester 2:

• Artificial Intelligence in Business
• Business Statistics
• New Smart Economy
• Cyber Security in Integrated Autonomous Business Operations
• Strategic Management

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Teaching:

The Wittenborg MBA is delivered in a block format, with 2 modules being covered every 6 weeks. The classes are interdisciplinary - students will study shared modules in Semester 1 with MBA students from different business 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 so-called ‘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.

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Careers:

• Project Leaders
• Programme Managers
• R&D Managers
• Consultants
• Process Improvement Manager
• Manager Operations

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Tuition Fee €18,300- (Complete programme, €9,150- per year)

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences

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Overview:

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences is a private, international university located in Apeldoorn, Netherlands. It is known for its focus on international business and management, offering a wide range of bachelor's, master's, and MBA programs taught entirely in English. The university prides itself on its internationalization, diversity, and ethical practices, creating a global learning environment for students and staff.

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Services Offered:

Wittenborg provides a comprehensive range of services to support students throughout their academic journey. These include:

Academic Support:

Access to academic advisors, tutoring services, and resources to enhance learning.

Student Support:

Guidance on personal matters, healthcare, and insurance.

Career Services:

Assistance with career development, job placement, and networking opportunities.

Student Housing:

Guaranteed accommodation in stylish studios on the Apeldoorn campus.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships and financial assistance options for eligible students.

Internationalization:

Opportunities for international exchange programs and study abroad experiences.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Wittenborg fosters a vibrant and diverse campus community. Students can expect:

International Environment:

A multicultural student body and faculty from around the world.

Campus Activities:

Social events, clubs, and organizations to engage in extracurricular activities.

Networking Opportunities:

Connections with industry professionals and alumni through career fairs and events.

Modern Facilities:

Access to well-equipped classrooms, libraries, and student lounges.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

International Focus:

A unique learning environment with a global perspective on business and management.

Double Accreditation:

Recognized by both FIBAA and NVAO, ensuring high academic standards.

100% English Speaking:

Programs taught entirely in English, making it accessible to international students.

Guaranteed Student Accommodation:

Secure and comfortable housing options on campus.

Career Services:

Dedicated support for career development and job placement.

Flexible Admission Requirements:

Opportunities for students with diverse backgrounds to pursue their studies.

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Academic Programs:

Wittenborg offers a wide range of programs in business and management, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

BBA pathways in International Business Administration (IBA), Entrepreneurial Business Administration (EBA), Marketing Communication & Information (MCI), and Hospitality Business Administration (HBA).

Master's Degrees:

Master of Business Management (MBM) with various specializations, and MBA programs with 17 specializations.

Pre-Bachelor & Pre-Master Programs:

Foundation programs to prepare students for bachelor's or master's studies.

Summer Schools:

Short-term programs for international students to experience the university and Dutch culture.

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Other:

Wittenborg is actively involved in applied research, focusing on globalisation and its impact on various aspects of business and society. The university also hosts the annual Globalisation Conference, bringing together academics, professionals, and students to discuss current trends and challenges.