Program Overview

Strategic Management in a Changing World, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

The Master's Programme in Strategic Management in a Changing World combines business, sustainability, and entrepreneurship in a unique way. Students learn how to make sense of an increasingly complex world so that they can continuously update their organisation's strategy, keeping it geared towards success.

Description

The programme provides students with invaluable insights on strategic, data-driven business decision-making. This programme structure is backed by teaching methods – such as the use of cases, industry partnerships, and accessible faculty – that empower students to get the most out of their studies.

Degree

• Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

Application Period

• 1 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026

Language of Instruction

• English

Duration

• 2 years, full-time

Eligibility

• Relevant Bachelor's degree

Field of Study

• Business and Economics

Credits

• 120 ECTS

Organising School

• School of Business

Tuition Fees

• For non-EU/EEA citizens, €15,000/year (Master's studies)

Structure of Studies

The two-year programme consists of:

• Core studies (90 ECTS) including Master's thesis (20 ECTS)
• General electives, specialization, or minor studies (30 ECTS)

Specialisations

In their first year of studies, students develop a solid foundation of skills needed for strategic management and decision-making as experts. In their second year, students focus on thesis writing, elective courses, business projects, and assignments. To further develop their competencies, students can take electives on various themes, such as:

• Advanced courses in strategy
• Sustainable development
• Entrepreneurship
• International business

Internationalisation

Aalto University is international by nature, welcoming thousands of degree and exchange students from abroad every year. These students join the diverse Aalto community not only through studies but also via multiple free-time events, activities, and celebrations around the campus.

Further Study Opportunities

The degree grants eligibility for doctoral studies.

Career Opportunities

Graduates will have diverse career opportunities in consulting, large corporations, and smaller companies. The strong analytical skills students learn position them for roles such as:

• Industry Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Sustainability Analyst
• Product-line or Regional Manager
• Business Development Associate
• Strategic Planner
• General Management

Research Focus

The research in this programme is linked to several focus areas in the School of Business. Additional information about research related to this programme can be found at the Department of Management Studies website.

Co-operation with Other Parties

Aalto University and the departments involved in the programme collaborate with many high-quality universities worldwide.

Multidisciplinary Opportunities

Aalto University is well-known for bridging disciplines of business, arts, technology, and science. The lively campus and freedom to choose elective courses across the University bring students from different fields under one roof.

Evaluation Criteria 2026

Applicants meeting Aalto's general eligibility criteria for master's studies are evaluated and ranked according to the evaluation criteria decided in advance for each study option.

Admission Group 1: Bachelor's Degree from a University in Finland

• Relevance of previous studies
• Academic performance
• Suitability

Admission Group 2: Bachelor's Degree from a University of Applied Science in Finland or from a Higher Education Institution Abroad

• Relevance of previous studies
• Academic performance
• Standardized tests (GMAT or GRE)
• Suitability

Application Documents Required by the Study Option

The academic evaluation for the Master's Programme in Strategic Management in a Changing World is done based on the following programme-specific documents:

• Official transcript(s) of records
• Course descriptions of relevant courses
• Motivational letter
• CV
• In Admission Group 2: GMAT/GRE test result