Program in Business Administration

The Bachelor Programme in Business Administration at the Stockholm School of Economics offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for the dynamic world of business and management. This programme provides a solid foundation in core business disciplines such as finance, marketing, management, organizational behavior, and economics, enabling students to understand the complex mechanisms that drive companies and markets. Throughout the course, students engage in both theoretical studies and practical applications, including case studies, group projects, and internship opportunities that foster real-world experience and professionalism. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, ethical considerations, and leadership development, preparing graduates to excel in diverse roles within the private, public, and non-profit sectors. The programme is distinguished by its international perspective, encouraging students to think globally and develop cross-cultural competencies essential for today's interconnected business environment. Collaboration with leading companies and organizations provides unique networking opportunities and insights into industry best practices. The Stockholm School of Economics also offers access to a vibrant academic community and extensive resources, including renowned faculty members, research centers, and events that enrich the learning experience. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned for postgraduate studies or immediate employment in roles such as business analyst, marketing manager, financial consultant, or management professional. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and responsible business practices, the Bachelor Programme in Business Administration aims to cultivate future business leaders capable of making a positive impact locally and globally.

Content

The 240 ECTS credits of the PhD Program in Business Administration are divided into a course component (90 ECTS) and a dissertation component (150 ECTS). A specially designed course program, Stockholm-Uppsala Business Studies (SUBS), is run jointly with Uppsala University and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and offers four mandatory courses (30 ECTS) in the first semester of the program.

Courses

• The Research Process (Mandatory SUBS course)
• Quality of Statistical Data (Mandatory SUBS course)
• Perspectives on Science and Research (Mandatory SUBS course, Uppsala University)
• Qualitative Methods (Mandatory SUBS course, Uppsala University)
• Entrepreneurship as a Research Field   
• Quality of Statistical Data
• The Research Process   
• Experiments with Humans   
• Accounting in Inter-organizational Relationships
• Quantitative Methods and Analysis  
• Organization Theory: Classic & Contemp. Approaches   
   

The remaining 60 ECTS are acquired in Specialized Courses, which are given at various departments and institutes at SSE, or other universities, and in many different forms. Which courses to take is jointly decided by the doctoral student and his/her Primary Supervisor.

The subject matters and forms of these courses vary from year to year in response to demands from doctoral students as well as to the changes in research interests.

You will be supervised by one SSE faculty member (primary supervisor) from the beginning of the program. After you have submitted a dissertation proposal in the second year, you will work with a supervision committee of 3-4 professors to complete your PhD dissertation. Research and conference travel is encouraged within the program.

To be eligible for admission, we require the following:

• Proven academic record. We require a) a university level degree, b) at least three semesters of business administration courses (90 ECTS) including a thesis worth at least 15 ECTS, and c) one year of Master level studies or the equivalent.
• Parallell enrollment: If you are a first-year Master student at SSE you can apply and be admitted to the SSE PhD Program in the second year of your MSc studies, through the MSc-PhD parallel enrollment scheme. When admitted to the doctoral program, you begin the following fall Semester in the PhD Program instead of continuing your second year studies within the MSc Program.
• English proficiency. If your native language is not English, and your undergraduate or graduate degree or its equivalent is not from an institution at which English is the language of instruction, then we require a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score.
• Relevant research interests. SSE only makes offers to students whose interests fall within the research areas in which our faculty have the capacity to supervise.  Please note that in some very popular areas of study there may be limited supervision capacity

We are looking for academic excellence and for students who are well prepared for a PhD program in business administration. Most of our students have a master’s degree in business administration or economics, or from related fields such as engineering, mathematics, psychology, and sociology (depending on the student’s PhD interests).

The financing studies for the Program in Business Administration at the Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) are designed to provide students with comprehensive information about the costs associated with their education and the available financial support options. The total tuition fee for the program varies depending on the nationality of the student and the specific intake year, but generally, the program’s tuition fees are publicly available on the SSE official website. Many international students rely on a combination of personal savings, scholarships, grants, student loans, and external funding sources to finance their studies.

SSE offers a range of scholarships aimed at both domestic and international students to assist with tuition fees and living expenses. These scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific eligibility criteria and application procedures to maximize their chances of receiving financial aid. Additionally, students may seek external scholarships from government programs, foundations, and organizations designated to support higher education in Sweden or international education.

Students are also advised to consider the cost of living in Stockholm, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, study materials, and personal expenses. The cost of living in Stockholm is relatively high compared to other cities, and students should budget accordingly. SSE provides estimated living expenses on their website to help prospective students plan their finances. Some students choose to work part-time during their studies to supplement their income, although the program may haverestrictions regarding work hours for international students on certain visas.

For students requiring student loans, Sweden offers borrowing options through the Swedish National Student Aid Agency (CSN). International students from the EU/EEA who meet specific criteria may also be eligible for such loans and grants, facilitating access to necessary funding. The application process for CSN typically involves submitting documentation of admission, financial status, and residency status.

In summary, financing studies at SSE’s Program in Business Administration involves understanding tuition costs, exploring scholarships and external funding opportunities, planning for living expenses, and considering options for student loans if needed. Students are encouraged to start planning their finances early and utilize the resources provided by SSE and external organizations to ensure a smooth financial pathway through their studies.

The MSc in Business Administration at the Stockholm School of Economics is a highly regarded program designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of business. The program is structured to provide a solid foundation in core areas such as management, finance, marketing, organizational behavior, and strategy, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to face the dynamic challenges of the global business environment. Emphasizing analytical thinking, leadership, and ethical decision-making, the curriculum combines rigorous theoretical coursework with real-world applications through case studies, projects, and internships. Students have access to a diverse faculty renowned for their research and industry experience, which enriches the learning experience and fosters critical thinking. The program also encourages international exposure and cultural competence, offering exchange opportunities and collaboration with global partner universities. Graduates of the MSc in Business Administration often pursue careers across various industries, including consulting, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship, or continue their academic journey with doctoral studies. The program’s strong alumni network and close ties to the business community in Stockholm and beyond provide valuable career support and networking opportunities. The Stockholm School of Economics is committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and responsible business practices within its curriculum, reflecting the university’s mission to develop responsible leaders. Overall, this program prepares students not only to excel in their careers but also to contribute meaningfully to society and the business world.