School Profiles
Associate Director MBA full time, Pompeu Fabra University
The Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) was founded in June 1990 and located in the heart of Barcelona. From its founding it has been characterised by its commitment to excellence and innovation. Since the mid 1990s the UPF has been rated consistently among the top three Spanish institutions in several fields of study including Business Management, Economics and Political Science.
The MBA full time faculty is drawn from the Department of Economics and Business – ranked fourth in the world by the Social Sciences Research Network in October 2006 (www.ssrn.com). Classes are also taught by first class professionals from internationally renowned companies and institutions.
The course is entirely in English and requires full time dedication. After completing core courses, you can choose from the MBA full time electives, elective courses in Spanish, an individual project or an exchange with one of our partner schools (subject to selection by the Director). Many opt to undertake an internship in the Barcelona area or abroad.
As well as the fundamentals of business practice, you have the opportunity to work in actual business situations. Completing tasks in international teams from the start, you will take part in the highly successful In-Company Project in your third module, completing a consulting project for a company in Barcelona. Most participants also take advantage of their time to do an internship.
We believe that successful managers are not born but learn to become so through dedicated hard work. You need not only sound technical tools but also a mastery of soft skills. On the programme you will complete a series of communications courses and learn how to transmit your ideas effectively. You are accompanied by an MBA coach who helps you with your development into a top international manager. From induction week you work with the Career Department and continually update your career profile which enables you to focus on your professional development and maximise your success in the job search.
The course starts at the beginning of September and finishes fifteen months later. The three pillars of the MBA are fundamentals, skills and practice. The MBA is divided into four modules focusing on Business Fundamentals and Business Communication Skills, Electives and Practice.
Our participants come from very different backgrounds and cultures. This diversity is reflected in their professional careers. We have alumni all over the world, many in finance, marketing and consulting. Others have returned to family businesses, started their own company, work in academics or have taken posts with multinationals in Spain.

We are looking for young people with potential. They should have a good academic record, GMAT and two years work experience but most of all we are looking for candidates who are prepared to concentrate on developing management skills and who understand that it is not a question of just attending MBA classes.
Website: www.idec.upf.edu