Inside the MBA International Elective Experience

MBA students reflect on their international elective experiences across a range of exciting global destinations, sharing key insights, standout moments, and lasting impact.

Aalto University, Finland - Innovation, Change and Organisational Transformation

Executive MBA participant, Ashutosh Bisen, shares his insightful and immersive experience of his International Module.

Through industry visits, guest lectures, and hands-on workshops, Ashutosh shares his key learnings and takeaways:

• Public Sector Innovation & Digital Transformation - A visit to Kela, Finland's social security institution, showcased how Finland leads in digital governance, offering a model for efficient, accessible public services.
• Change Management & Leadership - Interactive sessions on fair process leadership, emphasising trust and fairness in driving transformation.
• User-Centric Design & Innovation - Case studies demonstrated the power of experience driven design.

This was a memorable learning journey, packed with real-world insights, interactive discussions and thought-provoking challenges! A final thank you to the entire cohort - an exceptionally diverse and inspiring group to learn and collaborate with. The energy, discussions, and shared experiences truly made this module stand out!

Dubai - Leading Global Organisations

Global Online MBA participant, Dean Wilson, shares his experience of the Leading Global Organisations module in Dubai.

How has the international module enriched your perspective?
"The Leading Global Organisations module in Dubai was an outstanding experience that deepened my understanding of global leadership and cross-cultural collaboration. Engaging with others from diverse backgrounds and visiting industry leaders such as Emirates Skywards and The Dorchester Collection provided invaluable insights into navigating complex, multinational environments."

What was a memorable moment during the module?
"It was the leadership panel discussion with Warwick alumni, where we explored real-world challenges and executive-level decision-making. Hearing firsthand how leaders navigate uncertainty and drive strategic change reinforced a passion for tackling complex challenges."

What impact has the international module had on your MBA journey?
"The module was a key factor in my decision to pursue an MBA with WBS - an incredible opportunity to experience overseas education alongside globally focused professionals. It has not only broadened my global outlook but also strengthened my adaptability, cultural intelligence, and strategic thinking - essential skills for my MBA journey and beyond."

Aalto University, Finland - Design Thinking and Service Design

"Love the problem." That was the key message that Iris Li, Full-time MBA participant took away from her international elective - and it shaped a week full of collaboration, creativity and challenge.

I had the opportunity to take a required module abroad and I chose the "Design Thinking and Service Design" at Aalto University in Helsinki. I'll admit, I expected something more traditional when I read the reading materials - but from day one, it was clear this was going to be a hands-on, immersive experience.

We were split into small groups, exploring Helsinki's shops to identify pain points, then rapidly prototyping, testing and even "killing out darlings" - learning to let go of our best ideas to push creativity further and feel inspired.

I was also selected as the student representative for the trip, working with the WBS team to help coordinate group activities and connect with classmates I hadn't worked with before.

I appreciate WBS for offering us the chance to study abroad, experience new ways of thinking, and see design thinking in action - truly, Finland deserves to be called the happiest country in the world."

IE Business School, Madrid - Big Data and Analytics

Global Online MBA student Andy Foster recently attended the Big Data and Analytics international module in Madrid, diving deep into AI, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making. 

Why did you choose to study the Big Data and Analytics module?
As an engineer, I appreciate how data analytics moves beyond emotive reasoning to shape effective business decisions. The course delivered on all aspects, from database technology to the critical role of information architecture in AI, because as Luis Reina stated on the first day, '...without IA (information architecture), there is no AI.'

What was the most surprising insight you gained from the module in Madrid?
The AI revolution is moving at a blistering pace! We had incredible sessions unpacking the business models of big tech companies, the shift towards Agentic AI services, and how we don’t fully understand how deep learning neural networks work - it felt like science fiction at times!

How did collaborating with diverse peers enhance your learning experience?
Collaborating with a diverse group from different industries and countries was amazing and led to incredible discussions. The IE Business School team created an immersive academic and cultural experience in Madrid.