University of St. Gallen SIM Program: Complete Overview

St. Gallen Rankings and Reputation

University of St. Gallen is globally renowned and largely recognized as one of Europe’s top business schools. In a variety of worldwide rankings, the University of St. Gallen consistently places highly. The university has constantly been named as one of the best business schools in Europe, despite rankings changing from year to year.

It was ranked 1st in the MIM program last year according to the Financial Times Rankings, showcasing its academic excellence and global reputation. The University of St. Gallen was ranked 21st by QS News among the top universities globally for business and management studies.

AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System), and AMBA (Association of MBAs) are three of the top international accreditation organizations. The University of St. Gallen has received accreditation from all three of these prestigious organizations, earning it the prestigious “Triple Crown” designation. The high caliber and standards of the university’s business programs are highlighted by this accreditation.

St. Gallen SIM Curriculum

The SIM curriculum combines the best elements into a single curriculum package. It blends the academic rigor and research-based approach of a Master of Arts curriculum with the interactive style and practical focus of top MBA programs. The university’s faith in the skills and potential of its students is reflected in the SIM curriculum.

A 90 ECTS course load, a master’s thesis, and an international internship are all requirements for students to get an M.A. HSG in Strategy and International Management. The following conditions must be met by students in order to graduate:

• 5 SIM Core Courses (20 ECTS)
• 1 of 2 SIM Advanced Management Courses (4 ECTS)
• 2 of 7 SIM Integratives (8 ECTS)
• The SIMagination Challenge (4 ECTS)
• The SIM International Project (SIM-IP) (6 ECTS)
• Electives (12 ECTS)
• Contextual Studies (18 ECTS)
• Master’s Thesis (18 ECTS)

The SIM curriculum is divided into four broad categories: SIM Start Professional, SIM Core Courses, SIM Core Electives, and SIM in Practice. Let’s discuss each of these categories in detail below:

SIM Start Professional

The SIM Start Professional Integrative Week Course is designed to provide students with a focused and immersive learning experience in Strategy and International Management. This course takes place over a short period and aims to integrate various aspects of the subject matter to provide a comprehensive understanding.

During the integrative week course, students need to engage in a combination of lectures, workshops, hands-on activities, case studies, group projects, and discussions. The curriculum is designed to encourage active participation and collaboration among students to foster a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Prior to the start of the program in week 38 of the calendar year, the required integrative week “SIM Start Professional” occurs at the beginning of September (week 36 of the calendar year). Your studies in Strategy and International Management will be prepared for by the management-related topics covered in the individual seminars.

SIM Core Courses

The SIM Core Courses give you a solid foundation in business and general management and are founded on your bachelor’s level studies. You will gain fundamental information and abilities as well as discover how to connect different management-related areas.

The 20 ECTS SIM Core Courses must all be completed during the first year of the SIM curriculum and are compulsory subjects. These courses cannot be waived or replaced with any other courses at the University of St. Gallen or during an exchange semester at another university. Let’s discuss each of the course courses in detail below:

Financial Management

Financial Management is a fundamental course that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of managing finances in various organizations. It focuses on the effective utilization of financial resources to achieve organizational goals and maximize shareholder value. The course covers a wide range of topics related to financial decision-making, analysis, and planning.

Value-based management (VBM), one of the most important financial concepts of recent years, is the course’s main topic. The course begins with the fundamentals of financial statement analysis, moves on to the fundamentals of business planning, and concludes with the main subject of enterprise valuation. The main ideas of enterprise valuation will be covered and students will learn how to recognize the main value generators present in corporate reality.

In this course, students can also learn about financial statements analysis, including how to interpret and evaluate income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. They can also gain insights into financial ratios and metrics used to assess a company’s performance and financial health. The course’s goals include giving students a theoretical foundation for and a practical grasp of financial management, as well as a thorough understanding of value-based management and its applications in real-world situations.

International Management

The international management course focuses on developing the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and lead in a global business environment. The course aims to provide students with an understanding of the complexities and challenges associated with conducting business across national borders.

Throughout the course, students may also engage in case studies, simulations, and group projects to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. The course equips students with the skills to navigate the complexities of the international business environment, make strategic decisions, and effectively lead teams across cultures.

Important issues in international management are covered in the course material, such as corporate and international strategy, international market entry, international organization, cross-cultural management, international alliances, and managing an international workforce. The sessions include a mix of lectures (including presentations from numerous guests), case discussions, and brief in-class assignments.

Strategic Leadership

The Strategic Leadership course focuses on the principles and practices of leading organizations in a strategic and effective manner. It aims to develop the skills and mindset required to navigate complex business environments, make informed decisions, and drive organizational success.

The course covers topics, such as strategic thinking, vision and mission development, strategic planning and execution, organizational culture, change management, and effective leadership styles. It emphasizes the importance of aligning organizational goals with the external environment, anticipating future trends, and formulating and implementing strategies that create a competitive advantage.

The course is divided into six sessions, each of which includes theoretical input, case discussions with the class and various corporate representatives, and a final project. Teams of students will analyze business problems as they emerge and give recommendations to practitioners as part of their project work.

The classes will cover:

• Theoretical input on the Personal, Team, and Organizational Perspectives on Strategic Leadership is included, along with class and case discussions with the help of various corporate representatives.
• Insights from a consultancy specialist and a chance to practice with them.
• Day of leadership training with a cooperating business.

Strategic Management

The Strategic Management course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in managing organizations strategically. The course covers various topics, including strategic analysis, strategy formulation, strategy implementation, and strategic evaluation.

Students will learn how to analyze the internal and external environments of an organization to identify its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This analysis helps in understanding the organization’s competitive position and developing strategies that capitalize on its strengths and opportunities while addressing weaknesses and mitigating threats.

The following are the course’s primary goals:

• Theory: To get a deeper comprehension of the fundamental theoretical stances and conceptual frameworks in strategic management.
• Techniques: To provide participants with the frameworks, resources, and analytical thinking abilities necessary to carry out strategic analysis.
• Practice: To allow participants to apply their analytical strategy-development skills in a variety of scenarios and circumstances.

The course material is divided into 9 subject areas:

• Definitions and Layers of Strategy Development
• Corporate Strategy
• Resource and Capability based Strategies
• Industry and Positioning Analysis
• Competitive Dynamics
• Competitive Advantage and Business Model Development
• Strategic Transactions
• Strategy Process and Strategy Practices
• Strategy Execution

Two blocks are used to deliver the course. The course’s theoretical underpinnings are covered in the first block, which also covers the 9 subject areas. The second block includes case discussions, guest speakers, and group presentations of strategy evaluations of chosen case companies.

Research in Management

The Research in Management course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research in the field of management. It focuses on the principles, methodologies, and tools used in academic and professional research related to management topics.

The course covers various aspects of the research process, including formulating research questions, conducting literature reviews, designing research methodologies, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Students can learn about different research methods, such as qualitative and quantitative approaches, as well as how to apply them to specific management research contexts.

This course has two purposes: First, it prepares you for writing your Master’s thesis by giving you access to the tools and techniques for conducting empirical research. Second, the long-term objective is to get you ready for managerial practices that are more and more evidence- and research-based.

This course’s main objective is to increase your proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative approaches in order to widen your repertoire of methodical approaches. Several input sessions, including lectures and workshops, make up the course’s format.

You will be able to design an empirical study by incorporating all necessary steps of an appropriate research design, use established research strategies and tools, and rely on quantitative or qualitative approaches after completing this course. You will also be able to apply core concepts and principles of empirical research, as well as modern scientific standards and best practices.

SIM Core Electives

Advanced Management Courses and Integratives make up the SIM Core Electives. While the Integratives are taught in the autumn and spring semesters, the Advanced Management Courses are taught in the spring semester.

SIM Advanced Management Courses (4 ECTS)

The Advanced Management Course enhances and broadens your knowledge of management’s functional domains. One of the advanced management courses from the list below must be selected by SIM students:

• Marketing and Consumer Behaviour

The Marketing and Consumer Behaviour course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of marketing and the factors that influence consumer behavior. It explores the strategies and techniques used by businesses to identify, attract, and retain customers, as well as the psychological and sociological factors that shape consumers’ decision-making processes.

Throughout the course, students may engage in case studies, group projects, and practical exercises to apply the concepts learned and develop their analytical and decision-making skills. The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in marketing principles and consumer behavior insights, enabling them to make informed marketing decisions and strategies in real-world business contexts.

• Organizational Behaviour and Change

The Organizational Behaviour and Change course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and principles underlying individual and group behavior within organizations. It explores how individuals, groups, and organizational systems interact and influence each other in the workplace.

The course delves into the study of organizational change and its management. It examines various models and theories of organizational change, as well as the processes and strategies involved in implementing and managing change initiatives. Students can learn about the challenges and complexities associated with organizational change, including resistance to change, organizational culture, and the role of leadership in driving successful change.

The course aims to develop students’ critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in the context of organizations. It also enhances their ability to analyze and evaluate organizational behavior and change phenomena, and to develop strategies for improving organizational effectiveness and managing change effectively.

SIM Integratives (8 ECTS)

The SIM Integratives Course gives students specialized expertise in a variety of subject areas. Students must select two SIM Integratives from the following list:

• Mergers and Acquisitions

The course on Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) provides a comprehensive understanding of the strategic, financial, and legal aspects involved in the process of combining or acquiring businesses. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to evaluate, structure, and execute successful mergers and acquisitions in the corporate world.

The course is divided into two sections;

• Part 1: Managerial and Legal lectures: Six classes will be held during the first half of the fall semester: three classes focused on management and strategic M&A concerns, and three classes on legal M&A issues.
• Part 2: Block Seminar ‑ The Practice of M&A: The university holds a block session on relevant M&A practical topics during the break of the autumn term. Students must work on various case studies and delve deeply into the M&A practice while listening to a variety of guests from various firms share their thoughts.
• The Global Leader and Managerial Effectiveness

The Global Leader and Managerial Effectiveness course is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders and managers in a global business environment. The course focuses on developing a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with leading and managing across cultures, borders, and diverse teams.

Throughout the course, participants engage in various learning activities, such as case studies, group discussions, simulations, and real-world projects. They are encouraged to apply the concepts and frameworks learned to analyze and solve complex global leadership and management problems. The course aims to enhance participants’ ability to lead and manage effectively in today’s globalized business landscape by developing their cross-cultural understanding, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills.

• Alliance and Network Strategy

The Alliance and Network Strategy course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory and practice of forming and managing strategic alliances and networks in the business context. The course explores how organizations can collaborate and form partnerships to enhance their competitive advantage and achieve their strategic goals. The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of strategic alliances and networks in today’s global business landscape.

The curriculum is organized as follows: Following a brief overview of the significance and many forms of strategic alliances, the course will analyze the key phases of alliance evolution and contrast various theoretical angles in alliance research. Here, there are five distinct stages:

• Stage 1: Analyzing (purpose and value logic).

• Stage 2: Preparing (types of inter‑organizational relationships and partner selection).

• Stage 3: Shaping (negotiation and design & governance).

• Stage 4: Conducting (managing the alliance, trust, control, and alliance capability).
• Stage 5: Closing (assessment and termination).

The course will be delivered face-to-face on campus in three main blocks. There are also online sessions where the subject matter is expanded upon and the group project is discussed. The final student team presentations will be conducted online, as will the exam.

• Business Model Innovation

The Business Model Innovation course is designed to explore the concept of business models and how they can be adapted and transformed to drive innovation and success in organizations. This course focuses on developing creative and effective business models that can help companies gain a competitive advantage, respond to changing market dynamics, and create new opportunities for growth.

Traditional lectures, guest lectures, case studies, a group business challenge, and a final exam make up this course. The main goal of the lectures is to discuss and apply the material that the students studied outside of class. The institution conducts these lectures using a variety of digital tools, including Microsoft Teams, Miro, Slido, and Zoom.

The Group Challenge is created to provide students the opportunity to apply the concepts they have learned in class to a real-world situation. At the conclusion of the course, students are required to submit their reimagined business model to a jury of corporate representatives.

• Digital Business Transformation

The Digital Business Transformation course is designed to provide individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape and transform their businesses to thrive in the digital age.

An introduction kicks off the seminar. This presentation provides an overview of the topics of user-centered innovation and digital business transformation. Case studies are used in the remaining portions of the course to provide examples from the real world to help demonstrate the concept of digital business and transformation. The students will first use an action-learning methodology to develop new digital solutions, after which they will employ the “St. Gallen Digital Business Approach” and other scientific techniques.

Students in the course will work on cases from actual businesses. Teams of five students each work to solve the issues with the assistance of method coaches and brand ambassadors. The students give a brief pitch outlining their solution to the problem owners and businesses taking the course at the end of the session. Finally, each student completes a one-page reflection essay in which they reflect on the course and the lessons they have learned.

• Entrepreneurship

The Entrepreneurship course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to start and manage their own businesses. This course aims to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions, whether by starting their own ventures or driving innovation within existing organizations. The foundations of entrepreneurship, as understood as the establishment of businesses and the associated teamwork and decision-making processes, are provided by the International Entrepreneurship course.

There will be seven sessions for the course. Team formation will follow the kick-off session I, which will introduce the course. The focus of Session II will be the student teams’ ventures, and each startup project will receive the go-ahead during this time. Sessions III through V will be made up of three Blockseminar full days, with a strong emphasis on team exercises and a concentration on the theoretical parts of the course. Students will present their idea to a panel of mentors, investors, and faculty members in Session VI. The focus of the VII and final session will be on the characteristics of entrepreneurial teams and determine if they were actually “top” teams.

• Exploring the Sustainable Development Goals as Opportunities for Innovation

The course “Exploring the Sustainable Development Goals as Opportunities for Innovation” is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they can serve as a framework for promoting innovation and sustainable development.

In this course, students will delve into each of the SDGs, exploring their objectives, targets, and indicators. They will learn about the interconnectedness of the goals and the importance of taking a holistic approach to achieving sustainable development. The course emphasizes the idea that the SDGs not only present challenges but also offer significant opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and positive impact.

By the end of the course, students will have a deep understanding of the SDGs, the challenges they address, and the potential for innovation within each goal. They will have developed skills in ideation, problem-solving, and strategic thinking, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development efforts in various sectors, including business, technology, and social entrepreneurship.

The course is categorized into two main categories:

• Interactive lectures

To investigate these areas as potential for innovation, this category intends to establish and discuss the chosen SDG priority areas and management frameworks. For the in-class case discussions, all students are expected to be prepared and to actively engage.

• Student team presentations

This category seeks to apply learned insights to actual business problems. Each group of students will prepare a creative business solution while becoming experts in one of the sustainability fields. These sessions will also include guest lecturers from business who will present prospects and solutions for sustainability that are unique in the real world. Additionally, guests will be asked to serve as jurors to assess, debate, and offer criticism on the student presentations.

SIM in Practice

SIM in Practice is a crucial component of the curriculum that combines in-class learning of theory with real-world application.

• The SIMagination Challenge (4 ECTS)

A core course for the Master of Arts in Strategy and International Management (SIM-HSG), the SIMagination Challenge is designed to help students develop important leadership traits, competences, and abilities. Students must independently organize, carry out, and report on a difficult worldwide project that aspires to have a lasting, good impact on society. The SIMagination Challenge website has further details on the idea and the global projects.

• SIM International Project (6 ECTS)

An obligatory foreign internship is the SIM foreign Project (SIM-IP). Before graduating, students can acquire the knowledge and experience needed to handle complicated issues in global contexts thanks to this prerequisite. The internship was successfully planned, started, and carried out by SIM students on their own. After finishing, the student must evaluate the assignment in light of their completed SIM coursework.

Electives

You can choose electives from various University of St. Gallen master’s degree programs to supplement your core business study with additional business courses.

In the Course Directory, under “Programs,” “Master,” and “Master of Arts in Strategy and International Management,” you may find a complete listing of all the courses offered this semester and in the previous ones.

Contextual Studies

The University of St. Gallen’s course architecture includes Contextual Studies, which is a special and distinctive aspect.

• Areas of Concentration

With explicit references to themes from the core courses, the areas of emphasis group together course offerings from the humanities and social sciences by integrating components of theory and practice. Contextual Studies offers three options for choosing your areas of concentration. First, you are free to choose from all of the available course options. Second, by selecting all of the courses from one area of specialization, you may give that area of concentration a thematic focus. Thirdly, an interdisciplinary workshop is an option for you to finish this theme.

• Skills

Skills are a crucial component of academic instruction when it comes to success in both academics and employment. In order to impart and promote practical competences, Contextual Studies also offers a variety of courses in skills. In addition to rhetorical strategies, writing skills, negotiation management, time management, the theoretical underpinnings of research, and other practically oriented skills, courses in digital literacy are given here.

Study Abroad

The University of St. Gallen collaborates with more than 200 other universities to provide a wide range of exceptional double degree and exchange possibilities. Enrolling in the St. Gallen’s double degree and exchange program expands your career options and raises the stature of your academic endeavors.

By earning two degrees, you distinguish yourself as a graduate of two esteemed universities and gain useful information and abilities. This differentiation makes you stand out from the competition and gives your CV a clear advantage.

• Exclusive SIM-MBA Double Degrees

Students can opt for SIM-MBA double degree from any of these two universities:

1. INCAE Business School, Costa Rica
2. Nanyang Business School, Singapore

• HSG Double Degrees

Students can opt for HSG double degree from any of the following universities:

1. ESADE, Spain
2. RSM Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
3. HEC Paris, France
4. FGV-EAESP, Brazil
5. CEMS, International

• Exchange Semesters

You can organize a free-mover exchange at another legitimate university in addition to exchange options at the approved partner universities. Visit the Study Abroad webpage for more specific information.

St. Gallen SIM Admission Requirements

The St. Gallen SIM program has specific admission requirements that applicants need to fulfill. Here is an overview of the requirements:

1. Education:

You can apply for the Master’s program if you have one of the following degrees from an accredited university or have completed one before the degree program begins:

• University Bachelor’s degree in economic sciences with a minimum of 60 ECTS credits in business administration or economics and a minimum of 6 ECTS credits in mathematics or statistics.
• A Bachelor’s degree in business administration (or a related major) with a minimum average grade (not rounded) of 5.00 Swiss grading system (Germany/Austria 2.00, Netherlands 7.5) on the degree certificate from an accredited institution of applied sciences (Fachhochschule). (A minimum of 90 ECTS credits must be earned in the subjects of business administration, economics, law, mathematics, and statistics; business administration receives 45 ECTS credits.)
• Successive universities have master’s degrees in a different field. The combined total of the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs must be at least 270 ECTS credit points and have been earned in the same discipline consecutively.

If the requirements listed below are satisfied, your degree programs will be recognised.

• A higher education institution that is respected in the nation where you took the course issued you with your final degree certificate.
• You have completed at least 80% of your coursework at a higher education institution that is recognised or accredited.
• You have completed the majority of the required course work on-site at the college where you received your degree.
• You meet the prerequisites set by your home institution of higher learning for admission to the Master’s degree program.

2. Academic Performance:

Candidates should have a distinguished academic history. A competitive academic record is necessary to stand out in the extremely competitive admissions process, even if there is no mention of a specific GPA requirement.

3. GMAT/GRE:

Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores must be submitted by applicants. The entire score is taken into account when analyzing GMAT scores, whereas the verbal and quantitative reasoning parts of the GRE are equally important when evaluating GRE scores. If you’ve taken the tests more than once, the test with the best scores will be taken into account. Before the application deadline, GMAC or ETS must deliver test results that are no older than five years to us electronically. The University of St. Gallen’s Institution Code must be mentioned. If you did not do this, tell GMAC or ETS to provide your test results as soon as possible.

4. Language Proficiency:

When you apply, you are not required to provide documentation of your language ability. It is your job to make sure that you have a solid enough command of the language of instruction to enable you to finish your coursework. At least C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is advised at the beginning of the course.

5. Extra Curricular Activities:

Extracurricular and social activities, work experience, internships, exchange semesters, and other commitments are only taken into account if you can provide documentation of them. Include documentation of each of these activities in the supporting papers section of your curriculum vitae.

On your curriculum vitae, you must list both academic and professional relationships as references. Use the SIM-style template, please. It is required to write the curriculum vitae in English. At the SIM’s discretion, the given referees are contacted. If this is the case, they will be sent a reminder email inviting them to schedule a phone call with a SIM Admissions Committee member for 10–15 minutes.

6. Additional language requirements:

To successfully complete their Master’s degree program, all students are required to enroll in two language courses (foreign languages), in addition to their Master’s degree course. During your Master’s studies, it is possible to credit language qualifications that have received worldwide recognition. 

St. Gallen Campus and Location

Location and Regional Benefits

The St. Gallen SIM Program benefits from its strategic location in Switzerland. Switzerland is known for its high-quality education system and universities located in the country offer several key advantages. Here are some of the advantages of studying at a university in Switzerland:

• Academic Excellence: Swiss universities are renowned for their academic excellence and high standards of education. The country has a long-standing tradition of providing top-notch education, and Swiss universities consistently rank among the best in the world.
• Multilingual Environment: Switzerland is a multilingual country with four national languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh. This linguistic diversity creates a unique environment for students, offering opportunities to learn and interact in multiple languages, broadening their cultural and linguistic horizons.
• Strong Research Infrastructure: Swiss universities boast excellent research facilities and infrastructure. The country has a strong focus on scientific research and innovation, with substantial investment in cutting-edge technologies and research initiatives. This provides students with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and resources.
• International Environment: Switzerland is a hub for international students, attracting students from all around the world. This multicultural environment fosters diversity, cross-cultural exchange, and the opportunity to build a global network of friends and colleagues, enhancing the overall educational experience.
• Internship and Employment Opportunities: Switzerland is home to several multinational corporations and renowned research institutions. The country’s strong economy and reputation for innovation create ample opportunities for internships, cooperative education programs, and employment prospects for students. Studying in Switzerland can provide valuable connections and career opportunities.
• High Living Standards and Safety: Switzerland consistently ranks among the countries with the highest quality of life. The country is known for its safety, cleanliness, and efficient public services. Studying in a safe and well-organized environment can contribute to a positive and enriching student experience.
• Beautiful Natural Environment: Switzerland is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Swiss Alps, pristine lakes, and picturesque cities. The country’s natural beauty provides an inspiring backdrop for studying and offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the scenic surroundings.
• Networking and Alumni Support: Swiss universities often have extensive alumni networks that can be valuable resources for students. These networks provide opportunities for mentorship, internships, job placements, and professional development, helping students establish connections and advance their careers.