A culture of integrity and accountability
Integrity and accountability are among the core values at this French school, including in its International MBA program. They help guide the way Emlyon approaches different topics and create a learning culture where ethical leadership and responsibility come first. This worldview inevitbaly influences students as well, teaching them to own their decisions and actions, whether they’re solving business challenges or collaborating in teams.
A culture that prioritizes integrity and accountability is one that empowers and prepares MBA students for the demands of modern leadership.
Sustainability and responsibility: embodying demanding standards
Emlyon holds itself – and its students – to high standards when it comes to sustainability and responsible leadership. As part of its mission to develop leaders who make a positive impact, the school integrates these values into its teaching, research, and day-to-day activities. Carla Tur Mel.lo, who graduated from Emlyon Business School’s International MBA, recently shared in an interview that this focus was evident from the get-go: “The first week was mind-blowing. We started talking about sustainability, and I did not know what it was, but I could see it made so much sense for me and aligned with my values.”
Through experiential learning opportunities, MBA students are challenged to address societal and environmental issues head-on. The emphasis on sustainability not only reflects global business priorities but also aligns with Emlyon’s commitment to supporting people who “transform organizations, for a fairer society, with more solidarity and respect for the planet”.
Diverse and global community
With 9,260 students representing 130 nationalities in undergraduate and postgraduate programs, Emlyon opts for nurturing and celebrating a real diversity of backgrounds and nationalities. Students work in teams that span continents, learning to appreciate different communication styles, work ethics, and problem-solving approaches. This environment in turn cultivates empathy, which is among the top soft skills for today’s leaders, as well as the ability to lead across boundaries.
Emlyon ensures that professionals have access to global perspectives not only through the MBA cohort, but also through international student trips during the program. Previous learning trips organized by the school have been to Brussels, Istanbul, Milan, Berlin, and Helsinki.
Open, respectful, and constructive communication
Communication is crucial for an organization to be able to function effectively and an MBA is no exception. The faculty and administration within Emlyon Business School’s International MBA program encourage open dialogue. Class participants are free to voice their opinions, challenge perspectives, and engage in critical discussions. Even exchange students visiting from other institutions recognize the close relations between students and faculty: “[…] The facilities are great, professors are open for questions and the city is just welcoming for students. Every time I called the international office there was always someone there to really help me,” as highlighted by an exchange student.
Differing viewpoints are welcome and cultivating respect for them is considered vital. Constructive criticism is a norm, fostering an atmosphere where ideas can be tested and refined without fear of judgment. This culture of open communication helps students become confident, articulate leaders.
Behavior norms: professionalism meets creativity
At Emlyon, professionalism coexists with an appreciation for creativity. Students are expected to maintain high ethical standards and professionalism in their interactions on campus and in their MBA-related work. At the same time, the culture values thinking outside the box and exploring unconventional solutions.
The program’s experiential learning modules, such as consulting projects with partner companies and Makers’ labs (prototyping laboratories dedicated to creativity and learning by doing), provide ample opportunities for students to apply these principles in real-world scenarios.
Balancing tradition and modernity
This appreciation for innovation and creativity is among the hallmarks of Emlyon Business School. As of September 2024, the school boasts a brand new campus in the city center of Lyon, with sustainable construction and next-generation hybrid tools in the classrooms. However, being future-focused does not come at the expense of tradition. As a city, Lyon is known for its rich culture, good food, and central location. It is also the second largest city in France as well as a UNESCO world heritage site.
So while having a forward-thinking approach to business studies and leadership development, Emlyon is also rooted in history and tradition.
The culture at Emlyon Business School’s International MBA program is built on strong core values and global perspectives. Operating with integrity and accountability and following rigorous sustainable practices, the school manages to create an environment focused on collaboration and ethical leadership. Influenced by its own long history and the culture of its home city, Emlyon provides an experience that prepares students not only to excel professionally but to lead responsibly and creatively.
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