What Is Nyenrode Business University?
Nyenrode Business University was founded in 1946 by a consortium of Dutch companies, including KLM, Unilever, Shell, Akzo, and Philips. Its founding goal was to create internationally-minded business leaders who would help rebuild the Dutch economy after World War II. It stood out for its focus on entrepreneurship and social responsibility, which continues to shine through today in the Nyenrode MBAs.
In 1982, Nyenrode gained university status. Today, it stands as the Netherlands’ only private university, with three unique locations: Amsterdam, Breukelen, and The Hague.
Nyenrode’s Mission To Shape Responsible Leaders for a Better Future
At the heart of Nyenrode’s ethos is its mission: “Serving society by shaping responsible leaders for a sustainable future.” This visionary school is guided by its core values of Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Stewardship.
Their focus on socially responsible leadership is woven into every facet of its MBA programs and evident in its teachings. Nyenrode provides a setting where personal growth and professional ambition go hand in hand.
1. Where Does Nyenrode Offer Its MBA Programs?
Nyenrode Business University gives students the opportunity to study at their own pace and customize their learning experience. They can choose MBA modules that align with their industry or earn a full MBA degree.
Students can also choose their desired study format. They can choose to study on campus at Nyenrode, or to learn in a hybrid or online way. The school has campuses in Amsterdam and Breukelen.
The campuses of Nyenrode include:
- Amsterdam campus: Ideal for those seeking an international and lively setting that connects with local businesses. Some lectures for the Impact MBA are given at the Amsterdam location.
- Breuekelen campus: Ideal for those seeking a picturesque learning setting. It is a green and historical campus. Located in Breukelen, the castle dates back to the 13th century. It has numerous facilities, including a library, tennis courts, student living facilities, and more. The Modular Executive MBA and most of the Impact MBA classes take place at this campus.
2. What Makes Nyenrode’s MBA Program Unique?
Nyenrode’s MBA programs stand out for their practical approach. Students learn to deliver value, make an impact, and act as a responsible leader. They learn directly from experienced professors as well as business professionals. Every module empowers you to immediately apply what you learn in class to your professional environment. It is an MBA designed specifically with modern business in mind, ensuring real-world relevance.
Flexibility is another hallmark of the Nyenrode MBA. Whether you choose the full-time, part-time, or modular route, the MBA program is structured to fit seamlessly into your work-life balance.
Most importantly, Nyenrode fosters a personal leadership development journey within a lifelong professional network. Through close-knit cohorts and an engaged alumni community of over 30,000 graduates both in the EU and worldwide, you gain access to an MBA community that extends far beyond graduation.
The Impact MBA
The Impact MBA is designed to work in tandem with the personal and professional lives of students. Students can choose between the one-year full-time Fast Track. This takes place every 2 weeks from Wednesday to Saturday. The Nyenrode Impact MBA tuition costs are €54,000. The Impact MBA has different start dates; the Part-time Executive Track begins in March 2026, and the Full-time Fast Track begins in September 2026.
Alternatively, they can choose the two-year part-time Executive Track. This takes place once a month from Wednesday to Saturday. Both tracks are taught in English and students will study in Breukelen and Amsterdam.
This program includes a Global Immersion Program for international exposure, a focus on the Personal Leadership Development Journey, and a balance of academic learning with practical projects through Meet the CEO sessions and company visits.
The Modular Executive MBA
Nyenrode also offers a Modular MBA, primarily focused on the Dutch market and Dutch speakers. This flexible option lets students select modules to build their own learning journey. Students can choose from three specializations. Leadership and personal development are a core focus in all of the specializations. The Business & IT specialization is the only specialization taught in English.
Learning Your Way
Students can choose to complete the whole MBA program, which includes electives, core modules, an international study trip, and the MBA thesis. Or they can pick one or several individual modules based on interest. The modules are ideal for students who want to gain sector-specific knowledge and skills to advance their careers and grow in their personal leadership development journey.
Both formats emphasize flexibility, personalization, and immediate applicability to your professional context. The Impact MBA is targeted at English-speaking students and offers an international context. Alternatively, the Modular MBA offers a more specific focus targeted at the Dutch market.
4. How Does Nyenrode Support Career Growth?
The university’s Career and Personal Development Office works closely with students from day one to align their studies with their career ambitions. Central to the philosophy at Nyenrode is personal development as a key component of leadership training, and therefore offers comprehensive coaching in this area. Through tailored coaching, skill-building workshops, and networking opportunities, students gain the tools to excel, advance, or pivot their careers in a meaningful way.
5. What Are the Entry Requirements for the Nyenrode MBA?
To qualify for an MBA program at Nyenrode Business University, you need:
- A bachelor’s degree (HBO or university level)
- At least three years of relevant work experience
Depending on your background and ambitions, the team of program advisors will guide you toward the program format that best fits your needs.
7. Can You Work While Studying?
One of the key advantages of studying for an MBA at Nyenrode is that there are options for part-time study. This is a highly customizable and personalized element, designed for working professionals, making it possible to work full-time while also studying.
Why Nyenrode Business University Should Be Your MBA Destination
Nyenrode Business University’s MBA programs deliver a profound learning experience that incorporates real-world relevance, impactful leadership, and personal growth. Regardless of which format and study location you choose, you gain the tools, network, and mindset to lead with purpose in today’s complex global economy.
Through a highly personalized approach, Nyenrode equips you to thrive, whether in the Netherlands or abroad. If you are ready to accelerate your career, expand your global outlook, and join a lifelong network of leaders, Nyenrode’s MBA programs could be your next great step.
Want to study at Nyenrode Business University? Take our eligibility quiz to see if you qualify!
