While Latin America might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about enrolling in an MBA, business schools in the region have finally started stepping out of the shadow of the US. According to the website www.educalinkapp.com, Latin America recorded around 176,000 international students in 2017, but this number has grown in recent years, with Mexico and Argentina topping the list of the most popular countries to study.
In addition, Latin America’s economies are growing at an increasing pace, which means more employment opportunities for those who completed an MBA at one of the region’s better-known business schools. Sounds interesting? Here are the top four Latin American business schools according to the QS Global MBA Ranking in 2021.
EGADE Business School, Mexico City, Mexico (67.2)
With a score of 67.2 and a global ranking of 46, EGADE Business School tops the QS list of business schools in Latin America. Having only opened its doors in 1995, the school has quickly become well-known for its exceptional business programs and its student diversity. In addition, the school’s MBA tuition fees are under USD,000, which is much lower than what students would pay in the US. Outside Mexico City, the school also offers programs in Monterrey and Guadalajara, as well as online.
INCAE Business School, Alajuela, Costa Rica (57.6)
International students account for 83 percent of INCAE Business School’s students and for a good reason. Founded in 1963, over the years the school has had more than 13,000 graduates from around 50 different countries. The school’s program utilizes the methods developed at Harvard University in Boston, and is often referred to as the “Harvard of the South.” Aside from Costa Rica, INCAE also offers an MBA program in Nicaragua, and the possibility of a dual degree with Yale, Michigan or St. Gallen Universities.
IPADE Business School, Mexico City, Mexico (51.2)
Ranked second to EGADE in Mexico City, the IPADE Business School has hosted some of the country’s most prominent figures as guest lecturers. Over the years, these have included one of the richest men in the world Carlos Slim and the media baron Emilio Azcarraga. The school’s international student population stands at 18 percent, but many courses are delivered in English and involve a mandatory international exchange. The school’s MBA centers around case methodology, simulations and workshops.
Universidad de Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina (48.4)
Coming in at number four is Universidad de Palermo in Buenos Aires, one of Latin America’s most vibrant cities. The school’s international students account for the majority – 59 percent to be exact – of its learners, ensuring a diverse learning environment. The facility offers a choice of four majors: Marketing Communications, Strategic Management, Marketing and Business Development, and Start-Ups and Digital Innovation. MBA Students can opt to undertake a part of their course online.
