Universidad ESAN Graduate School of Business

Universidad ESAN Graduate School of Business is a prominent institution headquartered in Lima, Peru, renowned for its leadership in business education across Latin America. Established in 1963 through a unique collaboration between the Peruvian and U.S. governments, and supported academically by Stanford Graduate School of Business, it boasts the distinction of being the first graduate business school in Spanish-speaking South America. Since 2003, it has been an integral part of ESAN University, functioning as a non-profit private entity focused on cultivating advanced management education through diverse programs, including a Doctoral Program in Business Administration, an acclaimed MBA in various formats, along with specialized master’s degrees and executive education courses.

The institution's mission underscores its commitment to molding global entrepreneurial leaders who embody ethical responsibility and a dedication to social progress, aligning well with its vision to be a leading global business school recognized for innovative contributions toward societal wellness. This mission and vision manifest through strong emphases on ethical management, entrepreneurship, and interaction with industry and public policy entities, underscored by triple international accreditation (AACSB, dual AMBA-BGA), which solidifies its status as a highly reputable institution in Latin American education.

ESAN Graduate School of Business consistently ranks as the number one business school in Peru and is celebrated among the top in Latin America, with notable rankings from América Economía, QS Global MBA, and Financial Times for executive education and return on investment. Its balanced mix of historical legacy, strong accreditation, and excellent rankings positions ESAN as a pivotal benchmark for graduate management education in the Spanish-speaking region.

ESAN Graduate School of Business places a significant emphasis on career outcomes and professional networking, ensuring that its programs are tightly aligned with regional and global market needs. Graduates often ascend to leadership roles within diverse sectors such as banking, finance, consulting, manufacturing, and technology. Leveraging ESAN's strong regional reputation, alumni frequently advance into senior management or C-suite positions, further facilitated by the school’s robust networking frameworks and employment-oriented initiatives.

The institution boasts a comprehensive alumni network, developed over six decades, that extends across Peruvian and multinational corporations, public institutions, and entrepreneurial ventures. This network forms a vital ecosystem for mentoring, business development, and recruiting, with regular activation through executive events and sector-specific activities both on campus and online. Such connections greatly enhance students' real-world insights and provide ample opportunities for corporate and public-sector engagement.

ESAN’s corporate ties, backed by its extensive portfolio of corporate and public-sector programs, allow for meaningful interaction with real business challenges, fostering an environment ripe for innovative learning. Internships and applied projects integrated into MBA and specialized master’s programs enhance students’ industry understanding and impact, often leading to improved employability and accelerated career progression. This aligns with ESAN’s status as a leader in business education, as evidenced by its high-ranking placements in QS Global MBA and Financial Times for effective return on investment.

Prospective students are drawn to Universidad ESAN Graduate School of Business due to its rare combination of academic rigor, regional leadership, and global recognition within the Spanish-speaking academic landscape. As the first graduate business school in Spanish-speaking South America, ESAN presents a long-standing history and exceptional credibility with employers and policymakers, owing to its establishment in 1963 and foundational ties with Stanford Graduate School of Business. This legacy provides applicants with a distinct advantage in the academic and professional landscapes.

The school's esteemed international accreditations, namely AACSB and dual AMBA-BGA, reflect its adherence to the highest global standards in business education, facilitating easy recognition and credibility of its degrees internationally. Additionally, ESAN’s consistently top-ranked status in Peru, and among the leading Latin American schools per América Economía, QS Global MBA, and Financial Times, further solidifies its reputation as a premier educational institution with a strong focus on return on investment and pragmatic managerial training.

ESAN offers a comprehensive suite of graduate programs designed to cater to various experiential and career goals, including a Doctoral Program in Business Administration, diverse MBA formats, and specialized master’s degrees. Added benefits include the institution’s broad international partnerships and double-degree opportunities, which expand global exposure and enhance the overall educational experience. Ethically aligned curriculum structures focus on sustainability and social impact, while ESAN’s strategic location in Lima, a key business nexus, provides significant learning and career advancement opportunities, making it an attractive choice for aspiring business leaders.

ESAN Graduate School of Business has forged a strong identity centered around research, innovation, and societal impact, with its mission devoted to linking leadership development to the creation and dissemination of knowledge. A dedicated research unit engages in academic studies and consultation across various management disciplines, informing curricula and contributing to policy discussions and corporate strategies across Peru and Latin America. This robust dedication to research supports ESAN’s curriculum and underscores its influence in regional business practices and academia.

Promoting entrepreneurial and innovative thinking is at the core of ESAN's academic offerings, with programs that emphasize business analytics, data and AI, digital business, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability. This forward-thinking orientation equips students with the necessary skills and insights to manage technological disruptions, enact digital transformations, and address ESG (environmental, social, governance) challenges within their organizations. Such preparatory training ensures graduates are well-positioned to lead in contemporary and future business contexts.

ESAN’s executive education and corporate programs often involve applied research and tailored solutions, which enhance clients' strategic and operational capabilities. This practical approach not only improves organizations' competitiveness but also reinforces ESAN’s reputation for impactful executive education, as seen in its performance in return on investment rankings. The school’s commitment to responsible management and ethics is evident in its participation in international networks that promote sustainability, aligning with its vision to contribute meaningfully to societal welfare. Through projects involving social entrepreneurship and economic inclusivity, ESAN remains a pivotal player in advancing Peru’s and the region’s sustainable development goals.

1. What types of graduate programs does ESAN Graduate School of Business offer? ESAN provides a comprehensive range of programs including a Doctoral Program in Business Administration, its flagship MBA offered in various formats, such as international and weekend options, and specialized master’s programs in areas like finance, marketing, and operations. Additionally, ESAN offers extensive executive education and tailored corporate programs to cater to managers at different career stages, enriching the academic offerings with practical industry engagement.

2. Is ESAN internationally accredited and recognized? Yes, ESAN holds prestigious international accreditations from AACSB and dual AMBA and BGA, placing it among an elite group of business schools worldwide that adhere to rigorous academic standards. As a member of international networks such as EFMD, CLADEA, and PRME, ESAN enhances its global visibility and partnership opportunities, maintaining a strong presence in regional rankings and being consistently recognized as the top business school in Peru.

3. Where is the campus located and what is the study environment like? The campus is situated in Santiago de Surco, Lima, featuring a unique blend of historical and modern infrastructure designed to facilitate advanced learning. It boasts state-of-the-art classrooms and the ESAN/Cendoc Information Center with full wireless internet support, creating a professional yet vibrant environment. Students benefit from a diverse peer group and direct links to Lima’s dynamic business ecosystem, facilitating an enriching academic and cultural experience.

4. How does ESAN support career outcomes and networking? ESAN places considerable emphasis on aligning its programs with market needs, ensuring graduates can access leadership positions across various sectors. A robust alumni network and strong industry connections provide students ample opportunities for mentorship, business development, and recruitment, fostering an environment where students can apply their learning in real-world contexts and advance their careers post-graduation.

5. What international opportunities are available to ESAN students? ESAN maintains a wide network of international partners, offering students multiple opportunities for cross-border collaboration through exchanges and dual-degree programs. This international exposure is designed to broaden students' professional networks and enhance their global outlook, equipping them with the necessary skills and connections to navigate and succeed in diverse cultural and business environments globally.

Admission to ESAN Graduate School of Business is a selective process aimed at identifying candidates with solid academic backgrounds, relevant professional experience, and leadership potential. For most graduate programs, applicants are required to possess a recognized undergraduate degree and demonstrate professional experience, particularly for the MBA and specialized master’s programs. Application packages typically comprise a completed online application form, identity documentation, certified undergraduate degree and transcripts, curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, and for specific programs, additional essays, interviews, or standardized test scores may be required.

International applicants must provide academic qualifications and necessary immigration documentation to comply with Peruvian regulations, and may need to prove language proficiency depending on the program's language of instruction. Admission timelines and program calendars vary based on intake; for instance, a full-time MBA typically encompasses a structured duration of approximately 14 months, with tuition fees published in local currency and USD. Scholarships or financial aid may be available based on meritorious performance or through specific agreements with partner organizations, supporting qualified candidates financially.

The campus, located in Alonso de Molina, Santiago de Surco, is easily accessible from key business districts, although it does not offer on-campus dormitories. Instead, students usually arrange private or shared accommodation in nearby neighborhoods, supported by local housing information and student networks. Prospective students are advised to consult ESAN’s official website for detailed program requirements and admission timelines, ensuring they have the most current information regarding their application and educational journey.