Understanding and applying the core methods and trends is vital for successful project and program management. You will learn:

• A holistic approach to projects and programs based on a comprehensive theoretical grounding in systems theory and constructivism.

• How to differentiate, process, project, program, and investment and how to relate them to each other.

• To understand the implications of new developments such as agile or sustainability for managing projects and programs.

• How to apply planning methods such as project objective plan, work-break down structure, scheduling methods, cost planning etc.

• To apply a holistic approach to developing a business case underlying a project or program.

• How to contextualize the application of methods to a particular project.

Designing of project and program organizations is a core element of ensuring competitive advantage and success. You will learn:

• How to tailor-design an organization for a project or program.

• How to apply traditional forms of organizations and modern design elements for empowerment and value creation.

• A holistic understanding of different responsibilities and roles in projects and programs.

• The relationship between project organization and stakeholder management.

Dealing with uncertainty and risks on projects is central for every project manager. One answer to uncertainty is including agility into projects. You will learn:

• How to deal with uncertainty in projects.

• The difference between uncertainty and risk, risk identification and risk analysis methods, scenario techniques, alternative project plans.

• How to apply project risk management including risk identification and risk analysis methods, scenario techniques, and alternative project plans.

• Iterative, agile, and hybrid approaches to project management.

Stakeholders of projects and programs are a valuable resource for ensuring sustainable outcomes and their acceptance. You will learn:

• Methods for identifying and engaging stakeholders for value co-creation.

• The difference between managing of and for stakeholder approaches and combining these strategic approaches.

• The benefits and limitations of project stakeholder management and project marketing.

Project controlling is an essential task of a project manager to ensure project progress and success. Controlling and cooperation on the project can be supported by tooling, social media and digitalization. You will learn:

• Earned Value project management as project controlling method.

• Estimation, extrapolation forecasting and trend analysis methods, relevant to project controlling.

• The need for considering social aspects of project controlling.

• Application of modern media in project management processes and stakeholder engagement.

Project-oriented organizations need specific strategies, structures, cultures, processes, and methods expressed in distinct capabilities to support change and innovation. You will learn:

• Latest knowledge about the specific features of project-oriented organizations, such as portfolio management.

• How to structure and manage a project portfolio.

• The different types of Project Management Offices.

• Human Resource Management in project-oriented companies: challenges and potentials.

• How to implement and professionalize project management in an organization.

• To apply specific systemic consulting methods, such as constellation and design thinking.

Students visit selected businesses to gain practical insights into how project-oriented companies work and what benefits they bring. Moreover, the Lab includes presentations on topical issues and special exercises that allow participants to further improve and perfect their PM and social skills. Topics in the past included for example project leadership.

You will learn/gain:

• Deeper knowledge and practice understanding to lead projects and project-oriented organizations.

• Practical-relevant insights

• An expanded network through company visits

In addition to acquiring in-depth knowledge and skills in strategic project management, participants have the opportunity to obtain a job-related Project Management certificate and an Agile Leadership certificate according to IPMA®.

The Executive MBA Strategic Project Management prepares students for these IPMA® certifications. Examinations for levels C and D will be conducted in collaboration with project management austria (pma), the national association of IPMA®.

The certification is included in the tuition fee.

At the end of the Executive MBA program, students have to write a master's thesis in order to receive the academic degree of Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA). The intention of the master's thesis is to guarantee that the graduate of the Executive MBA program is able to write scientific papers on his or her own.

Yes, our Executive MBA tuition fees are fully tax deductible for taxpayers in Austria. With our flexible payment modalities, you can spread the fees over several tax periods. However, as tax deductibility can vary greatly from person to person, we recommend that you also contact a tax advisor or inquire directly at the tax office.

If you are taxpayer of another country, please contact your local tax authorities for information on available tax deductions.

To apply for a scholarship, you need to hand in the following additional documents:

• Documentation of income

• Relevant documentation of exceptional circumstances (e.g. supporting dependents, medical care).

Learn more about application deadlines at WU Executive Academy and the process for each scholarship.

Yes, the WU Executive Academy offers a wide range of Executive MBA scholarships and financing options.

Scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis. The committee decides whether and to what extent a scholarship will be granted by evaluating your:

• High motivation for joining the program

• Enthusiasm for a challenging learning experience

• Clear understanding of personal contribution to team learning and the overall cohort experience

• Relevant skills and work experience

• Strong record of career progression

• Excellent interpersonal, intercultural, and communication skills

• Passion and commitment to achieve personal growth and success

• Diversity of the student group in terms of academic, professional, and cultural background

• Financial situation

Find additional eligibility criteria for each scholarship.

Why should one pursue an MBA in Project Management? To acquire the skills needed to lead projects of any scale and to strategically manage project portfolios, creating value for both businesses and society. Professional project management helps any organization translate strategy into action. It’s a practical approach to getting big things done.

We equip our students with the concepts and methods required to lead projects impactfully. The MBA combines forward-thinking scientific knowledge with practical insights and applications to prepare students for the future.

The Executive MBA in Strategic Project Management is aimed at professionals and executives looking to enhance their project management and leadership skills. The program is particularly suited for:

• Project and program managers seeking to deepen their expertise in strategic project management.

• IT and technical specialists aiming to enhance their leadership and management skills in infrastructure, delivery, and digital transformation.

• Executives leading change processes within their organizations, focused on driving sustainable strategies.

• Management consultants wishing to update their knowledge in strategy and business development.

• Managers and consultants from the public sector and consulting firms preparing for the challenges of a modern, project-oriented business environment.

The MBA Strategic Project Management integrates real-world application through various methods. During the first three teaching module blocks of the specialization, students collaborate on a training project, assuming the role of project management consultants. In small groups, they plan a project based on their own professional experiences. This "learning-on-the-project" approach allows participants to test the theories, concepts, and methods discussed throughout the program. Additionally, the program includes company visits, guest speakers, and project vernissages, offering students the chance to engage with experts and explore practical success formulas and challenges in project management and leadership.

Upon completing the Executive MBA in Strategic Project Management, you will earn a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. This degree is awarded by the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU), recognized internationally for its excellence in business education. The program equips you with the advanced skills necessary for strategic project management and leadership, preparing you for complex, high-level responsibilities in various organizational settings.

Our selection process involves careful consideration of the following factors:

• High motivation for joining the program

• Enthusiasm for a challenging learning experience

• Clear understanding of personal contribution to team learning and the overall cohort experience

• Relevant skills and work experience

• Strong record of career progression

• Excellent interpersonal, intercultural, and communication skills

• Passion and commitment to achieve personal growth and success

• Diversity of the student group in terms of academic, professional, and cultural background

Applicants must meet the following formal requirements:

• Undergraduate degree (Bachelor 180 ECTS or equivalent) from a recognized post-secondary institution*

• Minimum of 3 years of postgraduate work experience

• Leadership experience preferred

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

^{* For the Executive MBA programs, outstanding professional experience may allow for application in exceptional cases.}