Programme outline

Overview

The diploma combines the highest standards of academic rigour with a practical approach to global business management.

Central to the design of the Oxford Executive Diplomas is the dual focus on the academic theory (and 'thinking') behind current organisational and global challenges, and the practical approaches ('doing') through which to successfully navigate them.  

Led by Professor Mari Sako, the Oxford Executive Diploma in Global Business covers four key modules relevant to navigating complex international business contexts in our semi-globalised world.  

This course has exceeded all my expectations. The quality of the course content and lecturers has been higher than I could have hoped for and the balance between content, teaching and learning from fellow students made the whole experience truly enriching.

Clare Moody

Member of the European Parliament, UK

Modules

Global strategy

29 January-1 February 2025

  • Market and non-market strategies
  • Leading effectively across national cultures
  • Managing the global value chain
  • Global value creation: ADDING value scorecard
  • How to globalise: aligning organisational structures

Risk and reputation

30 April-3 May 2025

  • Developing leadership styles to manage corporate reputation effectively
  • Risk analysis and scenarios thinking
  • Power and influence in global companies
  • Stakeholder engagement and crisis management

Corporate diplomacy in a global context

9-12 July 2025

  • Business relations with states and NGOs
  • Corporate diplomacy: business as a political actor
  • Dealing effectively with the multiple regulator problem
  • Measuring and mitigating political risks
  • Government outsourcing

The challenges of business in emerging markets

8-11 October 2025

  • The rise of state capitalism and its impact on business-government relations
  • Dynamics of competition between local and foreign firms in emerging markets
  • Inclusive innovation at the bottom and the middle of the pyramid
  • The rise of emerging markets and the future of the global economic order

Assessment

Global Business Diploma graduation

Modules one, two and three are assessed by either submissions and/or examinations. Module four is assessed by an extended Final Integrative Assignment (FIA) related to your organisation or industry.

Participants must pass all four modules to be awarded the diploma certificate (an accredited EQF Level 7 qualification) at a traditional University of Oxford end-of-course ceremony.

Study commitments

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Previous participants have estimated that the study commitment in between modules is approximately six to eight hours per week for the duration of the diploma programme. This time is spent completing the allocated pre-reading prior to each module and preparing for the four assessments.

Potential changes to this programme

There may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary to make changes to the provision of the programme, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to programme requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your diploma. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

Further information about changes to programmes and provisions of the student contract.

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