Why Rochester-Bern Executive Programmes are the key to career success in Switzerland
As an international professional in Switzerland, advancing into leadership roles often requires more than strong performance. It demands a global perspective and Swiss credibility: a combination that can be difficult to achieve while navigating new cultural expectations, management styles, and professional networks.
Rochester-Bern Executive Programmes (RoBe) were created precisely at this intersection, where international ambition meets the Swiss business environment. RoBe is a recognised business school in the Swiss market for university-level continuing education.
Where Swiss innovation meets excellence
RoBe's vision is to contribute to a more sustainable world by inspiring, equipping, and connecting responsible leaders. Founded through a partnership between the University of Bern and the Simon Business School at the University of Rochester in the United States, RoBe combines two academic traditions: Swiss innovation, grounded in precision and quality and American disruption that drives transformation and progress.
This dual foundation offers a rare opportunity in executive education: an EMBA with dual degrees, combining a Swiss Executive MBA and a US MBA. Graduates earn local and international recognition, which is particularly valuable for expats building long-term careers in Switzerland.
Flexible, modular learning for real-world executives
RoBe’s programmes are designed for working professionals. The modular format and blended learning approach, which combines online preparation with in-person master classes, allows participants to balance their professional, academic, and personal commitments. Participants make tangible progress at their own pace through four levels of study:
MC (Master Classes)
MCs are short, intensive learning experiences offering insights over the course of two to three days. They are ideal for professionals who want to refresh or expand their knowledge without committing to a longer study programme. Topic examples are: Corporate Financial Policy, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Global Economic Environment, and Leadership & Empowerment.
Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS)
CAS programmes consist of several master classes and lead to an official university certificate. They are ideal for professionals seeking targeted development without pausing their careers. They offer a deeper, more comprehensive exploration of a specialised subject area such as Finance, Strategy, Leadership, Innovation, or Corporate Governance.
The DAS (Diploma of Advanced Studies)
The DAS in General Management provides a broad, cross-functional foundation and serves as a stepping stone toward the EMBA. This programme is ideal for mid-level managers and emerging leaders preparing for greater responsibility. The programme can be completed within one to five years.
Executive MBA (EMBA)
The Executive MBA (EMBA) is the flagship dual-degree programme for experienced managers and executives. This programme prepares participants to lead confidently across markets, cultures, and industries. The programme takes one and a half to five years.
Where learning becomes leadership
Every Rochester-Bern participant benefits from top faculty members, who are drawn from both partner universities as well as leading European institutions. Alumni often report significant career advancement after graduation, such as moving into senior leadership and board positions or driving digital or sustainability initiatives within their organisations. Beyond career advancement, RoBe emphasises values such as strategic and analytical thinking, inclusive leadership, and sustainability as a guiding principle. Graduates leave equipped to lead for performance and long-term impact.
A community of international and Swiss professionals
RoBe attracts a diverse group of professionals who reflect the realities of leadership in today's globalised economy. Participants include Swiss executives and international professionals from finance, healthcare, technology, consulting, and manufacturing. Through its dual-degree structure and active alumni network, Rochester-Bern serves as a bridge between Swiss business practices and a global perspective, helping leaders connect the dots, navigate complexity, and make smarter strategic decisions.
Take the next step!
Whether you want to strengthen your management foundation with a Master Class or a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS), prepare for broader leadership with a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS), or join the internationally accredited Executive MBA (EMBA) programme, Rochester-Bern offers the flexibility, credibility, and community to help you thrive in Switzerland and beyond.