HEC Paris vs. INSEAD | A comparison of programs and specializations

A comparison of HEC Paris and INSEAD

When it comes to pursuing a business education, HEC Paris and INSEAD are two names that consistently rank among the world’s top business schools. Choosing between these institutions can be challenging, with their stellar reputations, extensive global networks, and commitment to academic excellence. One key factor that prospective students often consider is the range of programs and specializations each school offers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll discuss the various programs and specializations, cost of study, and campuses of HEC Paris vs INSEAD, helping you better understand what each institution has to offer.

HEC Paris 

HEC Paris provides a 16-month (2-year) MBA program with a summer internship. This course has two sections, i.e., foundational and personalized. The fundamental phase is an eight-month course that covers abilities in company management, financial policymaking, entrepreneurship, and accounting. Students can dedicate the final eight months to pursuing their ambitions and aspirations. Students get the option of selecting their specializations for their careers. Elective courses, international exchanges, specializations, and fieldwork are examples of these. The admissions start in January and conclude in December. The admissions that start in September end in July of the following year.

Programs at HEC Paris

Master in Management (MiM)

HEC Paris’ flagship MiM program is a two-year journey that equips students with a strong foundation in business fundamentals, leadership skills, and a global perspective. It offers specializations in various fields, including strategy, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

MBA

HEC Paris’ MBA program is for professionals seeking to accelerate their careers or switch industries. The program offers a customizable curriculum, allowing students to choose from various electives, concentrations, and dual-degree options.

Specialized Master’s Programs

HEC Paris offers specialized master’s programs in areas such as marketing, finance, international business law, and sustainability and social innovation. These programs provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills tailored to specific industries.

Ph.D. Programs

HEC Paris also offers doctoral programs for those interested in pursuing academic research in business and management.

Location- HEC Paris has one campus in Paris, France.

Cost of study- Tuition expenses are up to $78,000 (about €66,000 and 58 lacs). You can apply for a scholarship of $20,000. So, the total fees will be $58,000. There are varying fees for intakes. Tuition fees for January admission are €76,000 and €78,000 for September. The institution also offers financial assistance.

INSEAD

It provides an MBA program with a variety of internship options. The course lasts ten months. There are five sections of this course, each of which concludes with tests, essays, and projects. First, the three phases encompass 14 courses in financial accounting, organizational behavior, corporate financial policy, and global macroeconomics. The latter two rounds feature tailored courses with 75 electives spread over ten study areas. Electives also allow for international travel. There are two intakes per year, one beginning in January and graduating in December of that year or beginning in September and graduating in July of the following year.

Programs at INSEAD

MBA

INSEAD’s MBA program is famous for its accelerated one-year format. It features a rigorous curriculum, a diverse student body, and the flexibility to choose from a wide range of electives and specializations.

Executive MBA (EMBA)

INSEAD’s EMBA program targets mid-career professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills while continuing to work. It offers both a 14-month Global EMBA and an 18- to 20-month Modular EMBA.

Master in Finance

INSEAD’s Master in Finance program is for individuals seeking specialized expertise in finance and investment management.

Executive Education

INSEAD offers a variety of executive education programs catering to professionals at different stages of their careers.

Location- INSEAD has three campuses, one in France, one in Singapore, and one in Abu Dhabi.

Cost of study- $94,000 (€82,000 approx. and ₹68 lacs approx.) is the tuition fee with no scholarship for 10-month or 1-year programs. Students have to pay living expenses for 1 year only. The business foundation’s additional program fee is €1,500 ($1,789). The fee is to be paid in four installments. INSEAD offers more than 100 internal scholarships. External funding is also available for students. Admitted students are eligible to apply under the International Loan Programme for Prodigy Finance and several other external funding.

Rankings

When comparing two institutes, this is the first thing that springs to mind. It is the order. Various organizations around the world rank universities. On the basis of recent rankings, below is a comparison of HEC Paris vs INSEAD-

Rankings By	HEC Paris	INSEAD
QS World University Rankings-Global MBA rank	7	6
FT Global MBA rank	19	3
Financial Times 2020 global MBA rank	2 (2 year)	2 (1 year)
Financial times 2020 global MBA rank	9	3
Bloomberg Businessweek 2018	52	25
The economist 2019	3	22

Program flexibility and customization

Both HEC Paris vs INSEAD recognize the importance of customization in business education. HEC Paris’ MiM program allows students to choose from a wide range of electives, tailoring their learning experience to their interests. Similarly, INSEAD’s MBA program provides a diverse set of electives and specializations, allowing students to create a curriculum aligned with their career goals.

Global exposure and networks

INSEAD’s distinctive feature is its multiple campuses in France, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. This global presence enhances cross-cultural exposure and prepares students for the complexities of international business. HEC Paris also offers global exposure through exchange programs, internships, and partnerships with institutions worldwide.

Entrepreneurship and innovation

HEC Paris boasts the Jean-Pierre Mustier HEC Chair in Entrepreneurship, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking. INSEAD’s Launchpad initiative supports aspiring entrepreneurs by offering resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Conclusion | Choosing your path

The decision between HEC Paris vs INSEAD ultimately depends on your academic and career aspirations. HEC Paris’ diverse range of programs, specialization options, and emphasis on entrepreneurship make it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive business education. INSEAD’s global campuses, focus on international exposure, and accelerated programs may be more suitable for those aiming for an exceptional global experience.

Key takeaways

• HEC Paris vs INSEAD are both distinguished institutions offering a variety of programs, including MBA, specialized master’s, and executive education, catering to different academic and career goals.
• HEC Paris provides a 16-month MBA program, whereas INSEAD offers a 10-month MBA program. The program duration may influence your choice based on your preferred learning pace.
• INSEAD’s multiple campuses in France, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi provide unparalleled cross-cultural exposure, preparing students for a global business environment.
• Align your academic and career aspirations with the program offerings, specializations, and networking opportunities of each institution to make an informed choice.

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FAQs

Q1. What salary can I expect after completing my MBA in HEC Paris?

Ans- Graduates who completed the program in 2020 earned an average salary of €97,000. According to a survey, 95% of graduates found work within three months of graduation.

Q2. What is the GMAT score requirement for HEC Paris?

Ans- Although no minimum test score is necessary, successful candidates often have test scores in the top quartile of the distribution. The average GMAT score of the admitted candidates is roughly 700.

Q3. What is the average age of MBA students at HEC Paris?

Ans- Top management schools, such as INSEAD, require a GMAT score of 700 or higher. The average GMAT score for the INSEAD MBA class of 2023 is 710, with a scoring range of 670-750.