The Learning Model
Why HBS? – With more than 60 years of experience in executive education, Harvard Business School is the leading provider of advanced learning opportunities that strengthen the leadership capacity of both individuals and their organizations. Unlike any other, the HBS Executive Education learning model immerses the world's most promising managers in a transformational experience that transcends the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and tools—and fosters professional, intellectual, and personal development. Every program challenges executives to grow as leaders, to shape powerful ideas into decisive action plans, and to think and manage differently in a changing business world.
Philosophy – Every HBS Executive Education leadership development experience is shaped by the School's cross-functional approach to general management, innovative teaching methodologies, and residential learning environment that promotes teamwork and collaboration. Participants are exposed to an in-depth education that goes beyond frameworks and theories—and prepares them to exercise their enhanced leadership skills to build sustainable competitive advantage for their companies.
Case Method – Pioneered by Harvard Business School, the case method is one of the most effective tools for teaching general management and leadership—especially to practicing managers. Case studies offer multiple levels of learning, compelling participants to identify relevant issues and to apply practical business lessons to their own companies. Cases provide an opportunity to study real general managers—in action—and to imbed frameworks and theories in the context of practice. At HBS, Executive Education participants benefit from an added dimension that no other school can offer: the opportunity to be taught by many of the faculty who wrote the cases, who know the case protagonists, and who have personal knowledge of the problems encountered, alternatives considered, and solutions presented.
Faculty – HBS Executive Education programs are taught by full-time Harvard University professors, not by consultants and lecturers hired on a part-time basis. As a result, participants have the chance to interact with world-renowned thought leaders: the authors of the cases, articles, and books that have redefined modern management practices.
Interaction – Every facet of an HBS Executive Education program—from participant selection…to amphitheater classroom seating…to learning group design…to social activities—is carefully crafted to promote dynamic interchange and shared learning among accomplished peers from diverse companies, industries, and countries. To reinforce the School's extraordinary sense of community, Executive Education participants live on campus in suites of single, private rooms arranged around a common area, providing ready access to colleagues and fostering peer-to-peer engagement. The intellectual stimulation of learning in the company of peers is one of the most rewarding aspects of the program experience, and most participants establish a network of friendships and business contacts that lasts a lifetime.
The Learning Commitment – Residency on campus is required, and classes are held six days a week. Active involvement in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is expected. Participants devote considerable time and intellect to the learning experience, putting in long days and nights. Therefore, they must be free of outside responsibilities during their stay at HBS.
"The AMP experience is truly reflective of our global economy. In my class, there are 39 countries represented. And, although we are from different cultures, what matters the most to everyone—the core of our humanity—is very much the same. We care about our employees, our families, our communities, and about making a positive contribution with our talents, training, and opportunities."
Stephen Miller [Executive Vice President], The Biltmore Company, U.S.