Taking your organization and your career to the next level requires going beyond your field of expertise to gain an end-to-end view of the enterprise, an in-depth understanding of business operations, and a multidisciplinary approach to leadership.

The General Management Program (GMP) accelerates this leadership transition by blending full-time, personalized learning with practical application on the job—maximizing your learning and your return on investment.

Summary

Key Benefits

GMP's four highly integrated modules are designed to broaden your business perspective, management expertise, and leadership skills. You will learn how to identify, frame, and solve complex business problems; build cooperation among disciplines; and drive innovation and organizational change.

Focused on strategy, leadership, and the organization, the program delivers the tools you need to capitalize on technological disruption and digital transformation and play a more strategic role in corporate success. This includes:

Key Benefits

Considering global and industry forces when setting your organization's strategic direction
Building a creative culture that is open to change and digital connectivity
Continuing to grow as an agile leader by building on powerful insights gained through professional coaching
Formulating a detailed personal action plan to address your strategic and leadership challenges
Building enduring bonds with accomplished peers who span functions, industries, and countries

Download the General Management Program Curriculum Guide

Who Should Attend

GMP is designed for senior executives with at least 15 to 20 years of experience who are looking to expand their knowledge and influence, so they can make a greater impact on their organization and advance their personal goals. Ideal candidates include:

Leaders with profit and loss responsibility
Senior executives whose functional role is significantly expanding

Dive Deeper into the Experience

Professor Stefan Thomke finds innovative ways to drive the lesson home.

The Harvard Business School Live Online Classroom

This program brings the case method to life virtually in our real-time, interactive online classr...

Learn More

Executives in deep discussion on HBS campus

How to achieve your potential as an executive?

Coaching—designed to define and pursue your leadership goals—is a key step on your path to success.

Learn More

Who Should Attend

Download the General Management Program Curriculum Guide

Leaders with profit and loss responsibility
Senior executives whose functional role is significantly expanding

Dive Deeper into the Experience

Professor Stefan Thomke finds innovative ways to drive the lesson home.

The Harvard Business School Live Online Classroom

This program brings the case method to life virtually in our real-time, interactive online classr...

Learn More

How to achieve your potential as an executive?

Coaching—designed to define and pursue your leadership goals—is a key step on your path to success.

Learn More

Leaders in Virtual Learning

This program features sessions in the HBS Live Online Classroom.

Just as HBS pioneered the case study method, we also built the first live online classroom in 2014 and have been refining and optimizing our virtual program experience ever since. In a world that is now centered around virtual connection, our programs reflect the input and experience of tens of thousands of participants.

When you participate in a virtual HBS Executive Education program, you benefit from a powerful learning experience carefully designed with a virtual setting in mind. Through live, synchronous program sessions you'll engage directly with our renowned faculty to learn from their latest research, gain actionable takeaways, and facilitate your growth. In addition, virtual discussion groups will connect you to a global group of peers and build your network.

Leaders in Virtual Learning

This program features sessions in the HBS Live Online Classroom.

Learning and Living at HBS

When you participate in an Executive Education program on the HBS campus, you enter an immersive experience where every aspect of the learning model has been carefully designed to facilitate your growth. Your learning will take place on your own, in your learning/living group, and in the larger classroom, driven by the renowned HBS case method.

Review Our Campus Health & Safety Protocols

Learning and Living at HBS

Review Our Campus Health & Safety Protocols

Alumni Status

Upon completing the General Management Program, you will become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success. Learn more.

Alumni Status: Upon completing the General Management Program, you will become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success. Learn more.

Admissions Criteria and Process

We admit candidates to specific sessions on a rolling, space-available basis, and encourage you to apply as early as possible. Although the General Management Program has no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.

The Application Process

We select applicants who embrace challenges, seek genuine personal and professional growth, and are ready to innovate—in themselves and in their organizations. The curious, open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program to be a highly stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.

To apply, you will submit:

The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work

To review both the application and letter of reference, download the Application PDF. You can submit your application via our online Application Form or by returning a completed PDF. When submitting the online application form, you will be asked for the email address of the individual serving as your reference. That individual will receive an email with a link to an online letter of reference form.

Answering Your Questions

Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals. Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).

Letter of Reference

To gain a deeper understanding of your background and your potential as a leader, we require a letter of reference from a senior executive within your organization, a board member, or an HBS graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities. To submit the letter, follow the instructions in your application.

English Proficiency

Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in fast-moving classes and small group discussions.

Learning Commitment

Classes during Modules 2 and 4 are held six days a week. Your active participation in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is essential. You must be free of other responsibilities during the full-time modules. Residency on campus is required for Module 4.

Application Submission

We recommend that you apply as soon as you can, and at least four weeks before the program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.

Application Review

To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.

Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

The program fee covers tuition, books, and case materials, as well as accommodations and most meals for the on-campus module. You will be invoiced upon admission to the program. Invoices are due within 30 days of receipt, or upon receipt if the program start date is less than 30 days from the invoice date. If you need to cancel or defer your participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 30 days before the start of the program to receive a full refund. Cancellation or deferral requests received 14 to 30 days prior to the start of the program are subject to a fee of one-half of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days are subject to full payment.

A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.

Admissions Criteria and Process

The Application Process

To apply, you will submit:

The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work

Answering Your Questions

Letter of Reference

English Proficiency

Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in fast-moving classes and small group discussions.

Learning Commitment

Application Submission

Application Review

Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.

What You Will Learn

The General Management Program provides a highly integrated, multidisciplinary view of strategy, leadership, and the organization. Blending practical business knowledge with personalized learning, 360-degree leadership and personal assessments, as well as individual projects, the program engages you in a dynamic exchange with the HBS faculty, a professional HBS Executive Coach, and a diverse group of senior executives from around the world.

Designed to expand your leadership skills, mindset, and network, the General Management Program requires just seven weeks away from the office over the course of four months. You will alternate between full-time, rigorous modules and part-time, self-paced modules that provide the opportunity to apply new insights at work. Through this proven "learn-apply-refine" approach, you can prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead while moving forward in your current role.

Download the General Management Program Curriculum Guide

What You Will Learn

Download the General Management Program Curriculum Guide

Module DetailsExpand All Collapse All

Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills

Format: Individual virtual, self-paced learning (5 weeks, part-time)

Complete self-directed assignments using a mix of online, print, and audio materials
Strengthen core business knowledge in financial management, strategy formulation, and accounting
Gain an understanding of the HBS learning environment, common terminology, and case-based learning
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading up to Module 2

Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise

Format: Virtual, live online learning (3 weeks, full-time)*

Enhance your analytical skills and expand your knowledge of accounting, financial management, strategy formulation, innovation, leadership, marketing, operations, and negotiations
Learn to recognize and diagnose problems, quickly generate and assess options, and identify and activate winning strategies
Develop a strategy for immediately applying your knowledge to your organization and gain input from experts and peers

*Module 2 participants will be grouped into two sections based on preferred class times for virtual class sessions. This virtual, live online module is a full-time commitment.

Virtual learning group discussions will take place from 7:45 AM to 8:45 AM ET.
Both sections will attend a joint session, on the Zoom platform, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ET, Monday through Friday. The joint sessions will cover a range of formats: guest speakers, group work, and networking.
Section A will attend class sessions from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM ET and Section B will attend class sessions from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET. Classes will take place Monday through Friday.
Faculty office hours, coaching, and case study preparation will take place outside of the class sessions referenced above.

Please note that session start and end times may be slightly adjusted and final confirmation will be given during Module 1.

Module 3: Put your knowledge into action Module 3: Put your knowledge into action

Format: Virtual, self-paced learning while you apply new insights at work (4 weeks, part-time)

Complete various self-directed assignments and assessments and gather 360-degree feedback from your peers and manager
Transform your personal strategy statement into a detailed personal action plan
Develop a business case study that focuses on a personal business challenge
Share your personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case with your manager and team and gather their feedback
Learning Group meeting with Executive Coach
One 1:1 meeting with Executive Coach
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading up to Module 4

Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact

Format: On the HBS campus (4 weeks, full-time)

Expand your ability to think about the macro picture and consider global and industry forces when making strategic decisions
Prepare to help your organization capitalize on technological disruption, digital transformation, strategic pricing, and other evolving trends
Enhance your executive presence by reviewing your assessment results with your personal coach, evaluating your leadership abilities, and identifying areas for improvement
Present your customized case to your learning group and finalize your personal action plan

Module Details

Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills

Format: Individual virtual, self-paced learning (5 weeks, part-time)

Complete self-directed assignments using a mix of online, print, and audio materials
Strengthen core business knowledge in financial management, strategy formulation, and accounting
Gain an understanding of the HBS learning environment, common terminology, and case-based learning
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading up to Module 2

Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise

Format: Virtual, live online learning (3 weeks, full-time)*

Enhance your analytical skills and expand your knowledge of accounting, financial management, strategy formulation, innovation, leadership, marketing, operations, and negotiations
Learn to recognize and diagnose problems, quickly generate and assess options, and identify and activate winning strategies
Develop a strategy for immediately applying your knowledge to your organization and gain input from experts and peers

*Module 2 participants will be grouped into two sections based on preferred class times for virtual class sessions. This virtual, live online module is a full-time commitment.

Virtual learning group discussions will take place from 7:45 AM to 8:45 AM ET.
Both sections will attend a joint session, on the Zoom platform, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ET, Monday through Friday. The joint sessions will cover a range of formats: guest speakers, group work, and networking.
Section A will attend class sessions from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM ET and Section B will attend class sessions from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET. Classes will take place Monday through Friday.
Faculty office hours, coaching, and case study preparation will take place outside of the class sessions referenced above.

Please note that session start and end times may be slightly adjusted and final confirmation will be given during Module 1.

Module 3: Put your knowledge into action

Format: Virtual, self-paced learning while you apply new insights at work (4 weeks, part-time)

Complete various self-directed assignments and assessments and gather 360-degree feedback from your peers and manager
Transform your personal strategy statement into a detailed personal action plan
Develop a business case study that focuses on a personal business challenge
Share your personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case with your manager and team and gather their feedback
Learning Group meeting with Executive Coach
One 1:1 meeting with Executive Coach
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading up to Module 4

Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact

Format: On the HBS campus (4 weeks, full-time)

Expand your ability to think about the macro picture and consider global and industry forces when making strategic decisions
Prepare to help your organization capitalize on technological disruption, digital transformation, strategic pricing, and other evolving trends
Enhance your executive presence by reviewing your assessment results with your personal coach, evaluating your leadership abilities, and identifying areas for improvement
Present your customized case to your learning group and finalize your personal action plan

Special Program FeaturesExpand All Collapse All

Learning group work Learning group work

An immersive four-month program creates the opportunity to build close, trusting relationships with a small, diverse group of senior executives who can understand your challenges—but are not part of your organization. In Modules 1-3, you will be placed into a learning group based on your preferred virtual meeting and virtual class times. During Module 4, you will be placed in a new learning group to further expand and diversify your network. Your new learning group will be housed together in custom design accommodations, featuring private suites around a spacious common area. Throughout the program, you will:

Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider wide-ranging perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment

HBS executive coaching HBS executive coaching

Our distinctive coaching method is designed to accelerate both individual and team growth. During Modules 2-4 of the program, your learning group will meet with a professional HBS Executive Coach to help enhance your leadership journey and team effectiveness. Your coach will help you identify your personal leadership strengths and gaps through two one-on-one sessions—one 360-degree leadership and personal assessment session at the start of the program and another session focused on your reentry strategy following the program. All coaching sessions are strictly confidential, giving you the freedom to share your personal goals and professional challenges.

Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case

The program personalizes your learning with multiple projects designed to help you apply your new skills to real-life strategy and leadership challenges. Over the course of GMP, you will work on solving a fundamental challenge facing you and your organization. Through this exercise, you will:

Gain greater insight into your industry and your company's competitive position
Improve your ability to clearly communicate issues to peers and garner their input
Learn how to drive change and innovation by aligning the appropriate resources and activities
Identify and prepare for potential roadblocks and leadership challenges that may arise as you work to implement your strategy
Build a network of GMP peer advisors who can apply their unique knowledge and background to your challenge

Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers

You will have a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers—often the case protagonists—who share how they overcame diverse business and leadership challenges.

The GMP network The GMP network

During GMP, you will build rewarding and enduring relationships with a diverse group of accomplished executive peers. This vibrant and powerful global network will continue to grow as you tap into faculty-led webinars, leadership renewal programs, and GMP reunions and workshops.

Special Program Features

Learning group work

Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider wide-ranging perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment

HBS executive coaching

Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case

Gain greater insight into your industry and your company's competitive position
Improve your ability to clearly communicate issues to peers and garner their input
Learn how to drive change and innovation by aligning the appropriate resources and activities
Identify and prepare for potential roadblocks and leadership challenges that may arise as you work to implement your strategy
Build a network of GMP peer advisors who can apply their unique knowledge and background to your challenge

Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers

You will have a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers—often the case protagonists—who share how they overcame diverse business and leadership challenges.

The GMP network

The HBS Advantage

The General Management Program is developed and taught by a multidisciplinary team of HBS faculty who are widely recognized as skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.

Faculty Chair

Stefan H. Thomke

William Barclay Harding Professor of Business Administration

HBS Unit:

Technology and Operations Management

General Management Program: Shaping the Future of Outstanding Leaders

Stefan Thomke's magic in the classroom transforms executives into innovation leaders.

Stefan Thomke's magic in the classroom transforms executives into innovation leaders.

Summary

Summary

Key Benefits

Who Should Attend

Who Should Attend

Leaders in Virtual Learning

Leaders in Virtual Learning

Learning and Living at HBS

Learning and Living at HBS

Alumni Status

Alumni Status

Admissions Criteria and Process

The Application Process

To apply, you will submit:

Answering Your Questions

Letter of Reference

English Proficiency

Learning Commitment

Application Submission

Application Review

Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

The Application Process

To apply, you will submit:

Answering Your Questions

Letter of Reference

English Proficiency

Learning Commitment

Application Submission

Application Review

Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

What You Will Learn

What You Will Learn

Module DetailsExpand AllCollapse All

Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skillsModule 1: Strengthen your foundational skills Dropdown down

Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertiseModule 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise Dropdown down

Module 3: Put your knowledge into actionModule 3: Put your knowledge into action Dropdown down

Module 4: Maximize your leadership impactModule 4: Maximize your leadership impact Dropdown down

Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills

Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise

Module 3: Put your knowledge into action

Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact

Special Program FeaturesExpand AllCollapse All

Learning group workLearning group work Dropdown down

HBS executive coachingHBS executive coaching Dropdown down

Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business casePersonal strategy statement, action plan, and business case Dropdown down

Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers Dropdown down

The GMP networkThe GMP network Dropdown down

Learning group work

HBS executive coaching

Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case

Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers

The GMP network

The HBS Advantage

Guest Speakers

The HBS Advantage

Guest Speakers

Your Peers Expand Your Learning

Your Peers Expand Your Learning

Module DetailsExpand All Collapse All

Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills Module 1: Strengthen your foundational skills

Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise

Module 3: Put your knowledge into action Module 3: Put your knowledge into action

Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact

Special Program FeaturesExpand All Collapse All

Learning group work Learning group work

HBS executive coaching HBS executive coaching

Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case

Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers

The GMP network The GMP network