St. Gallen SIM (MiM) Program –  A Complete Guide

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, the Master of Arts HSG (M.A. HSG) in Strategy and International Management (SIM) Program at the University of St. Gallen is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, esteemed faculty, and unparalleled career opportunities. The SIM Program has consistently been a frontrunner in international rankings, setting the gold standard for master’s in management education.

With an illustrious history of accolades, including being ranked #1 in the Financial Times Global MiM Ranking for over a decade (2011-2022) and securing the #2 spot in The Economist Global MiM Ranking, the SIM Program continues to attract top talents from around the world, shaping the future leaders of the global business landscape.

If you’re looking to enhance your career through this program then this article is all you’ll ever need to know about SIM at St. Gallen. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the various facets of the SIM Program, providing insights into the class profile, employment reports, fees, scholarships, curriculum, and admissions process. 

St. Gallen SIM Overview 

Here’s a glimpse of what the St. Gallen MiM Program entails:

St. Gallen SIM Class Profile

St. Gallen’s SIM (Master of Arts HSG in Strategy and International Management) Program prides itself on fostering a diverse and dynamic learning environment, evident in the composition of its student body. 

Let’s delve into the fascinating class profile of the program:

Observations and Inferences:

• Total Students (52): The relatively small class size fosters a close-knit learning environment, encouraging collaboration and meaningful connections among peers.
• Average Age (23): The program attracts a diverse range of individuals, from recent graduates to those with a few years of professional experience, contributing to varied perspectives and insights in class discussions.
• Nationalities (31): The impressive diversity of nationalities reflects St. Gallen’s global appeal, enriching the learning experience with a multitude of cultural perspectives and approaches to problem-solving.
• Female Students (52%): With over half of the cohort being female, St. Gallen’s SIM Program demonstrates a commitment to gender diversity, fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.
• Average GMAT (700): The high average GMAT score indicates the academic caliber of students admitted to the program, showcasing their readiness for the rigors of graduate-level coursework and beyond.

St. Gallen SIM (MiM) Curriculum

St. Gallen’s Master of Arts HSG in Strategy and International Management (SIM) Program is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, blending theoretical knowledge with practical experiences to prepare students for leadership roles in the global business arena. 

Let’s delve into the detailed structure and components of this esteemed program:

Overview

Students embarking on the SIM journey must complete a comprehensive course load of 90 ECTS credits, encompassing a variety of core courses, electives, contextual studies, and practical experiences including a master’s thesis and an international internship.

Duration/Credits

• Duration: 1.5 years / 3 semesters (full-time)
• Credits: 90 ECTS

Learning Methodology

The program leverages diverse learning methods to foster holistic development:

• Field Trips and Guest Speakers: Industry visits and insights from business experts enrich students’ understanding.
• Skill Building Workshops and Seminars: Workshops and seminars enhance practical skills and industry knowledge.
• Intensive Individual Research: The master’s thesis allows students to delve deep into a chosen topic, honing research and analytical skills.

Assessment

Student assessments include both individual and group-based tasks, ranging from formal exams to group presentations, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of academic proficiency and collaborative skills.

SIM Start Professional (Integration Week)

A compulsory integrative week sets the stage for students, covering essential management topics and preparing them for the academic rigors ahead.

SIM Core Courses

These foundational courses provide a robust understanding of business and management principles:

• Financial Management
• International Management
• Strategic Leadership
• Strategic Management
• Research in Management

SIM Core Electives

You can choose from advanced management courses and Integratives to deepen their expertise:

• SIM Advanced Management Courses: Offerings include Marketing and Consumer Behavior, Managing Organizational Processes and Change.
• SIM Integratives: Courses cover diverse areas such as Mergers & Acquisitions, Digital Business Transformation, and Entrepreneurship.

SIM in Practice

Practical experiences are integral to the program:

• SIMagination Challenge: Students undertake challenging international projects, developing leadership skills and making a positive societal impact.
• SIM International Project (SIM-IP): A mandatory international internship equips students with real-world skills in managing complex international problems.

Electives and Contextual Studies

As a SIM student, you complement their core studies with electives from various disciplines and contextual studies focusing on themes relevant to the contemporary business landscape.

Study Abroad Opportunities

St. Gallen fosters global perspectives through partnerships with over 200 universities worldwide, offering double degree and exchange opportunities at esteemed institutions like INCAE Business School and ESADE.

St. Gallen SIM Employment Statistics

Graduating from St. Gallen’s Master of Arts HSG in Strategy and International Management (SIM) Program opens doors to a plethora of career opportunities in the global business landscape. 

Let’s delve into the employment data provided by FT MiM Rankings, shedding light on the program’s remarkable success in launching graduates into fulfilling careers:

Employed at 3 Months

100% of SIM graduates secure employment within three months of graduation, reflecting the program’s efficacy in preparing students for the professional world. This statistic underscores the high demand for SIM graduates in the job market, with nearly all students finding employment shortly after completing their studies.

Salary Growth and Prospects

• Weighted Salary (USD) 3 Years After Graduation: Graduates of the SIM program enjoy impressive financial rewards, with the weighted average salary reaching an impressive $129,264 three years post-graduation. This figure reflects the program’s ability to propel graduates into high-paying roles, showcasing the value employers place on the skills and expertise gained through the SIM curriculum.
• Salary % Increase: The salary increase for SIM graduates is equally noteworthy, with an impressive 52.44% increase observed over the course of three years post-graduation. This substantial growth underscores the program’s role in fostering career advancement and financial prosperity for its alumni.

St. Gallen SIM Fees

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the fees and costs associated with St. Gallen’s Master in Management (MiM) Program, ensuring transparency and aiding prospective students in their financial planning.

Tuition Fees

St. Gallen MiM Program offers an excellent education at a favorable cost, thanks to government subsidies. 

Here’s a look at the current tuition fees:

Please note that tuition fees are subject to change.

Living Costs in St. Gallen

A recommended monthly budget ranging between CHF 2,100-2,500 covers basic needs, including accommodation, daily expenses, and health-related costs.

Accommodation

St. Gallen boasts a relaxed housing market with various options to suit students’ preferences and budgets. Apartments, rooms in shared apartments (WG), and houses are available at varying prices. Links to online housing markets can be found on the Student Union or University website.

Travelling

Switzerland’s efficient public transport system makes commuting convenient and sustainable. Investing in the Swiss Federal Railway half-fare (Halbtax) card is advisable, enabling students to save 50% on all tickets. The card, available for around CHF 185, is valid for one year.

Work-Study Opportunities

If you seek additional income or professional experience, St. Gallen offers various work-study opportunities. The University and its institutes regularly seek students for project work, and the SIM Management Unit also offers projects specifically for MiM students. International students are allowed to work 15 hours per week, with vacancies advertised on the University’s website and Career & Corporate Services platform.

St. Gallen SIM Financial Aid

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, St. Gallen’s Master of Arts HSG in Strategy and International Management (SIM) Program offers various financial aid options to support students in their pursuit of higher education. 

Let’s delve into the available financial aid opportunities:

Loan and Scholarship Fund

Starr International Foundation Scholarship Fund

Other Scholarship Opportunities

Apart from the University’s funds, students may explore additional scholarship opportunities:

• WEF Global Shapers Scholarship: Offers a limited number of scholarships, connecting students with global opportunities. Website: globalshapers.org
• Kistefos St.Gallen Masterclass Scholarship (for Norway): A unique opportunity for Norwegian students, demonstrating St. Gallen’s international reach and network. Website: https://kistefos.no/philanthropy/university-of-st-gallen/

During the application process, prospective students can seek guidance from the program advisors regarding potential eligibility for these initiatives.

St. Gallen SIM Admissions

Understanding the admissions process is crucial if St Gallen is on your target schools list. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the requirements and selection criteria for admission:

Admission Requirements

Selection Process

The selection process involves several stages, each evaluating different aspects of the applicant’s profile:

Additional Requirements

Upon admission, you may need to fulfill additional program-specific requirements, including language proficiency and evidence of accounting knowledge.

Application Process

You are required to apply online during the application period, which typically spans from 1st October to 30th April. The application fee is CHF 250.

After Application Submission

After submitting the application, you proceed through the following steps:

• Video Interview: You receive a link to record a video interview.
• Application Processing: The SIM Admission Committee assesses application documents.
• Admission Decision: You are notified of the admission decision.
• Confirmation: If confirmed you confirm your place in the program.
• Submission of Documents: You submit degree documents to the admission office.
• Preparation for Study Start: Candidates prepare for the study start, including attending preparatory modules like “SIM Start Professional.”

Next Steps

Once admitted, you embark on your academic journey, equipped with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in St. Gallen’s SIM Program.

Navigating the admissions process for St. Gallen’s SIM Program may seem daunting, but understanding the requirements and procedures empowers you to embark on your academic journey confidently.

Final Thoughts

From its diverse and talented class profile to its comprehensive curriculum designed to foster critical thinking and leadership skills, the SIM Program prepares you to tackle the complexities of today’s global business environment with confidence and competence. 

Coupled with robust employment reports, accessible fees and scholarships, and a rigorous admissions process, the SIM Program embodies a commitment to academic rigor, professional development, and lifelong success for its candidates. 

If you aspire to lead and innovate in the world of business, the SIM Program at St. Gallen offers an unparalleled opportunity to embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and achievement.