Shidler’s Executive MBA program returns after 2-year hiatus
The popular Vietnam Executive MBA (VEMBA) program is back in full swing thanks to the leadership of Tung Bui, VEMBA program director and Chi Diep, VEMBA program manager. The highly successful program was first established in 2001 in Hanoi, the nation’s capital and government center; and then expanded to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s center of commerce, in 2007. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Shidler College of Business has relaunched the program, welcoming cohort 32 during residence weekend on Oct. 18, which provided orientation, team building and the first course on organizational behavior for students.
Sustaining a rich legacy
VEMBA has a rich history in Vietnam, preparing the countries’ business leaders for executive roles across industries. Bui notes a growing interest in the Ho Chi Minh City location, reflecting the city’s role as the country’s economic powerhouse. With a long-standing presence in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the program has honed its approach to serving Vietnam’s dynamic business environments.
Amid global shifts in manufacturing, Vietnam is solidifying its role in the international supply chain, attracting major companies like Apple and Samsung. Positioned at the forefront of this transformation, VEMBA aims to draw professionals from Vietnam and beyond, offering a global learning experience which currently has a student body from over 20 nationalities.
VEMBA Cohort 32 is made up of 31 students.
“Vietnam is quickly becoming a key player in global production, with major companies moving their manufacturing operations to the country,” Bui shared. “As this shift continues, Vietnam’s influence in the international business community will only grow. The relaunch of VEMBA comes at a crucial time, positioning our graduates to capitalize on these global trends.”
The program now offers a flexible hybrid format, blending online and in-person sessions to accommodate busy executives. Ho Chi Minh City hosts the in-person sessions, while students from Hanoi travel there periodically, minimizing travel time and costs. The 21-month program includes eight in-person sessions complemented by online components, creating a balanced and accessible learning environment. “This hybrid model gives our students flexibility while still ensuring they build the relationships that are a cornerstone of the VEMBA experience,” Shidler Dean Vance Roley said.
“We’re balancing the convenience of online learning with the irreplaceable benefits of face-to-face interaction,” Bui said. “This new format has allowed four students working outside Ho Chi Minh City to join the program, including two students from other cities and one from Hong Kong, in addition to the 12 students from Hanoi.”
Cohort 32 is comprised of 31students and is the first to follow the hybrid model. Many of its more than 1,000 Shidler alumni in Vietnam often share stories of camaraderie and professional support years after graduating. There have been several VEMBA graduates who have gone on to collaborate across the Vietnamese business community. An impressive 90% of new students are referred by program alumni, underscoring the program’s strong reputation.
A hallmark of the VEMBA program is its faculty, featuring esteemed professors from renowned institutions like Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and Cambridge University, who join Shidler College professors in delivering a world-class education.
“Our program is known for attracting top-tier faculty, from Shidler and other highly reputable institutions,” Bui said. “For this cohort, and just to name a few here, we have professor Jeanne Brett from Northwestern, one of the world’s foremost experts in negotiation, and professor Kishore Sengupta from Cambridge. These are some of the best minds in the business world.”
Scholarships creating a path of success
The VEMBA relaunch is supported by generous scholarships from alumni and business leaders in Vietnam, addressing the high cost of tuition relative to the local economy. Tra My Nguyen, VEMBA ’06, who is the CEO and co-founder of the PAN Group, initiated the first $50,000 scholarship fund. In total, $64,229 in donations has been raised to date, along with pledges exceeding $100,000 from companies led by VEMBA alumni to support their employees attending the program. Most recently, Chu Thi Thanh Ha, VEMBA ’06 and Hall of Honor 2024 inductee, who is chairwoman of the board of directors for FTP Software Ltd, has pledged $100,000 in scholarship support for FPT employees in the VEMBA program.
VEMBA Cohort 32 is the first to follow the hybrid model.
Every gift, large or small, strengthens VEMBA’s mission and helps create life-changing opportunities for students. Donors like Ann Le and Phuc Duy Pham have also contributed to VEMBA scholarships. These donations collectively drive programs, scholarships and initiatives forward, and each one makes a meaningful difference.
For many alumni, the VEMBA has been a springboard for career advancement, with at least 60% receiving promotions upon graduation. This strong track record of success, combined with the networking opportunities and world-class education, continues to make VEMBA an attractive option for Vietnam’s business leaders.
A bright future ahead
With the new hybrid model and Vietnam’s expanding role in the global economy, the future is promising for VEMBA. Its reputation for fostering deep professional connections and providing an elite education has made it an integral part of Vietnam’s business landscape.
“The VEMBA program is more than just an MBA—it’s a movement and a lifestyle,” Bui remarked. “Our students and alumni are proud to be part of this community, and we are excited to see how the program will continue to grow and evolve in the years to come.”
