The MBA in International Health Management (Swiss TPH / University of Basel) builds leadership and management capabilities for health systems and public health organisations worldwide. The programme combines business fundamentals with practical, health-specific decision-making across global, national and organisational levels.
Programme type: Modular MBA (International Health Management)
Award: MBA (90 ECTS total)
Credits: 90 ECTS (includes master thesis)
Duration: Up to 5 years to complete the full MBA
Modular structure: 10 modules (6 ECTS each) + 1 additional module (10 ECTS) + Master thesis (20 ECTS)
Workload: 6 ECTS modules typically correspond to ~180 hours Student Investment Time (SIT)
Learning format: Distance-based preparation + on-campus teaching week + post-campus assignments and written exam preparation
Intermediate awards:
- DAS in International Health Management with 48 ECTS accumulated
- CAS with 24 ECTS accumulated
Language of instruction: English (as per programme requirements)
Application: Submit an online application with required documents (see Admission Requirements)
Start dates: Please check the current intake dates on the University of Basel / Swiss TPH programme page
Programme Structure
The MBA is delivered in a modular format combining distance learning with intensive on-campus teaching. Each module includes a distance-based preparation phase, a one-week on-campus tuition phase, and a follow-up period for assignments and exam preparation.
Credit and assessment overview
- 10 modules of 6 ECTS each
- 1 additional module of 10 ECTS
- Master thesis worth 20 ECTS
- Total for the MBA: 90 ECTS
- Completion is possible within up to 5 years
Core course areas
- Foundations of International Health Management
- Health Economics and Health Financing
- Financial Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting
- Leadership
- Organisational Behaviour and Transformational Management
- Social Marketing and Communication
Intermediate awards (credit-based)
- CAS: available from 24 ECTS accumulated
- DAS: available from 48 ECTS accumulated
Master thesis
The MBA includes a 20 ECTS master thesis, allowing students to apply programme concepts to a topic relevant to international health management and health system improvement.
Academic requirements
Applicants should hold a first professional qualification (e.g., a Bachelor’s degree) and have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience.
English requirements
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IELTS
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Other requirements
General requirements
- Applicants must submit a completed online application form.
- In addition to the professional qualification and experience, applicants should be able to demonstrate motivation for leadership and management in international health contexts.
Required documents
- Professional degree(s)/diploma(s)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page motivation letter (MBA applicants only)
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Advanced Certificate, or written proof of higher education in English)
- One passport-size photograph
Additional consideration
- In exceptional and well-justified cases, admission may be considered based on evidence of an adequate career history and/or technical qualification.
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Post-study work options (Switzerland)
After completing your MBA at the University of Basel / Swiss TPH, you may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for employment in Switzerland, subject to Swiss immigration rules and the availability of a suitable job offer.
Key points to consider
- Job offer: In most cases, eligibility is linked to securing employment that matches your qualifications.
- Timing: You typically need to apply within the permitted timeframe after graduation and before your current residence status expires.
- Employer requirements: Employers may need to follow Swiss hiring procedures (including labour market considerations where applicable).
- Permit duration: The permit length depends on the employment contract and the specific permit category granted by the authorities.
- Individual assessment: Final eligibility is determined by Swiss authorities based on your profile, the programme completion status, and the job offer.
Important note
Immigration policies can change. Always verify the latest guidance with the Swiss Federal Office for Migration (SEM) and your university’s international office before applying.