Full-Time Work and Master’s Studies – How Is It Possible at EBS university?

EBS Magistriõpe
Many of us reach a point in our professional lives when we ask ourselves, “Is this it?” The routine becomes too comfortable, growth stagnates, and the thought emerges that there might be something more. The desire to grow, to think on a larger scale, and to do something meaningful is not accidental. At such a moment, education becomes a strategic tool.

The Master’s programmes at the Estonian Business School (EBS) offer flexible, international, and practice-oriented education for professionals who wish to grow in their careers, take on greater responsibility, or move into leadership roles (e.g. through the MBA programme), as well as for recent Bachelor’s graduates who want to continue their studies immediately, strengthen their knowledge, and obtain a Master’s degree (e.g. through the MA programme).

  • At one point, I felt stuck in my current role – I needed new tools and the courage to do more,” recalls Maria, a Master’s student at EBS who works as a marketing director at an international company. “The EBS curriculum didn’t just teach me business strategy – it taught me how to lead people and manage myself. That was exactly what I was missing at the time.

Working Full-Time? Study Smart and Internationally
One of EBS’s key strengths is its flexibility. All Master’s programmes are delivered in modular format, meaning lectures take place on fixed days every two weeks. MBA classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays, while MA courses run from Thursday to Saturday. This setup allows students to pursue a Master’s degree while working full-time, raising a family, or living outside Tallinn.

  • When considering university studies, I was worried that work and study wouldn’t be compatible. But the structure was so flexible that I managed everything alongside work and family life – and even enjoyed it,” admits Rauno, a Master’s student working in the IT sector.

Additionally, most courses are taught in English, which offers the chance to develop professional language skills and study alongside an international group of peers. The only exception is the one-year Estonian-language MBA, tailored to those who prefer a local language environment and a more intensive study format.

 

Leadership and Future Skills in One Programme
Master’s studies at EBS go beyond traditional management theory. The offered programmes – International Business Administration (MA), the two-year MBA, Technology and Innovation Management (MBA), and the one-year Estonian-language MBA – are designed for professionals aiming to become leaders, enhance their strategic thinking, or take the next step in an international career.

 

The curricula include subjects such as strategic management, digital business models, the green transition, integration of technology and business, and managing social change. In addition, there is a strong emphasis on creative thinking, leadership psychology, and values-based leadership.

  • “A future leader is expected to do more than just manage processes – they must be able to interpret change and lead it consciously,” says Marko Rillo, Programme Director of the EBS MBA.

A Lifelong Network
The value of EBS is not limited to academic knowledge – a large part of the value lies in its network. Students come from diverse backgrounds and experiences: entrepreneurs, specialists, executives, and career changers. This creates an inspiring environment where learning happens not only from lecturers, but also from each other.

  • For me, one of the greatest advantages of EBS was connecting with people from so many different fields. It broadened my perspective and provided valuable professional contacts that have helped me significantly in my career,” says Maria.

Students at EBS come from various countries and sectors – this international diversity enriches every discussion and builds a network that reaches far beyond Estonia. Such diversity fosters broader thinking and develops cultural sensitivity, which are both essential for global leadership today.

 

A Master’s Degree as a Career Accelerator
EBS alumni include numerous successful entrepreneurs, senior executives, and international experts. For many, a Master’s degree has served as a springboard to a new position, career advancement, or even a complete professional transformation.

  • I started my Master’s studies with a very clear goal – to reach a leadership position. One year after completing my MA, I made that dream a reality,” says Rauno with confidence and satisfaction.

Wondering if now is the right time? The answer is: yes.

If you are a working professional looking to do more – take on greater responsibility, step onto the international stage, or reframe your career – the Master’s programmes at Estonian Business School are designed for you. Explore the programmes and apply here.