St. Petersburg University Master's Degrees – Rankings by Specialization

Overview of GSOM SPbU: A Leading Business School in Russia

The Graduate School of Management – St. Petersburg University (GSOM SPbU) is one of the most internationally acclaimed business schools in Russia. Founded in 1993 in collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley Haas School of Business, it remains the business school of St. Petersburg State University, one of the nation’s most prestigious educational institutions.

GSOM SPbU operates across two campuses in St. Petersburg, including a historic location on Vasilievsky Island. Offering undergraduate to doctoral-level programs in both Russian and English, the school is consistently ranked among the world’s best for business and management education.

Its academic portfolio reflects both tradition and innovation, with rigorous programs aligned to global standards and enriched by vibrant cultural and economic experiences unique to Russia and Eastern Europe.

Mission, Vision, and Core Values

GSOM SPbU positions itself as a globally minded institution rooted in local realities. Its mission is to bridge academic thought, real-world practice, and social responsibility by creating impactful managerial knowledge and grooming future leaders.

The school’s values highlight:

• Global adaptability with local expertise – merging Russian analytical strength with advanced Western methodologies.
• Research-centered curriculum – built on faculty engagement in top research domains like CSR, entrepreneurship, PPPs, and more.
• Leadership and ethical practices – championed by institutions like the Center for Corporate Social Responsibility.
• Industry immersion and student-driven initiatives – from real-life business cases to national career forums.

This mission-centric approach fosters reflective and flexible professionals equipped to lead amid global uncertainties and technological disruption.

For those focused on corporate social responsibility and leadership, the applied ethics and sustainability focus are particularly relevant.

Academic Excellence and Global Positioning

GSOM SPbU’s status as a premier institution is bolstered by:

• International alliances with 30+ academic partners, offering joint and dual degrees globally (e.g., Fudan University, Renmin University).
• Key memberships in CEMS and PIM, placing Russia on the map for elite management education networks.
• A culturally rich and diverse student body representing multiple nationalities and perspectives.

The school’s integration in international platforms enhances both cross-cultural learning and career mobility—important for students eyeing roles in global management contexts.

Master’s Programs: Features and Methodologies

The master’s degrees at GSOM SPbU cater to early-career professionals and graduates seeking advanced education in business and related disciplines. These full-time, pre-experience programs are delivered over two years, combining foundational knowledge with specialized tracks.

Program highlights include:

• Combination of core and elective courses in areas like strategy, marketing, digital business, and supply chain and logistics.
• Strong ties to research centers and partnerships that allow for hands-on innovation projects and entrepreneurship involvement.
• Capstone thesis connecting theory to practical problem-solving.

Learning model emphasizes:

• Real client projects, case studies, and startup simulations via events like the "Management of the Future" conference.
• Workshops, collaborative labs, and technologically immersive experiences (e.g. VR labs).
• Double degree programs and exchange opportunities to foster entrepreneurial and global competencies.

These experiences reinforce professional skills and career-readiness through practical, data-informed, and results-oriented education.

Accreditation and Assurance of Quality

GSOM SPbU has historically held the distinguished “triple crown” accreditation—by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS. This places it in the top 1% of business schools worldwide. Although the triple accreditation was temporarily suspended in 2022, it remains a benchmark of GSOM's ongoing excellence and compliance with internationally accepted standards.

• AACSB – validating academic quality, faculty competence, and curriculum relevance.
• AMBA – endorsing its graduate (especially EMBA) program rigor and value.
• EQUIS – confirming deep institutional management, corporate engagement, and international outlook.

These accreditations continue to bolster the school’s global recognition, assist students in international employment pursuits, and enhance mobility across top universities worldwide.

If you're interested in elite executive credentials, you might want to explore our Executive MBA rankings.

Students pursuing domains such as innovation and project management or strategic consulting will find this high-ranking profile invaluable.

FAQ – Graduate School of Management (GSOM) SPbU

Is GSOM SPbU part of a public university?

Yes. GSOM SPbU is the business school of St. Petersburg State University (SPbU), a public university consistently ranked among the best in Russia.

Where is GSOM SPbU located?

GSOM SPbU operates on two campuses in St. Petersburg, including a historic campus on Vasilievsky Island, offering students a unique academic environment.

What programs does GSOM SPbU offer?

GSOM SPbU offers programs at multiple levels:

• Bachelor’s degrees

• Master’s degrees

• MBA and Executive MBA

• Doctoral programs
  Courses are taught in Russian and English, depending on the program.

Are GSOM SPbU master’s programs taught in English?

Yes. GSOM SPbU offers several English-taught master’s programs, particularly aimed at international students and globally oriented careers.

What is GSOM SPbU known for academically?

GSOM SPbU is known for:

• Strong research-driven education

• Focus on strategy, CSR, entrepreneurship, and public-private partnerships

• Integration of real-world business cases

• Close ties with industry and policy institutions

Does GSOM SPbU offer double degrees?

Yes. GSOM SPbU has double and joint degree agreements with international universities such as Fudan University and Renmin University, as well as exchange partnerships through networks like CEMS and PIM.

Is GSOM SPbU part of CEMS?

Yes. GSOM SPbU is a member of CEMS, the Global Alliance in Management Education, which is a major marker of elite international business education.

Is GSOM SPbU good for international students?

Yes. GSOM SPbU attracts students from multiple countries and offers a multicultural academic environment, international faculty exposure, and global mobility opportunities.