Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS): Where Learners Are Transformed Into Tomorrow's Business Leaders

BEN Shenglin

Founding Dean

In today’s world that is buzzing with possibilities, where every corner holds a potential venture, and every interaction sparks innovation, it is no wonder that the allure of business education is on the rise, drawing in dreamers and doers from all walks of life. As the beating heart of global commerce, where the air crackles with opportunity and ambition, China's booming economy offers a front-row seat to the action, providing invaluable insights into market dynamics and consumer behavior.

Students from across the globe are flocking to China's doorstep, eager to immerse themselves in its vibrant business culture. And it's not just about numbers and profits. China beckons with its rich culture and language, offering students a chance to broaden their horizons beyond the boardroom.

From the bustling streets of Shanghai and Hangzhou to the serene landscapes of Haining, Zhejiang, every moment is an opportunity to learn and grow. And nestled within this vibrant ecosystem lies Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS), a beacon of excellence in the heart of China's business landscape. Here, students are nurtured by world-class faculty and immersed in a curriculum designed to ignite passion and drive success.

Nurturing Global Innovators

ZIBS prides itself on delivering top-tier training programs that are globally oriented, sustainable, and distinguished by their unique branding. Its range of courses includes a Bachelor of Arts in Global Communication and Management (GCM), Master of China Studies (MCS), international MBA (iMBA), international Master of Finance (iMF), and international Master of Data Science (iMDS) and a small but growing Ph.D program, as well as non-degree Executive Education. These programs cover a diverse array of essential fields, including fintech, digital transformation, marketing, global operations, and innovation management and leadership.

The institute employs a multifaceted approach to cultivate an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation among its student body. Firstly, through its global strategy, ZIBS transcends geographical boundaries to equip students with the skills and mindset necessary not just to compete, but to excel on the global stage. With a network spanning from Shanghai to Canberra, from Asia to Americas, and beyond, ZIBS ensures students are primed for success in diverse international contexts.

In tandem with its global outlook, ZIBS embraces technology as a cornerstone of its digital strategy. Recognizing the transformative power of digital tools, ZIBS ensures students are well-versed in leveraging technology for learning, research, and innovation. Drawing inspiration from digital leaders such as Tencent, Google, Alibaba, and Meta, ZIBS pioneers best practices in the digital realm, exemplified by initiatives like the Metaverse Campus launched in the previous year.

Furthermore, ZIBS adopts an ecosystem strategy, mirroring the interconnectedness found in natural ecosystems. By forging partnerships with industry, academia, and society, ZIBS creates a dynamic global ecosystem that supports student growth and development.

Beyond being solely a business school, ZIBS serves as a hub within a broader network encompassing industry associations, innovative incubators, non-profit think tanks, and other key stakeholders, both domestic and international. In this holistic ecosystem, students benefit from the resources and opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration at ZIBS.

“At ZIBS, the faculty composition is designed to offer students a balanced education blending academic rigor with practical industry insights. Through a dual-mentor system, students benefit from both academic mentors, who provide theoretical knowledge, and fieldwork mentors, who offer real-world expertise.

This approach ensures that students not only gain a solid academic foundation but also acquire practical skills and insights directly relevant to their future careers. Additionally, the diverse faculty, comprising both Chinese and foreign professors, enriches the learning experience by providing global perspectives and fostering cross-cultural understanding”, speaks BEN Shenglin, Founding Dean of ZIBS.

The 5 'I' Approach

Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS) embodies the essence of the 5 I's: International, Innovative, Interdisciplinary, Inclusive, and Integrative, shaping a transformative educational experience for students from diverse backgrounds.

Internationally renowned, ZIBS boasts a rich tapestry of students, scholars, and staff hailing from over 70 countries worldwide.

Supported by an esteemed International Advisory Board comprising leaders from various sectors, including government, academia, and industry giants like Ant Group and HSBC, ZIBS celebrates and leverages its international character to foster a vibrant learning environment enriched by diverse perspectives.

At the core of ZIBS' ethos lies a commitment to innovation, inspired by the trailblazing tradition of Zhejiang University and the entrepreneurial spirit of the province. Recognizing the imperative of staying ahead in a dynamic business landscape, ZIBS infuses innovation into every aspect of its curriculum, empowering students to drive positive change.

Embracing the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary challenges, ZIBS offers a range of degree programs developed in collaboration with multiple schools and colleges. From iMBA to international Master of Data Science, students benefit from opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, equipping them with the holistic skill set needed to address complex global issues.

Inclusivity is embedded in ZIBS' ethos, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion reflected in its official adoption of English as a language of instruction. Every voice is valued, ensuring a supportive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.

ZIBS' integrative approach transcends traditional boundaries, preparing students to navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape. Through a blend of theory and practice, global ambition, and local wisdom, ZIBS cultivates leaders capable of driving sustainable solutions and shaping a brighter future for all.

Practicing Collaboration, Immersion & Innovation

Zhejiang University International Business School (ZIBS) stands out for its commitment to fostering international cooperation, reflected in its diverse campus community and fusion of Eastern and Western educational philosophies. By uniting esteemed Chinese and foreign professors with a multinational student body, ZIBS cultivates a dynamic learning environment enriched by cross-cultural perspectives. This approach equips students with a comprehensive understanding of global business practices and cultural nuances, positioning them competitively in the interconnected world of today.

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Internationally renowned, ZIBS boasts a rich tapestry of students, scholars & staff hailing from over 70 countries worldwide
– BEN Shenglin , Founding Dean

Moreover, ZIBS provides a unique platform for students to facilitate bilateral cooperation between China and their home countries. Through exposure to Chinese wisdom, immersive cultural experiences, and innovative curriculum, students gain the expertise needed to forge meaningful collaborations and business opportunities between China and their nations. This emphasis on practical skill development and cultural immersion distinguishes ZIBS as a leader in international business education.

In tandem with its academic pursuits, ZIBS has evolved into a robust research and cooperation platform, collaborating with nearly 20 research institutions and agencies. Focused on cutting-edge topics in the digital economy and finance, ZIBS pushes the boundaries of scientific inquiry, contributing to industry advancements and innovation.

Furthermore, ZIBS actively engages with industry partners, providing students with internship opportunities, lectures, and industry projects to gain firsthand insights into business trends and practices. ZIBS and Cambridge Judge Business School (CJBS) successfully completed two in-depth university-enterprise cooperation projects for the first time. These Global Consulting Projects (GCP), conducted through cross-border and cross-disciplinary collaborative innovation, saw student teams providing efficient and high-quality global business consulting services to Ant Group and Industrial Bank. The school also offers a plethora of extracurricular activities, including student clubs focused on finance, entrepreneurship, and consulting, as well as field trips to local businesses and corporate visits. Short-term overseas study tours augment classroom learning by providing practical exposure and networking opportunities, enriching the student experience and preparing them for success in the global business landscape.

Learning Beyond Classrooms

Zhejiang University (ZJU), a top-tier institution in China, ranks 42nd globally and 6th in Asia. With 42 colleges and schools and 65,821 students, ZJU excels in education and research. ZIBS, one of ZJU's colleges, aims to become a Science and Technology-Focused Premier Global Business School from China. Collaborating with prestigious universities and corporations worldwide, ZIBS offers exchange programs, joint research, and internships. Career Development Planning Workshops guide students in career planning and skill development, fostering a holistic approach to employment readiness. Special Job Fairs hosted by ZIBS partners provide students with quality employment opportunities. Additionally, ZIBS facilitates professional practice and internships with renowned firms like HSBC and Tencent, offering real-world experience and enhancing students' marketability.

“Our vision for ZIBS encompasses a robust internationalization strategy focused on nurturing a diverse student body that mirrors the global business landscape. By 2025, our goal is to significantly increase student enrollment, with a substantial portion coming from international backgrounds. Additionally, we are strategically developing a range of interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate programs that embody both a global outlook and distinctive Chinese characteristics”, shares BEN Shenglin. So, whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, China awaits with open arms, ready to unlock a world of possibilities. Dare to dream, dare to explore – the journey starts here!