Overview of the New Dual Degree Partnership
In a move that underscores its commitment to global education, KEDGE Business School has formalised a dual‑degree agreement with Nagoya University of Commerce and Business (NUCB). The partnership, which builds on a successful student‑exchange program that began in 2015, now allows students from both institutions to graduate with two recognised degrees – a KEDGE International BBA and a NUCB Global BBA – in a streamlined, two‑year pathway.
What the Dual Degree Offers
Students who enroll in the dual‑degree track gain the following advantages:
- Double Credentialing: Graduates receive a KEDGE International BBA and a NUCB Global BBA, enhancing employability in both European and Asian markets.
- Cross‑Cultural Immersion: The program requires students to spend a semester in Japan and a semester in France, providing hands‑on experience in two distinct business cultures.
- Curriculum Alignment: Courses are carefully mapped to meet the accreditation standards of both institutions, ensuring that the academic load remains balanced.
- Networking Opportunities: Participants join a growing alumni network that spans more than 138 partner universities, including Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan.
Strengthening KEDGE’s Global Footprint
With campuses in Marseille, Bordeaux, Paris, Toulon, and satellite locations in Shanghai, Suzhou, Mumbai, Abidjan, and Dakar, KEDGE has long positioned itself as a truly international business school. The new dual‑degree agreement adds Japan to that list, reinforcing KEDGE’s strategy of deepening ties in key economic regions. For students, this means access to a broader array of internship placements, corporate partnerships, and cross‑border career pathways.
Strategic Benefits for Students
1. Career Mobility: A dual degree signals to recruiters that a candidate has proven adaptability and a global mindset – traits increasingly demanded in multinational firms.
2. Academic Rigor: Both KEDGE and NUCB hold triple‑crown accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), guaranteeing that the coursework meets the highest international standards.
3. Language Proficiency: Students study in both French and Japanese, gaining fluency that is a competitive edge in global business negotiations.
About Nagoya University of Commerce and Business
Founded in 1953, NUCB is a private university that has earned a reputation for excellence in business and management education. It operates two main campuses: the Undergraduate School in Nisshin, on the outskirts of Nagoya, and the Graduate School in the city centre. NUCB’s achievements include:
- First Japanese institution to receive AACSB accreditation.
- Only Japanese university with the triple crown of AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA.
- Consistent ranking among the top business schools in Japan, with several programmes named number one nationally.
Academic Excellence and Accreditations
NUCB’s curriculum emphasizes case‑based learning, ethical leadership, and data‑driven decision making. The university’s partnership network spans more than 138 academic institutions worldwide, offering students a wide range of exchange and dual‑degree opportunities. This global outlook aligns closely with KEDGE’s own mission of preparing graduates for the complexities of international markets.
How the Dual Degree Works
The dual‑degree pathway is structured to fit within a typical two‑year undergraduate programme. Students begin at KEDGE, complete the first semester in France, then transfer to NUCB for the second semester, and finally return to KEDGE for the final semester. The sequence is designed to maximise exposure while maintaining a coherent academic trajectory.
Curriculum Alignment
Both institutions have mapped their core courses to ensure that learning outcomes are equivalent. For example, a KEDGE course on International Marketing is paired with NUCB’s Global Marketing module, allowing students to satisfy degree requirements on both sides without duplication.
Application Process
Prospective students must meet the admission criteria of both schools. The application typically involves:
- Submission of academic transcripts and proof of language proficiency (French for KEDGE, Japanese for NUCB).
- Personal statement outlining motivation for the dual‑degree and career goals.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- Interview with the admissions committees of both institutions.
Once accepted, students receive a joint acceptance letter and are guided through visa arrangements, housing, and orientation for both France and Japan.
Student Experiences and Success Stories
Early cohorts of the dual‑degree program have reported significant personal and professional growth. One alum, now a product manager in a multinational tech firm, highlighted how the program’s blend of French analytical rigor and Japanese precision in project management gave him a unique skill set that set him apart in the job market.
Alumni Impact
Graduates of the dual‑degree track are already making their mark in diverse sectors, from finance and consulting to technology and sustainability. Their dual credentials have opened doors to roles that require cross‑border collaboration, and many have leveraged their network to secure internships with leading firms in both Europe and Asia.
Next Steps for Prospective Students
Students interested in the dual‑degree program should begin by reviewing the admission requirements on the KEDGE and NUCB websites. The application deadline for the upcoming intake is 30 September, so early preparation is essential.
For more detailed information, you can submit your application today or schedule a free consultation to learn more. If you have specific questions about the program, feel free to write to us – our admissions team is ready to assist.
To explore how a dual‑degree can fit into your broader educational goals, check out our related articles on KEDGE Insights and programmes overview.
