What is an MBA degree?
The MBA (Master of Business Administration) degree is awarded in the Czech Republic as a non-academic professional title, written after the name.
It is therefore not a substitute for higher education (whether bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree), but rather lifelong career education that appropriately complements and further expands upon higher education. It is ideal professional education for all managers, whether they are aspiring to managerial positions or already working as managers. In some (especially international) companies, an MBA degree is even a prerequisite for career advancement and reaching higher managerial positions.. MBA degrees are also valued by business owners, entrepreneurs, and government employees. MBA degrees can be obtained by studying many different specialized fields; there are 3 such fields at the CEMI (Central European Management Institute).
History of the MBA degree
The first MBA degree was awarded in the United States at Harvard Business School in 1908. The aim was to prepare professionals for the growing need for effective business management during a period of industrial expansion. This concept quickly spread to other countries, where it was adapted to local market and economic needs.
During the 20th century, business education boomed, and with it, the prestige associated with the MBA degree. Over time, it has become an important element not only for managers in large companies, but also for entrepreneurs, consultants, and specialists in various industries.
Today, the MBA degree is recognized worldwide as proof of practical management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead teams or organizations. Many companies see it as a competitive advantage and attach great importance to it when selecting candidates for key positions. A detailed explanation of what an MBA degree is can be found here.
How to address someone with an MBA degree?
Addressing someone with an MBA degree in everyday communication follows different rules than academic titles (e.g., Ph.D. or Ing.). In official or formal written communication, it is appropriate to respect this title and include it with the person’s name. However, the MBA title is not used when addressing someone in person. The MBA title therefore serves more as information about the person’s management education than as part of normal verbal address.
How to write the MBA title correctly?
When writing the MBA title, it is correct to use the abbreviation without periods – i.e., “MBA.” This form is internationally recognized and commonly used in both business and academic circles. Writing “M.B.A.” with periods is outdated and is now considered inappropriate or inaccurate. And where should you write your MBA degree? The MBA degree is written after your name, separated by a comma, for example, “Jana Nováková, MBA.” It is also important to note that an MBA is not an academic degree as recognized by the Higher Education Act in the Czech Republic, but a professional title awarded after completing management studies.
How long does it take to study for an MBA degree?
At the largest management school in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the CEMI Institute, the MBA program lasts one year and is conducted entirely online. After submitting your MBA application and signing the contract, you will be accepted into the program. The program is then conducted online and is based on individual consultations with tutors. The program is conducted in a study system, which is one of the great advantages of the CEMI Institute.
An experienced and professional team of tutors plays a key role in online MBA studies leading to an MBA degree. They should not only provide theoretical knowledge, but above all pass on practical experience. They should be available to students for individual consultations, support them in their studies, and help them develop their independent work. For teaching in English, which emphasizes the acquisition of globally applicable knowledge, an international team of tutors is also essential, as it reliably guarantees the achievement of an adequate level of managerial knowledge in a global context.
Who can earn an MBA degree?
Anyone who successfully completes a professional MBA program at an accredited educational institution can earn an MBA degree. The prerequisite for admission to an MBA program is at least a bachelor’s degree or, alternatively, a high school diploma with professional experience. When choosing where to earn your MBA degree, it is very important to pay attention to the institution you want to attend. Not all of them provide the same quality of MBA education, and studying at a school with a poor reputation can mean wasting your money. Therefore, choose a school that has a proven track record, credible references from graduates, and internationally respected accreditation (such as ASIC).
Who is an MBA degree suitable for?
In most areas of life, lifelong learning is essential. Increasing competition, more demanding requirements from employers, and generally greater pressure in today’s world force us to constantly develop ourselves professionally and personally, improve our skills, and deepen our knowledge. In recent years, those interested in career growth have been particularly attracted to professional online MBA programmes, which culminate in an MBA degree. These programs meet the requirements of managers not only in terms of quality and content, but also excel in their flexibility and excellent compatibility with professional and personal life.
Are you looking for career growth, new opportunities for company development, or to expand your managerial and professional knowledge? Then an MBA degree is definitely right for you. You can study for an MBA even without a university education; the minimum requirement for admission is a completed secondary education with a high school diploma + work experience.
What is an MBA degree for?
With an MBA degree, you can earn a higher salary. The average annual salary increase for MBA graduates from the CEMI institute is EUR 9.591, and for those in management positions, it is as high as EUR 11.853! You will also gain a competitive advantage over other candidates in the job market. You will establish new professional and personal contacts, deepen your knowledge of the field, and some of our graduates also go on to start their own businesses. See all the benefits of earning an MBA degree according to a STEM/MARK survey of CEMI graduates.
How to earn an MBA degree step by step
1. Choose an MBA Program
Explore the MBA programs offered by CEMI and choose a specialization that aligns with your professional goals and interests.
2. Submit Your Application and Choose a Payment Option
Complete the online application form and select the tuition option and payment method that best suits your needs. There are no entrance exams as part of the admissions process. Once you have signed the study agreement and paid the tuition fee or deposit, you officially become a CEMI student.
3. Start Your First Semester
Familiarize yourself with the study system, review online study materials and lectures, and complete the individual courses. You will also have access to one-on-one consultations with lecturers.
4. Complete Your Coursework Assignments
You will complete the courses in the first semester by submitting assignments. These allow you to explore specific topics and address real-world challenges from your professional experience.
5. Continue with the Second Semester
Build on the knowledge gained during the first semester, complete additional courses, and continue your studies entirely online. You can still benefit from consultations with lecturers.
7. Write and Defend Your Master’s Thesis
Throughout your studies, you will work on your master’s thesis under the supervision of an experienced thesis supervisor. Once you have completed your thesis, you will defend it either in person in Prague or online.
8. Earn Your MBA Degree and Attend the Graduation Ceremony
After successfully completing all academic requirements, you will receive your MBA diploma. You can also celebrate your achievement at a formal graduation ceremony held at Břevnov Monastery in Prague.
MBA degree cost: How much does an MBA cost?
An MBA degree from a reputable institute such as CEMI cannot simply be purchased. The cost of an MBA degree therefore refers to the cost of the MBA programme, which students must successfully complete to earn the qualification. The cost of MBA studies at CEMI depends on the chosen programme option and the level of services available to students throughout their studies. Several tuition packages are available (Pure, Premium and Platinum), each offering different additional benefits. All three options can lead to earning the respected MBA qualification. You can view the tuition fees here.
One major advantage is the option to pay the tuition fee in a single payment with a discount or in instalments, allowing students to choose a payment method that suits their financial circumstances. Investing in an MBA is an important decision, and the cost should certainly not be the only factor when choosing a programme. We therefore recommend taking a comprehensive approach when selecting an institution where you want to earn your MBA and not choosing an MBA programme based on price alone.
How much does an MBA cost? Comparing tuition fees
The cost of an MBA varies between schools and programmes. When comparing prices, it is important to consider not only tuition fees but also the programme duration, curriculum, teaching format, accreditation and additional services included in the price. At CEMI, tuition fees are listed excluding VAT, and the exact price depends on the selected programme and study package.
Who are the tutors at CEMI?
CEMI’s MBA tutors are experts in various fields, including management, leadership, marketing, law, finance and other professional disciplines. They combine specialist knowledge with practical experience, helping students acquire skills and knowledge they can apply directly in their professional lives.
MBA teaching is delivered by a diverse team of tutors with a wide range of professional backgrounds. This allows students to explore different perspectives on managing people, organisations and various areas of business. The teaching approach is practice-oriented, enabling students to apply what they learn to situations in their own working environments.
The English-taught MBA programmes also involve international tutors, who bring a global perspective on management, leadership and doing business in an international environment.
Is an MBA worth it?
An MBA can be a valuable investment if you want to develop your management and professional skills, gain practical knowledge and advance your career. However, the benefits you gain will depend on your professional goals, previous experience and how you apply your new knowledge in practice.
One of the main reasons people choose to study an MBA at CEMI is its potential to support both career progression and personal development. The programme is not just about earning an MBA qualification; it also focuses on developing practical skills that can be used to manage people, projects and organisations. According to a survey conducted by STEM/MARK among CEMI graduates, the average annual salary increase was 9 591 EUR, rising to 11 853 EUR among graduates in managerial positions. However, these survey results should not be interpreted as a guarantee of higher earnings after completing an MBA.
An MBA can also support personal and professional development, including strategic thinking, decision-making, leadership and the ability to handle practical management challenges. Networking and sharing experiences with fellow students and professionals can also be valuable parts of the learning experience.
Online MBA studies offer the flexibility to combine professional education with work and personal commitments. If you are looking for a flexible way to continue your education while applying new knowledge directly in your job, an online MBA could be a suitable option.
How does an MBA programme work?
The MBA programme at CEMI is delivered 100% online, is divided into two semesters and combines specialist courses, practical coursework assignments, individual consultations with lecturers and a master’s thesis. The programme is designed to be compatible with employment and other professional or personal commitments.
The process begins with a simple online application and the necessary administrative steps. There are no entrance examinations. Teaching then takes place online through study materials, video lectures and individual consultations with tutors. Throughout the programme, students complete practical assignments that allow them to apply their knowledge to real-life situations from their professional experience.
Thanks to its online format, flexible study system and access to lecturer consultations, the programme can also accommodate busy managers and professionals. If you are concerned about the time commitment, the flexibility of online learning allows you to plan your studies around your professional and personal responsibilities.
What are ASIC, CAMBAS and AMBA Accreditations, and how do they differ?
ASIC accreditation confirms that an educational institution has undergone an international assessment based on established standards covering teaching, institutional management, student support and other aspects of education. CEMI holds accreditation from the British organisation ASIC, which has awarded the institute Premier Institution status. ASIC therefore focuses primarily on the institution and its educational processes rather than on a single MBA programme.
CAMBAS and AMBA, by contrast, focus primarily on individual MBA programmes. CAMBAS operates in the Czech Republic and establishes standards for MBA programmes, while AMBA is an international organisation specialising in the accreditation of MBA, DBA and MBM programmes. These accreditations should not simply be viewed as a ranking of quality, as they differ in scope, criteria and the aspects they assess.
Why is MBA accreditation important?
MBA accreditation is an important factor when choosing a high-quality educational programme because it provides an indication of an institution’s professional standards, credibility and overall quality. At CEMI, quality assurance is supported by the British accreditation organisation ASIC (Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities), which assesses institutions against established standards covering teaching, institutional management and student support.
ASIC accreditation confirms that CEMI’s MBA programme meets international standards for educational quality and is subject to regular review as part of the reaccreditation process. The assessment includes areas such as lecturer quality, study materials, the online learning environment and the overall organisation of studies. This helps students assess whether a programme operates according to recognised standards and supports their professional development. An MBA qualification from an institution without a respected accreditation may offer less value in the job market and could potentially hinder rather than support future career progression.
What do MBA graduates say about their study experience?
The experiences of MBA graduates who have earned their MBA at CEMI are very positive, with feedback from hundreds of students across different industries and professional backgrounds. Over more than 15 years of operation, more than 300 graduates have shared their reviews, frequently highlighting the flexibility of online study, the quality of tutors and the practical focus of the programme.
For example, Michal Plandor, MBA says: “I can only recommend the MBA Global Business Leadership programme taught in English at CEMI.” He also appreciates the flexibility of online learning, well-structured study materials and the international perspective of the programme.
Ing. Mgr. Lenka Grznarik, MBA, comments: “My experience studying for an MBA at CEMI exceeded my expectations.” She particularly highlights the connection between learning and professional practice, leadership development and the opportunity to apply new knowledge immediately at work.
In addition to official testimonials, student reviews are available on independent platforms such as Google, Firmy.cz and Facebook, where CEMI has received positive feedback over the years.
How is an MBA degree perceived in the job market?
An MBA can signal professional development, a focus on management and a commitment to expanding professional knowledge and skills. Its value to employers varies depending on the industry, position, candidate’s experience and the reputation of the institution awarding the qualification.
MBA programmes also focus on developing skills such as strategic thinking, decision-making, leadership, time management and practical problem-solving. Graduates can apply their knowledge in managerial and leadership roles or when running their own businesses. An MBA can also form part of a long-term professional development strategy.
When choosing an MBA programme, it is therefore important to consider the institution’s quality and specialisation, tutors’ professional experience, curriculum and practical relevance. The study format and the opportunity to choose a specialisation that matches your career goals may also be important factors.
CEMI offers MBA programmes in both Czech and English, with three MBA programmes taught in English. Across its full portfolio, the institute offers 33 specialisations and programmes, including MBA and other professional qualifications in Czech. These cover a wide range of management and professional development areas. All programmes are delivered 100% online and focus on the practical application of knowledge.
Find out more about what an MBA degree can signal to recruiters on the CEMI blog.
How to choose the right school for an MBA?
When choosing an MBA school, it is worth comparing the programme’s accreditation, curriculum and specialisation, the quality of the tutor team, graduate reviews, study format and transparency of the terms and conditions. Practical teaching methods and the possibility of combining study with work and other commitments may also be important considerations.
Rather than focusing solely on the tuition fee, research the institution’s history and experience, graduate testimonials, tutors’ professional backgrounds and teaching methods. It is also useful to check what consultations and student support are available and what is required to complete the programme successfully.
Another important factor is accreditation or other independent evaluation of the educational institution. Check which organisation awards the accreditation, what it covers and how regularly it is reviewed. Transparency is equally important: prospective students should have access to clear information about tuition fees, programme duration, admission requirements, teaching methods and graduation requirements before enrolling.
You can approach the selection process systematically by following a few key steps for comparing MBA programmes. Compare course content, specialisation options, practical assignments, assessment methods and the time commitment involved. It is also worth checking whether the institution publishes information about its tutors and graduate experiences.
A high-quality MBA programme should combine specialist knowledge with practical application, align with your professional goals and offer clearly defined study conditions. Before making a decision, compare several programmes and choose the one that best matches your expectations, schedule and professional interests.
What are the biggest myths about an MBA degree?
MBA studies are often surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can hold people back from professional development. In reality, age, previous education and a busy work schedule do not necessarily have to be obstacles. An MBA can be pursued at different stages of life, and flexible online learning makes it easier to combine study with professional and personal commitments. MBA programmes provide structured management knowledge and help develop strategic thinking, leadership skills and the ability to solve real-world business challenges. Most programmes are taught in Czech, but English-taught options are also available for those seeking an international perspective.
An MBA can benefit not only managers but also business owners, self-employed professionals and people aspiring to leadership positions. Tuition fees can be paid in instalments, and some students receive financial support from their employers. MBA studies can therefore be a valuable investment in professional development, potentially improving career prospects and opening up new opportunities for growth.
What are the advantages of an MBA compared with academic education?
MBA programmes offer several important advantages over traditional academic education, particularly for working professionals. Compared with conventional university studies, an MBA is more focused on the practical application of knowledge and the development of management skills in real business environments. Students work with case studies and real-world business challenges, gaining practical knowledge they can apply directly in their careers.
Another key advantage is the teaching team, which includes experienced professionals who share practical insights into business management and different areas of leadership. The flexible online study format is also a significant benefit. Read more about the advantages of an MBA compared with academic studies.
Why is investing in employees’ MBA education eorthwhile?
Investing in employee education is one of the ways organisations can improve long-term performance, competitiveness and employee satisfaction. Well-designed professional development helps employees strengthen their specialist and management skills, respond more effectively to changes in their industries and apply their abilities more efficiently. Companies that systematically invest in their people may benefit from higher productivity, lower staff turnover and stronger employee loyalty. Earning an MBA can also be an attractive additional benefit for employees.
Education should not be viewed merely as a cost but as a strategic investment in an organisation’s future growth. The right development programme can encourage innovation, improve decision-making and strengthen a company’s overall resilience in a changing business environment. Under certain conditions, employee education may also have implications for tax planning and reducing the corporate tax base, making professional development potentially beneficial from a financial perspective as well.
Is an MBA degree a worthwhile investment?
Investing in an MBA qualification is often seen as a long-term decision that can provide not only new knowledge but also a tangible impact on career development and earning potential. MBA programmes develop management, strategic thinking and leadership skills that can be applied directly in professional practice. This makes an MBA an investment in future value rather than simply a one-off expense.
From the perspective of graduates, MBA education may also help protect the value of money over time. In periods of inflation, higher qualifications and improved career opportunities may strengthen earning potential and professional stability.
An MBA is therefore often viewed as an investment in yourself, with potential returns in the form of career progression, improved competitiveness in the job market and greater professional flexibility. In the long term, it is not just about earning an MBA qualification but also about developing skills that may strengthen professional and financial resilience in a changing economic environment.
When is the best time to study for an MBA?
There is no single ideal time that works for everyone. CEMI’s MBA programmes are designed to be particularly valuable for people who already have some professional experience and can connect new knowledge with real situations from their working lives. This experience helps students get more out of their studies and apply what they learn directly in practice.
Attitude matters more than age. An MBA can be pursued at different stages of life, whether you are starting your career, aiming for a promotion or considering a change in professional direction. What matters most is the willingness to continue learning and strengthen your professional and personal skills.
An MBA is also a flexible form of education that can be combined with work and personal commitments. You can start whenever it makes sense for your career goals and your motivation to develop or make a change.
Is an MBA suitable for entrepreneurs?
An MBA is also highly relevant for entrepreneurs, offering practical value for managing and growing a business. Entrepreneurship is a demanding environment characterised by competition and constant change, making up-to-date knowledge and effective decision-making essential.
MBA studies at CEMI help students develop a better understanding of key business areas such as strategy, finance, marketing and leadership. This knowledge can support more effective business management and growth. Thanks to the practical focus of the programmes, students can apply what they learn directly to their own businesses.
