Executive MBA Track: Leadership in Food & Agribusiness

What is the Executive MBA Food & Agribusiness Track, and why should I choose it?

The Executive MBA Food & Agribusiness Track: Leadership in Food & Agriculture is a six-month executive programme for professionals who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities and drive impact across the food and agriculture sector.

Delivered by Wageningen University & Research (WUR), the programme combines business and management education with WUR's world-leading expertise in food systems, sustainability and agrifood innovation.

Participants benefit from:

• A sector-specific curriculum focused on food and agribusiness
• Executive-level leadership and strategy development
• A flexible format that fits alongside a full-time job
• An international peer network and BizzTrek
• A pathway towards the full Executive MBA through ECTS credits

Who can apply and what are the admission requirements?

The programme is designed for experienced professionals who want to broaden their strategic perspective and strengthen their leadership in the international food and agribusiness sector.

Participants come from a range of professional backgrounds, including senior management, entrepreneurship, sustainability, innovation, consultancy, policy and science. What they share is the ambition to take on greater leadership responsibilities and contribute to the future of food and agribusiness.

Successful applicants typically have:

• a Master’s or PhD degree, or an equivalent qualification;
• at least five years of relevant professional experience;
• a strong command of English;
• the ambition, curiosity and commitment required to combine an Executive MBA with their professional responsibilities.

Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree may be asked to complete a Capacity Test. Participants in our cohorts typically have between 11 and 14 years of professional experience.

Every application is assessed individually, as leadership potential and professional experience cannot be captured by qualifications alone.

Unsure whether your background meets the requirements? Contact our Programme Adviser to discuss your eligibility.

How is the programme structured?

The Food & Agribusiness Track runs over six months and represents approximately one quarter of the full Executive MBA.

Participants attend on-campus sessions for three consecutive days each month:

• Thursday: 09:00-19:00
• Friday: 09:00-19:00
• Saturday: 09:00-14:30 or 16:30

Between sessions, participants typically spend 12 to 16 hours per week on preparation, assignments and project work, making it possible to combine the programme with a full-time position.

What will I learn, and what is the international BizzTrek?

The curriculum focuses on the leadership challenges and opportunities shaping the future of food and agriculture.

Upon completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Lead strategically in complex and uncertain environments
• Analyse global food system challenges from multiple perspectives
• Develop sustainable business strategies
• Drive organisational transformation and innovation
• Build resilient and future-proof organisations
• Translate scientific and industry insights into practical action

Participants also develop a personalised action plan to accelerate their professional growth and industry impact.

An important part of the learning experience is the international BizzTrek, where participants visit another country to meet businesses, entrepreneurs, policymakers and industry experts, gaining first-hand insight into global food systems and international business opportunities.

What qualification will I receive, and is the programme accredited?

Upon successful completion, participants receive an official certificate from Wageningen University & Research together with ECTS credits that can be applied towards the full Executive MBA programme.

The Executive MBA is internationally accredited by both AACSB and AMBA, two of the most respected quality labels for business education worldwide.

What does the tuition fee include, and can my employer sponsor my participation?

The tuition fee for the Food & Agribusiness Track is €16,900.

This includes:

• Tuition and academic supervision
• Learning materials and books
• Catering during on-campus sessions
• Hotel accommodation during the on-campus weekends
• Participation in the international BizzTrek

Travel expenses are not included.

Many participants receive full or partial employer sponsorship. Organisations often view the programme as an investment in leadership development, innovation and business transformation. Our Programme Adviser can also help you build a business case for your employer.

When does the next cohort start, and how do I apply?

Applications are open for the next cohort, starting in January 2027. The application deadline is 15 November 2026.

Places are limited to maintain an interactive learning environment. We therefore recommend applying early, as admissions may close once the cohort has reached capacity.

The application process consists of:

1. A personal consultation with the Programme Adviser
2. A completed application form, including essay questions
3. A review of your academic and professional background, including references
4. An intake interview with the Academic Director and Programme Manager to discuss your goals and programme fit

For detailed information about the requirements and application deadlines, contact our Programme Adviser.

Still have questions or would you like personal advice?

Choosing an executive programme is an important decision, and we're happy to help.

Our Programme Adviser can answer questions about:

• Whether the programme matches your goals and experience
• Admissions and application requirements
• Workload and planning
• Tuition fees and employer sponsorship
• The curriculum and learning experience

Feel free to schedule a personal consultation or request the programme brochure to explore whether the Food & Agribusiness Track is the right fit for you.