EXECUTIVE MBA

Welcome to an ambitious academic undertaking, designed to impact generations of global business leaders to come. The establishment of the Graduate School of Business at Nazarbayev University signals an exciting approach to management education in one of the most dynamic regions of the world. This new education model, which draws from world-class faculty in a curriculum informed by local business knowledge, is being designed to promote innovation, enabling Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asia region to manage our vast natural resource wealth and be competitive in world markets.

Join us as we build a business school that will reflect Kazakhstan’s unique position in the world – both a leader in Central Asia, and an important bridge between the world’s most influential economies.

INNOVATION

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5Nazarbayev University main building

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Our history began in 2006, when the President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, addressed the nation with his strategy to promote Kazakhstan into the ranks of the most competitive economies in the world, by the establishment of a world class international research university. The founding of such a university was intended to ensure a breakthrough in the training of scientists, engineers and social scientists that would assist in the industrial innovation and development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

On June 20, 2009 the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan issued a resolution to establish a non-profit joint-stock company “New University of Astana” fully owned by the government; and in a general meeting on September 4, 2009 with President N.A. Nazarbayev, a series of direct assignments were issued to launch the establishment of the New University of Astana. “Creation of such a new university is a crucial national project which will exert large-scale systemic impact on the development of our nation and many of our citizens. I believe that the New University must be positioned to become the national brand by harmoniously combining national identity and the best international models of education, science and research practice.” said President Nazarbayev.

The set of courses taught at the university were intended to reflect the priorities of the national economy. Engineering would be a key focus in order to support the mature

industries of Kazakhstan, and the President placed a high priority on several other scientific domains – genetics, biochemistry, and biophysics - which represent new fields in the country. Innovation as an ecosystem in the country was another goal, as Presidency Nazarbayev emphasized in his address to the nation in January 2010. The President announced that within the framework of New University of Astana, three new research centers would be established: the Center of Life Sciences , whose mission was to conduct joint research with the leading global scientific centers in the fields of organ transplantation, artificial heart and lungs, stem cells and longevity; the Center for Energy Research, which would focus on renewable energy, high-energy physics and technology; and finally, the Interdisciplinary Instrumentation Center which was intended as a hub of engineering research, providing laboratories and design space.In June 2010, New University of Astana was renamed as Nazarbayev University by Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the University’s Grand Opening Ceremony was held and attended by the President.The first students of the University began their studies on September 27, 2010, attending the Foundations program. Shigeo Katsu was appointed Rector of Nazarbayev University on December 6, 2010 and the President signed several bills related to the University, its schools and its funding, in January 2011. The inaugural meeting of the Supreme

Board of Trustees was convened in June 2011, and in August of that year education in the three undergraduate schools began: School of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, and School of the Humanities and Social Sciences.In November 2011, Nazarbayev University hosted its first international conferences, “Modern Trends in Education,” and “Regenerative Medicine and High-Quality Longevity.” On February 27, 2012, the first seed grants were awarded. Also in 2012 was the renaming of the PE “Center for Life Sciences” to PE “Nazarbayev University Research and Innovation System” (or NURIS).

In late 2012, three graduate schools were officially established: Graduate School of Business, Graduate School of Public Policy, and the Graduate School of Education. In March 2013, the Graduate School of Business launched its Executive MBA program in strategic collaboration with The Fuqua School of Business, Duke University.

On April 18, 2013, the Strategy of Nazarbayev University for 2013 – 2020 was approved by the decision of the Supreme Board of Trustees creating a classic academic governance system, strengthening the roles of the Academic and Research Councils, and President of Nazarbayev University. On April 24, 2013, the new executive body of the university, the Managing Council, was formed by the decision of the Board of Trustees of Nazarbayev University.

History of the University

7Republic of Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev speaking at Nazarbayev University

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Strategic Collaboration

In 2009, Nazarbayev University established a strategic collaboration with Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business to assist in its ambition to build a world-class business school in Astana.

Duke’s Fuqua School of Business is a world- renowned institution based in the United States, with the #1-ranked faculty in the world.. The school has a global network with presence in London, Dubai, New Delhi, Shanghai and St. Petersburg. Fuqua has a history of innovation, having launched three MBA programs for

working professionals and most recently an MMS program, and having developed unique relationships in the most critical regions of the global economy.

The collaboration leverages leadership, faculty and staff expertise in building the NUGSB from the ground up. The initial focus will be to develop high caliber MBA programs that will prepare the next generation of business leaders to succeed, while building faculty strength and increasing the research capabilities of the institution.

President of Nazarbayev University, Shigeo Katsu and Dean of Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, Bill Boulding

9The Fuqua School of Business, Duke University

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Nazarbayev University is building the Graduate School of Business (NUGSB) to become the leading institution of its kind in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, conducting high-quality research and training the next generation of business leaders.

It is NUGSB’s mission to transform individuals, industries and society through world-class professional business education and research. As an NUGSB student, you can expect to be studying in a diverse classroom made up of individuals from many different backgrounds.

Degree Programs1. Executive MBA

2. Full-Time MBA

Non-Degree Programs1. Small to Medium Sized Enterprise

Executive Development Program

2. Customized Programs

3. Open Enrollment

Graduate School of Business

NUGSB Dean Ramon O’Callaghan and NU President Shigeo Katsu

11Executive MBA students in class

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Executive MBA (EMBA)

Executive MBA: Local Context – Global ScopeThe NUGSB EMBA program tools working professionals with the quantitative and qualitative skills necessary to lead their organization. Students receive the highest quality education from a world class faculty through a variety of unique learning methods including team based, case-based, traditional classroom, and experiential learning.

Members of the NUGSB EMBA will also travel to the campus of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, in the United States to learn about the economic, political, cultural, and social issues that affect business there. Observing the cultural and institutional differences which influence business dynamics in a different environment will help students navigate the different perspectives needed to manage the very real uncertainties that lay ahead in this global world.

While the core curriculum provides a foundation in all the functional areas of business, students have the opportunity to specialize through the EMBA Thesis. Students focus on a business case or a topic identified by their employing organization, using this project as a mechanism to integrate their new skills into a career-specific context.

Students will develop a wider scope through their U.S. residency providing students an opportunity to learn in a global context, while expanding their personal and professional networks.

Prepare for Tomorrow, Today: High Quality, World-Class Experience

The dynamic Astana skyline

Employers benefit through:• Increased employee effectiveness

• Employee loyalty

• Building long-term capabilities necessary to compete in the global marketplace

• Improved decision making

• Playing a role in transforming business in Kazakhstan by developing management and leadership capabilities

• Access to faculty, student, government, and corporate networks

Students benefit through:• Obtaining an MBA while working full time

• Accelerated career trajectory

• Enhancing professional network regionally and internationally

• Strengthening core business skills, and engaging with faculty and students from a broad range of academic and applied backgrounds

BENEFITS

Networking at an EMBA event14

EMBA Class of 2014 with representatives from the NUGSB and FUQUA

Class profile

Organizations represented:Sovereign Wealth Fund «Samruk-Kazyna» JSC , «NCOC», «TengizChevrOil», «Samruk Energy», «KazMunaiGas E&P», «Kazakhstan Temir Zholy», «Kegok», «Kazpost», and «Nazarbayev University»

Functional areas and industries:Energy, Transportation, Corporate Development, Finance, Law, Service, Information Technology, Education, and International Relations.

The EMBA program is designed for corporate managers and entrepreneurs with 5 or more years of work experience, and for entrepreneurs. Each class cohort is drawn from a broad range of industries and disciplines, and individuals represent a variety of functions within their organizations. The program is particularly suited to individuals in significant leadership positions, both private and state owned institutions.

EMBA Class of 2014

Number of students: 18

Average age: 36

Average work experience: 14 years

Male: 50%

Female: 50%

16 EMBA Class of 2014

All courses subject to final approval.

EMBA THESIS

This capstone allows each student to deepen their skills and expertise

specific to career goals and industry or organizational

challenges.

ELECTIVES

Students select 3 courses applicable to their career goals: Finance, Leadership,

Marketing, Strategy and Negotiations

COREThe 12 required core courses cover the fundamental building

blocks of business education: Managerial Economics, Management and Organizations, Quantitative Tools for Managers, Financial

Accounting, Marketing, Foundations of Finance, Strategy, Supply Chain Management, Managerial Accounting, Corporate Finance, Financial

Analysis, and Entrepreneurship

ORIENTATIONThis period lays the foundation of skills necessary for success in the program:

Computer Applications; Quantitative Methods; Team Building; Program Orientation

Curriculum

Nazarbayev University is a community of scholars and learners, committed to the principles of honesty, trustworthiness, fairness, and respect for others. Students share with faculty and staff the responsibility for promoting a climate of integrity. As citizens of this community, students are expected to adhere to these fundamental values at all times, in both their academic and non-academic endeavors.

NUGSB Honor Code

Through our strategic collaboration with Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, students benefit from some of the No.1 ranked faculty in the world for intellectual capital (2012 Bloomberg Businessweek) teaching in their program.

The faculty is comprised of thought leaders and leading researchers whose expertise and passion for innovation create a one-of-a-kind learning environment. Nazarbayev University is able to draw high-caliber faculty members from around the world who have in-depth experience that cuts across all industries and functions.

Faculty

19Professor Mohan Venkatachalam

The EMBA program employs a variety of learning methods, among them: team based learning, case discussion, experiential learning, and simulation.

Team-based learning is the core of a student’s experience, as he or she will depend on fellow classmates and work collaboratively on most aspects of their coursework. As a member of the team, the student will develop leadership skills and learn how to support each other and benefit from the diverse talents, abilities, and perspectives of their team.

Case discussion challenges the student to apply theory and tools learned in the classroom to real business problems. Through these discussions, the student learns about making decisions with incomplete data and uncertainty. The insights made during case discussion refine management and leadership skills.

In the classroom, student’s unique knowledge and business experience are integrated into the curriculum.

In the NUGSB EMBA students move quickly from theory to practice and immediately apply learned skills back at work.

Learning Environment

20 EMBA students getting the result they were looking for

Exams take place two weeks after each final class on the Nazarbayev University campus, or at an approved location.

Students return to campus for two more days of intense instruction.

Students will participate in an immersive learning experience studying in residence on Nazarbayev University’s campus in Astana.

PRE-READINGBack to Work:

TUES-FRI

Class:

SAT-MON

Class:

SAT-SUN

Two weeks later:

EXAM

Pre-reading is required for all courses and continual involvement in the program between sessions is also required.

Students allocate time to study from Tuesday-Friday, while managing their day-to-day responsibilities.

Typical Course Format

The EMBA program is designed to minimize time away from work while providing an immersive, top-tier educational experience.

Students begin with an eight day orientation, spend two weekends for each course in the classroom, and travel to a residency abroad in Durham, NC, USA at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.

Instruction will be in English with simultaneous Russian translation.

Program Design

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Candidates for the EMBA program at the Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business are expected to have at least 5 years of work experience. However, exceptional candidates with less experience will be considered.

Applicants will be considered after a complete application has been submitted, which must include the following items in English:

ResumeCandidates must submit a 1-page business/ professional resume containing employment and education background.

Two letters of recommendationThe most valuable recommendations come from people who know the candidate’s professional skills and abilities. We require one of two recommendations be written by an employer/ individual who can assess the candidate in a work-related environment. The second recommender should be chosen at the candidate’s discretion.

Transcripts Candidates must submit official transcripts from all undergraduate and post-graduate education. Transcripts must be submitted in their original form as well as in an English translation.

English Language TestsOfficial results from recent TOEFL or IELTS exams for applicants whose native language is not English.

GMAT and GRE TestsAlthough official GMAT or GRE scores are not required, a candidate with limited quantitative experience can strengthen the application with a competitive GMAT or GRE score.

Three essaysCandidates are required to give thoughtful answers to the essay questions for admissions. These questions will be available on the application form; essays must be submitted in English.

Letter of Corporate SupportA letter from the candidate’s current employer outlining the company’s support of time and financial commitment is required.

InterviewAdmission interviews are by invitation only. Interviews include a variety of behavioral questions covering the topics of teamwork, potential contribution to the EMBA class, and the candidate’s overall expectations from the EMBA program.

Admission Requirements

Quantitative AssessmentThe NUGSB Admissions team will conduct a quantitative assessment of candidates. In cases in which background and academic history does not demonstrate sufficient quantitative experience, a formal assessment will be conducted with the candidate to determine their current quantitative abilities.

In the event that a candidate’s quantitative abilities are not sufficient, the NUGSB Admissions team will suggest a course of action to improve the applicant’s candidacy.

It should be noted that entry is competitive; these minimum requirements do not imply automatic admission into the program.

While applications will be considered on a rolling basis, only a limited number of EMBA students will be accepted, so it is advised to apply as early as possible.

Please find the Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business Application

for Admission and Recommendation Form

on our website:

www.gsb.nu.edu.kz

The popular palm trees inside the Nazarbayev University atrium

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FAQDOES OUR ORGANIZATION LOSE AN EMPLOYEE FOR THE DURATION OF THE 21-MONTH PROGRAM?While your organization will part with your EMBA students during weekend programs and international residencies, their learning will be immediately applicable to the workplace each time they return. We encourage employers to be sensitive to the demands of the program, so as to realize the highest return on their investment

HOW DOES THE PROGRAM APPLY TO MY SPECIFIC ORGANIZATION?

Each executive and sponsoring organization has unique goals and perspectives to bring to this program. The NUGSB EMBA recognizes that the most successful students will be able to apply their education immediately at the workplace. To encourage this process each student will be required to work on a thesis that directly relates to their career objectives and which will be evaluated by NUGSB faculty.

Through this opportunity, the sponsoring organization can directly benefit from the EMBA experience.

Open House Information Session at Nazarbayev University

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GIVEN THE RIGOR OF THE PROGRAM AND THE NECESSARY TIME COMMITMENT, HOW DOES THIS FIT INTO THE EXECUTIVE’S LIFE?The program requires a significant investment of time and attention. Students enrolled in this program successfully balance their significant professional and personal responsibilities with the rigors of the academic curriculum.

Students are expected to spend substantial time each week on academics. Every student manages their time differently; some study for a few hours each day while others may study during weekends. It’s important to find a routine that works for each student, their team, family, and colleagues. Gaining the support of significant other, family, and co-workers—will be key to success.

Some companies help to alleviate workload by providing their employees with additional support (e.g., staff support, time off), but most students receive no relief in their responsibilities.

WHAT IS THE SCOPE OF THE CURRICULUM?The program consists of 12 core courses, 3 electives, and 1 project/thesis. The core courses cover the foundation of a general management education: finance, operations, marketing, strategy, accounting, and leadership. The electives allow students to enhance skills in areas such as, investments, negotiations, leadership, and strategy. The project/thesis requires each student to apply this education to his/her career.

HOW QUANTITATIVELY RIGOROUS IS THE PROGRAM?Success in this program demands a high- level mastery of quantitative skills; however, quantitative excellence alone is not sufficient. The program requires students to use and improve leadership, management, and other qualitative skills necessary in today’s global business environment.

IS ATTENDANCE TO ALL COURSES REQUIRED?Yes, attendance at all courses and residencies is a requirement. This is a program which requires you to move step by step at the same time as your classmates and you are required to move through the curriculum with your classmates.

In areas in which a particular EMBA student has experience, he/she is able to make a major contribution to the conversation in class, as well as in group work.

MY COMPANY IS IN ASTANA, MUST OUR EMBA STUDENTS ALSO RESIDE ON CAMPUS?

The NUGSB EMBA program is an immersive and intense learning experience. Even if a student is a resident of Astana, he/ she must live on campus during the weekend residencies. Residency adds to the group learning environment, and is essential for EMBA students to fully absorb the learning objectives for each course.

HOW TECHNOLOGICALLY SAVVY DO I NEED TO BE?During the eight day orientation the student is introduced to technology necessary for a successful EMBA experience. Most students are comfortable with word processing, e-mail and the internet; now spreadsheets, electronic bulletin boards and other electronic tools become essential. We recommend that you have basic skills, at least Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to help you succeed.

WILL I BE REQUIRED TO HAVE A LAPTOP OR SPECIAL PROGRAMS?Every student in the program needs a reliable laptop as well as a stable internet service provider (ISP). These tools are essential for completing the program requirements. Once you are accepted to the program, you will receive more details about computer and software requirements.

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Contact InformationAll inquiries about the Executive MBA Program can be submitted to:

Office of NUGSB Admissions

Nazarbayev University,53 Kabanbay batyr Ave.,

Astana, 010000 Republic of Kazakhstan

Тел.: +7 (7172) 70 90 28

Тел.: +7 (7172) 70 66 67

NUGSBADMISSIONS@nu.edu.kz

gsb.nu.edu.kz