IBSS welcomes more than 600 new master’s students

On 4 September, the International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) held an induction for its 2026 full-time master's intake, welcoming more than 600 students from around the world as they began their 18-month postgraduate studies. The session introduced students to the academic, international and professional opportunities ahead.

Professor Eddy Fang, Dean of IBSS, opened the session by warmly welcoming the new cohort. “From this moment on, you are members of the IBSS family,” he said. He highlighted the School's core strengths, notably its Triple Crown accreditation from EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB,  achieved in just eight years and making IBSS one of the youngest triple-accredited business schools in the world. IBSS is also among the first signatories of the UN Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME). Together, these accreditations reflect the School's academic quality and international excellence in business education. Students also benefit from a worldwide alumni network supporting their professional development beyond graduation

IBSS brings together 180 full-time academic staff, supported by modern laboratories and extensive research databases. These resources provide students with a strong foundation for academic research and engagement with business. The School remains committed to its mission of connecting China with the world and encouraging exchange between Chinese and international business communities.

This academic strength feeds directly into the student experience. Dr Nimesh Salike, Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching, elaborated on the School's approach to education: IBSS  aims not only to teach business knowledge, but also to develop students’ ability to think independently and critically, apply theory to practice and make a positive contribution to society.  . To achieve this, the School has established three strategic pillars: AI-enhanced education, sustainability and internationalisation.

Speaking about the use of AI in education, Dr Salike emphasised that AI is treated as a learning partner rather than a shortcut. He also stressed the importance of using AI responsibly and of interdisciplinary learning. The school also draws on the concentration of industry expertise in Suzhou Industrial Park to inform the curriculum and connect theory with business practice.

Internationalisation is a core part of IBSS’ educational framework. Professor Ewout van der Schaft, Associate Dean for Internationalisation and Global Partnerships, said: professional knowledge is important, but communication skills are the most critical competency for an international career." He noted that international competence comes not only from the curriculum and international study opportunities, but also from students' ability to communicate confidently across cultures.

Through the QTEM global network, selected students can extend their studies by six months, including a semester at partner institutions around the world, without additional tuition fees. The programme also offers business challenges in collaboration with companies such as Cartier and McKinsey, giving students the opportunity to work on real business problems and put their quantitative analysis and problem-solving skills into practice.

Beyond the classroom, IBSS supports students as they prepare for their careers. The Student Development and Support (SDS) team provides a comprehensive range of career support, including an AI career assistant (Career Buddy), one-to-one consultations with certified advisors, company visits, business competitions, and various recruitment events. The School’s development advisory team also provides personal and wellbeing support, including stress management and counselling.

Following the main session, programme-specific inductions gave students the opportunity to meet their Programme Directors and learn more about programme structures, learning objectives, assessment and academic resources. Students were also able to ask questions about their study plans and research opportunities. The sessions helped our students understand the different pathways available to them and begin building connections with their academic staff and classmates.

The induction marked the official beginning of the 2026 Master's cohort's time at IBSS. Over the next 18 months, these students will draw on the School’s teaching, industry connections and international network as they develop the knowledge, judgement and confidence to become responsible, globally-minded business professionals.