Nova School of Business and Economics (Nova SBE) is a leading institution of higher education in Portugal, recognized globally for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and internationalization.
Foundation and Early Years
Nova SBE was established in 1978 as part of NOVA University Lisbon. The school was founded with a mission to create a top-tier business education institution in Portugal, offering cutting-edge programs tailored to the needs of the global business landscape. From its inception, Nova SBE sought to combine academic rigor with real-world relevance, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Academic Excellence and Growth
During its early years, Nova SBE quickly established a reputation for delivering high-quality education in the fields of economics and management. The school’s faculty were recognized for their research contributions and their ability to engage with the business community. This foundation allowed Nova SBE to grow its programs and attract talented students from Portugal and beyond.
Key milestones in the school's growth included:
- The introduction of Bachelor’s, Master's, and PhD programs in Economics, Finance, Management, Public Policy, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Business Analytics.
- A focus on research-driven teaching, with faculty members contributing to leading international journals.
- Building strong ties with the corporate world, offering students practical learning experiences and excellent career opportunities worldwide.
International Recognition and Accreditation
Nova SBE became the first Portuguese business school to achieve the prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA), a hallmark of excellence held by fewer than 1% of business schools worldwide. These accreditations reflect Nova SBE’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in education, research, and engagement with the global business community.
The school also gained recognition in major international rankings, such as:
- The Financial Times ranking for its Master’s in Management, 8th best in the world; Master’s in Finance, 7th best in the world; and Executive Education, 13th best in the world for custom programs.
- Placement among the top business schools in Europe, highlighting its competitive edge in attracting international students and faculty.
The Move to Carcavelos: A New Chapter in the Nova Way of Life
In 2018, Nova SBE opened its iconic Carcavelos Campus, a transformative step in its journey. Located on the stunning coast of the Lisbon region, the campus was designed to reflect the school’s forward-thinking philosophy. Key features of the new campus include:
- A sustainable, state-of-the-art design that fosters innovation, collaboration, and creativity.
- Facilities that blend academic spaces with recreational areas, promoting a holistic educational experience.
- Proximity to the beach, symbolizing the Nova Way of Life: a unique blend of academic excellence and lifestyle.
The Carcavelos Campus has become a hub for students, researchers, and corporate partners from around the world, reinforcing Nova SBE’s position as a global leader in business education.
Core Values and Vision
Nova SBE is guided by the principles of openness, innovation, and impact. The school emphasizes:
- Internationalization: Over half of Nova SBE’s students and faculty are international, creating a vibrant multicultural community.
- Sustainability: The institution integrates sustainability into its curriculum, operations, and research to address global challenges.
- Entrepreneurship: Through initiatives like its startup accelerator and partnerships with industry leaders, Nova SBE fosters an entrepreneurial mindset in its students.
Legacy and Future
Today, Nova SBE stands as a beacon of excellence in the global business education landscape. Its alumni network spans the globe, with graduates holding leadership roles in multinational corporations, startups, and public institutions. As the school continues to innovate, it remains committed to shaping the future of business and economics through impactful education and research. Nova SBE’s story is one of bold vision, continuous growth, and unwavering dedication to making a difference in the world.