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Here, we publish all news and updates on the latest developments at our organization and within its community.

Articles, podcasts, and other topical content can be found in the Aalto Leaders’ Insight stream.
Newsroom
Here, we publish all news and updates on the latest developments at our organization and within its community. Articles, podcasts, and other topical content can be found in the Aalto Leaders’ Insight stream.

Aalto EE Took a Big Leap in the Financial Times Ranking of Open Programs

Aalto EE improved its ranking by eight places in the Financial Times' ranking of open-enrollment programs from the previous year.

18.5.2026

Aalto University has risen to 54th place globally in the prestigious Financial Times' annual ranking of open-enrollment program providers. These programs are delivered by the university-owned company Aalto University Executive Education and Professional Development (Aalto EE). Ranking improved by eight places compared to last year.

"We have systematically developed the portfolio of our open executive education programs to meet the needs of the changing business environment. This can be seen, for example, in the integration of artificial intelligence and sustainable development themes into the programs and the renewal of learning methods to ensure the impact of the programs," says Mari Rauhala, Business Unit Director responsible for executive education programs at Aalto EE.

The business of customized programs is growing

The Financial Times' comparison is twofold. It includes the world's top 90 best-rated business schools offering open programs, as well as the 100 best-rated business schools offering customized solutions. More schools were included in both rankings this year than in previous years.

In addition to open programs, Aalto EE offers organization-specific customized programs. This year, Aalto was ranked 38th globally in the comparison of customized programs.

"The business of customized programs has grown significantly. Growth is one of the criteria used in the ranking. This shows that organizations have a growing need and desire to invest in tailor-made training in particular," says Mari Rauhala.

There is fierce competition for positioning in the Financial Times' rankings. The results are based on customer surveys and information provided by business schools. They take into account different aspects of education, which are weighted differently in determining the final ranking.

In the Financial Times' open ranking, the London Business School came top, and in the customized ranking, the Italian SDA Bocconi School of Management was number one.

Further information

Tom Lindholm
Managing Director, Aalto University Executive Education Ltd
Head of Lifewide Learning, Aalto University
Phone +358 50 047 4746
tom.lindholm@aaltoee.fi

Aalto University Executive Education and Professional Development

Aalto University Executive Education and Professional Development (Aalto EE) offers impactful education, development, and training services. Aalto EE combines a wide range of practical expertise with the latest research from Aalto University. We aim to provide a sustainable platform for lifewide learning at different stages of a career. Furthermore, we operate as a strategic partner for organizations, enabling renewal in a rapidly changing business environment. Our unique portfolio of programs offers concrete solutions, intellectual capital, and a professional head start for both individuals and organizations.

Aalto EE has three strongholds: two in Finland and one in Singapore. In addition to Finland and Singapore, Aalto EE offers education programs worldwide. As a part of Aalto University, it holds three of the most respected business university accreditations – AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS – which place it among the top 1% of institutions in the world.