HEC vs IMD

Question

Hello everyone,

I got admitted by both IMD and HEC Paris. 
I'm well aware they are both excellent programmes but I'd like to hear from you as well.

I'm currently based in Italy, working in the automotive industry in R&D.
My goal is to transition in other industries such as oil&gas, energy or pharma and gain a role which involves strategy/general management besides technical functions. 
I wouldn't mind consulting although it is not my priority.

What's your opinion?
Thanks,
Umberto

ANALysis · Answer

HEC is more well known

bb · Answer

Agree though IMD is pretty special in a few ways in terms of their appeal to older exec level leaders and pretty awesome alum network.

At the same time IMD has been fairly quiet the last 5 years.... Is IMD still super expensive?

Posted from my mobile device

Anaximand · Answer

Hi!

I am in the same position as you, accepted in both. I am still struggling to make a decision. IMD seems to have a more mature class, more intense program aimed mostly for industry higher positions. However, HEC has a more diverse and tailored program, a cool campus atmosphere and more activities in campus. Certainly a bit more fun. IMD does seem to have a bigger aim at personal development.

What other things have you people considered or seen based on talks with alumni? For some reason, the alumni I've talked from IMD seem more convinced about their program than those at HEC.

rtbs15 · Answer

Clarity on your goals should help make the decision for you.

- Energy --> HEC & FR
- Pharma --> IMD & CH
- Don't know about oil&gas, but it seems that HEC might be better suited?

IMD is a great program because it's in CH, which will always be a strong job market, and you share your class with older execs that can introduce you to many good companies. Having said that, please check whether the number of applicants decreased significantly in the last couple of years. Could be that the program is less appealing, but also less competition for jobs?

HEC seems like a better option if you don't want to be in FR or CH, and will most probably be a better experience overall. Lausanne is pretty expensive, and quiet.

Good luck!

Anaximand · Answer

Very valid points, thanks for the input.

IMD indicates they have seen a rise in the applications of around 50%, but I think it is a similar case this year for most, specially for European programs. Lausanne does seem a bit quite and a bit boring, but I'm guessing most of the time will be spent on the program, whereas HEC does seem to have a more complete campus experience.

Leadership · Answer

Hi Anaximand , cinclus I am a bit late. Please find my feedback on this question

https://gmatclub.com/forum/hec-vs-imd-3 ... l#p2473835

HEC vs IMD

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