How respected is CEMS?

Hi Marcus, sounds like an exciting program - great schools and a global alliance.
Sometimes, and I believe this is one of those cases, not everyone will be aware of something that is quite prestigious. My recommendation is that when you have it on your CV / LinkedIn etc. you state what it is and its global positioning.

For example on CV:

ESADE CEMS MIM
Prestigious dual degree ranked top 5 globally for MIMs in collaboration with ESADE ranked top X

Something along these lines - what this does it clearly show the value without the person reading the CV having to look it up or know about it already.

At the end of the day - do the program because you're excited about it and because you feel it will bring you into the career that you want. ESADE and NUS are already carrying much of the weight, and the CEMs will be the cherry on top.

Happy to speak more if helpful.

Annika

Marcus, 

Great question.

I've worked with multiple colleagues at McK who had a CEMS background. It's certainly seen as very strong. 

Honestly, high-level, if your degree is within the top x globally then optimising the degree further doesn't make a huge difference. 

Other things, such as how you approach the application process, get referrals, etc., matter a lot more. 

If you want to look into those things as well, I'm sharing here a couple of resources you might find useful:

• • Expert Guide: Build A Winning Application Strategy

• • Expert Guide: How To Handle Networking Calls and Get Referrals

Best,
Cristian

That's a really good question, and one many candidates grapple with when considering these types of programs. It's smart to think critically about how employers truly perceive additional certifications or joint degrees.

Here's the reality: Consulting firms don't typically distinguish between CEMS as an "entirely separate degree" versus an "extended ESADE course" in a granular way. What they do see is a signal. CEMS, especially when paired with a top-tier institution like ESADE and an international exchange at NUS, sends a strong message. It flags you as someone with international exposure, a global mindset, an ability to navigate diverse environments, and a drive for a rigorous academic challenge. These are all highly valued traits in consulting.

So, while the QS ranking is interesting, its direct impact on recruiter perception is less about the number and more about the story it helps you tell. It adds significant weight to your overall profile, demonstrating a commitment to global business and a capacity for high-level performance. Your focus should be on leveraging the unique experiences and skills you gain from the CEMS network and international components in your applications and interviews.

Hope this helps clarify things for you!

CEMS is well respected in Europe, especially continental Europe. 

For consulting specifically, what matters most is your primary degree and the institution behind it. ESADE is a solid target school. CEMS adds to that, it does not replace it.

Employers will not see it as a separate degree. They will see ESADE with a CEMS component and an NUS exchange. That combination reads well.

Will it significantly boost your chances? At the margin, yes. But it will not overcome a weak GPA or thin experience. The fundamentals still matter more.

If you want the experience, do it. As a pure resume play, the return is real but modest.

Hi Marcus :)

It is generally well respected, especially in Europe and within consulting and large multinational companies. Most employers see it as an additional international layer on top of your main MiM rather than a completely separate degree, but the global network, exchange semester, and corporate partners can definitely strengthen your profile and recruiting opportunities. ESADE plus CEMS is a strong combination!

best,
Alessa :)