MBA & Master Glossary
Experiential Learning
Definition
Experiential learning describes a teaching approach in which students build management capability through their own actions: simulations, consulting projects with partner companies, negotiation and decision-making exercises under uncertainty, and structured reflection. Instead of ready-made model answers, the focus is on incomplete information, conflicting interests and real market dynamics. Leading business schools now anchor experiential learning firmly in the MBA curriculum because employers value the ability to act over pure theoretical knowledge.
Example: "Here experiential learning means a two-week consulting project at a client site."
Why this matters for your MBA
"Experiential Learning" is one of the terms you will come across when comparing MBA and Executive MBA programmes in Germany, Austria and Switzerland — in admission requirements, accreditation details or programme descriptions. On mba.de you can check how individual business schools handle it and compare programmes independently.
Source: mba.de – independent comparison portal since 2003.