Known for its excellence in economic and social sciences education, the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences (GTK) has over 4,000 students and a highly regarded academic staff, which offers some of the best business and management, economic and social sciences, furthermore also engineering management degree programs in Hungary. The Faculty has earned recognition on global, regional, and local scales. In the QS World University Rankings for Business and Management Studies, BME GTK is ranked between 501-550. In the THE World University Rankings 2022 for business and economics, the Faculty holds a ranking of 601+.
The international dimension is a key focus of their master's programs. BME GTK actively participates in international collaborations, holding membership in the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD), Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), and maintaining scientific relationships with various international universities. They have forged over 90 Erasmus+ and academic/administrative staff mobility agreements, enabling hundreds of students to engage in international experiences through Erasmus+ mobility programs. BME is also part of the European Engineering Learning Innovation and Science Alliance (EELISA), offering short-term mobility opportunities, which are also available to the international students of the Faculty.
The Faculty excels in the field of sustainability initiatives, such as in business and industrial relations. The Faculty's strong business and industrial partnerships provide students with real-world experiences, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Specialized courses and workshops encourage students to engage in discussions and debates on pressing economic issues within a global context. This comprehensive approach enhances the overall quality of economics education at BME.
Moreover, recognizing the importance of sustainability, the Faculty offers a Green Certificate to students who complete sustainability-related courses. This program, developed by the Department of Environmental Economics and Sustainability, certifies studies in sustainability, environmental economics, and environmental management.
The Inception Story
The Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences at Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) was established in 1998, making it the youngest Faculty at an engineering higher education institution with a history spanning more than 240 years. This Faculty brings together departments that have been teaching economic and social sciences-related courses for several decades for economic and engineering students, as well.
The Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences offers a wide variety of programs, including six full-time BSc training programs, five full-time MSc training programs, and six part-time MSc programs in Hungarian. Additionally, the Faculty provides four full-time Master's programs in English, catering to both Hungarian and international students. For those pursuing advanced studies, the Doctoral School of Business and Management offers Ph.D. programs in both Hungarian and English, with specializations in engineering management, management sciences, and business economics.
�To ensure a well-rounded education, GTK hosts the Centre of Modern Languages, offering language courses, exams, and a translator and interpreter training program for students and staff. The Centre for Physical Education provides modern facilities and diverse sports programs, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among students�, says Prof. Tamas Koltai, the Dean of BME GTK.
Connecting with Business & Industry for Practical Skills
Budapest University of Technology and Economics places high priority on preparing students for the industry and has implemented various strategies to ensure their readiness for the professional realm. One fundamental aspect integrated into several educational programs is the inclusion of corporate experience in the curriculum. This approach enables students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, equipping them not only with practical skills but also exposing them to the dynamics of the industry.
What sets this approach apart is the opportunity for thesis and diploma projects to be conducted in collaboration with specific companies. This direct engagement with real business challenges promotes the practical application of academic concepts to real-life situations. Additionally, the Faculty recognizes the significance of industry insights and regularly invites guest speakers from diverse sectors to share their expertise with students. These industry professionals offer valuable perspectives, keep students updated on current trends, and bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice.
In essence, the Faculty is fully dedicated to ensuring that students acquire the practical skills, knowledge, and insights essential for success in their respective industries. This commitment is realized through a combination of hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, industry guest speakers, and feedback from alumni, all of which work together to create a seamless connection between academic learning and the demands of the professional world.
�The external involvement of the Faculty includes predominantly education (typically shorter courses in the industry) and joint research. Business and industry practitioners contribute to our programmes as guest lecturers, keynote speakers, and advisors to diploma candidates. Many professors have a corporate experience that they build into their courses. Invited experts also provide insights into applying theory in several productions, services, and public sector institutions. Industry members are also involved within the framework of one of our special programmes, the Intensive Seminar offering workshops where students solve certain corporate tasks and case studies. Relevant corporate members are often part of the committees of the final exams where students present their thesis work. Business and industry partners are involved in the design of our educational programmes�, shares Prof. Tamas Koltai.
GTK doesn't stop at classroom learning. The Faculty actively collaborates with business and industrial stakeholders and hosts a job fair each semester. These interactions help students develop essential skills and competencies demanded by the job market. Additionally, GTK provides students access to the EFMD Highered platform, enabling them to refine their job application skills and gain international industrial experience through the Erasmus+ Traineeship program.
�Budapest University of Technology & Economics places high priority on preparing students for the industry & has implemented various strategies to ensure their readiness for the professional realm�
Empowering Students for Professional Success
At Budapest University of Technology and Economics, the Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences stands out as a beacon of excellence in Hungary's higher education landscape. Focused on business, economics, and social sciences, GTK offers a distinct educational experience that sets the stage for students' successful professional careers. At BME, there is a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education, with close collaboration between the faculties of Science and Technology. This collaborative environment encourages the integration of modern information and communication technologies into the curriculum. BME offers a diverse range of degree programs, allowing students to obtain degrees in engineering, economics, teaching, and certain areas of humanities within an inspiring university setting.
�One of GTK's defining features is its integration within the broader technological ecosystem of BME. Nestled among six engineering faculties and one natural sciences Faculty, GTK fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and offers a holistic approach to education. This unique environment encourages students to explore connections between technology, economics, and social sciences, preparing them for multifaceted challenges in the real world�, says Prof. Tamas Koltai.
One of the notable features of BME is its special focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, which prepares students to tackle the challenges of the 21st century. The multidisciplinary approach at BME extends beyond coexistence; it fosters close cooperation between programs in different fields of study, resulting in coherent curricula. This intellectually stimulating environment equips students with knowledge and skills that enable them to understand, appreciate, and contribute to various aspects of the world.
World-Class Faculty and State-of-the-Art Infrastructure for Hands-On Learning
Ensuring a high-quality Faculty is crucial for delivering excellence in education. Many GTK professors bring corporate experience into their courses, enriching students' learning with practical insights. The Faculty actively encourages Faculty members to pursue international scholarships, particularly through the European Erasmus+ program. Professors and administrative colleagues within the Faculty have access to high-level courses through various European funding opportunities at the University, including Erasmus+ and iRRF. These courses cover essential topics such as sustainability, leadership, academic writing, teaching practices, and language skills, enriching the professional development of the Faculty members. These international journeys not only expand their academic horizons but also foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Exposure to international industrial experiences, diverse teaching methods, and research approaches enhance their pedagogical skills, creating dynamic and engaging learning environments.
The modern infrastructure at GTK facilitates handson training for students. The Q building, a modern and well-equipped facility, houses the Faculty. Every classroom is equipped with projectors and whiteboards, while an eyetracking lab serves both teachers and researchers. Seven rooms are dedicated to streaming and recording lectures, enhancing accessibility. Located in the heart of Budapest, the university is easily accessible via public transportation, ensuring students can make the most of their academic journey.
Enriching Education through Workshops & Societies
The learning experience at GTK extends beyond classrooms. The Intensive Seminar (IS), a mandatory element in the economic master's programs, brings international lectures and workshops to students and they even have the chance to meet with the Alumni members of the Faculty. This event, held during the autumn semester, invites foreign and local professors, and business and industry experts to discuss cutting-edge topics. Students can mix and match sessions to meet course requirements and can participate in the networking event of the Intensive Seminar.
GTK also hosts the Quantitative Social and Management Sciences Research Centre (QSMS), which addresses challenges in social and management sciences using quantitative methods. The research group organizes lectures and workshops by guest lecturers, providing students with valuable insights.
The university boasts several student organizations, including Liska Tibor College, KommON, and BME Management College, focusing on business, leadership, management, and international politics. Student Research Societies provide a platform for emerging talent to take their first steps toward scientific success. The university offers extensive support for personal growth and professional development, including private counseling, career services, skill development, peer support programs, and an Equal Opportunities Counseling Service.
Future Path & Innovations
The GTK Well-being Center focuses on promoting wellbeing at both individual and organizational levels, aiming to create a positive and supportive atmosphere for employees. It offers tools rooted in work and organizational psychology to strengthen psychological resources, address workplace factors affecting mental health, and enhance the quality of workplace relationships. The center provides guidance and solutions to address individual and collective issues, implement projects successfully, achieve work-related goals, and excel in leadership roles.
Within the framework of the Talent Support Council at BME, the Faculty actively participates in talent management and research training, striving to ensure that all students reach their highest educational potential through their talents and diligence. The Faculty's contributions include offering the University Life Planner Training, which supports students in their career development. Additionally, the council supports professors returning from maternity, paternity, or childcare leave.
The Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences is the youngest Faculty of BME operating in one of the most prestigious universities of Hungary, where different disciplines thrive together in an innovative and inspiring environment. Recently commemorating its 25th anniversary in 2023, the Faculty is deeply rooted within a highly technical ecosystem, as BME has six faculties dedicated to engineering and one devoted to Natural Sciences, in addition to GTK.
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