SSE Nordic Defense MBA

In 2026, SSE is launching a new MBA program, the SSE Nordic Defense MBA. It is an Executive MBA program designed for experienced leaders on a senior level in the Nordic defense and security sector. The program offers a unique opportunity to create a practical, cross-functional, and cross-border Nordic network for sharing strategic knowledge and to work together with common challenges and projects.

The program is developed in close collaboration with the Swedish Armed Forces, and is connected to SSE’s House of Governance and Public Policy and collaborates specifically with the Center for Security and Resilience - an established arena for strengthening public - private cooperation in support of total defense.

It is tailored for experienced defense professionals seeking to enhance their general management skills and strengthen their understanding of total defense. It integrates defense, security, and total defencs perspectives across all courses.

A strong emphasis is placed on public–private collaboration, supported by field trips and specialized courses in geo‑economics, market organization, and global supply networks. Participants gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in modern total defense systems.

The program starts on October 19, 2026, and is given part-time over 16 months, enabling participants to continue working while studying. Participants attend ten campus weeks, each lasting Monday to Friday, for a total of 50 days.

Core drivers for this program

Organizational growth. Preparing for and managing the expansion of resources and personnel within Total Defense.
NATO integration. Developing organizational structures and knowledge to facilitate effective interoperability and collaboration within the alliance.
Geopolitical dynamics. The need for strategic agility in response to significant shifts in the security landscape.
Industry collaboration. Strengthening the working relationship with the private defense industry across the Nordics.

Learning goals

The program integrates the efficiencies and practices of the business world into defense planning and operations.

Resource management. Gaining a deeper understanding of market and financial mechanisms, organizational and investment-logic, with focus on efficient use of resources.
Strategic procurement. Understanding industrial value networks, managing large-scale procurement, and ensuring supply chain resilience.
Innovation process. Learning how private companies manage innovation, R&D, and ML/AI transformation.
Outcome. Cultivating the Business Acumen necessary to lead modern, complex defense and security organizations, with a focus on total defense.