Business Schools in Manila

Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, is home to some of the country’s best business schools. These institutions produce future leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs who contribute to both local and global markets. Whether you’re looking for a degree in Business Administration, Management, Finance, or Marketing, the city offers a range of schools recognized for academic excellence, industry relevance, and global competitiveness.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top business schools in Manila, their standout programs, campus environments, and what makes them unique for aspiring business professionals.

Overview of Business Education in Manila

Business education in Manila has evolved beyond traditional lectures and textbooks. Many schools now focus on practical learning—through case studies, internships, international exchanges, and startup incubation. With the Philippines’ growing economy and vibrant entrepreneurial scene, Manila’s business schools provide students with a strong foundation to thrive in corporate and entrepreneurial settings alike.

Most programs are offered at the undergraduate (BSBA, BSM, BBA) and graduate (MBA, EMBA, MS Finance) levels. Schools also offer specialized programs in entrepreneurship, management engineering, and business analytics—reflecting today’s business needs.

Top Business Schools in Manila

1. De La Salle University (DLSU) – Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business

De La Salle University is one of the leading private institutions in the country and is well-known for its strong business and management programs.

Key Programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA)

• Bachelor of Science in Applied Corporate Management

• MBA and Executive MBA programs

Why It Stands Out:
DLSU emphasizes values-driven leadership, innovation, and sustainability. The College of Business integrates Lasallian ethics with modern management principles. Students also have opportunities to join case competitions, international study tours, and company immersions.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/de-la-salle-university-dlsu-guide.html

2. Ateneo de Manila University – John Gokongwei School of Management (JGSOM)

Ateneo’s JGSOM is widely regarded as one of the premier business schools in the Philippines, combining Jesuit education with practical management training.

Key Programs:

• BS Management Engineering

• BS Management

• BS Management Economics

• MBA (through Ateneo Graduate School of Business)

Why It Stands Out:
The school is known for developing analytical, ethical, and globally minded leaders. The Management Engineering program, in particular, is one of the most selective and rigorous business courses in the country. The Ateneo Graduate School of Business (AGSB), located in Makati, is a top choice for working professionals pursuing an MBA.

Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Guide

3. University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman – Cesar E.A. Virata School of Business

The UP Virata School of Business, formerly known as the UP College of Business Administration, is one of the most prestigious business schools in the Philippines.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration (BSBA)

• BS Business Administration and Accountancy (BSBAA)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Why It Stands Out:
UP’s business programs focus on analytical thinking, strategic management, and ethical leadership. As a public university, tuition fees are affordable, but admissions are highly competitive. Many of the country’s top executives and entrepreneurs are UP alumni.

University of the Philippines – Diliman (UPD) Guide

4. University of Santo Tomas (UST) – AMV College of Accountancy & College of Commerce and Business Administration

UST offers business programs with a strong emphasis on values, ethics, and practical management.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration major in Financial Management, Marketing Management, or Human Resource Development

• BS Entrepreneurship

• MBA (through UST Graduate School)

Why It Stands Out:
UST’s business programs blend traditional Catholic education with real-world application. Its long history and strong alumni network make it a trusted choice among Filipino families and international students.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/university-of-santo-tomas-ust-guide.html

5. Far Eastern University (FEU) – Institute of Accounts, Business, and Finance (IABF)

FEU’s IABF is one of the oldest and most respected business institutions in the country, known for its consistent performance in board exams and employability of graduates.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration

• BS Accountancy

• MBA (through FEU Graduate Studies)

Why It Stands Out:
FEU focuses on practical and industry-based learning. The university has modern facilities, an urban campus, and a curriculum designed to prepare students for both corporate and entrepreneurial careers.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/far-eastern-university-feu-guide.html

6. Mapúa University – School of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management

While Mapúa is best known for engineering, it has developed a strong reputation in business and management education, especially in areas related to technology and innovation.

Key Programs:

• BS Management Engineering

• BS Business Administration

• MBA (with emphasis on technology management)

Why It Stands Out:
Mapúa integrates business education with engineering and IT, producing graduates who are ready to lead in tech-driven industries. Its focus on analytics and innovation sets it apart from traditional business programs.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/mapua-university-guide.html

7. Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – College of Business Administration

PUP is the largest public university in the Philippines and one of the most affordable options for quality business education.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration

• BS Marketing Management

• BS Office Administration

• Master in Business Administration

Why It Stands Out:
PUP’s programs emphasize competence, discipline, and public service. Many of its graduates go on to work in government, corporations, and entrepreneurial ventures. Despite low tuition fees, PUP maintains high academic standards and strong industry partnerships.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/polytechnic-university-of-the-philippines-pup-guide.html

8. San Beda University – College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Business Administration and Entrepreneurship

San Beda’s business programs promote integrity and innovation through Benedictine values.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration

• BS Entrepreneurship

• MBA (through San Beda Graduate School of Business)

Why It Stands Out:
Located in Mendiola, San Beda is known for its tight-knit academic community and holistic approach to education. Its MBA program attracts professionals from diverse industries seeking faith-based yet practical management training.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/san-beda-university-sbu-guide.html

9. Centro Escolar University (CEU) – School of Accountancy and Management

CEU offers a range of business programs focusing on corporate management and entrepreneurship.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration

• BS Accountancy

• BS Entrepreneurship

• MBA

Why It Stands Out:
CEU’s programs are known for nurturing confident, well-rounded graduates. The university provides hands-on learning through simulations, projects, and business plan competitions.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/centro-escolar-university-ceu-guide.html

10. University of the East (UE) – College of Business Administration

UE is one of the pioneering business schools in the country, with decades of experience in producing business professionals and entrepreneurs.

Key Programs:

• BS Business Administration

• BS Accountancy

• MBA and Executive MBA

Why It Stands Out:
UE’s College of Business Administration has a long tradition of academic excellence and practical business education. It emphasizes both theoretical understanding and the practical application of business principles.

https://3d-universal.com/en/blogs/san-beda-university-sbu-guide.html

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Business School

When selecting a business school in Manila, consider the following:

1. Program Specialization – Choose schools that match your career goals (finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, etc.).

2. Accreditation and Reputation – Schools accredited by organizations like PAASCU or AACSB often have stronger academic credibility.

3. Industry Connections – Look for institutions with internship programs and strong corporate linkages.

4. Location – Schools in business districts like Makati or Ortigas provide easy access to industry networks.

5. Tuition and Financial Aid – Public universities like UP and PUP are more affordable, while private universities offer scholarships and assistantships.

Graduate-Level Options (MBA Programs)

For professionals seeking career advancement, several schools offer high-quality MBA programs:

• Ateneo Graduate School of Business (AGSB) – Popular for executive and middle-management professionals.

• De La Salle University MBA – Offers a balanced academic and experiential approach.

• UP MBA – Known for producing leaders in both public and private sectors.

• Asian Institute of Management (AIM) – While not within Manila proper, AIM in Makati is internationally acclaimed for its world-class MBA and executive education programs.

Conclusion

Manila stands as the business education hub of the Philippines, offering a blend of tradition, innovation, and global relevance. From elite universities like Ateneo and DLSU to accessible yet high-performing institutions like UP and PUP, there’s a business school for every type of student and professional.

Whether your goal is to become a corporate leader, financial analyst, or entrepreneur, studying in Manila provides both a solid academic foundation and access to one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic business environments.