Your Programme
Experience University during your two-week Summer School in the heart of Europe
St.Gallen city centre and Säntis mountain
WHAT
2 exciting weeks
You will enjoy two weeks of new experiences, insights, and excitement in Europe's SME heartland. During the two weeks, several concise input blocks offer the latest business insights from multiple subjects to be applied in your group work. The goal is to develop an appreciation of Europe's businesses, your own entrepreneurial idea, and to thoroughly explore both from multiple perspectives.
WHEN
July 7-18, 2025
The Summer School will take place from July 7 to 18, 2025 (both days inclusive). Thus, the programme falls between your last day of high school and the first day of the new semester at university.
WHERE
St.Gallen and beyond
The program starts in the picturesque setting of Eastern Switzerland, where economic activity is dominated by smaller innovative companies. Our university is nestled above St. Gallen's historic old town – a prime spot that serves as the perfect gateway to discovering one of Europe's most charming, culturally rich, and entrepreneurial areas!
WHO
17+
Generally, the Summer School is designed for high school graduates and students (graduating between 2023-2026) who have already reached the age of 18. However, if you are an outstanding 17-year-old candidate who would like to participate, we will be happy to consider your application.
WHY
Understanding Europe
Our program provides an immersive experience into the core of European business culture. Delve deep into an economy where SMEs are not just participants, but champions, setting benchmarks in their respective niches. Equip yourself with a comprehensive understanding of Europe's entrepreneurial spirit and prepare to navigate the global business tapestry.
FEE
CHF 3,750*
The course fee is CHF 3,750 (presently VAT exempt) for the full programme over two weeks. Payment is fully refundable in case of official government-issued travel restrictions to and from Switzerland (Covid-19 specific clause) and payable only after acceptance confirmation.
HINT 1: Great gift idea for parents, guardians, and mentors for birthdays and graduations.
HINT 2: Sign up as a team of two or more to share accommodation costs and get a discount.
*Exclusive, non-combinable discounts:
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HSG Alumni discount: Immediate family members of HSG graduates receive a 10% discount (not combinable with other discounts)
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Early bird: Sign up before December 24, 2024 and claim a discount of 5% before VAT each (not combinable with other discounts)
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Group discount: Sign up with at least one other person, and claim a discount of 5% each (not combinable with other discounts)
Old town of St.Gallen
Your Curriculum
Your curriculum includes different input blocks surrounding the St.Gallen Management Model and provides you with the tools and methods to master much more than the Summer School
Sustainability
Strategy
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Marketing
Innovation Management
Operations
Supporting Tools & Methods
The tools and methods shared during the Summer School will teach you how to obtain, process, and integrate information much as you would have to know when entering university. With this, we offer you an ideal preparation for the work you have to do in your first semester.
The group work will also provide you with valuable experience on how to organize yourself in a team of diverse, yet likeminded peers, how to divide the task into smaller sub-tasks, and how to bring them back together at the end to form an integrated effort.
Module 1 – Entrepreneurship
The first module in week one introduces you to the topic of entrepreneurship. For example, learn how:
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ideas can be generated, formalized, and evaluated,
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pivots are used to respond to customer needs and market developments,
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teams work together synergistically,
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products are brought to market successfully.
During the first week, you will develop an entrepreneurial idea in your group, which you will pitch to the class at the end of the week.
Module 2 – Finance
The second module in week two introduces you to the world of finance. Have you always wondered what is behind terms like mergers and acquisitions, private equity, or family office? What exactly is Bitcoin and why is it described as digital gold?
This and much more is waiting for you in week two and offers the ideal complement to the entrepreneurship module before. In the second week, you will therefore create a funding strategy for your entrepreneurial idea in the group. The overall results will be presented on the last day of the program.
Tools & Methods
The tools and methods shared during the Summer School will teach you how to obtain, process, and integrate information much as you would have to know when entering university. With this, we offer you an ideal preparation for the work you have to do in your first semester, thus setting you up for success.
The group work will also provide you with valuable experience on how to organize yourself in a team of diverse, yet likeminded peers, how to divide the task into smaller sub-tasks, and how to bring them back together at the end to form an integrated effort.
Your Programme Structure
The Summer School structure consists of input sessions, application sessions, and social events
Input sessions
The input sessions will equip you with information that will help you complete your assignments. This will be done, for example, in in-class lessons or guest lectures. The topics discussed relate to the input blocks listed above.
Application sessions
Naturally, you will also apply what you have learned. You will be offered time for group work or small workshops. You will also gain practical insights through company visits and learn how to interact with company representatives.
Social events
Of course, socializing and having fun will not be missing. Through selected events, you will get to know your fellow students better and make contacts for life. But rest assured that you will have plenty of time to explore St.Gallen and its surroundings on your own.
This is what your two weeks may look like:
Note: This schedule is illustrative and subject to change
Legend:
Input sessions
Application sessions
Social events
Our Team
Our Summer School team is committed to ensuring that you have an unforgettable experience in Switzerland
Prof. Matthias A. Tietz, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship | Programme Director
CV
Stefan Ott
PhD Student | Programme Assistant
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What exactly does the course fee include?The course fee includes 2 weeks of classes, company visits and excursions, most transportation to and from the companies and institutions we visit together, and selected social events (welcome dinner, group dinners, and farewell dinner). Not included are, among others: travel expenses, such as airfare and private transportation, accommodation, meals (excluding social events mentioned before), personal entertainment, or leisure travel.
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I am under 18. Can I still participate in the Summer School?The Summer School is aimed at adult high school students and recent graduates. If you are not yet 18, we look forward to welcoming you to our programme in the future.
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What about accommodation? Where can I stay?Accommodation is not part of the course fees, but Singapore offers accommodation options for every budget. Before the programme begins, we will give you an overview of selected options that are suitable due to their central location and proximity to our venue.
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Will there be grades and exams?No, there will be no grades awarded. However, the groups receive feedback from the programme management and the instructors.
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Will I receive a certificate?Yes, participants receive a certificate of attendance after successfully completing the two-week programme.
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Should I bring a computer?Yes, please bring a laptop or tablet; it is helpful for online research, group work, and presentations.
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What is the dress code?While there is no formal dress code for the programme, we would appreciate it if you could refrain from wearing flip-flops and tank tops during class time. Ideally, you should bring clothing for a hot, humid, and rainy climate as well as for air-conditioned indoor spaces (e.g., pullover, scarf, cardigan). For company and partner visits as well as our farewell dinner, a formal outfit is required (long trousers, skirt or office dress with a formal collared shirt or blouse, and appropriate footwear).
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When should I arrive in Singapore?When you arrive and leave is entirely up to you. You just need to be on time for class. However, it is advisable to arrive at least three days before the start of the Summer School to minimise the possible effects of travel interruptions and jet lag.
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How can I stay connected with friends and family at home?In Singapore, there are several major mobile operators (e.g., Singtel and StarHub) and some smaller operators using their networks. You can search online for the best tourist/prepaid SIM card deals for the time you spend in Singapore.