CHAMPIONING NEW THINKING IN ECONOMICS SINCE 1952
Established in 1952, the Oxford University Business Economics Programme (OUBEP) is the University’s longest-running executive education initiative. Rooted in the transformative post-World War II era, OUBEP was created by forward-thinking business leaders to prepare the next generation of decision-makers with a solid understanding of contemporary economics. This pioneering vision brought together individuals from both public and private sectors to explore economic challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
OUBEP’s founding principles emphasised inclusivity and excellence, selecting participants based on their experience, ability, and potential. The programme encouraged reflection, cross-sector collaboration, and openness to new ideas—qualities that remain at the heart of OUBEP’s mission today.
Over the decades, OUBEP has continually adapted to meet the demands of a global and interconnected economy. While its structure has evolved, the essence of the programme remains unchanged: to bring together bright minds for meaningful dialogue on economics, business, and society.
A unique opportunity to reflect on the economic drivers – and business behaviours and strategies – that we all experience, but may not have had the opportunity to study in any depth, or with the benefit of expert tuition.
Ron Gerrard, Vice President Operations and Technology, Huntsman Polyurethanes
The flagship offering of OUBEP is now a dynamic three-month hybrid programme designed for senior leaders and professionals on the cusp of strategic leadership. Participants begin their journey with exclusive online content in February, supported by personalised tutorials, weekly sessions, and expert lectures. This preparatory phase culminates in an immersive residential week in July at St Catherine’s College, Oxford. Here, participants engage in in-depth tutorials, formal networking events, and wellness activities, fostering both professional growth and meaningful connections.
The course challenges participants to master economic frameworks and strategic thinking tools, applying them to real-world issues such as market dynamics, regulatory risks, and systemic challenges. Guided by world-class faculty and enriched by a diverse cohort, participants leave equipped to navigate complex environments with confidence and insight.
“The impact of OUBEP is not to do with the fact that you learn something and then you go away and start applying it tomorrow. OUBEP’s influence is more “macro”: it helps you to think in a very different way when you look at your business challenges and wider economic issues.
‘I think you become more profound in your thinking through using learnt structures and concepts to analyse problems and challenges. This change starts in the OUBEP classroom but it continues to grow in you. Something about how you think and about how you look at business challenges has changed.”
Complementing the formal curriculum is OUBEP’s prestigious alumni network—a global community of leaders who continue to collaborate and exchange ideas long after the programme concludes.
At the heart of OUBEP is a commitment to bridging academic rigour with practical relevance. By empowering leaders to think critically, act decisively, and adapt to an ever-evolving world, OUBEP ensures its legacy of excellence endures..
OUBEP Yearbook
OUBEP’s Summer Programme Yearbook explores over 72 years of history. Founded in 1953, the history of the Oxford University Business Economics Programme is in many ways the history of changing social attitudes towards business in Britain over the past 72 years. It also forms an interesting backdrop to the development of university-based business schools in Europe and the UK.
Download the Yearbook
More details:
Our people
We are a small team based in the Department of Economics at Oxford University.
We work alongside Faculty members to create an outstanding experience for our participants.
Steering Committee
The OUBEP Steering Committee comprises senior executives representing major global companies, as well as world-leading academic economists.
The Ultimate Leadership accelerator
At the core of the Oxford University Business Economics Programme is an intensive, one-week development course for the next generation of senior leaders. By combining high-calibre academic tuition, industry-leading keynote speakers, and a diverse group of delegates, OUBEP creates a dynamic space to explore economic theory and applications to help solve problems and create strategic impact.
