In the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina, higher education in economics and management has a name that stands out for its history, influence, and commitment to quality. The University of Sarajevo School of Economics and Business, often known simply as SEBS, has been shaping the region’s business leaders since 1952. Established as part of the University of Sarajevo, SEBS has grown into the largest and most respected institution in its field, earning a reputation that extends beyond national borders.
SEBS has set itself apart through rigorous academic standards and international recognition. It holds the rare distinction of being accredited by both AACSB and EFMD, affirming its dedication to excellence and global relevance. The school nurtures knowledge and experience in business and economics while fostering a sense of responsibility, integrity, and openness among its students.
With a dynamic community of around 4,000 students and an alumni network that spans influential roles in government, academia, and industry, SEBS continues to influence the economic and social development of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its mission goes beyond teaching; it seeks to create a society equipped with insight, innovation, and the skills to navigate an increasingly complex world.
Academic Programs and Global Edge
SEBS offers a wide range of programs spanning undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies, all designed with a strong international focus and practical orientation. Unique double-degree partnerships with universities such as Griffith College Dublin, the University of Ljubljana, and Barcelona School of Management allow students to gain global exposure and diplomas recognized across Europe.
Specialized programs in forensic accounting, business sustainability, and management information systems connect theory with industry practice. With internships, career fairs, and participation in flagship events like the Sarajevo Innovation Summit, SEBS equips students with skills, networks, and competitive advantages to excel locally and internationally.
Leadership and Vision
Prof. Dr. Meliha Bašić, Dean of SEBS, is a visionary leader dedicated to internationalization, sustainability, and digital transformation in higher education. With a strong background in accounting and finance, she has expanded SEBS’s global partnerships and reinforced its reputation for excellence.
Reflecting on the school’s mission, she says, “At SEBS, we combine academic rigor with social responsibility, preparing students to lead with integrity in a rapidly changing world.” Under her guidance, SEBS offers students transformative learning experiences, real-world opportunities, and a supportive environment that nurtures ethical, competent, and globally minded business leaders.
Enrollment and Student Community
SEBS currently enrolls over 5,000 students across undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, reflecting steady growth and strong demand for its offerings. Each year, around 700 new students join the school, contributing to a vibrant community of approximately 4,000 students in the first and second cycles.
This diverse student body brings together individuals from different backgrounds, fostering collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange. SEBS places emphasis on not only academic achievement but also professional readiness, preparing graduates to excel in local and international markets while building a network that extends across industries, regions, and sectors.
Admissions and Financial Support
SEBS welcomes students who demonstrate academic promise and commitment to learning. Admission typically requires completion of high school, successful performance in entrance exams in mathematics and English, and evaluation of overall secondary school achievements. International students must have their diplomas recognized to enroll in programs offered in Bosnian or English.
SEBS students also benefit from the University of Sarajevo’s wider scholarship programs, as well as cantonal and state-level financial aid initiatives. These resources help ensure that capable students, regardless of their financial background, can access quality education and take full advantage of the school’s rigorous and globally oriented programs.
Departments and Campus Leadership
SEBS operates through a network of specialized centers and offices that ensure smooth campus operations and enrich the student experience. The SEBS International Office fosters global partnerships and mobility, while the Career Development Center connects students with internships and employers. The Center for Education and Research and the Center of Excellence for Evaluation and Policy Research drive innovation and applied research.
Additional hubs, including the Center for Islamic Economics, Banking, and Finance, and the Center for Management and Information Technology, focus on specialized knowledge and modern skills. Together with the Quality Assurance and Public Relations offices, these units maintain excellence and strengthen ties with industry.
Student Life and Campus Experience
SEBS offers a vibrant student life in the heart of Sarajevo, where cultural richness and academic rigor meet. Students enjoy a modern library, extensive information resources, and programs taught in both Bosnian and English. International exchange opportunities allow learners to experience diverse academic environments, broadening their perspectives.
Beyond the classroom, workshops, conferences, and career fairs provide practical skills, professional networking, and exposure to industry trends. This dynamic environment encourages students to engage actively with both their studies and the wider community, creating a balanced experience that combines personal growth, cultural exploration, and preparation for successful careers.
Diversity, Inclusion, and International Student Support
At SEBS, diversity and inclusion are core values that shape campus life. The school attracts students from around the world through international programs, double-degree partnerships, and English-language curricula. Support services ensure accessibility for students with disabilities, while clubs, mentorships, and cultural events foster integration and intercultural dialogue.
International students benefit from dedicated guidance on visas, accommodation, and orientation, along with buddy programs that ease their transition. Affordable tuition, career services, and internship opportunities strengthen professional growth. By embracing different perspectives, SEBS cultivates an inclusive community that equips all students to succeed in a globalized business environment.
Student Support, Mentorship, and Career Development
SEBS offers a robust system of support to help students succeed academically and professionally. The Career Center provides personalized counseling, CV and interview workshops, and access to national and international employers through the annual SEBS Career Fair. Mentorship comes from peers, faculty, and alumni, offering guidance, insights, and professional connections. Networking opportunities abound via conferences, student associations, international projects, and alumni events, helping students build lasting relationships.
Additional services include support for international students, language assistance, and access to modern learning resources, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in their careers and personal development.
Conferences and Publications
SEBS serves as a center for research, dialogue, and knowledge exchange. The school hosts and participates in leading events such as the Economic Forum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Sarajevo Innovation Summit, and the International Conferences on Economic and Social Studies and Official Statistics. These platforms connect academics, practitioners, and policymakers.
SEBS also publishes three scholarly works, including the South East European Journal of Economics and Business, the Sarajevo Business and Economics Review, and the Journal of Forensic Accounting Profession. These publications advance research, foster professional discussion, and reflect SEBS’s commitment to innovation and global academic standards.
Future Goals and Strategic Initiatives
Looking ahead, SEBS is focused on advancing educational quality while responding to regional and global needs. Key initiatives include integrating sustainability, ethics, and digital transformation across all programs, strengthening international partnerships for joint degrees and mobility, and investing in modern learning technologies and hybrid teaching methods.
Research and business collaboration will expand through advisory boards and dedicated centers, creating applied learning and entrepreneurial opportunities. Additionally, enhanced career services, alumni engagement, and mentorship programs aim to support students holistically. Through these efforts, SEBS aspires to be a dynamic, internationally recognized institution preparing graduates to lead responsibly in a rapidly evolving world.
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“We nurture integrity, openness, and innovation while encouraging our students to actively engage with the community, business sector, and international partners.”
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