Peru’s Executive Education Boom: Why Short Courses & Global Programs Are Winning
Sixty-five percent of Peruvian executives are actively considering postgraduate study within the next year, but they’re not necessarily reaching for the traditional two-year MBA. A new report from GRM reveals a decisive shift towards shorter, more focused programs – and a growing appetite for international qualifications. This isn’t just about upskilling; it’s a strategic response to a rapidly evolving business landscape.
The Rise of ‘Just-in-Time’ Learning
The demand for immediate applicability is driving this trend. Executives, particularly men aged 36-55 from socioeconomic levels A and B, are prioritizing short executive education programs and specialized master’s degrees. “Executives seek quick, practical, and immediately applicable education,” explains Giuliana Reyna, CEO of GRM. “They’re avoiding long-term commitments and high investment while continuously updating key competencies.” These programs, typically lasting months to a year, offer a compelling alternative to the extensive time and financial commitment of a full MBA.
This focus on practicality reflects a broader change in how professionals view education. It’s no longer about accumulating knowledge for its own sake, but about acquiring skills that deliver a tangible return on investment. Think of it as ‘just-in-time’ learning – acquiring the specific expertise needed to tackle immediate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Blended Learning & the Democratization of Global Education
The preferred learning modality is also evolving. While in-person learning still holds appeal for 26% of executives, a clear majority (61%) favor blended learning models. This hybrid approach combines the flexibility of online learning with the valuable networking and interaction of in-person sessions.
However, the most significant shift is the increasing accessibility of international programs. “Virtuality has eliminated geographic barriers,” Reyna notes, “facilitating access to international programs without the need to travel.” This is particularly impactful as the cost difference between Peruvian and international programs narrows, especially for virtual offerings. In 2025, 38% of executives surveyed are considering studying abroad, a significant jump from 21% in 2024.
Economic Uncertainty & the Recovery of Investment in Education
The surge in interest isn’t happening in a vacuum. After a dip in 2024 due to political and economic uncertainty – which led executives to postpone long-term investments – confidence is returning. As the Peruvian economy stabilizes, businesses are once again prioritizing employee training as a strategic imperative. This recovery is crucial, as 78% of executives cite updating their knowledge as the primary reason for pursuing further education.
However, financial barriers remain. Over half (58%) of executives surveyed identified a lack of sufficient income or savings as a major obstacle, followed by the high cost of programs (43%) and competing financial priorities (35%). This highlights the importance of flexible financing options and employer-sponsored training initiatives.
Who’s Funding the Future?
Currently, self-funding is the most common route, with 50% of executives planning to use their own savings. However, corporate sponsorship is playing an increasingly important role, particularly for shorter, highly focused courses. Companies are more likely to invest in in-house training or specialized programs that deliver immediate results, rather than covering the full cost of lengthy master’s degrees.
Interestingly, 20% of executives anticipate partial or full funding from their employers, indicating a growing recognition of the value of continuous professional development.
The Top Universities for Executive Education in Peru
When it comes to choosing a provider, reputation matters. Universidad del Pacífico (24%) and ESAN (20%) currently lead the pack, followed by Universidad de Piura (14%), Centrum (10%), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú-PUCP (9%), Universidad de Lima (7%), and Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas-UPC (7%). Executives prioritize institutional prestige, teacher quality, practical applicability, networking opportunities, and the potential return on investment.
Looking Ahead: Micro-Credentials & the Future of Lifelong Learning
The future of executive education in Peru is clear: it will be characterized by flexibility, practicality, and a focus on demonstrable results. Demand for short specialization courses and “stackable” credentials – modular learning units that build towards larger qualifications – will continue to grow, particularly in areas like digital transformation, leadership, data analytics, and sustainability.
Universities face a significant challenge: adapting to the needs of time-constrained executives who demand value and have a wealth of options. To attract students, they must offer flexible, hybrid programs, updated content, experienced instructors, and strong networking opportunities. The institutions that embrace these changes will be best positioned to thrive in the evolving landscape of executive education. The World Economic Forum highlights the critical need for lifelong learning to navigate the changing job market, and Peru’s executives are clearly responding to that call.
What skills will be most in-demand for Peruvian executives in the next five years? Share your predictions in the comments below!
