The Best M&A Courses

Michael Klawon

28.October 2023

~ mins. reading time

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) is a sought-after discipline that requires a diverse combination of skills and experiences. Becoming an M&A professional typically involves a blend of education, skill development, networking, and practical experience. However, M&A courses are not solely relevant for newcomers to this industry, since the majority of M&A teams are adopting digital M&A suites, knowledge and experience with new technology are becoming increasingly important. M&A courses can help professionals to gather new skills and get access to a wide range of benefits, including:

1. 1. Changing or advancing your career: If you want to transition your career into the M&A space, it is recommended to attend an M&A course. A formal education, such as an M&A course, should ideally be paired with other learning activities, such as on-the-job training, reading, desk research, attending workshops and seminars, or mentorship. A strong understanding of M&A can also open up opportunities in investment banking, corporate development, consulting, and other related fields.
1. 2. Gain knowledge and expertise: M&A transactions are complex and involve various legal, financial, strategic, and operational aspects. Courses provide structured learning that helps participants gain a deep understanding of the entire M&A process.
1. 3. Mitigate risks: M&A transactions come with significant risks, including financial, legal, and operational risks. Courses teach participants how to identify, assess, and mitigate these risks, reducing the likelihood of costly mistakes.
1. 4. Meet new business partners and peers: M&A courses often attract professionals from diverse backgrounds, including lawyers, investment bankers, accountants, and business executives. Attending these courses allows participants to build a network of contacts in the field, which can be valuable for future collaborations, peer learning or even job opportunities.
1. 5. Learn new best practices: The M&A landscape is constantly evolving due to changes in regulations, market dynamics, and technology. Courses are updated to reflect the latest trends and best practices, ensuring that participants are equipped with up-to-date knowledge.

1) Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Master of Mergers & Acquisitions (LLM)

Description: This unique interdisciplinary Master's program blends law and business administration, providing tailored expertise in M&A and Corporate Finance. The curriculum, guided by experienced instructors, mirrors the entire M&A process and is designed for practical application. Instructors, recognized experts in the field, come from top academic and industry backgrounds.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

The interdisciplinary approach at the intersection of law and business administration distinguishes this program, providing tailored legal, business, and tax expertise in M&A and Corporate Finance.
The curriculum is aligned with the M&A process, and instructors are experienced experts from both practical and academic backgrounds.
Practice-oriented: The part-time Master's program in Mergers & Acquisitions mirrors the entire M&A process in detail. You gain new expertise and deepen existing knowledge. The organization of the part-time Master's program is well designed to balance professional commitments and studies. You will conclude your studies with a six-month master's thesis and a concluding conference.
Excellent expertise: Instructors are recognized top scholars and specialists from the financial industry, M&A law firms, and M&A departments of industrial companies.

Duration: Four semesters

Format: The study program can be seamlessly integrated into the professional life. After the introductory week, the block sessions take place once a month from Thursday to Saturday at the Frankfurt School. Between these intensive sessions, you will work individually or in groups on practical issues related to M&A.

Fees: €33,000

Link to M&A course: Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Master of Mergers & Acquisitions (LLM)

2) University Münster (JurGrad gGmbH) / Mergers & Acquisitions (LL.M.)

Description: The master's program "Mergers & Acquisitions" at the University of Münster is unique in several ways within the European context. Participants in this program have the opportunity to qualify as M&A consultants on a part-time basis in just four semesters. Renowned lecturers provide instruction at the highest level, covering both theoretical and practical backgrounds. This ensures that graduates hold an exceptional position in the market as highly specialized M&A experts, offering excellent professional and career opportunities.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

The collaboration between the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Business and Economics allows participants to examine issues from various perspectives. This enables them to engage in interdisciplinary thinking and action, encouraging the indispensable "thinking outside the box" approach in practice.
The practice lecturers are active in leading law firms and consulting companies, both nationally and internationally, specializing in M&A. All instructors have an excellent reputation. Unique to this program is the co-teaching principle, where each module is designed by at least two instructors, one from academia and the other from the industry. This ensures that participants receive a solid academic foundation combined with crucial practical relevance.
Another unique aspect is that all students, regardless of their background in law or economics, can choose between two degrees. Depending on whether one opts for the legal or economic focus, graduates are awarded the recognized academic title "Master of Laws (LL.M.)" or "Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)" upon successful completion.

Duration: 24 months

Format: Short on-site sessions - an introductory week and 14 on-site weekends, usually held once a month from Thursday to Saturday.

Fees: €14,700

Link to M&A course: University Münster (JurGrad gGmbH) / Mergers & Acquisitions (LL.M.)

3) Institute for Mergers, Acquisitions and Alliances (IMAA): Comprehensive Education Programs for Professional Development

Description: The Institute for Mergers, Acquisitions and Alliances (IMAA) is a global think tank for M&A that focusses on programs that cover M&A from various angles. Participants are very international and stem from major global companies and investors to boutique businesses.

Most strategic acquirers attend the International Mergers & Acquisitions (IM&A) designation that covers strategic aspects, due diligence, valuation, and post merger integration. The second flagship program is the Certified Post Merger Integration Expert (CPMI) that covers the governance in integration, synergy identification and realization, integrating various business functions, as well as culture & change management. The Mergers & Acquisitions (M&AP) program emerges as a prime choice for professionals in auditing, consulting, deal advisory, and investment banking – covering M&A until closing. The Legal Mergers & Acquisitions Expert (LM&A) program covers apart from the foundation in M&A and due diligence in particular various legal aspects in-depth. The Human Resource Mergers & Acquisitions Expert (HRM&A) program prepares HR professionals for the next level when dealing with M&A challenges from a people’s perspective pre- and post-deal. Each certificate is meticulously designed to address the unique needs of professionals at different career levels, reflecting a commitment to excellence.

The programs are offered by IMAA, a notable training provider, known for their range of high-quality M&A courses in various formats: online (self-paced), online live (via video calls), and onsite in various locations globally, for example New York, London, Amsterdam, Zurich, Dubai, and Singapore.

Developed by leading experts, IMAA's globally oriented programs provide a holistic approach, making the attainment of the M&AP designation through IMAA a mark of dedication to top-tier M&A expertise.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Leading faculty from the industry
Split into four, easy-to-digest modules, content updated regularly
Life-long access to the most up-to-date online course content
Onsite programs include hard copies of all presentations and materials
Designation upon completion
First year of Annual Membership Fee
Access to the entire IMAA e-Library
Global network of charterholders and experts

Duration: 50-70 hours (online), 30 hours (online live & onsite)

Format: Onsite or online

Fees: Onsite $5,490, Online $3,290

Link to M&A courses:

4) The practical online course: The Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst Course (FMVA®)

The Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst Course (FMVA®) teaches vital financial analysis skills, including constructing confidence-inspiring financial models. This comprehensive certification enhances proficiency in accounting and finance, making you a top-tier financial professional. Emphasizing real-world applications, the FMVA® program readies professionals for careers in investment banking, private equity, M&A, business valuation, and corporate finance. Its flexible online format suits busy professionals seeking skill enhancement and career advancement.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

41 hands-on courses with over 2.750 lessons, 17 required to earn the FMVA certification
Over 200 interactives exercises with guided simulations that help you to learn by doing
Skills: Financial Statement Analysis, Modeling, Accounting, Budgeting, Forecasting, Excel, PowerPoint, and more
Community: Large community of certified practitioners on LinkedIn

Duration: According to your own pace

Format: Online

Fees: $347.90/year for self-study; $592.90/year with access to more tools, frameworks and templates (subject to change)

Link to M&A course: Corporate Finance Institute FMVA® Course

5) Certified M&A Manager training course

Description: Participants will acquire comprehensive knowledge in guiding companies through M&A processes, analyzing business challenges from economic and legal perspectives, and mitigating risks through thorough corporate analysis. Additionally, they will develop the skills to professionally lead contract negotiations and simulate company valuations using taught methods.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Participants will gain knowledge and expertise in guiding companies through various phases of M&A processes.
Participants will lean to analyze business challenges from both economic and legal perspectives and mitigate risks through thorough corporate analysis.
Participants will acquire the skills to professionally accompany and lead contract negotiations.
They will engage in simulating a company valuation using the taught valuation methods.
The Certified M&A Manager program concludes with a diploma from the Controller Institute. Prerequisites include completing the in-person modules, working on an accompanying case, and undergoing a final oral examination. The examination fee is included in the total program cost.

Duration: Nine days

Format: Online

Fees: €5.950

Link to M&A course: Certified M&A Manager training course

6) Stanford GBS Business Mergers and Acquisitions Course

The Stanford GSB Executive Education experience claims to help you discover a life-changing catalyst for positive change in yourself, your company, and your career. Faculty members, who also teach in our MBA program, are world-renowned experts in the global business community. Drawing on their own research and current trends in business thinking, they combine research-based knowledge with real-world experiences, covering a wide range of topics that reflect the most critical challenges facing global business leaders.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Financial Valuation and Strategy: Online course covers financial modeling, serving as both a refresher and introduction for finance professionals and non-finance executives.
M&A Team Simulation Project: A week-long proprietary project offers hands-on M&A deal experience and concludes with team presentations.
Negotiation: Participants learn negotiation strategies and effective planning to achieve desired M&A outcomes.
M&A Tax Planning: Focuses on income tax implications of M&A deal structures, helping participants understand tax advantages.
Post-Merger Integration: Analyzes structural, cultural, and social implications of M&A integration, teaching practical tools for cultural integration.
Other highlights: Stanford GSB programs prioritize deep learning and engagement. Small class sizes and high-caliber cohorts promote interaction. Various learning methods, such as lectures and business simulations, encourage collaboration. Cross-school collaboration involves faculty from different Stanford schools.

Duration: Five days

Format: In-person

Fees: $13,500 (subject to change)

Link to M&A course: Stanford M&A course

7) Harvard Law School Mergers and Acquisitions: Structuring and Leading Deals

Description: Mergers and Acquisitions - Structuring and Leading Deals provides participants with an overview of the M&A process through multiple lenses including strategic, financial, legal, and operational. The program is designed to provide participants with in-depth analysis of the components of mergers and acquisitions. The program is aimed at those with responsibility for managing, overseeing, and implementing M&A transactions. Participants do not need to have a background in mergers and acquisitions and the course will add value to those with previous mergers and acquisitions experience.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Participants will learn how M&A can be a core component of firm strategy
During the course, participants will learn how targets and synergies are valued
The course covers answers to questions like how M&A transactions are sourced, initiated, and priced, how deals are structured and designed, what kinds of disputes and potential lawsuits arise over the course of an M&A transaction.
Participants will also learn bout how targets are integrated after the deal is formally complete.

Duration: Five days

Format: Onsite

Fees: $15,750

Link to M&A course: Harvard Law School Mergers and Acquisitions: Structuring and Leading Deals

8) INSEAD M&As and Corporate Strategy

Description: The M&As and Corporate Strategy program fully leverages the latest in faculty research and thought leadership. Together with next-generation teaching and learning methodologies, it delivers a solid understanding of portfolio growth and restructuring, M&As and divestitures, as well as alliances. You will explore the key issues through deep analysis and real-world case studies from a breadth of industries, including financial services, telecommunications and IT, chemicals and manufacturing.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

The M&As and Corporate Strategy program has been built on the thought leadership developed at INSEAD in corporate strategy and M&As.
Through lectures, interactive case studies, small-group projects and experience-sharing workshops you will be equipped with a set of frameworks, practical tools and world-class peer contacts that will make you better prepared to tackle the critical issues concerning M&As and corporate strategy.
As a participant, you will learn to a) evaluate your business portfolio and determine the appropriate businesses to acquire, restructure or divest b) select acquisition targets that fill your capability gaps and fit with your corporate strategy c) evaluate acquisition opportunities by quantifying the value of the acquisition target d) understand and choose different integration approaches for different acquisition targets.

Duration: Five Days

Format: Onsite

Fees: $15,850

Link to M&A course: INSEAD M&As and Corporate Strategy

9) Stanford Mergers and Acquisitions Executive Program

Description: Through a dynamic mix of lectures, case studies, class discussions, hands-on learning, and visits from guest speakers, this program provides critical insights and powerful tools for the successful formulation and execution of an M&A strategy. Put classroom learning into action, applying key concepts to a simulated merger deal. By combining the expertise of Stanford’s strategy, finance, accounting, and organizational behavior faculty, Mergers and Acquisitions offers an interdisciplinary overview of the major elements of M&A transactions.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Learn the strategic, financial, legal, organizational, and cultural factors to consider in order to execute a successful merger or acquisition.
Enhance your financial valuation skills and learn to formulate M&A strategies.
Increase your awareness of the common pitfalls of failed M&As.
Develop the critical competencies needed for successful post-merger integration and performance.

Duration: One week

Format: Onsite

Fees: $15,000

Link to M&A course: Stanford Mergers and Acquisitions Executive Program

If you would like to discuss or explore the AI potential in your M&A process, feel free to reach out.

10) The London School of Business (LBS) Mergers and Acquisitions Course

The program of the LBS is designed for senior managers and business leaders who are, or want to be, involved in growing their organisations through M&A. Attendees include: Professionals in roles that deal with M&A in any industry. Students pick the LBS due to its academic strength and global outlook that drives original and provocative business thinking. The LBS claims to challenge conventional wisdom, to transform careers and to empower people to change the way the world does business.

Program highlights and learning opportunities:

Learn to develop a strong acquisitions strategy and finance a deal. Raise your game to deliver improved growth and shareholder value.
Judge whether a merger or acquisition fits with your corporate strategy, and what kind of companies you should consider.
Learn to determine a company's worth, both in itself and to your organisation. Make bold, knowledge-based decisions on human, cultural and system issues.
Investigate valuations and buyouts, different corporate valuation techniques, highly leveraged transactions and deal capacity.

Duration: Five days

Format: In-person

Fees: £8,900 (subject to change)

Link to M&A course: LBS M&A course

Conclusion and key take-aways

In conclusion, the world of M&A is a dynamic field that demands a diverse set of skills and experiences. Gaining new skills is especially important now, since many teams are digitalizing their M&A processes. M&A courses offer numerous advantages, making them relevant for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. These benefits include career advancement, knowledge acquisition, gaining exposure to new technology, risk mitigation, networking opportunities, and staying updated with evolving best practices. For those seeking top-notch M&A education, we've highlighted ten exceptional courses.

Each of these courses caters to different learning preferences, making them valuable options for anyone aspiring to excel in the dynamic and competitive M&A landscape. Whether you're looking to transition your career, deepen your knowledge, or gain practical skills, these courses can be a catalyst for your success in the M&A industry.

If you would like to discuss or explore best practices with your M&A team, reach out to mklawon@smartmerger.com.

Michael Klawon

Scientific Practitioner and LMU x Breitenstein Consulting Project Participant

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