Work-study during the PGE
A growing development of apprenticeship
The creation of our own CFA (Apprentice Training Center) in 2020 allows us to gradually increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities with autonomy and strong commitment. While complying with the regulatory framework of the Master’s Degree, since apprenticeship students obtain the same diploma, the pedagogy is adapted and differentiated to meet the specific challenges of this immersive learning model.
Courses are delivered exclusively on the Lyon campus, following a rhythm of one week of classes for every two to three weeks in the company. In addition to core courses and available tracks, all apprenticeship students follow an introductory course in ethnography, designed by the Ethnography Institute of emlyon business school.
Financing
Employment law stipulates that an apprenticeship student must not spend a single euro on tuition fees. The employer who signs the apprenticeship contract will cover these costs and pay you a salary, which is also set by law.
Further information is available on Service-public.fr and on the website of the French Ministry of Labor, Full Employment and Integration.
Eligibility and diploma requirements
The apprenticeship track of the Master in Management program at emlyon is demanding, both in terms of content and workload. Therefore, a strong academic and disciplinary record is required.
Since the degree requirements are strictly identical to the traditional track, it is only the implementation and timing of these requirements that differ for the apprenticeship track.
For example, students in the initial track have time during their studies to complete their Responsible Engagement Program, Makers’ Project, or international experience.
Students aiming for the apprenticeship route must plan ahead: some requirements need to be fulfilled before starting the apprenticeship.
Finding a company
Once eligibility is confirmed (in spring), students applying for the apprenticeship track have several months to find an employer.
This is your first employment contract: it is up to the future apprentice to take all necessary steps to secure an apprenticeship agreement.
You will have access to all resources provided by the Career Center (courses, Employability tools, etc.). Additionally, an Apprenticeship Forum is held each year, bringing together recruiters and applicants to create a networking space.
The apprenticeship placement is only confirmed upon validation of the job assignment and signing of the contract.
Apprenticeship is a considerable gas pedal in a professional life. Not only does it enable you to gain in maturity and expertise, but it is also a catalyst for your career and remuneration in the early years of your working life.
Top apprenticeship recruiters – MiM program (Work-Study Track)

Breakdown by sector:
- 11% of apprentices work in consulting firms
- 10% in IT consulting firms
All sectors and industries are represented.
Main professional fields:
- 33% in Business Development
- 30% in Marketing
- 14% in Finance
Figures: January 2023 cohort of Programme Grande École apprenticeship students.
Structure of the apprenticeship
The apprenticeship intake takes place on the Lyon campus, like all other courses. It traditionally begins in the second half of September: you have until then to present a job offer and sign an apprenticeship contract. If not, your spot in the traditional track remains reserved.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you’ll balance your company missions and your academic commitments in the Programme Grande École. To ensure the best conditions, each student is assigned a coach, your company mentor, who supports you throughout the year, including two company visits with your Apprentice Supervisor.
The dropout rate during training for students entering the Programme Grande École in apprenticeship between September 2023 and January 2024 is 3.53% (updated data as of May 2024).
Degrees and certifications from emlyon are issued exclusively by emlyon business school: it is therefore not possible to compare the added value of the institution with others when it comes to these qualifications.