This paper explores design issues to be considered in adapting the problem-based learning (PBL) for use in the context of East Asian higher education and tests its instructional effectiveness in a Master of Management degree program at a graduate school of business (GSB) in Thailand. The research analyzes course evaluation data obtained from 20,988 student reports over a seven-year period to assess the impact of a locally developed PBL curriculum on student perceptions of course effectiveness and engagement in learning. Results of growth modeling found that courses offered in the PBL curricular track achieved ratings that were significantly higher than ratings achieved in non-PBL Core Courses. We conclude that PBL was employed successfully in an East Asian context noted for its reliance on traditional educational approaches, but we note the importance of adaptations both for curriculum design and instructional delivery