MBA Master of Business Administration

What you will study

MODULES

• Implementing Strategies (Core)
• Integrated Communications (Core)
• HRM in Context (Core)
• Financial Insights & Business Intelligence (Core)
• Creative Change and Innovation (Core)
• Emphasising the Environment (Core)
• Research Methods and Dissertation (Core)
• Evaluating Risk and Decisions (Optional)
• Strategic Marketing (Optional)
• Customer Continuity and Growth (Optional)
• Resourcing and Talent Management (Optional)
• Reward Management (Optional)
• Contemporary Leadership Themes (Optional)

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

We would normally expect a good first honours degree (2:2 or above) plus two years’ postgraduate experience.

Exceptionally, applicants without a first degree who can evidence extensive relevant experience of more than two years in a relevant professional role(s) may be considered. Such applicants may be subject to additional selection criteria at the university’s discretion.

For all successful applicants, emphasis will be placed on the need to work intensively and consistently throughout the course with a commitment to high attendance and the meeting of all deadlines.

Teaching & Assessment

The taught modules will be assessed predominantly through individual or group assignments. However, several modules will have an examination as part of the assessment procedure. You must pass all of your modules to attain 120 credits and progress onto the dissertation stage.

To be awarded the MBA, successful completion of the dissertation is required, and 180 credits attained. You will be required to submit your dissertation in the autumn following assessment in May. Upon progression to the dissertation stage, you will be allocated a supervisor to advise on the construction and progression of your dissertation.

Modular Assessment Schedule

The programme is delivered through a series of six or eight taught subject specific modules over two trimesters. Whilst there is a theoretical element within each module, the focus is on contemporary business issues and problems to provide case studies, and the opportunity for critical debate to enhance knowledge and practical application.

Students also study research methods and submit a research proposal at the end of trimester two. They are encouraged to select a research topic of a contemporary nature, related to business and management, which has potential value and relevance to future career aspirations. During the third semester, students complete a dissertation which involves a research element and attendance at a series of individually arranged supervision meetings.

The full-time programme delivery is timetabled over two or three days per week, which provides flexibility for students who are working and can be completed over a 12-month period, provided satisfactory progress is made through the modular delivery.

Our part-time route extends the programme to two years and requires attendance for one or two days per week during teaching weeks.

Full-time and part-time students will be taught together to enhance the richness of the learning environment in several areas, including the opportunities for networking, communication and group work.

Students will typically be expected to attend a three hour block per week devoted to each module. This will consist of a lecture and a tutorial to enable skills development and application. The majority of the modules have two assignments which students will be required to complete in order to progress through the programme.

Career prospects

Our Careers & Employability service is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.

The career direction of MBA students is both diverse and specialised, however roles requiring effective planning and undertaking of projects is strongly evidenced, together with enhanced responsibilities and the management of a team or group where leadership skills and decision making are clearly required. Other roles may be more focused on a specialism such as human resources, marketing, finance and accounting.

Past students have gone into roles including:

• Operations Managers
• Lean Managers
• Project Managers
• Human Resource Managers
• Marketing Managers. 

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our postgraduate fees.

Programme specification

You can see the full programme specification here.

International

If you are applying as an European / International Student, and live outside of the UK, you should make your application through our online application system, Centurus.

For information about the university’s entry requirements for EU/international students, please visit our international section.