University of Manchester

What you'll study

The Full-time MBA combines core management modules with elective options, experiential learning and a strategic final project. The curriculum balances foundational business disciplines with leadership development, responsible management and practical application.

• Core modules: typically include Strategic Management, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Managerial Economics, Marketing Management, Operations and Supply Chain Management, Organisational Behaviour and Human Resource Management, Corporate Finance and Business Ethics.
• Leadership and personal development: Executive coaching, leadership labs, negotiation and influencing workshops, and team-based project work designed to build interpersonal and strategic leadership skills.
• Electives and specialisms: A range of electives allows you to tailor the MBA to interests such as Entrepreneurship, Innovation Management, Digital Strategy, Sustainability and Social Impact, International Business and Data Analytics.
• Experiential learning: Live consulting projects with industry partners, business challenges, networking events and international study visits (where available) give practical exposure to real organisational problems.
• Final project: Many students complete a consultancy project, applied business research report or an entrepreneurial plan that applies learning to a real-world issue.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate both academic ability and relevant professional experience. Typical requirements include:

• Academic qualification: A recognised undergraduate degree (usually a 2:1 or equivalent). Equivalent professional qualifications may also be considered.
• Work experience: Several years of full-time professional experience is normally required; the programme is designed for candidates who can contribute practical perspectives to class discussions.
• GMAT/GRE/other assessments: A satisfactory GMAT or GRE score is often submitted, although the school may consider waivers or alternative evidence of quantitative ability for experienced applicants.
• English language: If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English language test or approved exemption.
• Application materials: A completed application form, CV, academic transcripts, references and a personal statement outlining career goals and suitability for the MBA. Interviews are used to assess fit and leadership potential.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Full-time MBA progress into a wide variety of leadership and management roles across sectors. Common career outcomes include:

• Strategic and general management roles in multinational corporations and mid-sized enterprises.
• Consulting positions at strategy and management consultancies.
• Product, marketing and commercial leadership roles in technology, consumer goods and services firms.
• Corporate finance, business development and mergers & acquisitions roles in financial services and corporate settings.
• Entrepreneurship and roles in start-ups, scale-ups or social enterprises.

The programme is supported by dedicated career services, employer engagement events, networking opportunities and alumni connections to help translate learning into role transitions, sector changes or accelerated promotion.

Why study at University of Manchester

The University of Manchester delivers its MBA through Alliance Manchester Business School, which offers a strong blend of research-informed teaching, industry links and a global alumni network. Manchester is a major business and cultural centre, providing access to diverse employers, start-up communities and professional services.

• Research-led teaching: Course content is informed by current research in management, innovation and sustainability.
• Employer connections: Regular engagement with corporate partners and recruiters helps secure live projects, internships and job opportunities.
• Facilities and support: Students benefit from dedicated MBA facilities, career coaching, leadership development resources and a broad student services infrastructure.
• Global network: A large and active alumni community and international student cohort support long-term professional connections across sectors and geographies.

Together, these features make the Full-time MBA a practical and career-focused route for professionals seeking to broaden their commercial skillset and assume higher-impact roles.