University of Northampton

What you'll study

The programme combines core management disciplines with applied, project-based learning. Core themes include strategic management and leadership, finance and accounting for managers, marketing strategy, operations and supply chain management, and organisational behaviour and change. Research methods and decision-making techniques support the final project.

Typical modules and components include:

• Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage – analysis of strategy formulation, implementation and evaluation at organisational level.
• Leadership, Ethics and Change – developing leadership skills, leading teams and managing organisational change.
• Finance and Performance for Managers – interpreting financial information, budgeting, investment appraisal and performance measurement.
• Marketing Strategy and Customer Insight – strategic marketing planning, brand management and market analysis.
• Operations and Project Management – efficient resource use, process improvement and project delivery methods.
• Research Methods and Data for Decision Making – quantitative and qualitative techniques used to support business decisions and the dissertation or consultancy project.
• Applied Business Project or Consultancy Dissertation – a substantial piece of applied research or a client-facing consultancy project that demonstrates the integration of learning and delivers practical benefits to an organisation.

The MBA is offered with flexible delivery options, typically available full‑time or part‑time with blended learning. Many students undertake a work‑based or employer‑sponsored project as the capstone.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good honours degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution plus relevant professional experience. A typical profile is several years of managerial or professional work experience; however, applicants with strong vocational/professional qualifications and substantial workplace responsibility may also be considered.

Other requirements and conditions may include:

• A current CV demonstrating career progression and leadership potential.
• References or employer support where the project will be carried out in the workplace.
• An interview or statement of purpose outlining motivations and learning objectives.
• For international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency at a level suitable for postgraduate study (equivalents to common English tests are accepted).

Career prospects

Graduates of the MBA move into senior management and leadership roles across private, public and third‑sector organisations. Common career outcomes include operations manager, strategy consultant, senior marketing manager, finance manager, project director, and general management roles. The programme also supports entrepreneurs and those seeking to develop their own business through practical skills in business planning, financial management and market analysis.

The applied project component provides tangible evidence of impact for employers and can enhance progression opportunities within an organisation or support a sector switch for experienced professionals.

Why study at University of Northampton

The University of Northampton emphasises applied learning and strong employer engagement, ensuring the MBA content is aligned to current workplace needs. The Business School works with local and regional businesses, offering opportunities for live projects, client briefs and professional networking.

Students benefit from practical facilities and enterprise support, including business incubation and mentoring through the university's enterprise initiatives. Flexible study modes and a supportive postgraduate student community make the programme accessible to practising managers and those balancing study with work.

Finally, the programme is delivered by academic staff with professional and research experience in management disciplines, and students have access to career development services to help translate learning into career progression.