University of Manchester

What you'll study

The programme covers core business disciplines and leadership development, taught through a combination of modular blocks, blended learning and practical projects. Core themes typically include finance and accounting for managers, marketing strategy, operations and supply chain management, strategy and competitive analysis, organisational behaviour and leadership, economics for managers, and managerial decision-making using data and analytics.

Students also study applied topics such as corporate finance, negotiation and persuasion, change management and ethical business practice. The MBA culminates in an applied capstone or consultancy project that allows you to address a real organisational challenge and demonstrate integrated learning.

Elective modules and pathways enable specialisation in areas such as finance, marketing, digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship, healthcare management, or sustainability. Teaching methods emphasise case studies, team-based projects, simulations and guest speakers from industry, with assessment by coursework, group work and the capstone deliverable.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree or equivalent qualification and to bring substantial professional experience. The programme is aimed at candidates with several years of post-graduate work experience and evidence of managerial or professional responsibility. Selection also considers career progression, leadership potential and fit with the part-time learning format.

Some applicants will be invited to interview. The admissions team may request additional evidence of quantitative ability or management potential; standardised tests such as the GMAT or GRE are accepted where provided but are not invariably required. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through an accepted English language qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates use the MBA to accelerate into senior management, general management and leadership roles across sectors including consulting, finance, technology, manufacturing, public sector and healthcare. Common career moves include promotion to director-level roles, transition into consultancy or advisory positions, functional leadership (for example head of marketing, operations or finance), and founding or scaling businesses.

The part-time format also supports in-role progression by allowing students to apply learning directly to their current workplace and to build a professional network with peers and industry contacts. Manchester’s career support services for MBA students focus on leadership development, career coaching, executive workshops and employer engagement.

Why study at University of Manchester

The University of Manchester offers a large, research-led campus with close links to industry across the north of England and internationally. The business school provides an experienced faculty with expertise in strategy, finance, innovation and organisational behaviour, and an emphasis on applied management education.

Studying in Manchester gives access to a vibrant city economy, a diverse student and professional community, and strong employer connections for guest speakers, projects and recruitment. The part-time MBA is designed for professionals who need flexibility without pausing their careers, combining rigorous academic content with practical application and networking opportunities.