Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The MBA curriculum covers the core functions of business alongside leadership, strategy and applied practice. Modules typically combine taught classes, case studies, group work and a substantial applied project. Teaching emphasises contemporary managerial challenges such as digital transformation, sustainability and global competition.

• Strategic Management and Leadership – frameworks for strategy formulation, implementation and leading organisational change.
• Finance for Managers – financial decision-making, corporate finance fundamentals and interpreting financial statements for strategic purposes.
• Marketing and Customer Strategy – market orientation, branding, digital marketing and customer value creation.
• Operations and Service Management – process improvement, supply chain considerations and service operations, relevant to both manufacturing and service sectors.
• Business Analytics and Decision Making – using data, metrics and analytical tools to inform managerial choices.
• Research Methods and Consultancy Skills – methods for applied research, problem diagnosis and evidence-based recommendations.
• Applied Consultancy Project or MBA Dissertation – a major piece of assessed work where you apply learning to a real organisational issue, often delivered in partnership with an external client.

Delivery modes are typically flexible, with full-time, part-time and blended options available to accommodate working professionals. The programme includes workshops on personal development, executive coaching and networking opportunities with industry.

Entry requirements

Bournemouth University seeks applicants with a mix of academic ability and professional experience. Typical requirements include:

• A good undergraduate degree (UK honours or international equivalent). Applicants with a lower second-class degree with substantial relevant work experience are often considered.
• Relevant work experience — many entrants have several years of managerial, supervisory or professional experience; the programme is aimed at those who want to progress into senior roles.
• Applicants without a conventional degree but with significant, demonstrable managerial experience or professional qualifications may be considered on an individual basis.
• Satisfactory English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (evidence via recognised tests or equivalent qualifications is usually required).
• Application materials typically include a CV, a personal statement outlining career goals and how the MBA will support them, and references; some applicants may be invited to an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates use the MBA to accelerate into senior management roles, broaden functional responsibilities or transition into new sectors. Common career paths include:

• General management and executive leadership positions across private, public and third-sector organisations.
• Strategic roles such as business development, corporate strategy or commercial director posts.
• Consultancy and advisory positions, working internally or for consulting firms on change programmes and performance improvement.
• Specialist leadership in areas such as finance, marketing, operations, human resources or digital transformation.
• Entrepreneurship and start-up leadership, with many graduates leveraging the applied project element to develop business plans or scale ventures.

Bournemouth University supports employability through employer links, careers coaching and project opportunities that build practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University Business School emphasises applied learning and industry engagement, helping students translate theory into practice. The school is known for strong links with regional and national employers, guest speaker programmes and live consultancy projects that allow students to tackle real organisational challenges.

The university’s approach combines small-group teaching, practical workshops and personalised support such as career development services and executive coaching. Located on the south coast of England, the campus offers a supportive student environment and opportunities to connect with a diverse business community in the region and beyond.

Overall, the MBA at Bournemouth University is geared towards professionals who want a practical, career-focused programme with opportunities to develop leadership capability, strategic thinking and a tangible portfolio of applied work.