Program Overview

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MBA (Master of Business Administration) with Advanced Practice

Overview

Creating the business leaders of tomorrow.

Summary

Create opportunity and realise your potential with an MBA. Our programme will take you on a journey to become a forward thinking, strategic business leader. Designed to introduce you to the essential areas of business and management you will study practical and relevant skills in leadership, operations, marketing, economics, strategy development and finance.

Applying business theory to the world of work, the course will deepen your understanding of organisations and the constantly changing environments in which they operate. An excellent opportunity to study alongside an international student body providing you with a diverse network to share ideas and experience.

The MBA programme is designed for those early in their careers wishing to study full-time in 1 year. We also have an Executive MBA programme for established managers and professionals wishing to study part-time over 2 years. More information on the Executive MBA can be found at or by entering Executive MBA in the search field above.

About this course

About

Become a business leader of tomorrow.

The MBA course will educate and develop you as a manager and business specialist, improving your future career prospects through providing an integrated, applied and critical understanding of management and organisations. You will develop transferable and intellectual skills that are essential for successful general and strategic management in both private and public sector organisations. The course considers the current local, regional and international market trends so you can apply your skills to real life environments.

Aimed at developing management and leadership skills for graduates of any discipline, the objectives of the MBA are to:

• Develop multidisciplinary and international perspectives, concepts and issues in the major management disciplines
• Provide toolkits and techniques for analysing business and management issues
• Stimulate your ability to analyse, synthesise and apply knowledge and understanding to solve management problems critically, rationally and rigorously
• Appreciate and apply contemporary management and information systems to aid strategic decision making in business and management
• Develop an appreciation of, appetite and responsibility for lifelong learning and personal development
• Prepare you for leadership and transformational roles in business in the changing external context in which they operate
• Develop strategic thinking, innovation and entrepreneurial skills
• Develop interpersonal and group-working skills

Applied management skills:

Our MBA will help to develop you to become a successful manager and equip you with the knowledge and transferable skills that are required to succeed.

You will develop your skills in the areas of:

• Communication
• Leadership
• Team working
• Negotiation
• Conflict resolution

Modules

• ACF768 Accounting and Finance The overall aim of the module is to introduce students to the key areas of financial and management accounting. In order to achieve this, students will be exposed to some numerical calculations during the module. However, there will be significant emphasis passed on understanding the issues around the numbers and the context within which they are set. In particular, the assessment for the module will strike a balance between calculation, interpretation and discussion.
• BMG735 Managing People in the Organisation This module aims to enable students to develop knowledge and understanding of individual and group behaviour within organisations, and the core areas of Human Resource Management, and to be able to apply this knowledge and understanding in a range of organisational settings.
• MKT703 Marketing and Strategy Strategy consists of the analysis and decisions an organisation undertakes in order to create and sustain competitive advantage. Understanding these interrelated processes is crucial for creating and developing organisations. This module explores these decisions areas from a range of contemporary perspectives and contexts.
• BMG855 Operations Management This module aims to enable students to develop knowledge and understanding of operational processes and operations management and to be able to apply the tools of operations management to practical problems. The aim is to equip aspiring managers to plan, organize, lead, and control resources more effectively and efficiently so as to achieve the goals of their organisation.
• BMG835 Project Management and Research The aim of this module is to provide students with the skills to manage a project end to end. It focuses on the skills required by project managers to successfully manage a project through the application of project management tools and techniques to a specific project. Students will also acquire appropriate knowledge and understanding of the various research methodologies to investigate a business and management issue.
• BMG738 Digital Transformation This module will introduce and equip students with the key concepts, theories and approaches to digital transformation within the organisational context. Specifically, it will examine key organisational capabilities needed to examine digital transformation initiatives or programmes such as Digital Strategy, Business agility, People, Processes, Tools/Technologies, Culture and the focus on the Customer which are necessary for effective digitisation efforts.
• BMG933 Entrepreneurship Stimulating entrepreneurship is vitally important for a country's competitiveness. It has the power to contribute to political, economic and social change. The overall aim of this module is to enhance understanding of the theory and practice of entrepreneurship across different contexts. It will develop an understanding of the knowledge, skills and mindset needed to pursue entrepreneurial endeavours.
• BMG744 Leadership and Change Get the knowledge and skills to be an effective leader. During this module you will consider the key theories of leadership and their effective application in leading organisational change. You will analyse and critically discuss the leadership approach and change management style of the main leaders in a case study organisation allowing you to apply theory to a real-life working environment.
• ECO702 Economics and the Business Environment This module introduces managers to the principles of economics as they apply to the business environment and aims to enhance mangers' understanding of, and ability to adapt to, changes in the environments in which operate. The module is designed to first explain the problem of scarcity of resources and then analyses the demand - supply - equilibrium model of economic analysis. This is followed by an examination of the internal and external environments within which firms must operate, focusing on production, cost, profits, market conditions and the objectives of the firm. In so doing, it illustrates a strategic approach to their business activity. A critical examination of the economic role of the government and a review of the macroeconomic environment complete the syllabus.
• BMG843 Business Simulation Project The Business Simulation Project involves bringing together the learning from across the MBA programme and incorporating this theory into practice for a dynamic global organisation competing for market share and to create shareholder while balancing other concerns. The simulation provides an innovative learning aid from which students produce an applied analysis and personal reflection.

Advanced Practice Modules

• Option One: BMG861 Internship & Professional Development Project Designed to further enhance your employability and professional development you will undertake an internship normally lasting 12 weeks. During the internship you will undertake an organisational project and complete a reflective professional development report, allowing you to apply the theoretical concepts encountered on your course to a "live" management issue.
• Option Two: BMG862 Applied Consulting Project Designed to enhance your practical and employability skills you will undertake a consultancy project for a real-life case study client. This module will require you to draw on relevant theories from previously studied MBA modules, and apply them in business contexts to deliver valuable project outcomes for client companies.

Why Study at Ulster University Business School?

• A Well Established and Innovative Business School As a member of the UK's Chartered Association of Business Schools, the Harvard Business School’s Microeconomics of Competitiveness Affiliate Network, and as a collaborator with Babson College, Boston, Ulster University Business School has established itself as a forward thinking and well-connected business school.
• Teaching Excellence With our lecturers actively engaged in research and industry collaborations you can be assured that you will experience up to date and expert knowledge from business insiders.
• Supportive, Dynamic Learning We are committed to offering excellent support, both in academic study and in helping you develop as managers and leaders. The course content is dynamic utilising real life case studies to ensure learning is forward thinking and relevant.
• Networking Opportunities Our industry connections mean you will be invited to exclusive business events (such as the Management and Leadership Network conference) expanding your knowledge and offering excellent networking opportunities.
• Value for Money Our MBA courses are offered at a competitive price so you can get the skills and knowledge to further your career at an affordable price.
• Guest Speakers Guest speakers provide a range of perspectives. Previously senior personnel and Managing Directors from Invest NI, Microsoft, ASG & Partners and First Trust Bank as well as inspirational SME’s, Suki Tea and start-up, The Power to Switch.

Attendance

Students can commence the full time MBA with Advanced Practice in September or January.

Students who commence in September complete:

• 4 modules in the autumn semester
• 4 modules in the spring semester
• Vacation in the summer semester
• The Advanced Practice option in the autumn semester
• 2 modules and the Business Simulation Project in the summer semester

Students who commence in January complete:

• 4 modules in the spring semester
• Vacation in the summer semester
• 4 modules in the autumn semester
• The Advanced Practice option in the spring semester
• 2 modules and their Business Simulation Project in the summer semester

Modules are normally taught through weekly sessions across 12 weeks although some modules are completed on a 'block' basis (9.30am to 5pm usually over 3 consecutive days). Advanced Practice modules are taught through supervision and some face to face sessions but are more organisationally based in nature.

Start dates

• September 2025
• January 2026

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

The MBA is taught in a lecture format which is highly interactive, this allows students to discuss management theory and practice leading to an in-depth understanding of the subject area. This form of teaching also allows students to explore ideas and learn from each other as well as from the lecturing staff.

The course is mainly assessed via coursework (individual and group).

Academic profile

The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.

Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).

We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.

Standard entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

Entry Requirements

Designed for those who aspire to work in business and management positions, you do not need a business degree to apply.

Applicants should have a second-class honours degree or equivalent and two years' relevant work experience (we are open to considering multiple types of experience ie part-time, volunteering, placement etc.).

Applications are invited from graduates of any academic background.

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Exemptions and transferability

Transfer Consideration will be given to applicants who transfer from other accredited MBA courses.

Exemptions Students who have studied an equivalent qualification to level 7 covering the subject matter on the MBA may, by application to the Course Committee, be granted exemption from specific modules.

Careers & opportunities

Career options

Given the generalist nature of the MBA course there are a wide variety of careers available to graduates. Research carried out by the Association of MBAs and by the Ulster University Business School demonstrates that MBA graduates reap the benefit of investing in their studies both financially and in terms of their career.

Students have used the MBA to change direction, building on their primary degree or to further enhance their skillset before embarking on their chosen profession.

No matter what industry you inspire to manage, the MBA can help you on your way to becoming:

• CEO
• Director of department
• Line manager
• Consultant
• Board Member

Work placement / study abroad

The full-time MBA with Advanced Practice allows you to gain real-world experience as part of the course by offering you the opportunity to complete either:

• An Internship & Professional Development Project, which is a 12-week internship at an external company.
• An Applied Consulting Project, which involves working on a live business project in industry.

Fees and funding

10% Alumni Discount

Are you a graduate of Ulster University? Did you know you could be eligible for a 10% fees discount.

Tuition Fee Loans Available

Students domiciled in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and UK students can apply to Student Finance NI for a Tuition Fee loan of up to £6,500 (subject to eligibility).

Important notice - Tuition fees for this course may vary

Visit Tuition Fees pages for more details on the price of this course.

View Available Scholarships

See if you can access financial or other forms of support, including mentorship to excel in your studies.

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them. These may include field trips, security checks, computer equipment, uniforms, professional memberships etc.

We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free wifi is also available on each of the campuses.

There will be some additional costs to being a student which cannot be itemised and these will be different for each student. You may choose to purchase your own textbooks and course materials or prefer your own computer and software. Printing and binding may also be required. There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines. Additional costs vary from course to course.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs as well as tuition fees Please contact the course team for more information.

Students are encouraged to purchase a subscription to an online platform/testbank for the Accounting and Finance module. This is a one-off cost of approx. £50.

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.

Testimonials

Li Xin

Li Xin came to study at the University of Ulster from Liaoning Province, China. He currently works for the Development and Reform Committee of Liaoning Province and is in charge of infrastructure, such as road and railway.

“In my opinion the Ulster MBA is essential for those who want to be excellent managers, in public sectors or private sectors. I decided to do my MBA abroad and selected the University Of Ulster as it is a well-equipped education facility and the warm-hearted service provided an environment beneficial to my study.

“The dynamic teaching ensured participant interaction and real examples of theory being applied significantly enhanced my study and understanding.

“As an overseas student, I found my study to be a wonderful experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and life at UU. I believe what I learned and the experience I had will benefit my future.”

Mohammed Abufara

Mohammed came to study at the Ulster Business School from Saudi Arabia.

“I found the MBA to be an excellent course. The modules gave me an excellent insight into fundamental areas of business such as accounting and finance, operations management, marketing and economics through to the challenges of leadership and strategic management.

I had to adjust to studying in the UK, there is more of an emphasis on groupwork and taking responsibility for your own study however I found this to be a rewarding experience and learned invaluable skills along the way.

The knowledge and skills I have gained from the MBA course I will be able to put straight into practice on my return home, I am confident that the knowledge and theory I have acquired will benefit both me in my career and my organisation”.