Pursuing Management Studies in the Abroad
The United Kingdom (UK) offers some excellent courses in the field of management studies. But how do go about applying and what do the universities exactly offer? Read on to know more.
Studying MBA in UK
If you are planning to study MBA from abroad, the United Kingdom (UK) has several opportunities, especially for international students. A degree from a reputed UK university is recognized worldwide. So, it goes without saying that if you are able to complete a degree from a UK university, your prospects in the world of employment opportunities are bound to increase. In the field of MBA, while renowned universities like Cambridge and Oxford continue to be applauded, other institutions also attract millions of international students.
One of the biggest benefits of pursuing an MBA from a UK university is that they accept 3-year Bachelor’s program. More so, an MBA can be earned within the span of 1 year instead of 2-years as required by many varsities in the US. In India, the undergraduate course spans for three years and UK recognizes this quite easily and accepts them as equivalent to an ordinary British Bachelor Degree.
However, though not compulsory, sometimes 2-3 years of work experience can be required for acceptance for an MBA program in any UK university. MBA programs in UK are accredited by the Association of MBA (AMBA). MBA colleges in UK that are accredited by the AMBA require at least three-years of work experience. Another biggest advantage of pursuing an MBA from UK is that, most colleges do not require the GMAT scores; the only exceptions being the London Business Schools and the Manchester Business School. On the contrary, most UK universities require that students score considerably well in either of the examinations—International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Both these tests are considered the leading tests for checking competency in English. Though international students must have studied in English-medium schools, they are also required to take these tests.
What can you Study in an MBA Program?
You must first ensure that whether you qualify for an MBA or not. Understand that entry into an MBA degree is extremely competitive in the UK. Almost all MBA programs usually comprise three components—a proper taught programme, a range of electives and a final dissertation paper. Core subjects comprise the taught program within the MBA module. These include the following: —
- Operations management
- Accountancy and Financial Management
- Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- Organizational Behaviour
- Management Strategy
- Information Technology
Alternatively, some MBA programs are designed particularly for some specific industries (such as the public sector). In such MBA programs, the modules comprise the following:
- Health and Social Services
- Public administration and government
- Risk and insurance
- Art, museums and leisure management
- Engineering and Technology
- Retailing and Financial Institutions
- Defence/ International Business/ Leadership and e-Business
Modes of Study
Though there are certain similarities in the course modules, no course are completely similar. Business schools offering MBA are located all through the four countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Some of the modes of study offered by Business Schools in the UK are explained below:
Full-time MBA: This is an intensive one-year programme that usually begins on September each year. A very high percentage of international students are accepted in the full-time MBA program.
Executive MBA: Executive MBA is offered usually to working professionals. Such candidates are usually supported by their employers. The typical attendance pattern spans 15 weeks.
While international students can apply for these two modules, the Modular MBA is strictly meant for EU and UK students only.
Choosing the Right Course
Remember that choosing the right course, is of high significance. Ask around and talk to people before you apply. Find out which business schools in the UK are respected. Try and get in touch with alumni. Also consider if you are truly interested in an international career. Do not confine yourself to one location while applying. If you choose to study outside London, it can actually be a good idea as living costs are comparatively cheaper. Do check all the entry requirements; ensure that you fulfill all of them as this will enable your process of admission for MBA in UK universities.
After all these, what you need to keep in mind are the immigration requirements. This can vary according to your nationality or your citizenship. Depending upon the length of your course you will be allowed visa. So, ensure that you have checked and cross-checked everything before you make the final decision.
Author Bio: Sampurna Majumder is a professional writer and a passionate blogger. Currently she is writing content for several websites such as Shiksha.Com that cover latest trends related to education in India and abroad such as these. The above post focuses on management studies in the UK.