Master of Business Administration (MBA) in  Executive Leadership

Key Features of the MBA in Executive Leadership

• The Master of Business Administration in Executive Leadership equips high potential middle managers and senior executives with the skills, knowledge and networks to advance their careers
• In recent years there has been a shift towards focusing on 'soft skills' such as communications and leadership skills among employers. Pursuing the MBA while working full-time allows students to immediately apply smarter strategic decision-making and management skills in their workplaces and gives students the analytical skills, understanding, confidence and language to influence strategy at all levels of their organisations
• The programme exposes students to the diverse perspectives of peers from a wide variety of nationalities, job functions and industry sectors. Thus standing alongside accomplished and experienced managers brings unrivalled texture and richness to the learning experience
• The enhancement of business judgement, analysis and decision skills enables students to move from functional to broad-based leadership
• The award of MBA is recognised worldwide.

The Master of Business Administration in Executive Leadership is designed for applicants from all disciplines who hold a position of management responsibility together with at least three years management experience. The emphasis of the part time programme is on skills development and the application of learning in the workplace. You will develop analytical abilities as well as essential managerial skills such as team working, leadership and effective communications. An ability to interpret data is also developed through modules such as Managing Finance, Managing Operations and Project Management. By the time you reach the dissertation stage, you will be able to apply these in the investigation of a major strategic issue. Essential underpinning and skills are provided for both academic and business research in support of the dissertation.  

Programme Structure

The MBA in Executive Leadership consists of 60 taught credits at Stage 1 and a 30 credit dissertation. Delivery of the programme is structured over 4 taught semesters. Semesters are 12 week blocks. During each semester, students will study two modules and are required to attend lectures on two evenings per week and occasional weekend workshops. The Research Methods for Management module is taught throughout the four semesters and is intended to provide students with the skills needed to study effectively and to complete the dissertation.

Assessment

Students are assessed via a wide range of methods in order to ensure the development of an extensive range of abilities and skills over the duration of the programme. These methods include management reports, case studies, group activities, presentations, time constrained assessments and a dissertation.

Entry Requirements

To be considered for admission, applicants must be 25 years of age or above with at least three years appropriate management experience, and hold:

• A minimum Second Class Honours (2.2) degree from a recognised third level institution, or
• A professional qualification recognised as degree equivalent, or a specified diploma
• An IELTS score of a minimum 6.0 or equivalent, where full-time study has been conducted in a language other than English or applicants whose first language is not English.
• There is also an interview as part of the entry process in order to assess their academic and personal suitability.

Non Standard Applicants

Applications from non-standard entrants are welcomed and encouraged by the programme team. Candidates over the age of 27 with relevant managerial experience may be admitted to the programme without the qualifications specified above on receipt of an appropriately supported APEL (Approved Prior Experiential Learning) portfolio. Applicants holding appropriate qualifications may be admitted with advanced standing. (Exemption criteria available upon application)

MBS Graduates

Students holding an MBS from LJMU or HETAC may be admitted onto the MBA programme with advanced standing, subject to meeting the following admissions requirements:

• Applicants must hold an MBS awarded by LJMU or HETAC
• Applicants must have at least two years managerial experience

Applicants fulfilling the above admission requirements can qualify for the MBA in Executive Leadership by completing the following modules:

1. Strategic Management
2. Research Methods for Management
3. MBA Dissertation

Programme Content

Learner protection for this programme is provided in accordance with Section 43 of the Qualifications (Education and Training ) Act 1999.