The University of South Wales’ Master of Business Administration (MBA) will develop the knowledge and skills to be a successful strategic business leader.
It builds on a strong ethos of helping managers to solve real problems, and is designed for professionals who will make a strategic difference to the organisations in which they operate.
Whether you work in a public or private sector organisation, you will learn how to integrate cutting-edge research and practice across all key business areas to achieve business transformation.
During the MBA you will develop key leadership skills such as creativity, innovation, collaboration and problem solving and be introduced to innovative business theory in a practical context.
In addition to your MBA qualification, you’ll also have the opportunity to gain the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership. This is built into the MBA curriculum, so no additional assessment is needed, you just need to successfully pass the required elements of your MBA.
The University is host to a vibrant, multicultural environment that provides an excellent opportunity for you to gain an international perspective on business and different cultures and practices.
This course is subject to validation.
2021/22 update: Blended learning approach for USW courses.
[Update excludes online-only courses].
The wellbeing and health and safety of our students and staff is paramount to us. We are committed to delivering all of our courses and services as safely as possible. Due to the pandemic, the methods and activities adopted for the coming year may differ from those previously published and may be subject to further change through the course of your study if such change is necessary due to public health concerns, health and safety guidance or in response to Government Guidelines. USW is committed to providing you with a fantastic student experience and a wealth of support, and you can hear how students have benefitted from this approach here: Learn more about blended learning.
What you will study?
The MBA will expose you to core areas of business with an emphasis on the strategic nature of decision-making through a diverse range of modules.
MBA modules:
- Leadership and Management Theories and Practice
Develop your knowledge and understanding of a range of leadership and management theories and their contemporary application in a range of organisational settings. - Strategic Financial Management
Gain an understanding of the issues and techniques of strategic financial management from both an internal and external stakeholder viewpoint. - Strategic Analysis Tools and Techniques
Evaluate the strategic environment of an organisation; internally and externally. Also gain the skills to direct and manage the development of business and corporate strategy in the contexts of complexity and change. - Project Management and Consultancy Skills
Students will learn to evaluate the strategy and scope of a project while gaining an understanding of the project management process and the incumbent and emerging structural and leadership issues. Students will also be exposed to the process of identifying and selecting projects and managing projects using appropriate project management tools. - Strategic Marketing
Understand and critically evaluate how strategic marketing interfaces with general business strategy. In addition, appraise the difference between good strategic marketing practice and practice that falls short of professional quality. - Strategic Operations Management
Gain an appreciation of operational processes, techniques, planning and control systems with reference to both manufacturing and service industries from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. - Research Methods
Conduct a proper scientific investigation and present it in a written format. This will develop your understanding and research skills in a management and/or professional development context. - Management Project
Explore the concept, theories and practice of project management and consultancy skills whilst building on the research methodological skills and requirements of critical debate established throughout the programme. Learn how these key skills are vital within a business context to ensure rigorous decision making.
Subject to revalidation from 2021
This course is subject to revalidation, this means it is under review as part of the University’s standard quality assurance and enhancement processes. Course and module content is indicative and may change through the revalidation process. As soon as the course is revalidated, the details will be confirmed and published on the University website.
In the unlikely event the course does not go ahead as planned, or is significantly amended, we will write to inform you. If this happens, we’ll help you to find a suitable alternative course either at USW or at another provider.
Teaching
Taught sessions are delivered through self-guided study, lectures, seminars, group work, case studies and exercises. You will have the opportunity to strategically analyse organisations, deliver presentations and prepare marketing and business plans.
Alongside your MBA studies, you will also be part of a study visit to see first-hand how different companies operate. You are also encouraged to attend the many guest lectures organised by the Business School, to broaden your understanding of important subject areas.
Research
Your studies will be underpinned by the latest research undertaken by the South Wales Business School Research Group. This means you will be taught by academics who are at the forefront of their specialist field.
Assessment
The MBA qualification assessed through written assignments, presentations and project work. The MBA involves the completion of a business research project which will develop your communication and consulting skills.
