MBA (Master of Business Administration)

Programme structure

The Glasgow MBA is offered as a one-year, full-time programme or can be completed on a modular basis over two years. The programme runs from September to September every year, with graduation held in late November/early December.

The Glasgow MBA is structured to enhance your personal and academic development. The programme includes orientation and induction sessions ahead of the core courses to address your individual needs as you set out on the MBA programme. The core courses are followed by optional courses, allowing you to focus on the areas of learning that are most suited to your future development. The programme finishes by offering you the considerable practical benefits of a consultancy project, as well as the in-depth and applied analysis of a dissertation. Personal development sessions are provided throughout the programme to help you reflect on your progress and enhance your potential.

There are three main strands to the Glasgow MBA:

Core and optional courses

The core of the Glasgow MBA includes:

  • Induction
  • Critical Enquiry
  • Strategy and Organisational Performance
  • Strategic Foresight
  • Specialist optional courses
  • Personal development, reflective practice and leadership
  • Dissertation

Following the core courses, you have the choice of five specialist electives from a range of around 30 options. The wide range of electives offered – from International Entrepreneurship, to Change Management, Risk Management and specialist marketing courses, allows you to tailor your MBA experience to your future career development plans. There is also the option to study at one of two international business Summer Schools in which Glasgow is a partner, which are held in Europe and Asia each year.

Personal development, effective practice and leadership

This element runs in parallel with the rest of the programme, beginning immediately after Induction. It is made up of four components: personal development planning; consultancy project or exchange; research techniques training and the primary research project of the dissertation.

In this course you will undertake a group project to test the skills and techniques you have accumulated through the programme. A choice will be offered between two options: you will either spend time analysing a real business problem for the benefit of a partner organisation, or you will travel to one of our partner Schools abroad to learn about business in an international context (this option is at extra cost).

Activities beyond the classroom

This includes a range of social, networking, and guest speaker events that run through-out the year to enhance your learning experience, and help you get the most out of your time at Glasgow

Based on the feedback we get from our students and alumni, we know that Glasgow experience is challenging, rewarding, and makes a lasting impact on their lives and careers. Our alumni tell us that they make connections that last beyond the 12 to 24 months spent at the University. Current students tell us that the mix of nationalities and backgrounds make for a rich, enjoyable learning experience. And the vibrant, friendly city of Glasgow always makes a good impression.

The University and the Business School offer a range of social and team building activities throughout the year, helping participants build up a store of memories, experiences and skills that last a lifetime.

Recent events include participation in the Cranfield Regatta, and a class trip to picturesque Kirknewton, where participants competed in team building challenges, as well as outdoor activities including archery, quad bikes, clay pigeon shooting and higihland games.

Social events include a tour of the Glengoyne Distillery, a barbecue at 18th century manor Gartmore House, outdoor activities at Go Country adventure park, a Burns Night event, ceilidhs, and international celebrations such as Chinese New Year and Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights.

The Business School also offers regular guest speaker evenings, allowing participants the opportunity to learn from successful practitioners, as well as network with local professionals and alumni.