Full-time MBA programme content

The programme consists of:

• 8 core modules (September to June)
• 4 electives (January to June)
• 15,000 Strategic Business Project (June to September)

Core modules

Core modules provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding. There are eight core modules covering the subject matter in a thematic way:

• Managing Finance;
• Managing People;
• Managing in the Competitive Environment;
• Managing in the Global Environment;
• Models for Decision;
• Strategic Management;
• Sustainability, Ethics and Change;
• The Boardroom Activity

Assessment is by examination, assignments and reports.

Core module details

Electives

Electives allow in-depth study and reflection and provide you with an opportunity to enhance and deepen knowledge and skills in areas of particular interest to you, and that are relevant to your future career. Smaller classes, interactive participation and varied modes of teaching and learning make this stage a challenging and exciting part of the MBA process. Coursework is a mix of lectures, case study analysis, individual writing assignments and group presentations.

In most cases electives are assessed by individual assignment.

The electives we offer vary depending on current faculty, research and relevance to business. View examples of elective modules.

I drew directly from models learned from my MBA when I was leading the on-the ground evacuation of British Nationals from the Great East Japan Earthquake zone and needed to maintain the bigger picture. But the content is not the only useful element. Getting through the assignments and various deadlines also gives you the discipline to manage multiple priorities under pressure.

Michael Shearer OBE, British Consul-General (Designate) and Head of Trade & Investment, Western Japan

Strategic Business Project

The programme culminates in a Strategic Business Project which you can undertake via two routes. This can be through either a Consultancy Project or an Internship. Both routes require you to complete a 15,000-word dissertation on a business topic.

This is an exciting and popular part of the programme, providing an opportunity to put your new skills into practice in the real world. It can help you apply your knowledge, gain relevant experience relating to your individual career aspirations, and of course, enhance your contacts and professional relationships. Depending on the nature of the organisation, the Strategic Business Project can extend your international experience too.

Due to the School’s excellent relationship with local, national and international organisations, we can give you support to find Consultancy Projects or Internships in various sectors, although you are ultimately responsible for securing your own opportunity.

Skills Development Programme

Our Skills Development Programme, Leading Edge, is an integral part of your Durham MBA and is designed to complement your core and elective modules. The programme is designed to provide you with the opportunity to develop the essential interpersonal and career skills required to be successful in your chosen field.

International Opportunities

Your course includes an international study experience of around a week. Destinations vary depending on global business and economic interest, and in the past have included Germany, Sri Lanka and China. With company visits, lectures and cultural events, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in an overseas business environment. Also from time to time, through our international partners, we can facilitate time abroad during the Strategic Business Project period.

International Enterprise Project - Sri Lanka

This optional module is specifically designed to develop your understanding of traditional management development models and the challenges of sustainable development and globalisation. It also offers insight into alternative management and development models, and their application in an international setting, particularly within social enterprise. You can visit Sri Lanka as part of your International Study Experience working with our ‘Project Sri Lanka’ - an all-inclusive project that brings students together with regional partners to support the reconstruction and regeneration of tsunami-devastated communities.

Note: You are expected to pay for travel to and from the destination country, some meals, and incidental expenses.

 Student experience 2012

Language opportunities

As part of the Durham MBA’s focus on developing global managers, you will be required to study a new language.

Beginners classes are offered in French, German, Spanish, Mandarin (Chinese), Japanese and Arabic (and other languages depending on demand). After successful attendance on the course you will receive the European Language Portfolio, an internationally-recognised award.

International students also have the option of attending in-sessional English language courses run by the University’s Language Centre.