Illicit Finance MBA

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements

Months of entry

October

Course content

Bangor Business School is the only institution globally to offer the Illicit Finance MBA – a ground-breaking qualification awarding an MBA alongside a professional designation of Financial Intelligence Specialist (FIS).

The Illicit Finance MBA combines specialisms in national security and financial intelligence with a management toolkit necessary to navigate and operate effectively within the evolving landscapes of defence and national security, at both national and global levels. This specialised programme delves into the legal, regulatory, and due diligence aspects of detecting and mitigating threats to national security, while taking a global perspective on stakeholders with criminal intent.

Delivered through distance learning on a part-time basis using proven technology, the programme integrates materials, previously only available in self-study mode, from ManchesterCF, an established provider of financial intelligence qualifications to industry practitioners worldwide.

Who would benefit from the Illicit Finance MBA?

The Illicit Finance MBA is designed to enhance career prospects for specialists in national security and defence, as well as those interested in entering this field. The programme is tailored for military, security and defence personnel, civil servants, government officials, and policymakers. Target audiences include professionals in the Five Eyes countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and United States) and other similar networks (9 Eyes, 14 Eyes, etc).

The programme provides a comprehensive exploration of illicit finance, focusing on key areas such as money laundering, terrorism financing, fraud, and sanctions evasion.

This advanced learning experience provides specialist subjects, including Introduction to Financial Crime, National Security Aspects of Financial Crime, Human Aspects of Financial Crime, and Institutional Perspectives of Financial Crime.

The programme also develops management competencies through study of People & Organisational Behaviour, Managing Resources, Managing Change, and Corporate Strategy. Combined, the modules equip participants for senior positions within the sectors.

Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change.

Programme Delivery Mode

The Illicit Finance MBA is a distance learning programme, a unique combination of interactive online sessions and self-study. Designed to make life easier for busy professionals, it minimises time away from the office and therefore has less impact on the day-to-day operation of the business and the students’ working day.

The online learning element is delivered by a combination of recorded lectures, live tutorials and Blackboard (virtual learning environment).

Academic support throughout the semester will be provided through:

• Discussion forums
• Live web chats
• Web based tutorials using our online learning platform ‘Blackboard’

ManchesterCF Financial Intelligence

ManchesterCF provides online financial intelligence training programmes with a global perspective to financial institutions, public-sector bodies, defence and enforcement agencies and multinational corporations.

Based in Toronto, ManchesterCF works with subject-matter experts to construct effective training programmes on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. The expertise of ManchesterCF is built on solid experience in international banking, financial intelligence, and compliance.

Information for international students

English Language Requirements

Applicants must have a high level of fluency in the English language. If your native language is not English, you must provide satisfactory evidence that you have an adequate knowledge and understanding of written and spoken English:

• IELTS: 6.0 (with no element below 5.5)
• Pearson PTE: a score of 56 (with no element lower than 51)
• Cambridge English Test – Advanced: 169 (with no element lower than 162)

Fees and funding

Please see our Fees & Finances pages for more information. You can also visit our Scholarships, Studentships & Bursaries to learn more about funding available.