Entry requirements

Subject requirements, level and grade A minimum of three (preferably five) years' relevant work experience since graduation of a managerial nature. An Upper Second Class Bachelor Degree or international equivalent. This course includes online activities, so you will also need a computer with internet access. Almost all activities will be possible from a modern desktop or laptop computer (purchased since 2010). All resources will be accessible from a moderate broadband connection (0.5Mbps) but a greater bandwidth (up to 8Mbps) will provide a better experience for some resources and events. You will need: A web browser (Resources are tested on the latest available versions of Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome) The ability to open and edit Microsoft Office documents (e.g. Microsoft Office, OpenOffice or access to Googledocs) Flash player JAVA Ability to open .pdf documents (e.g. Adobe Reader) A headset or headphones and microphone To participate fully in some online events students should have a webcam and to access some tools and resources you may need the ability to install software. How do I apply? You will need to complete the online application form. As well as your online application, please submit the following: Your CV or resume including: full details of previous employment, dates of employment, main duties and responsibilities, salary per annum (in £ sterling) and any periods of unemployment including dates and an explanation Two employer references Copy of your degree certificate (where appropriate) Copy of your English test results (where appropriate) Download a reference form. For more information, or help with your application, contact pg.bus@durham.ac.uk English Language requirements Please check requirements for your subject and level of study.

Months of entry

April

Course content

Flexibility is at the heart of the Durham Online MBA as you can personalise your programme to meet your career goals. You can study fully online, complete some of your learning at Durham, undertake relevant optional modules, or choose to follow a pathway.

The global spread of students, alumni and faculty will give you the ability to network virtually with people from across the world, and from a wide-range of business sectors.

Online MBA in detail

Structured around a two year study calendar, you can choose to undertake the programme 100% online or take a blended approach where you combine your online learning with residential modules. Whichever way you choose, our comprehensive induction will equip you with an essential toolkit of study skills to help you prepare for your MBA.

Our virtual learning environment is at the heart of your Online MBA experience. Through this you will receive online lectures, podcasts and webinars, as well as participating in a range of e-learning activities, discussion boards and virtual group work. There is a virtual campus, complete with powerful social networking tools to keep you in touch with your fellow students wherever they are in the world.

This virtual campus is supported with an annual Summer School held here in Durham, which brings together students from around the world to provide support and inspiration to drive you forward.

You will be expected to devote around 15 hours per week to study, and if you choose to undertake core modules at Durham these will typically take place in April and October.

Your online personal career advancement service is also core to the programme, accelerating your leadership capabilities to realise your full potential. Gaining global business experience is also an option through the International Business in Context module, which will give you the ability to operate within an international business environment.

Course structure

You will complete:

Five core modules
Two optional modules
Strategic Case Analysis

Five core modules

These are the foundation of your programme – establishing the management knowledge, understanding and research skills every leader needs.

Accounting, Finance and Economics
Leading and Managing People
Marketing
Operations and Technology
Strategic Management

Two optional modules

Optional modules 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.

Modules on offer are dependent on demand, but in previous years have included:

Entrepreneurship
New Venture Creation
Management Consultancy
Project Management
Business Analytics
Technology Innovation
International Business in Context

You also have the option to take a structured pathway focusing on the area of entrepreneurship, consultancy or technology. To undertake a pathway you would need to complete the following modules:

Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurship and New Venture Creation,
Consultancy: Management Consultancy and Project Management, or
Technology: Business Analytics and Technology Innovation

Strategic Case Analysis

In this final project you will demonstrate your ability as an independent learner and researcher. This project will showcase your in-depth knowledge and understanding of topics covered in core modules.

The 12,000 word strategic case analysis will test your understanding of the case writing, analysis process and relevant research methodologies. It will also demonstrate your ability to apply and interpret what you have learned across your MBA to the analysis of a particular issue in depth.

Summer School

The Online MBA Summer School brings together students from around the world to provide support and inspiration to drive you forward.

This optional Summer School usually takes place during a week in July, and gives you the opportunity to study optional modules and take part in a rich menu of personal advancement workshops.

Hosted by the Business School, in the beautiful city of Durham, the Summer School also includes stimulating speaker events, a variety of social events, and a truly unique opportunity to taste the Durham experience.