FREEYOURAMBITION

Your 2021/2022

MBAProspectus

2

By Prof Devendra Kodwani, Executive Dean, Faculty of Business and Law.

CONTENTS

Why study with us? 4

Mission, Vision, Values 5

Our approach 6

The MBA that fits around you 7

Your learning, our support 8

MBA programme structure 10

MBA modules Compulsory modules Elective modules

121214

MBA (Technology Management) 18

Entry requirements 19

Our world-class academics 20

Global credibility, local relevance 22

Our International Advisory Board 23

A global alumni and careers network 24

Fees and funding 26

Student and alumni awards 30

Develop your staff with The Open University MBA 31

WELCOME...What has kept us going at The Open University Business School this past year is the inspiration we have taken from the commitment of our rising number of students. These increasing numbers display a confidence in the quality of educational experience we provide here.

There is no better feeling for a teacher than when a former student says, “…I completed the OU MBA in 2014. Truly life changing, it did not feel ‘distant’; the creative use of interactive materials, residential schools, online forums and meetings was amazing.” (Steve Mingo, OU MBA graduate)

Or that, “There is no doubt that the MBA has ... improved the way that I think and act on a daily basis – a challenging yet terrific qualification!” (Mark Willett, OU MBA graduate)

In these extraordinary times, the students of our Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme have been able to study flexibly and benefit from their studies and learning support that the University continues to offer.

Our MBA has new and refreshed content and offers a cutting-edge, practice-based programme, developed by leading management academics. Working alongside businesses, our alumni and our students, we deliver an MBA that builds executive business skills while you remain in the workplace (whether that is in an office, or in your own home!). This ensures you are able to critically assess and apply new knowledge and skills and it means that we can support you in taking the next step in your career.

We are proud of the achievements of our more than 27,000 alumni who have benefitted from the OU’s MBA programme to make positive contributions to their organisations, and to wider society through them.

Our unique learning method is recognised by sponsoring employers who can see the impact of learning on the performance of the employee studying with us, while also helping to retain valued and skilled individuals.

It has never been clearer that global management and leadership challenges require resilient, skilful and responsible leaders who can shape the destiny and future direction of organisations. These leaders need to understand the theory of management and business, and apply this in the real world, as well as be able to spot and respond to new threats and opportunities as the pandemic has highlighted so dramatically. They are the ones who will create and realise opportunities for sustainable development and workforce wellbeing and productivity in society.

The University’s vast experience of developing study programmes, allied with our practice-oriented approach to management education, enables us to offer a flexible and effective MBA that is uniquely placed to help you transform your professional opportunities and contribute to organisational success.

3

...TO ONE OF THE WORLD’SLEADING BUSINESS SCHOOLSAs a business school, we have more than 35 years’ experience in enabling people to achieve their full potential and businesses to make the most of their staff.

Learn what makes us the choice of discerning professionals:

― Elite status We’re one of 100 business schools in the world to hold the ‘triple crown’ of triple-accredited status1 and we are the most popular in this exclusive group in the UK.

― One of the best Our MBA was ranked fifth best in the world by CEO Magazine in its Global Online MBA Rankings 2019.

― Practice-based Our MBA is designed for practising managers who aspire to higher positions. You and your organisation will benefit from your studies straight away, because what you learn today you’ll implement in your workplace tomorrow, creating immediate impact.

― Outstanding flexibility The Open University Business School comes to you. The unique way you’ll learn allows you to access your studies anytime, anywhere – on your laptop or mobile device, at home, at work or on the go – so you don’t need to put your life on hold.

― Practical expertise Our MBA tutors and advisory board are experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of industry and sector experience to your learning.

― Affordable Studying with us is more affordable than you might think. And we offer the option to ‘pay as you go’ in monthly instalments.

Fewer than 1% of all business schools globally are

TRIPLE ACCREDITED

My MBA allowed me to make a career move. The practice-based approach to learning has given me a set of concepts, theories, and practical skills to view organisations from a wider range of perspectives. I apply what I’ve learned in different work situations every day.Tillmann HensslerAACSB Influential Leader 2019, Sourcing Manager for Pfizer

1 We’re accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA). These world-leading international management education associations award triple accreditation to fewer than 1% of business schools worldwide.

4

WHY STUDY WITH US?More than 8,600 students are studying with us in 81 countries round the world, with 346 tutors supporting them. Here’s a few reasons why they chose us:

― We’re award winning Among our accolades, The Times Higher Education shortlisted us for its ‘Business School of the Year’ award in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017, and the OU was shortlisted in the ‘University of the Year’ category in 2020. We were proud winners of The Guardian’s Business Partnership Award in 2017, and commended finalists in the MBA Innovation Award category in the AMBA Excellence Awards.

― Gain a global experience By learning with students from other nations and cultures, you’ll share best practice and experiences for a truly global learning experience.

― Join an influential network We have more than 27,000 MBA alumni representing 120 countries. When you graduate, you’ll become part of our strong alumni network.

― We’re the experts in distance learning We’ve been bringing university to our students, wherever they are, for over 50 years. Our resources are designed for distance learning, and we know how to best fit study around busy lives.

― Highly-reputed students We’ve had two winners in the international AMBA ‘Student of the year’, as well as an alumnus awarded Influential Leader 2019 status by AACSB.

I started out wanting to impress others and ended up impressing myself. I now urge local people I work with to consider studying at the OU – one of the greatest innovations ever!Heather Henry Independent Public Health Nurse

The OU was appointed by the NHS Leadership Academy to deliver the

NHS MBA PROGRAMME

5

MISSION, VISION, VALUES

The Open University Business School

Our missionProviding world-class open education and research which empowers individuals, organisations and society to influence future global development and deliver just outcomes.

Our visionTo empower all professionals who strive to solve complex, critical problems by continuously learning, improving practice, supporting diversity, creating knowledge and innovating for responsible growth. Our global community will deliver social mobility and create a sustainable future.

The Open University

We’re open to people, places, methods and ideas.

InclusiveWe play a unique role in society making higher education open to all.

We promote social justice through the development of knowledge and skills.

InnovativeWe lead the learning revolution, placing innovation at the heart of our teaching and research.

We continuously seek new and better ways to inspire and enable learning.

We create world-class research and teaching.

ResponsiveWe respond to the needs of individuals, employers and the communities in which they live and work.

We are dedicated to supporting our students’ learning success.

6

OUR APPROACH

Centred on your student experience, our teaching model is a highly effective professional development method that allows you to acquire new skills – without taking you away from your workplace.

When you study with us, your learning isn’t limited to what happens at tutorials or our residential schools. Your workplace becomes a vital part of your study.

We focus on using practical examples and assignments that directly relate to your working life, and we encourage you to include and engage your workplace in your studies.

Learning materialsAll of our modules employ a blend of learning styles, with innovative and inspiring materials that bring your learning to life.

As well as study books, you’ll learn through podcasts, downloads and our interactive virtual learning environment – all of which are designed to support and inspire you in your learning.

We’re at the forefront of using technology to enhance teaching and learning. Our study materials are informed by rigorous academic research and alumni and employer feedback. Moreover, everything you need is included in our fees.

7

THE MBA THAT FITS AROUND YOUOne of the many benefits of studying for an MBA with The Open University Business School is our flexibility: with us, you can fit your studies around your life – not the other way around. And we’re flexible on several levels.

Flexible structureOur MBA can be completed in just 18 months, although you can take up to seven years to complete your studies.

Our flexible structure enables you to take study breaks between modules and fit your MBA around your work, family and other commitments.

Flexible locationIf your job requires travel, you can take your studies with you wherever you go. Simply access your MBA virtual learning platform from anywhere in the world.

Flexible accessAll of our learning materials are compatible with mobile devices – such as tablets, e-readers and smart phones, enabling you to study wherever and whenever you wish.

Flexible paymentThe modular structure of our MBA programme allows a great deal of financial flexibility for what is a significant investment.

There’s no need to pay the full programme cost at the outset; simply pay for the module(s) you’re currently studying.

This flexibility enables you to plan your studies (and your finances) in advance, and to spread the cost of your MBA over a number of years. Find out more about fees and funding on pages 26–28.

Flexible supportStudying with The Open University Business School is more sociable than you might think. As well as a range of support from our tutors – in person, on the phone and online – there’s always someone to talk to in our lively online forums.

In fact, you can contact your tutors – and receive support from fellow students – from anywhere in the world.

76 of Open

% Univ

ersity

students study while working full or part time.

When I moved to Dubai I could easily continue my studies with the OU. I’m positive my studies with the OU have significantly increased my professional confidence and knowledge.Sophie StevensJewellery Specialist for Sotheby’s

8

YOUR LEARNING,OUR SUPPORT

We believe that our levels of support set us apart from other flexible learning programmes.

As an Open University MBA student, you’ll be supported before your studies even start, right through to graduation and beyond.

Pre-study inductionIf you haven’t studied for years, or you’re new to flexible learning, don’t worry; we’ll guide you through a comprehensive online induction.

As well as giving you a detailed overview of our MBA programme, your induction will offer guidance on:

― time management

― how to use the virtual learning platform

― study and critical thinking skills.

About tutor groupsAs soon as you join our MBA programme you’ll be allocated to a group ranging from 16 to 20 students. You’ll stay with these students for your first module, and a tutor will support the group and facilitate your learning.

As you progress through the MBA programme, you’ll have opportunities to work with a range of different students and tutors.

The tutor and tutor groups will be your principal source of support throughout your learning journey.

About your tutorsOur dedicated teaching support and modest tutor-student ratio of around 1:20 means you’ll benefit from individualised and intensive support and guidance.

Your tutor will mark all of your assignments for a particular module and provide comprehensive feedback to help you improve as you progress through the programme.

9

Residential schools and workshopsOur three residential schools are a compulsory part of the MBA programme.

The residential schools are immersive experiences, bringing together students from around the world. These face-to-face events take place in a variety of locations, across two to three days.

In cases of unavoidable constraints on the provision of face-to-face events, online residential schools are offered. These vary in format; from short but intensive three-day events with a focus on synchronous sessions, to longer, less intensive schools with predominantly asynchronous sessions spread over a fourteen or twenty-one-day period.

Working with live case studies, you’ll accrue a wealth of real-world experience. The concentrated sessions will help you to work, network and learn alongside other students, in an international context.

Moreover, dedicated development workshops will help to improve your skills in areas such as negotiation, presentation and consulting.

Tutorial eventsIn addition to our residential schools, or online alternatives, you’ll be able to attend further tutorials. These sessions provide an opportunity to work through and clarify your study material.

Our tutorials work as facilitative learning events, so you’ll interact with fellow students.

Student support teamsOur Student Support Teams offer highly personalised study support and maximise your likelihood of successfully meeting your study goals.

Throughout your studies, they’ll provide integrated learning and learner support, supplementing the support offered by your tutor in all wider academic, administrative, national and regional aspects relevant to your studies.

The teams also offer academic pastoral support – not only responding to your queries, but also offering guidance on matters such as module selection, exams and assessments.

Interactive supportThere’ll always be someone to connect with via our lively vibrant online platforms as well as unofficial online student groups:

― Tutor forums Engage with your tutor and the other students in your group, in our tutor-moderated forums.

― Online rooms Book virtual rooms in which to study with your peers.

― Welcome forums These forums are suitable for the initial stage of your study. Use them to connect with peers in other tutor groups who are working on the same module.

― MBA World forum The MBA World forum enables you to connect with all students who are studying towards our MBA. You can, for example, receive advice from peers who are at a more advanced stage of the programme.

Online library and other resourcesTo help you research and complete your assignments, you’ll enjoy free access to The Open University’s extensive online library. Browse thousands of online journals, ebooks, databases and multimedia resources at your convenience for a learning experience that’s truly flexible.

Worldwide alumni communityThe Open University Business School is home to more than 27,000 MBA alumni representing 120 countries. Enjoy access to one of the world’s largest networks of MBA graduates via our online groups, professional bodies, events and webinars.

The Open University MBA was a life-changing experience for me. It gave me the knowledge and analytical skills to transition successfully from the military to a commercial role.Nick Wilkinson Chief Executive Officer

10

MBA PROGRAMME STRUCTUREOur MBA has an internationally recognised, practice-based and integrated approach to management development.

Programme overviewThe emphasis for your learning is directly rooted in management practice. The ‘master’ in the degree title denotes your ‘mastery’ of the art and science of management.

To achieve this level of capability, the general MBA programme concentrates on themes of strategic analysis, interdisciplinary skills, intellectual stimulation and independent judgement.

Other core themes include critical engagement, embedding theory in practice and global impact awareness.

Core disciplines that you’ll study include human resource management, organisational behaviour, accounting and finance, and marketing and operations.

In total, 75% of the programme consists of compulsory elements with 25% comprising elective modules. This enables you to select the curriculum to suit your needs. MBA modules are challenging but will always direct you towards improving your management capabilities.

Earn qualifications en routeAs you progress towards your MBA, you can also study for other qualifications that will impact positively on your career. On successful completion of:

― the first two compulsory modules (60 credits), you’ll be eligible to claim the Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration.

― 120 credits towards the MBA, you’ll be eligible to claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration.

― 180 credits of study, you’ll be awarded the MBA.

Our MBA starts in May and November each year and is designed to take between 18 months and seven years to complete. You’ll need to register for your module at least one month before you start. Examples of the three-year and two-year models are shown below and top right.

The three-year MBATo complete your MBA in three years you will need to spend approximately 12-14 hours a week on your studies.

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

PG Certificate PG Diploma

Managing in a changing world (B870) (30 credits)

Creating and sustaining value

(B872) (30 credits)

Effective strategic

management in business

and the public sector

(B873) (30 credits)

Finance for strategic decision-making (B874)

(15 credits)

Elective 1 (15 credits)

Elective 2 (15 credits)

Elective 3 (15 credits)

MBA project: leaders of change (B875)

(30 credits)

MBA (F61)

Includes residential school Compulsory module Elective module

11

The two-year MBAYou can complete the MBA within two years. This more intensive route will be suitable if you can devote 20-25 hours a week to your studies.

Year 1 Year 2

PG Certificate PG Diploma

Managing in a changing world

(B870) (30 credits)

Creating and sustaining value

(B872) (30 credits)

Effective strategic management in business and the

public sector (B873) (30 credits)

Finance for strategic decision-making (B874) (15 credits)

Elective 1 (15 credits)

Elective 2 (15 credits)

Elective 3 (15 credits)

MBA project:

leaders of change (B875)

(30 credits)

MBA (F61)

Includes residential school Compulsory module Elective module

Elective modulesElective modules offer you the opportunity to personalise your MBA to match your career aspirations and expectations.

You’ll study 45 credits from the following elective modules.

30 credits:

― Business, human rights law and corporate social responsibility (W822)

15 credits:

― Contemporary issues in organisations (BB853)

― Entrepreneurship in context (BB851)

― Leadership and management of public services (BB852)

― Supply chain management (BB849)

― Sustainable creative management (BB842)

For more information on these modules, see pages 14–16.

12

MBA MODULESCompulsory modulesManaging in a changing world (B870)

This module will encourage you to develop, as well as challenge, your current knowledge and skills in order to deal with contemporary and rapidly changing areas of management and marketing. Using both independent and collaborative approaches to learning, the module will enable you to integrate and understand ways of managing these core business functions in the face of globalisation, technological advancements and recent economic, social and political upheavals.

Creating and sustaining value (B872)

In this module you’ll critically explore the diverse ways organisations create, sustain and expand value. It provides the latest theories of value creation, allowing you to practically engage with them across several business functions and a range of organisations. By examining the operations and finance functions, you’ll uncover the link between decision-making and performance. Business intelligence is used to demonstrate how managers can enhance a firm’s value using data and analytics.

It also reveals new types of value creation, centring on collaboration, ecological sustainability, employee welfare and overall public good. The use of a game-based learning approach provides a compelling framework to consolidate, reflect, and expand on the knowledge you’ll acquire. Overall, this module offers an interdisciplinary lens to investigate how organisations can create and sustain value in an increasingly complex and dynamic business environment, driven by economic, environmental and social concerns.

On successful completion of these two modules you will qualify for the Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration.

My qualification and study experience have helped me to achieve senior management positions in the NHS at a much earlier age than most of my peers.David MonkOperations Manager (Urgent & Emergency Care), Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

13

Effective strategic management in business and the public sector (B873)

This module will provide you with the necessary tools to become an effective strategic decision-maker. You’ll learn about the analysis of the organisational environment, decision-making processes and implementation of preferred choices. The materials include a blend of profit, non-profit and public-sector cases and examples relevant to and set in international contexts. This will allow you to assess the nuances of strategic management across different organisational and geographical settings. Last but not least, the module will support the development of soft skills, which you will require both to progress in the qualification and succeed in the workplace.

Finance for strategic decision-making (B874)

In this module you’ll consider a range of ways that managers may use financial information for making optimal decisions.

This begins with considering the external financial pressures on companies from investors and markets. Next, you’ll examine a number of techniques of varying sophistication, alongside a number of hands-on activities. Finally, you’ll move on from the basic considerations and take into account that neither individuals nor businesses operate in isolation. Instead all our decisions are impacted by interactions with others. This leads us to a discussion of Game Theory and other behavioural aspects of finance.

MBA project: leaders of change (B875)

This module is studied last to complete your MBA.

This project is an integral part of the MBA and an ideal opportunity to link theory and practice. It will enable you to apply core aspects of what you’ve learnt to your organisation and effectively play the role of a consultant addressing a specific business issue or challenge. The module takes you three stages to delivery. Beginning with scouting, you’ll work with your colleagues to explore a range of potential projects in your organisation or others and prepare three proposals to discuss with your tutor, selecting the best to take forward. You’ll then clearly define the scope and objectives of the project and the module concludes with planning the implementation of your ideas and realising the aims of the project.

Meet the expert

Kevin started his career at Price Waterhouse Coopers in London, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. After a brief spell working in offshore finance in Bermuda, he returned to the UK and worked in senior finance positions in the commercial real estate investment market and residential development sector. Having worked for a number of quoted companies, as well as being the Group Financial Controller at the Grosvenor Estates, he then made the move to management training.

Kevin has run management programmes around the world for companies such as Unilever, BP, Shell, Credit Suisse, British Airways and Kraft Foods.

During this time he also found time to write a number of books on the subject of finance for managers, including the Financial Calculations Workbook, Finance for Real Estate Professionals and, as part of a Financial Times series, Uncovering Creative Accounting.

In addition to studying at The Open University, Kevin has been a tutor on the MBA programme for over 12 years. As Course Chair for Finance for strategic decision-making, Kevin has moved the course away from corporate finance 101 to more of a toolbox for managers which aims to help students learn how to use finance and other data to make optimal decisions.

Kevin Amor FCA, MA, BSc, Teaching Fellow in the Department for Accounting and Finance, Chair of Finance for strategic decision-making (B874).

14

Elective modulesBusiness, human rights law and corporate social responsibility (W822)

This interdisciplinary module considers how business increasingly conducts its operations with responsibility to its stakeholders and the wider society. It takes a socio-legal approach when examining how this expectation is being framed in terms of corporate social responsibility and human rights and the challenges of a globalised world. The module is diverse and wide-ranging, considering the development and application of these concepts in very different business contexts such as the development of international labour standards, criminal liability (corruption and corporate manslaughter), branding and marketing, charitable foundations and a range of specialist industries through the use of case studies.

Contemporary issues in organisations (BB853)

The module will help you become a knowledge leader within your organisation by demonstrating that you’re ahead of current organisational and business challenges. By defining contemporary organisational challenges, as influenced by technological change, internationalisation, complexity and ethics, you’ll develop key skills of planning and communication within and across organisations. You’ll become more adept at leading transition to green ways of working; acting strategically in a multinational business environment; and taking smart decisions that will enhance performance. The module also gives you the opportunity to design a game concept that will enhance your strategic and communication skills.

Entrepreneurship in context (BB851)

Social and commercial enterprises play an important role in today’s society, often in partnership with larger corporations and public sector organisations. This module provides rich, experience-based insights into the distinctive challenges of creating and developing entrepreneurial ventures. You’ll also develop a deeper, more critical, understanding of entrepreneurial practices by connecting your experiences to relevant concepts and research evidence. As a result, you’ll be better placed to develop your own venture, engage with other entrepreneurial organisations, and take part in wider debates about entrepreneurship in the twenty-first century.

15

Meet the expert

Yue is a Senior Lecturer in Digital Marketing at The Open University Business School. She has previously been a Senior Marketing Lecturer at Coventry University Business School, and Bournemouth University Media School. She completed her Doctoral Studies in Marketing at Leeds University Business School, where she explored

how consumers responded to sponsorship initiatives through the Olympic Games.

Her research interests focus on international communication strategy, sustainability in esports, sponsorship and endorsement, and HR practice in various cultural settings.

Dr Yue Meng-Lewis, Senior Lecturer in Digital Marketing

16

Leadership and management of public services (BB852)

This module offers a holistic knowledge of leadership and management in today’s business environment, with a focus on public and voluntary sectors. Public services are those run by government agencies and voluntary sector organisations. While some of their operations differ from private commercial organisations, this does not mean that efficient operation, effective leadership and a strong strategic focus are not just as important. If you have a public or non-profit-driven background this module will have particular appeal. However, the content offers up-to-date business information that is applicable to all sectors – private, public and not-for-profit.

Supply chain management (BB849)

Supply chain networks are recognised as the organisational form that assures business sustainability through supply continuity. Supply chain management is a fundamental skill in today’s competitive business environment, and organisations that excel in this function see the benefit in their performance. This module will provide you with an in-depth insight into supply chain theory, design, management and best practice, taking into account issues such as ethics, environmental sustainability and risk management. This will enable you to question and reflect upon your own organisation and its role in the supply chain.

Sustainable creative management (BB842)

This module considers how managers create innovative and sustainable ways of doing things. The approach combines conceptual models with practical examples and cross-cultural comparisons. After assessing ways in which theories about perception and creativity could help us organise more effectively, attention turns to creating promising possibilities in an increasingly interconnected world. If we can create what’s needed, without being too wrong too often, we could amplify our ability to do things better.

17

Meet the expert

Björn, who has been at The Open University Business School since 2012, was appointed Teaching Director of the Masters Programme in April 2021. He is particularly interested in the human factors in Operations and Supply Chain Management and the implementation of management information systems and entrepreneurship. A co-founder and former board member of the College of Human Behaviour in Operations Management of the Production and Operations Management Society.

In his teaching, Björn maintains a pragmatic approach to supply chain management issues, emphasizing the need for a cross functional approach towards optimizing companies’ supply chains. His industry experience, acquired in the area of supply chain management but also in international sales and marketing over a period of nearly a decade, allows him to illustrate the cases and examples discussed from different perspectives. Björn Claes, PhD,

Senior Lecturer in Operations Management

18

MBA (TECHNOLOGYMANAGEMENT)If you’re looking for an MBA that focuses on technology – and you’re interested in the management of technology and technological innovation in a variety of contexts – then the MBA (Technology Management) (F69) qualification is for you.

During your studies, you’ll explore the processes that underpin technological innovation and the challenges of technology from a strategic perspective, with your learning firmly rooted in management practice throughout.

With this qualification you’ll study seven compulsory modules which includes the four in the MBA plus Technology and innovation management (TB801); Strategic capabilities for technological innovation (T849); and a residential school module (BXR873).

Upon successful completion of the first two compulsory modules you’ll be eligible to claim the Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration.

Upon successful completion of the first four compulsory modules you’ll be eligible to claim the Postgraduate Diploma in Technology Management.

You’ll also need to complete an elective module. You can choose from the elective modules listed on page 11 or study one from the following list of modules:

― Making environmental decisions (T891)

― Making strategy with systems thinking (TB871)

― Managing change with systems thinking (TB872)

― Managing for sustainability (T867)

For more information on the MBA (Technology Management) and the modules listed above, go to openuniversity.co.uk/tech-mgmt.

A typical three-year study pathway would be:

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3

PG Certificate PG Diploma

Managing in a

changing world (B870)

(30 credits)

Creating and sustaining

value (B872)

(30 credits)

Technology and

innovation management

(TB801) (30 credits)

Strategic capabilities

for technological

innovation (T849)

(30 credits)

Finance for strategic decision-making (B874)

(15 credits)

Elective (15 credits)

MBA project: leaders of change (B875)

(30 credits)

Strategic management residential school

(BXR873) (Non-credit bearing)

MBA (Technology

Management) (F69)

Includes residential school

Compulsory module

Elective module

19

ENTRY REQUIREMENTSThere are three routes into our MBA programme. Each has an academic requirement, a work experience requirement and a language competency requirement. You will be required to show how you meet these requirements. This will include your CV and proof of qualifications, including English translations of non-UK degrees.

You’ll be eligible for our MBA by satisfying the academic, work experience and language requirements of one of the following routes:

Route 1: Bachelors degree with Honours

Academic requirement

You’ll need to have a bachelors degree with honours

awarded by a UK university or equivalent

Route 2: Bachelors degree without Honours

Academic requirement

You’ll need to have a bachelors degree without honours awarded

by a UK university or equivalent and you’ll need to have

completed either the discontinued OU module

Managing 1: organisations and people (B628)

orthree of our Business

Management microcredentials* or

the GMAT examination, and achieved a result of 640 or higher

Route 3: No Bachelors degree

Academic requirement

If you don’t have a bachelors degree you’ll need to have

completed either the OU Professional Certificate

in Management (S01) or

six of our Business Management microcredentials*

Work experience requirementHave gained a minimum of three years’ experience in a managerial, technical or professional role

Language requirement

If English isn’t your first language, a capability equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.5 is required

Evaluation of the evidence you provide to show how you meet the requirements for entry

Acceptance onto the MBA programme

*planned for the academic year 2021/22.

If you would like to discuss making an application and require further information, please call The Open University Business School information line on +44 (0)300 303 0065. Lines are open (UK time): Monday to Friday 09:00 to 20:00.

20

OUR WORLD-CLASS ACADEMICSThe Open University Business School employs more than 100 world-class academics who collaborate with learning technology specialists to create innovative, research-led learning materials. Your MBA modules will be delivered by our network of specialist tutors – practising senior business professionals – to give you a dynamic mix of theory and practice.

Professor Ali Ataullah, Finance

Ali’s research focuses on corporate diversification, within-firm allocation of resources, security issuances,

public procurement and mechanism design. He is the Head of the Department for Accounting and Finance (DAF) and is an associate editor for the European Journal of Finance.

Professor Emma Bell, Organisation Studies

Emma’s research explores culture, belief and materiality in organisations using qualitative methods of inquiry.

Her teaching takes a student-centred approach to the analysis of complex managerial problems by taking a creative multidisciplinary approach. She is a Fellow of the UK Academy of Social Sciences and co-author of the leading textbook, Business Research Methods (OUP, 2018).

Professor Richard Blundel, Enterprise and Organisation

Richard’s research addresses the links between entrepreneurial activity, innovation and environmental

sustainability. He has also examined the growth process in a variety of organizational contexts, including craft-based businesses and social enterprises. He is an Honorary Fellow of the ESRC Centre for Understanding Sustainable Prosperity (CUSP), University of Surrey, and co-author of Exploring Entrepreneurship (3rd edition: SAGE, 2021).

Professor Jo Brewis, People and Organisations

Jo’s research explores the intersections between gender, the body, sexuality, identity and processes of organising,

including a long-term project on menopause and the workplace. Her teaching puts real-life examples at centre stage to encourage students to consider how – and why – theory and practice connect or do not. She is the Head of the Department for People and Organisations (DPO).

Professor Leslie Budd, Regional Economy

Leslie’s research explores the fields of regional economic development and governance in a number of contexts

including Industry 4.0, place-based leadership and the evaluation of the socioeconomic benefits of space exploration. His teaching engages with these issues with respect to the increasingly challenging environment for public policy and its management. Leslie is a Fellow of the UK Academy of Social Sciences.

Professor Elizabeth Daniel, Information Management

Elizabeth’s research focuses on the effective use of information systems by organisations and the individuals

within them. Her early research focused on large organisations including the NHS. More recently she has focused on IT in micro businesses and self-employment, with a particular interest in home-based businesses. She is the Head of the Department for Strategy and Marketing (DSM).

21

Professor Mark Fenton-O’Creevy, Organisational Behaviour

Mark’s research, on the psychology of financial decision-making and

management practices in multinational firms, contributes to fields such as international business, behavioural finance, the sociology of markets, industrial relations and cognitive psychology. He is also part of a major research network exploring the challenges of decision-making in conditions of radical uncertainty.

Professor George Frynas, Strategic Management

George researches topics in strategic management, international business and corporate social responsibility, and has a passion for research on developing/emerging economies in Africa and Asia.

Professor Jean Hartley, Public Leadership

Jean’s research focuses on public leadership, covering politicians, public servants and civic activists.

She researches leadership with political astuteness, leadership development and public leadership in conflict societies. Jean also researches innovation in governance and public services. She leads a major programme of research on policing through the Centre for Policing Research and Learning (CPRL) as well as working with many other public services. Her work has shaped some of the thinking and ideas about public leadership and management nationally and internationally.

Professor Richard Holti, Professional Learning

Richard’s research concerns understanding how professionals can break with existing models

for delivering services, working across discipline boundaries to meet needs more effectively.

Professor Devendra Kodwani, Financial Management and Corporate Governance

Devendra’s research focuses on corporate governance, financial

management and economic regulation of utilities. He is the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law, and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE) in the UK.

Professor Gordon Liu, Marketing Strategy

Gordon’s research is situated at the intersection of marketing, strategy, and entrepreneurship with

particular interest in topics revolving around cause-related marketing, product innovation/new product development, strategic orientation/capabilities, and networks/strategic alliance.

Professor Edoardo Ongaro, Public Management

Edoardo’s research focuses on contextual influences and adaptation of public management practices to

local circumstances, also bridging scholarship and practice by working extensively on the issue of how to learn from practices that work, for adaptive transfer and replication. He has served as the President of the European Group for Public Administration and has vast experience in international and comparative public management. He is an editor of the scientific journal Public Policy and Administration, a Fellow of the Joint University Council of the Applied Social Sciences, and a Fellow of the UK Academy of the Social Sciences.

Professor Siv Vangen, Collaborative Leadership

Siv’s research focuses on the governance, leadership and management of inter-organizational

collaboration and she is co-author of the theory of collaborative advantage. She became Head of the OU Business School in February 2021, having previously been the Associate Dean for Research, Enterprise and Scholarship in the Faculty of Business and Law. She is Professor of Collaborative Leadership in the Department for Public Leadership and Social Enterprise (PuLSE) and the founding director and chair of the Centre for Voluntary Sector Leadership (CVSL).

Professor Tomasz Wisniewski, Finance

Tomasz’s research interests revolve around the topic of asset pricing. More specifically, he has published

extensively on how political developments, fundamental factors and behavioural tendencies of traders influence stock market prices.

22

GLOBAL CREDIBILITY,LOCAL RELEVANCEOur MBA programme is designed for practising senior and middle-level managers. It has a strong international focus with an emphasis on strategic analysis, interdisciplinary skills, creativity and innovation. We believe that being a global business school is about extending learning worldwide.

International reachWith students and alumni in 120 countries, we offer a truly global experience.

Our students are from many different sectors, industries and backgrounds. We believe that this diversity enriches your MBA experience, allowing you to broaden your mind and gain a deeper understanding of other cultures.

I was awarded an OBE in the Military Division of the Queen’s Birthday Honours in summer 2019. This was for the changes that improved the safety of military parachuting in my role as Officer Commanding Airborne Delivery Wing at RAF Brize Norton. Although many years have passed since completing my MBA, I still drew upon principles learnt during my MBA studies. They have undoubtedly shaped my thoughts and leadership style over the years, culminating with this huge accolade.

Wing Commander James Simmonds OBE

23

OUR INTERNATIONALADVISORY BOARDThe International Advisory Board (IAB) advises the Executive Dean of The Open University Business and Law Schools, the Business School’s Executive team and the wider University on the latest international practices, providing valuable input from outside the University.

Maggie Miller supporting International Women’s Day 2020.

She named Jennie Lee, who played a leading role in the foundation of the OU, as her most inspirational woman.

Maggie MillerMaggie chairs the International Advisory Board. She is a global business technology leader and CIO with more than 30 years’ experience during a long and distinguished career in the technology sector in the UK and overseas. The OU MBA alumna was the Alumni of the Year Award winner for 2020.

Wayne is Managing Director for Media, Entertainment, Culture and Fashion Industries at NEOM, spearheading the development of a vibrant and sustainable creative industries economic sector. He was previously President and General Manager for Fox Studios US based in Los Angeles, having been promoted from his role as CEO and Managing Director for Fox Studios Australia.

Wayne Borg

Sanjeeb ChaudhuriSanjeeb has a current portfolio which includes Retail, FinTech and Marketing Tech businesses. As well as Independent Director and Audit Committee member at Aditya Birla Group, he is a founder Director of Stab, a UK-registered FinTech platform for real estate brokers.

Andrew CraissatiAndrew is a highly experienced investor and adviser who operates across Europe and North America and with heavy experience of Asian markets.

James CrottyJames has recently taken on a number of board and advisory roles for a range of institutions in the financial services sector, following a career of almost 25 years with American Express.

James CullensJames is Executive Vice President, Human Resources, for SNC-Lavalin of Canada, one of the world’s largest infrastructure companies following the acquisition of Atkins in 2017. Prior to this appointment, James was Group Human Resources Director at Hays plc, The BOC Group, Linde AG, and PA Consulting Group.

Catherine DixonCatherine is Director General of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), joining in May 2020 having just completed a world-record breaking circumnavigation of the world on a tandem!

Bruce LeeBruce is Senior Vice President for IT Infrastructure and Operations for the Centene Corporation based in St Louis, Missouri. Centene is focused on providing government sponsored healthcare throughout the US and in international markets, including Spain and the UK.

Jay O’ConnorJay works with organisations to define and communicate their purpose and strategy, engage with stakeholders and manage change. She is currently conducting doctoral research on state governance and democratic accountability at UCL’s Department of Political Science & School of Public Policy, and is a member of the Institute of Directors’ (IoD) Centre for Corporate Governance Working Group on Stakeholder Governance, and the European Corporate Governance Institute (ECGI).

Namrata Sarmah Namrata, Chief Product Officer at iPlato Healthcare, is a trustee at the Middlesex Learning Trust, and board advisor at a few start-ups in London. She is a strong advocate of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, leading several women in tech and leadership initiatives.

24

A GLOBAL ALUMNI ANDCAREERS NETWORKOur MBA is your passport to a large, active business network. As an MBA graduate, you’ll automatically become a member of our worldwide alumni community.

Our Alumni and Careers Network is a powerful global community with more than 93,500 postgraduate Business School members; more than 27,000 of these have MBAs. It exists to connect you to fellow managers and leaders worldwide, throughout your career. The network is open to you as soon as you hold a professional and postgraduate business and management qualification from The Open University Business School.

Our aim is to provide a service that you can continue to draw on throughout your professional life, whether you’re looking to progress within your organisation, change careers, become an entrepreneur or return to study.

Careers and professional developmentWe offer a variety of services to support you at different stages of your career and across various sectors, industries and functions. Through our website you’ll find:

― free webinars and a webinar library on career support and progression.

― free access to current international recruiter guides, and supporting videos on how to work with headhunters and recruiters.

― free access to a personal career development programme: The Career Maximiser, developed by MBA career specialists, Career Farm.

― free access to our online library resources.

― discounted access to professional career coaches, CV specialists and career assessment programme.

― discounted membership of professional bodies.

― discounted and priority access to a range of Open University Business School CPD courses.

Alumni eventsWe offer a variety of face-to-face, online, networking and learning and development events, led by our own academics, tutors, alumni and other professionals within our network. At a local level, alumni volunteers organise additional informal networking events.

Our alumni engagement programme brings the latest academic and practitioner thinking and best practice to you through online and face-to-face events, as well as an open access blog and insight into practising managers’ views on current global themes.

For more information, go to openuniversity.co.uk/oubs-alumni.

Alumni CouncilThe Alumni Council is a representative body, drawn from a wide cross-section of OU Business School alumni. The Council meets regularly with senior management of the School and the Stakeholder and Alumni Engagement team to discuss the future direction of the School, with particular emphasis on alumni relations.

It’s a privilege to be part of the Alumni Council and be able to help shape the future of the School and alumni community.

Rob White Alumni Council

NetworkingOurs is among the largest, most experienced and most diverse group of MBA alumni in Europe, so we’re confident that your connections will be valuable, and your networking will always be inspiring. This includes a postgraduate group on LinkedIn which you’ll able to join.

25

Industry networksAs an MBA student or graduate, you’ll be able to benefit from our industry connections too:

― Global Business School Network There are only three UK business schools in the Global Business School Network, a growing network of more than 100 business schools across six continents working to improve management education in the developing world.

― Chartered Management Institute Partnership Our Alumni and Careers Network partners with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

The CMI is the UK’s only chartered professional body dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership excellence. We offer two membership packages, both of which are designed to support career and personal development. Learn more at openuniversity.co.uk/cmi.

― Institute of Directors Founded in 1903, the Institute of Directors is the UK’s longest-running organisation for professional leaders. As an MBA graduate, you’ll be able to join the Institute at a preferential rate. You’ll enjoy a range of benefits and business services, as well as opportunities to connect with the Institute’s more than 30,500 members.

― The Institute of Leadership & Management This world-renowned specialist membership body raises professional standards of more than 30,000 leaders, managers, coaches and mentors. It delivers world-class leadership tools and resources to help you unlock individual and business potential. If you want to fine tune your leadership and management skills, build your confidence and learn more from other great leaders, become a member. Its mission is to inspire great leadership, everywhere.

Completing my MBA enabled me to change my life. It gave me the competence and confidence to start my own successful business. I use concepts from the MBA every day to help my business and our clients.

Rachel BlackburnDirector for US2U Consulting Ltd

26

FEES AND FUNDINGOur MBA makes a top-tier, triple-accredited qualification accessible to you. When compared to the UK’s other triple-accredited business schools, we believe you won’t find better value for money than The Open University MBA.

FeesUnlike many business schools, our fee includes: the cost of books and study materials; accommodation and meals at residential schools; access to a bespoke elearning environment and project supervision; and examination fees.

The approximate fee range for our MBA is as follows:

REGION APPROXIMATE FEE RANGE1

United Kingdom £17,175 – £18,840

Republic of Ireland £19,900 – £21,560

Rest of the world £20,775 – £22,440

1 2021/2022 prices. Fees normally increase annually in line with inflation and the University’s strategic approach to fees.

Our fee range explainedModule prices are reviewed annually and may vary as you progress in your studies.

The total cost of your MBA will depend on which modules you study and assumes that you’ll pass each module at the first attempt.

Pay module by moduleUnlike many other MBA providers, we don’t require a single bulk payment in advance. With The Open University MBA, you’ll only pay for the modules you’re studying at any one time. This enables you to spread the cost of the MBA for the duration of your studies.

If you wish to, you can pay your fees in advance, by debit/credit card or by bank transfer, or with an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA) (see opposite).

The following sample pathways show when and how much you’d need to pay if you’re living in the UK1. Please note: these are suggestions only, and you may wish to take study breaks between modules, for example.

Three-year time plan

0-12 mths

Managing in a changing

world (30 credits)

– £3,140

Creating and sustaining

value (30 credits)

– £3,140

£6,280

13-18 mths

Effective strategic management in

business and the public sector

(30 credits) – £3,140

£3,140

19-24 mths

Finance for strategic decision-

making (15 credits)

– £1,570

Sustainable creative

management (15 credits)

– £1,570

£3,140

25-30 mths

Entrepreneurship in context

(15 credits) – £1,570

Supply chain management

(15 credits) – £1,570

£3,140

31-36 mths

MBA project: leaders of change

(30 credits) – £3,140

£3,140

27

Four-year time plan

0-12 mths

Managing in a changing world

(30 credits) – £3,140

Creating and sustaining value

(30 credits) – £3,140

£6,280

13-18 mths

Study break

19-24 mths

Effective strategic

management in business

and the public sector

(30 credits) – £3,140

£3,140

25-30 mths

Finance for strategic decision- making

(15 credits) – £1,570

£1,570

31-36 mths

Sustainable creative

management (15 credits) – £1,570

Supply chain management

(15 credits) – £1,570

£3,140

37-48 mths

MBA project: leaders of change

(30 credits) – £3,140

Entrepreneurship in context

(15 credits) – £1,570

£4,710

Five-year time plan

0-6 mths

Managing in a

changing world

(30 credits) – £3,140

£3,140

7-12 mths

Creating and

sustaining value

(30 credits) – £3,140

£3,140

13-24 mths

Study break

25-30 mths

Effective strategic

management in business

and the public sector

(30 credits) – £3,140

Finance for strategic decision- making

(15 credits) – £1,570

£4,710

31-36 mths

Study break

37-42 mths

Supply chain management

(15 credits) – £1,570

Entre- preneurship

in context (15 credits)

– £1,570

£3,140

43-48 mths

Study break

49-60 mths

Sustainable creative

management (15 credits)

– £1,570

MBA project: leaders of change

(30 credits) – £3,140

£4,710

Open University Student Budget Accounts Ltd (OUSBA)When you enrol with us, you’ll be offered the opportunity to pay your fees through a loan from OUSBA1. OUSBA will pay your fees to The Open University, and you repay OUSBA either in a single sum or in monthly instalments.

You can repay OUSBA at any time before the course begins. In this case, there’s no interest.

Alternatively, you can repay OUSBA in monthly instalments payable over up to a year. In this case, interest does apply. The interest rate is fixed for the duration of the course (current representative APR of 5.1%).

As a responsible lender every application made to OUSBA undergoes a credit and affordability check.

Find out more about OUSBA at openuniversity.co.uk/ousba.

1 Restrictions apply, go to openuniversity.co.uk/ousba-res for more information.

REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE:

Rate of interest 5.0% per annum (fixed)

Managing in a changing world (B870) fee (UK fee) (total amount of credit)

£3,140.00

Fees paid over 5 instalments of £635.88

APR 5.1% representative

Total amount payable £3,179.40

Amount of interest £39.40

Continued on page 28.

28

Postgraduate funding for students in the UKYou could apply for funding to help towards the cost of studying your MBA.

England

You could be eligible for a postgraduate loan of up to £11,570 from Student Finance England if you meet the following criteria:

― are under 60 years old

― are resident in England

― are studying a masters degree which can be completed in no more than three years (excluding study breaks)

― you don’t currently have a masters degree or equivalent

― you are studying your qualification from the beginning.

Wales

You could receive grants and loans up to a total of £18,025 over the duration of your course from the Welsh Government if you meet the following criteria:

― are aged under 60 years old

― are resident in Wales

― are studying a masters degree which can be completed in no more than four years (excluding study breaks)

― you don’t currently have a masters degree or equivalent.

Northern Ireland and Scotland

You could be eligible for a fee loan of up to £5,500 towards your fees, from Student Finance Northern Ireland or the Student Awards Agency Scotland.

To be eligible you must be:

― resident in Northern Ireland or Scotland

― studying for an eligible postgraduate qualification.

For more information on postgraduate loans go to openuniversity.co.uk/pg-fees.

The Crowther Fund (Open University graduates only)The Crowther Fund was introduced as a tribute to the late Lord Crowther, who was the University’s first chancellor. The fund is intended to help Open University graduates build upon their degrees – either by formal study or research, or by broadening their experience through a period of voluntary work.

The fund is open to all Open University graduates who hold an honours degree, regardless of financial circumstances. The application closing date is 28 February each year.

For further information please email ou-crowther-fund@open.ac.uk.

Future Leader FundThe Business School offers an annual scholarship for the first two modules of the MBA programme to an individual who can demonstrate career potential to be a future leader. The scholarship, which is funded by MBA alumni, is judged according to the merit of the application. The recipient is announced in February, for study beginning in May.

For further information on how to apply go to openuniversity.co.uk/future-leader.

Employer sponsorshipThe Open University is highly respected by employers. That’s why 77% of FTSE 100 companies have sponsored their staff to study with us.

If your MBA studies will benefit your workplace, your employer might be willing to sponsor your studies.

Our online Business Case Builder tool will help you to generate a fully written tailored business case in three easy steps.

Explore the tool at openuniversity.co.uk/mbasponsor to create a business case to present to your employer.

Credit for previous studyIf you’ve studied at higher education level before, your previous studies could count towards your Open University qualification – saving you study time and money. At The Open University, we call this system ‘credit transfer’.

Of the 180 credits required for the MBA, up to 30 credits of study can be awarded against modules (with the exception of the final dissertation module) in recognition of relevant previous study elsewhere.

For more information go to openuniversity.co.uk/credit-transfer.

29

WE ARE... THE VANBURENS

Tania was on the brink of an executive leadership post and wanted an ‘edge’ in her discussions at work.

“The flexibility of the OU really helped during my studies, as I changed jobs and Andy and I got married in the same year. We took six months out for the wedding. What I loved about the OU as a style of study was we could just take that six-month period out to make the most of our life circumstances.

The great thing about the MBA is that a lot of the learning you undertake is related to your work, you spend your working day thinking about things in the context of your study. It reframes the way you think about work, so a really interesting new perspective to bring to the fore.

Overall, it was brilliant and rewarding both personally and professionally but it was hard work.”

Tania Vanburen

Andy sought an MBA to refresh some of his skills including relevant finance modules.

“I can say it was a really positive experience now I’ve come out the other side as it was a huge commitment. It’s a big chunk of your life to commit to over three or four years so you have to be really sure you want to do it.

I enjoyed meeting up with other students on the day schools. It was good to meet people from similar and different backgrounds who wanted to achieve the same thing. It was a real motivator. I was able to get ideas, help and input, and expand my network of contacts.

The OU, and the MBA qualification, have definitely changed me as a person. They’ve made me question things at work so much more.

It’s opened my eyes to why we do things. The MBA has really helped my career and given me a lot more commerciality than many of my colleagues.”

Andy Vanburen

Andy and Tania Vanburen celebrated their joint MBA graduation at The Barbican in London in 2019. Andy had never studied for a degree although he has accounting professional qualifications, while Tania studied law at a traditional red brick university before gaining a postgraduate certificate in legal practice.

30

STUDENT AND ALUMNI AWARDSEvery year, we celebrate the exceptional achievements of our students and alumni. This was still the case in 2020 despite the pandemic and the enforced absence of an awards ceremony. The high calibre of winners is demonstrated below with our 2019 MBA student award winners, Tim O’Donovan and Joe Finucane, and our 2020 Alumni of the Year Achievement Award recipient Maggie Miller.

The course was instrumental in helping my career progression by giving me the skills and confidence to take on new responsibilities and initiatives. This resulted in two new promotions – one during, and then immediately after, my studies. I would certainly recommend the course as it was not only academically rewarding and rigorous, it was really interesting too! The quality of tutors, content, resources, and in-person events all led to an excellent learning experience.Tim O’Donovan MBA Student of the Year 2019, IT Manager

My MBA studies have had a profound impact on my career and I have been promoted twice since graduating. This would not have been possible in this time frame without the MBA. Not just the letters MBA but the actual learning and confidence that it gives you is worth so much more. Having these tools has given me huge confidence in my approach to projects and challenges. It was a combination of the hardest and best thing I have ever done.Joe Finucane MBA Dissertation of the Year 2019, Chief Technology Officer, CACI Ltd

I owe the OU a huge debt of gratitude for my success. Having left full-time education at 18, the OU MBA gave me the knowledge and confidence to build my career in multinational organisations in the UK and the US. Receiving this award makes me even more grateful to the incredible staff and academics of this organisation that I’m so proud to be associated with.Maggie Miller Alumni of the Year Achievement Award 2020, Global business technology leader and CIO; Chair of the OUBS International Advisory Board

31

DEVELOP YOUR STAFF WITHTHE OPEN UNIVERSITY MBAAt The Open University, we’re not only academic experts. For more than 50 years, we’ve worked with organisations to understand their business challenges, and provide outstanding learning and development solutions.

In fact, 77% of FTSE 100 companies have sponsored their staff to study with The Open University. So if you’re an employer looking to retrain or upskill your staff, look no further.

We introduce employees to the latest business thinking and enable them to apply these ideas to their workplace. Organisations see an immediate return on their investment.

Geographically dispersed organisations are especially drawn to our ability to deliver the same learning across the country or the world.

Why is our MBA so popular with employers?― The programme offers

a mobile and flexible route for developing managers and gives them access to one of the world’s largest communities of management learners and practitioners.

― The programme draws on daily management activity so that what your staff learn today, they can apply tomorrow – giving you and your organisation an immediate return on your investment.

― It crosses geographical, cultural and sector boundaries – offering equal relevance to the private and public sector.

― It develops not only the managerial capabilities of staff but also valuable talents such as effective prioritisation, teamworking, commitment and personal motivation.

If you’re an employer and you’d like to learn more about training your staff with The Open University – and the benefits of sponsoring employees to study with us – please go to openuniversity.co.uk/mba-employers.

The opportunity to study with The Open University is very beneficial for our employees who are mid-career. It affords them the possibility to balance their busy role with their studies. This is facilitated by the frequent support and flexibility provided by the OU.

John Griffin Senior Early Professionals Manager, IBM

openuniversity.co.uk/study-mba

GET IN TOUCH

You can speak to our friendly advisers and register for our MBA in the following ways:

‒ online at openuniversity.co.uk/study-mba

‒ call The Open University Business School information line on +44 (0)300 303 0065. Lines are open (UK time): Monday to Friday 09:00 to 20:00.

Calls are charged at the UK local rate when calling from a UK mobile phone or landline.

International students

For students outside of the UK and the Republic of Ireland please visit our website openuniversity.edu or call +44 300 303 0266.

The Open University hosts a number of online information sessions giving you the opportunity to hear from our staff and learn more about studying with us. At some events you can view our learning materials, or talk to subject specialists about which modules will suit your needs.

For details of our online information sessions, go to openuniversity.co.uk/mba-online.

For details of events outside the UK and the Republic of Ireland, go to openuniversity.edu.

We have made all reasonable efforts to ensure that the information in this prospectus is accurate at the time of publication.

However, we shall be entitled, if we consider it reasonably necessary (including in order to manage resources and improve student experience) to make changes, including to the availability of modules and qualifications, to qualification structure and to our regulations, policies and procedures. For current information, please refer to our online prospectus at openuniversity.co.uk/ courses. If you require further information about the circumstances in which we may make changes, please contact us or refer to the Academic Regulations on our website at openuniversity.co.uk/academic-regulations.

The Open University Business School Information Team, The Open University, PO Box 197, Milton Keynes MK7 6BJ United Kingdom

The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England & Wales, and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302). The Open University is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in relation to its secondary activity of credit broking.

Designed and produced by Matrix. Printed by Newnorth Print on FSC® certified stocks and using 100% vegetable inks.

Copyright © 2021 The Open University. SUP 096763