Course Overview
The IMBA at the University of Bolton is the perfect pathway into leadership roles for graduates with little or no managerial experience. This program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to address complex, strategic business challenges while immersing yourself in our supportive, student-focused, multicultural campus environment.
As a postgraduate qualification, the IMBA covers essential skills and knowledge applicable across various organizations. Our expert faculty will guide you in developing a strong understanding of management and leadership practices, exploring how to apply creative and systematic approaches to business issues, and identifying ways to enhance business operations. You’ll gain insights from an international perspective, learning how diverse cultures and business environments impact decision-making.
The program incorporates authentic assessments, including projects and case studies, allowing you to hone your problem-solving abilities with innovative and justified solutions. As you prepare to become a future leader, we emphasize the importance of creativity, flexibility, and lifelong learning, empowering you to take charge of your professional development and maximize your potential for success.
The Bolton IMBA opens exciting career opportunities for ambitious students. Throughout the program, we will support your development of both academic and professional skills, and you will have the chance to specialize in a specific area of business or management through your final professional project.
Highlights
- Global Perspective: In today’s international business landscape, understanding global management practices is highly valued. You’ll build cross-cultural management skills sought after in the global job market.
- Community Engagement: Join the Greater Manchester Business School’s established postgraduate community, studying alongside fellow professionals focused on international business management.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from a dedicated team of qualified instructors drawn from both business and academia.
- Comprehensive Resources: Enjoy access to the university’s excellent libraries, 24/7 IT facilities, WiFi, and learning spaces.
- Academic Support: Participate in our academic skills and professional practice module to enhance your study skills.
- Research Opportunities: Work closely with experienced academics to conduct your own research and develop expertise in your chosen area.
- Industry Engagement: Take advantage of opportunities to engage directly with local and regional organizations, many of which have an international presence.
Key Features
- Critical Knowledge Development: Gain an in-depth understanding of organizations, their management, and the complex business issues they face, including the various national and cultural contexts in which they operate.
- Capstone Project: Apply your research and analysis skills in a culminating capstone project.
- Specialized Teaching: Learn from a dedicated team with expertise in diverse subject areas and strong ties to industry.
- Interactive Learning: Access online course materials to prepare in advance, ensuring a highly interactive classroom experience.
By choosing to study with us, you’ll enjoy Bolton’s vibrant shops, bars, restaurants, and leisure facilities. Manchester, one of the UK’s most dynamic and multicultural cities, is just a 20-minute train ride away. Additionally, the North West of England is celebrated for its beautiful countryside and rich heritage, making Bolton an ideal base for exploring some of the best cultural and outdoor activities the UK has to offer.
Entry Requirements
To apply for the IMBA, you should typically have:
- At least a lower second class honours degree (2.2) in any subject or an equivalent professional qualification.
If you do not meet these academic qualifications but have a minimum of two years of work experience in a business or management role, we will consider your application. You may be required to attend an interview and/or provide a portfolio of work.
Career Opportunities
The Bolton IMBA equips you with a critical understanding of the challenges faced by enterprises and organizations, along with the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to identify effective solutions. As a graduate, you’ll gain a comprehensive overview of key business practices and enhance your expertise in areas such as operations management, marketing, strategy, and financial management.
This IMBA serves as an ideal launchpad for an ambitious career in senior management. Employers across various industries actively seek business and management professionals with an IMBA. From small startups to large corporations, every organization requires skilled individuals to support essential functions like accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, public relations, sales, and overall management.
What Can I Do With This Qualification?
IMBA graduates are sought after by a diverse range of employers, including financial institutions, technology firms, blue-chip companies, and SMEs. The universal appeal of the IMBA lies in its focus on collective business principles, making it relevant across all sectors.
Common career paths for IMBA graduates include:
- Human Resource Management
- Investment Banking
- Management Consultancy
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
An IMBA is highly regarded internationally, making it a valuable asset for those interested in pursuing a global business career, particularly given the strong reputation of UK business schools.
If you’re considering further studies after graduation, you may also choose to pursue a research degree such as an MPhil, DBA, or PhD.
Alternative Career Options
In addition to traditional management roles, IMBA graduates can explore a variety of other career paths. Some of these roles may require relevant experience and/or additional postgraduate qualifications. Potential options include:
- Accountancy
- Hotel and Leisure Management
- Public Relations
- Financial Management
- Information Systems
- Market Research Analysis
- Product Management
- Health Policy and Information
- Purchasing
- Teaching and Education
- Media (TV, Film, Online, Newspaper, Magazine)
- Advertising
- Self-Employment
- Logistics
- Banking
- Auditing and Quality Assurance
- Project Management
- Risk and Insurance
With an IMBA, you are well-prepared to navigate and thrive in a variety of dynamic and rewarding career paths.
Modules
The following modules may include a combination of compulsory and optional offerings. Please note that you may not have the opportunity to study all the modules listed as part of the course.
- Academic Skills Mastery
- International Business Administration
- Organisational Leadership in a Global Context
- Marketing and Operations in the Digital Age
- Strategic Management and International Competition
- Strategic Financial Management and Corporate Governance
- Professional Skills and Practice
- International MBA Professional Project