Find out why studying the Manchester MBA could be the right move for you.
Choosing to pursue an MBA is a significant leap that can reshape your career trajectory, expand your network, and equip you with the tools to lead in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
However, not all MBA programmes are delivered the same way. They vary in structure, content, and reputation, which means your experience may differ significantly depending on where you choose to study.
At Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), our Full-time MBA stands out – not only because it's among the top 5 in the UK according to the Financial Times 2025 Ranking – but also because of the depth of experience, flexibility, and real-world learning it offers.
In this article, we list five compelling reasons why you should consider applying.
1. From day one, you're involved in live business projects
At the heart of the AMBS experience is the Manchester Method – our distinctive approach to learning that integrates practical, hands-on experience.
From the outset, you'll be immersed in live business projects that challenge you to apply what you're learning in real time. Your journey begins with the Social Impact Consultancy Project, where you'll work with a third-sector organisation to make a tangible difference to local communities.
This is followed by the Commercial Business Consultancy Project, which offers insight into the realities of working with a private sector client with complex, high-stakes challenges.
Towards the end of the programme, you'll participate in the International Business Project, tackling a pressing issue for a global company.
Each of these experiences is designed to help you think critically, collaborate effectively, and solve real problems – all while developing the strategic mindset that employers value most.
AMBS has a strong focus on real life consulting projects, which helped me apply theoretical learnings in practice.
- Armin Kia, Founder and CEO of Driverly, Full-time MBA Class of 2014
2. You'll build a strong foundation in every major area of business
Alongside the live projects, the Manchester Full-time MBA includes a series of core courses that cover the fundamentals of business, from finance to strategy and competition. These courses are taught by faculty who are not only academic experts, but also practitioners, consultants, and researchers at the cutting edge of their fields.
In addition, the curriculum is constantly evolving to reflect the latest developments in business. This includes emerging technologies such as AI, data analytics, and digital transformation, as well as a strong emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
These themes are embedded across the programme, helping you develop the skills to lead responsibly and sustainably in today's tech-driven, values-focused economy.
Regardless of your background, these core courses will give you the well-rounded foundation you need to accelerate your career.
Being able to successfully combine the technical, practical, and people skills learned during my MBA to achieve the 'triple jump' (a change in country, function, and industry) is one of the main rewards of my journey.
– Ana Roman Reina, Senior Product Manager at Amazon, Full-time MBA Class of 2023
3. Finish your MBA in 15 or 18 months
We understand that every student's career plans, financial situation, and personal circumstances are different. That's why the Full-time MBA at AMBS offers a flexible programme length: you can complete the degree in either 15 months or 18 months.
The 15-month route allows you to return to the workforce quickly, which makes it ideal for those with sponsorship or time-sensitive goals. The 18-month option gives you additional time to deepen your learning, explore more electives, complete an internship or personal project, or prepare for a career pivot.
This flexibility also helps manage the opportunity cost of stepping away from work. With options to tailor the length and content of your MBA, you can design a study path that balances career development with financial planning.
4. Maximum options to personalise your MBA experience
No two MBA journeys at AMBS are alike. Once you've completed the core courses and live projects, you'll have the freedom to customise your learning through a wide range of electives. These span topics from entrepreneurship and innovation to sustainability, global finance, and leadership.
You also get to decide where you study your electives – either in Manchester or at one of our global centres in cities like Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore. These international residentials offer valuable cross-cultural insights and access to global business networks.
As for your final MBA project, you can choose from two options:
- A personal project, where you explore a business issue that matters to you or your employer
- An internship, which can be based in the UK or abroad.
This level of personalisation ensures your MBA is not only academically enriching, but also aligned with your long-term goals.
5. Study in a globally connected, culture-rich city
Studying in Manchester means living in one of the UK's most dynamic and welcoming cities. Known for its rich industrial heritage and world-class universities, Manchester is a city of innovation, creativity, and opportunity.
Home to thriving sectors such as tech, finance, media, and life sciences, it offers excellent professional prospects during and after your MBA. The city is also a cultural hub, with internationally recognised music, sports, and arts scenes.
Manchester's location makes it a practical choice too. Named one of the UK's most walkable cities, its main attractions are within six miles of each other, making it easy to explore highlights like the Manchester Art Gallery and the stunning John Rylands Library – a neo-Gothic masterpiece and part of the University itself.
In addition, Manchester Airport (one of the UK's busiest), offers direct connections to cities around the world, making the city an ideal base for international students or those pursuing global business careers.
And with a lower cost of living than London and other major European cities, Manchester offers a high quality of life with excellent value.
Ready to make your next career move?
The Full-time MBA at Alliance Manchester Business School gives you a structured, practical, and globally connected route to your next career step.
Whether you're looking to change sectors, accelerate your career, or launch a business, this programme equips you with the knowledge, experience, and network to make it happen.
Full-time MBA programme details, entry requirements, and upcoming deadlines
