Organisations need executives who are resilient, have the ability to work across boundaries and who can understand and apply the theory of management and business in the real world. The Open University’s MBA programme is practice- based so its students are applying new skills and learning as they study.

Employers respect the OU – perhaps that’s why 80 per cent of the FTSE 100 and thousands of UK employers have funded their staff to study with the OU.

They rate OU graduates just as highly – the attitude it takes to get an OU qualification is exactly the kind of attitude employers are looking for, and can make your CV stand out from the crowd.

The OU is the leader in delivering flexible business education and is one of only 10 business schools to hold the triple accreditation from EQUIS, AMBA and AACSB. The programme is designed for busy professionals keen to develop their skills and careers who need the flexibility of modular blended learning. The OU MBA programme can be completed in three years or studied over a longer period if study breaks are needed.

Planning an OU course
Planning an OU course

“I received lots of support from tutors, online forums and residential schools, which was also great for building a network of contacts,” said Andre, an MBA graduate. “The practical experience helps me to do things differently.”

Joe, who recently graduated said: “I am amazed how I am able to see all types of situations with a fresh point of view.”

Students can study the OU MBA if they have a minimum three years’ experience in a managerial, technical or professional role and have either an Honours Degree or have completed the OU’s Professional Certificate in Management.

The new OU MBA Explorer app has lots of free resources to help you make your study decision. There are sample materials, a fee calculator and The Business Case Builder that generates a business case for sponsorship support.

There are also dates of information sessions and open days on www.openuniversity.co.uk/mbaevents and access to other on-line resources through www.open.edu and iTuneU.