Abertay University has launched a “radically redesigned” business administration course specifically tailored to allow post-graduates to take a more flexible approach to their studies.
The new-style MBA is intended to make it much easier to combine learning with the demands of the workplace, without compromising on academic rigour.
Managers and employees can tailor their own programme of four-week study blocks under the new scheme, which has been designed in collaboration with a string of national and international employers.
Thursday’s launch of the new qualification came at a business breakfast for members of Dundee and Angus Chamber of Commerce, with the university upgrading its membership of the business organisation to become a platinum partner.
Head of the university’s Dundee Business School Professor Sabine Hotho said the MBA programme had to be refreshed in the face of a changing pattern of work.
“Working directly with businesses and the public sector has taught us that busy professionals need complete flexibility to pursue their professional development. Committing to two years of evening classes just isn’t feasible for many people as their work demands continually change,” she said.
“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to introduce an MBA that is broken down into convenient four-week blocks of learning, with a number of starting points throughout the year, and with a choice of classroom, project and work-based learning.
“This allows both senior managers and aspiring professionals to tailor their own programme, covering all key areas of business and management, and developing their own specialisation.
“The MBA is still such a prestigious qualification, but the modern world of business has changed dramatically and universities need to change what they offer to match the needs of the next generation of business and public-sector leaders.”
The new prospectus includes study blocks which can be completed individually for professional development purposes or bundled together over time into a full MBA.
Each four-week study block contains four “intense” days of professional seminars to minimise the time required away from work. The programme also allows students to focus their work on specific business sectors through a “live” project.
Chamber president Jim Pickett was delighted to welcome the seat of learning into top-level membership of the body.
“Our platinum members support the chamber’s long-term vision because it aligns closely with their own ambitions for their organisation and the wider city region,” he said. “They recognise the value of being seen to be at the heart of a successful and dynamic local chamber of commerce.
“By taking the views of national and international businesses into account in the design of the new flexible MBA, the Dundee Business School has done exactly what employers have been calling for, and I’m sure this innovative course will be a great success.”