Frequently asked questions

Find answers to questions you may have about studying for an MBA.

What is an MBA?

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a postgraduate degree that develops skills in business management and leadership. It's designed for business professionals looking to progress their career, and is widely respected by employers. You will cover a range of topics such as operational management, finance, strategy, entrepreneurship and innovation, and gain the skills to put your ideas into practice.

The Sussex MBA will help you gain the skills, experience and confidence to make a meaningful impact in business and beyond by driving long term change in business and society – and become a Better Business Leader. Discover more about the Sussex MBA.

• What are the entry requirements for the Sussex MBA?

  You will need to have a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) and must have a minimum of five years’ relevant full-time work experience after graduation, of which three years should be experience in management. When assessing your application, we will look closely at your career progression in terms of roles and responsibilities, experience of managing projects and people, and how you have continued to develop your skills throughout your career to date. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. You can see more about UK and International requirements in our prospectus.

• Do I need to write a personal statement for an MBA?

  Yes, you will need to submit a personal statement as part of your application. Find out how to write a personal statement for Masters courses.

• How can an MBA help me progress my career?

  Our MBA is a globally-recognised qualification and accredited by AMBA, the global standard for MBA programmes. You will enhance your critical and strategic thinking, and gain the practical skills to apply cutting-edge business theory. You will have valuable networking opportunities, learning from and with your cohort, and you will develop a range of management and leadership skills under the guidance of leading academic and industry experts.

  You will delve deeper into cross-cutting themes in the world of business, and be equipped to progress: whether that's within your current organisation, an external organisation, or your own business venture. Discover more about the Sussex MBA.

• How much does an MBA cost?

  The Sussex MBA costs £26,000 for UK and International students starting in January 2025. We offer MBA Impact scholarships ranging from £2,500 to £5,000. Your employer may even sponsor your studies for your professional development.
  

  All international applicants who study a full time Masters course at the University of Sussex Business School starting in September or January will receive a £2,000 award towards their overseas tuition fee.

• Can I get a scholarship for my MBA?

  Yes – we offer scholarships ranging from £2,500 to £5,000 to applicants who can demonstrate significant management experience and/or have graduated with a good degree, or other relevant qualification. Find out more about fees and funding.

• Will an MBA increase my salary?

  Whether you are looking to climb the ladder in an existing organisation, or would like to set up your own business, an MBA is highly valued and a globally-recognised qualification. Many leadership roles typically require an MBA, bringing with it increased earning potential.

• Can I start my own business after completing an MBA?

  As well as enabling you to gain real-world connections with academic and industry experts, the course will provide you with new skills and insights to directly apply to your professional environment. Modules are varied and include "Innovation and Entrepreneurship", "Managing People and Organisations" and "Accounting and Financial Management", laying the foundation for aspiring managers and entrepreneurs.

  Hear from Alinery Lianhlawng, Sussex MBA student and Founder of Rochun: Pay It Forward, on how her time on the course helped her achieve her career goals.

• How long is an MBA?

  You can study the MBA either part-time or full-time. Our full-time MBA is a one-year programme and is ideal if you can take a year out from your job to focus on your studies. Our part-time MBA is delivered over two years so you can fit your studies around your work and apply what you learn directly to your day job. Classes are taught on Fridays and Saturdays helping you fit everything in more easily. You can start your MBA in January or September.