DURHAM MBA
- MBA admission Experts
- Aug 15
- 19 min read
In a landscape filled with prestigious business schools and globally ranked programs, the Durham MBA stands out for its fusion of academic rigor, real-world application, and global recognition. Whether you are a professional seeking a career pivot, international exposure, or executive-level leadership development, Durham University Business School offers an MBA experience that is as personalized as it is powerful.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why the Durham MBA?
Durham's MBA is delivered in two formats: the Full-time MBA, based in the historic city of Durham in the UK, and the Durham-EBS Executive MBA, a dual award program in partnership with EBS Universität in Germany. Each format is tailored to suit different professional stages, but both are underpinned by the same academic excellence and a strong emphasis on leadership, strategic thinking, and international business acumen.
Durham’s full-time MBA is a 12-month transformation journey that offers students three specialized pathways—Entrepreneurship, Consultancy, and Technology—to align their learning with career ambitions. The program integrates academic study with real consulting projects, a boardroom simulation, and a global business experience, giving students exposure to the complexities of today’s business environment.
For experienced professionals, the Durham-EBS Executive MBA offers the opportunity to earn two degrees from two triple-accredited institutions, while studying in both the UK and Germany. This program is built for executives who need flexibility without compromising on strategic leadership development and international breadth.
Both formats are supported by Durham’s triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) and its position in the top ranks of global business education. With small cohort sizes, personalized support, and access to a vibrant alumni network, Durham's MBA programs foster not just career acceleration—but enduring transformation.
In the sections that follow, we’ll explore how the Durham MBA delivers on its promise—from academic structure and career outcomes to international immersion and alumni connections—to help you decide if it’s the right next step for your leadership journey.
Program Structure and Specializations
The Durham MBA is designed to provide a rigorous academic foundation, personalized learning pathways, and hands-on business experience. Whether pursued full-time or as part of the Durham-EBS Executive MBA, the program structure emphasizes flexibility, strategic focus, and global awareness—preparing graduates to lead across industries and geographies.
Full-Time MBA: One-Year Transformation
The Durham Full-Time MBA is a 12-month intensive program delivered on campus at Durham University Business School. It is structured around a core curriculum, three specialized pathways, and multiple experiential components.
Key Program Phases:
Induction and Personal Effectiveness – A foundation for leadership and team development.
Core Modules – Cover essential business disciplines such as:
Accounting and Finance
Strategic Management
Marketing
Operations and Technology
Economics and Global Business
Pathway Specialization – Choose one of three focused tracks:
Entrepreneurship: Ideal for startup founders or innovation-focused professionals.
Consultancy: Designed for those entering or advancing in advisory roles.
Technology: Suited for candidates targeting digital transformation or tech-driven roles.
Boardroom Exercise – A strategic simulation that mimics executive decision-making.
Strategic Business Project or Dissertation – Students choose between a consultancy-based project, an entrepreneurial venture plan, or an academic dissertation.
Durham-EBS Executive MBA: Dual Degree for Experienced Leaders
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA is a 24-month part-time dual award program jointly delivered by Durham University Business School and EBS Universität in Germany. It is tailored for working professionals with significant management experience.
Key Features:
Weekend modules delivered in Durham and Oestrich-Winkel (Germany)
Two internationally recognized MBA degrees
Triple-accredited institutions (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS)
Focus on strategic leadership, international business, and digital transformation
Flexibility to balance study with full-time work
Students in the Executive MBA program benefit from the academic resources and alumni networks of both universities, and graduate with two MBAs—one from each institution.
Customization and Flexibility
Across both formats, Durham provides opportunities to tailor the MBA to your goals:
Elective modules in areas like innovation, M&A, big data, or sustainability
Personalized career coaching and leadership development
Optional participation in international business trips and consulting projects
This structured flexibility allows candidates to shape their MBA experience in a way that aligns with their industry interests, career goals, and leadership aspirations.
Core Curriculum and Pathways (Full-Time)
The Durham Full-Time MBA offers a dynamic blend of foundational business knowledge and tailored specialization. Designed for early- to mid-career professionals looking to accelerate their growth or pivot strategically, the program equips students with both broad managerial skills and in-depth expertise in a chosen area of focus.
Core Curriculum: Building Business Fundamentals
The MBA begins with a set of core modules that cover the essential pillars of business. These are taught over the first two terms and form the analytical and strategic foundation for the rest of the program.
Core Modules Include:
Accounting & Finance – Understanding financial reporting, analysis, and decision-making
Economics for Global Business – Examining macro and microeconomic impacts on global markets
Marketing – Strategic customer engagement and value proposition design
Operations & Technology – Managing processes, supply chains, and innovation
Strategic Management – Competitive positioning, business models, and global strategy
These modules emphasize case-based learning, group work, and executive-style discussions, reflecting the practical, international focus of the Durham MBA.
Personal Effectiveness and Leadership
A signature component of the program is the Personal Effectiveness module, which spans the entire academic year. This unique offering combines:
Self-assessment and 360-degree feedback
Leadership coaching and communication skills
Career planning and networking preparation
Ethical leadership and corporate responsibility
The goal is to shape graduates into strategic, self-aware, and responsible leaders who can navigate complexity with confidence.
Specialized Pathways: Choose Your Focus
Durham’s MBA gives students the opportunity to customize their learning through one of three dedicated pathways. These are selected midway through the program and shape the second half of the MBA experience.
1. Entrepreneurship Pathway
Ideal for students planning to launch a business or lead innovation within established organizations.
Modules: Innovation & Enterprise, Venture Creation
Outcomes: Business planning, pitching, startup feasibility analysis
2. Consultancy Pathway
Designed for future consultants or strategic advisors.
Modules: Consulting Skills, Client Relationship Management
Outcomes: Real consulting experience via live projects with external clients
3. Technology Pathway
Geared towards professionals interested in digital business, tech strategy, or data-driven transformation.
Modules: Business Analytics, Technology Innovation
Outcomes: Application of tools in AI, big data, or digital platforms
Strategic Business Project or Dissertation
In the final term, students apply their learning through a capstone project, selecting one of the following:
Strategic Business Project: A live issue tackled in collaboration with an organization
Entrepreneurial Business Plan: Development of a full-scale startup plan
Academic Dissertation: In-depth research on a business topic of personal or professional interest
This final deliverable demonstrates students’ ability to analyze, strategize, and solve real business challenges.
Durham’s full-time MBA curriculum is structured to transform students into globally minded, specialized, and strategically equipped leaders, prepared to take on complex challenges in any sector.
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA: A Dual Award
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA offers a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to earn two internationally respected MBA degrees from two triple-accredited institutions: Durham University Business School in the UK and EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht in Germany. Designed for executives who want to continue working while advancing their leadership potential, this program blends flexibility with global reach.
Dual Degrees, One Integrated Experience
Participants in the Executive MBA graduate with:
An MBA from Durham University
An MBA from EBS Universität, one of Germany’s most prestigious business schools
This dual award signifies not only academic excellence but also cross-border expertise, giving graduates enhanced credibility in both UK/EU and global contexts.
Program Duration and Format
Length: 24 months (part-time)
Structure: Weekend modules and residential blocks
Locations:
Durham, UK – Historical and strategic business education hub
Oestrich-Winkel, Germany – EBS’s scenic campus in the Rheingau wine region, close to Frankfurt
The format is designed to allow professionals to balance full-time careers with intensive learning, without pausing their professional momentum.
Curriculum Highlights
The Durham-EBS Executive MBA combines academic rigor, real-world application, and leadership development across a European framework. Core modules include:
Strategic Management
Financial and Managerial Accounting
Global Business and Economics
Marketing Strategy
Leading and Managing People
Innovation and Technology
Corporate Governance and Ethics
In addition, students complete a Business Project or Dissertation, aligned with their current role or future aspirations.
Global Residential Weeks
One of the distinctive features of the program is the international residential modules, offering experiential learning and cultural immersion. Students work on live business challenges in international markets and connect with global faculty, alumni, and business leaders.
Past modules have taken place in:
Germany
UK
Asia (China, India, or Singapore)
Emerging economies in Africa or Latin America
Executive Coaching and Career Advancement
Throughout the program, students benefit from:
One-on-one executive coaching
Leadership development workshops
Access to dual alumni networks and European business communities
Networking events with both Durham and EBS partner organizations
These resources are especially valuable for professionals aiming to:
Advance into C-suite leadership roles
Shift industries or geographies
Lead international teams or businesses
Who Should Apply?
The Executive MBA is ideal for:
Managers with 5–10+ years of experience
Professionals ready to accelerate into senior or board-level roles
Executives managing international business functions
Candidates looking to study while continuing full-time work
With its dual certification, international orientation, and flexible format, the Durham-EBS Executive MBA is a strategic option for professionals seeking European and global leadership credentials.
Global Learning and International Exposure
In today’s interconnected economy, business leaders must be able to navigate across borders, cultures, and markets. The Durham MBA—whether full-time or executive—places global learning and international exposure at the heart of its value proposition. Through global electives, consulting projects, and international residencies, the program prepares students to think and lead on a worldwide scale.
Diverse, International Cohort
Durham’s MBA attracts participants from over 50 countries, creating a richly diverse and globally minded cohort. Students bring with them a wide range of industry backgrounds, cultural perspectives, and professional experiences. This diversity:
Fosters cross-cultural collaboration in teams
Encourages students to challenge assumptions and broaden perspectives
Mirrors the global workforce graduates will join or lead
Class discussions, case analyses, and consulting projects benefit from this multicultural exchange.
Global Business Experience (Full-Time MBA)
One of the key features of the Durham Full-Time MBA is the Global Business Experience—a residential study tour that gives students hands-on exposure to international business environments.
Key Highlights:
Immersive, week-long international trip
Visits to multinational corporations, local startups, and government agencies
Focused learning on emerging market strategy, global expansion, and sustainability
Cultural excursions and professional networking
Recent destinations have included:
China
South Africa
India
Central Europe
This trip enhances classroom learning with practical insights into how business operates globally, especially in high-growth and transitional economies.
International Consultancy and Boardroom Simulations
In addition to the Global Business Experience, Durham MBA students often participate in:
Live consultancy projects with international or UK-based organizations operating globally
Boardroom exercises that simulate strategic decision-making for multinational firms
Group assignments that require analysis of global trends, foreign investment, and geopolitical risks
These components train students to think strategically in a global context, analyze cross-border implications, and respond to market dynamics with agility.
Global Exposure in the Executive MBA
For participants in the Durham-EBS Executive MBA, international learning is built into the program structure. Students travel between the UK and Germany and may take part in additional residential modules in Asia or other global hubs.
This format not only exposes professionals to multiple business environments, but also allows them to build a truly European network while exploring global markets firsthand.
Alumni and Employer Reach
Durham’s global exposure doesn’t end with graduation. With alumni in 140+ countries and corporate connections across industries, students tap into a worldwide network of mentors, hiring managers, and executive contacts.
This global connectivity is a key advantage for those aiming to:
Relocate internationally
Join multinational organizations
Start businesses with international reach
Operate across multiple markets or cultures
With the Durham MBA, global business isn’t an elective—it’s a core capability. The program ensures that graduates are globally fluent, strategically aware, and ready to lead across borders.
Strategic Consulting and Applied Projects
One of the defining features of the Durham MBA is its strong emphasis on real-world application. Whether through strategic consulting assignments, live case projects, or boardroom simulations, the program ensures that students not only learn core concepts but also apply them in high-stakes, client-facing environments. This experiential approach is especially valuable for professionals looking to switch careers, industries, or functions.
Consulting Live Project (Full-Time MBA)
A core element of the full-time MBA is the Strategic Business Project—a live consultancy engagement where students work in teams to solve real problems for actual organizations.
Key Features:
Collaborative project with a client organization
Duration: 6–8 weeks during the final term
Students apply MBA learning to analyze challenges and recommend actionable solutions
Projects span sectors such as finance, tech, healthcare, public policy, retail, and sustainability
Students work closely with senior stakeholders to deliver a final report and presentation, gaining exposure to stakeholder management, real-time problem-solving, and strategic communication.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Projects
Students opting for the Entrepreneurship Pathway can replace the Strategic Business Project with a Business Start-up Plan, in which they:
Create a detailed business plan for a new venture
Engage in feasibility studies, market validation, and financial forecasting
Receive mentorship from Durham’s entrepreneurship faculty and access to the business school’s venture resources
This route is ideal for students launching their own ventures or preparing to lead innovation within existing companies.
Boardroom Exercise
The Boardroom Exercise is a unique Durham MBA simulation where students take on the role of executive leaders in a fictional organization.
Teams are given strategic scenarios involving real-world ambiguity and time pressure
They must respond to crises, make financial and operational decisions, and justify their strategy to a panel of faculty and practitioners
The simulation mimics C-suite decision-making in dynamic, often volatile environments
This exercise hones executive presence, negotiation, and team-based leadership.
International Consultancy (Executive MBA)
Participants in the Durham-EBS Executive MBA also engage in a consultancy or research-based final project that may be:
Industry-specific (e.g., digital transformation in financial services)
Geographic in focus (e.g., market entry strategies in Asia)
Conducted for the student’s current employer or an external partner
Executive MBA students are encouraged to align their project with strategic issues facing their organization or career trajectory, enabling immediate real-world impact.
Benefits of Applied Learning
Through strategic projects and simulations, students gain:
Hands-on experience solving business challenges
Opportunities to showcase leadership and analytical skills
Portfolio content for future interviews and job applications
Insights into industries they want to pivot into post-MBA
Durham’s applied learning model makes its MBA more than academic—it’s a launchpad for action. Graduates leave with a toolkit of proven strategies, sharpened instincts, and the confidence to lead at a higher level.
Career Development and Employment Outcomes
The Durham MBA is designed not just to educate, but to elevate careers. Whether students aim to switch industries, accelerate into leadership, or launch entrepreneurial ventures, the program’s career development support and employment outcomes speak to its real-world value. With a personalized and high-touch approach, Durham helps MBA candidates confidently transition into their next professional chapter.
Dedicated Career Development Service
From day one, Durham MBA students receive access to a specialized Career Development team that tailors support to each student’s background, goals, and target sectors.
Services Include:
One-on-one career coaching and goal setting
CV and LinkedIn optimization workshops
Behavioral and technical interview preparation
Sector-specific networking events and employer panels
Job search strategy and personal branding support
Students are guided to align their academic experience and projects with their desired post-MBA role or industry, making each part of the MBA a step toward their next role.
Career Pathways
Durham MBA graduates move into a diverse array of roles across industries and regions. The program is especially effective for career switchers, with many students making transitions across at least one of three areas: industry, function, or geography.
Common Career Outcomes:
Consulting: Strategy, operations, digital transformation
Finance: Corporate finance, investment banking, fintech
Technology: Product management, digital strategy, business analytics
Marketing and Strategy: Brand management, growth strategy, market entry
Operations and Supply Chain
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Leadership
Durham graduates are known for their practical skills, maturity, and global mindset, which makes them attractive to employers across sectors.
Employment Statistics (Typical Trends)
Employment rate within 3 months: ~85–90%
Post-MBA salary increase: Often 30–50% depending on prior experience
Career switchers: More than 60% of the class changes industry or function
Average post-MBA salary: Varies by geography, often £60,000–£90,000+ for full-time MBA graduates
While official data can vary by year, Durham is recognized for strong career momentum, particularly for those targeting consulting, tech, and international business.
Employer Connections
Durham maintains relationships with a wide range of employers, from multinational corporations to UK-based firms and high-growth startups. Recent hiring partners and collaborators include:
Amazon
Deloitte
PwC
IBM
Accenture
Capgemini
Barclays
Vodafone
Local authorities and NGOs (for public-sector focused candidates)
MBA students gain access to the Durham Talent Portal, alumni referrals, and employer visits throughout the year.
Lifelong Career Support
The value of the Durham MBA doesn’t end at graduation. Alumni continue to receive:
Career advisory services
Invitations to executive education workshops
Networking events and global alumni reunions
Access to Durham’s global job boards and career tools
This ensures graduates remain supported as their careers evolve over time.
At its core, the Durham MBA is designed to empower transformation—and the program’s consistent employment outcomes reflect its success in doing just that.
Scholarships, Tuition, and Financial Planning
Pursuing an MBA is a significant investment in your future—and the Durham MBA is structured to deliver strong value, both in terms of return on investment and affordability. With a wide range of scholarships, competitive tuition, and flexible payment options, Durham University Business School offers financial accessibility alongside academic excellence.
Tuition Fees (2024–2025)
Full-Time MBA (12 months)
Tuition Fee: £35,000 This covers academic instruction, learning materials, career support, boardroom simulations, consulting projects, and the Global Business Experience (excluding international travel costs).
Durham-EBS Executive MBA (24 months)
Total Tuition Fee: Approximately £35,000–£40,000 (Final amount may vary slightly depending on exchange rates and administrative costs between Durham and EBS.)
The Executive MBA fee includes all teaching modules delivered in both the UK and Germany, online resources, and alumni access from both institutions.
Payment Options
Durham provides:
Flexible installment plans (typically two to three payment stages)
Early payment incentives in some cases
Support for coordinating employer sponsorship or reimbursement plans
Students are encouraged to speak with the admissions office early to arrange personalized financial planning.
Living Costs Estimate (Full-Time MBA)
Living in Durham is generally more affordable than in major cities like London. Estimated costs for the full year:
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (GBP) |
Accommodation | £7,000 – £10,000 |
Food and Living | £3,000 – £4,000 |
Transportation | £600 – £1,000 |
Books and Supplies | £500 |
Personal Expenses | £1,000 – £2,000 |
Total Estimate | £12,000 – £16,000 |
Durham also offers university-managed housing and access to local discount services for students.
Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
Durham University Business School is committed to making the MBA accessible to top candidates from around the world. A wide variety of merit-based and diversity-focused scholarships are available:
Key Scholarships Include:
Durham MBA International Scholarship (up to 30% off tuition)
Women in Business Scholarship
Leadership Potential Scholarship
Entrepreneurial Impact Award
UK Alumni Scholarship
Africa, Asia, and Latin America Regional Awards
Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, professional achievements, and alignment with Durham’s values.
How to Apply for Durham MBA:
Most scholarships do not require a separate application—they are awarded during the admissions process based on your submitted materials.
Candidates are encouraged to apply early to maximize funding consideration.
Additional Funding Resources
Durham MBA candidates often explore other financial options, such as:
Prodigy Finance (for international students)
Lendwise and Future Finance
UK Postgraduate Loan Scheme (for UK nationals)
Employer Sponsorship or Education Reimbursement Programs
National Government Scholarships (e.g., Chevening, Inlaks, Commonwealth)
The school’s admissions and finance teams provide guidance on navigating funding sources aligned with your background and goals.
With comprehensive scholarships, manageable tuition, and strong career ROI, the Durham MBA is designed to be a transformational investment with long-term financial returns.
Alumni Network and Global Connections
A key strength of the Durham MBA lies in its powerful and engaged alumni network—one that spans industries, continents, and generations of business leaders. With over 36,000 Durham University Business School alumni across 140+ countries, graduates join a lifelong community that supports career growth, global mobility, and cross-industry collaboration.
A Truly Global Community
Durham’s alumni hold influential roles in:
Consulting (e.g., McKinsey, BCG, Deloitte)
Technology and innovation (e.g., Amazon, Microsoft, SAP)
Finance and investment (e.g., Barclays, HSBC, PwC)
Government and NGOs
Startups and scale-ups across Europe, Asia, and the Americas
Many alumni remain actively involved in:
Recruitment and mentoring
Guest lectures and panel events
Regional chapters and global reunions
Students benefit from a strong referral culture and deep international reach, which are especially valuable for those planning career shifts or global relocations after graduation.
Alumni Engagement During the MBA
Durham fosters meaningful connections between students and alumni throughout the program:
MBA alumni panels during orientation and careers week
Industry networking events and employer meetups
Mentorship pairings based on sector, geography, or function
Alumni speakers in courses and special lectures
This real-time access allows students to gain insights, build connections, and receive tailored advice as they define and pursue their post-MBA goals.
Lifelong Support
As a Durham MBA graduate, you gain:
Continued access to career support and executive coaching
Invitations to alumni-only workshops and short courses
A global directory for networking and collaboration
Opportunities to volunteer, mentor, or hire from future cohorts
The school also organizes alumni receptions in cities such as London, Singapore, New York, Dubai, and Frankfurt—extending Durham’s community well beyond the UK.
Dual-Network Access (Executive MBA)
Graduates of the Durham-EBS Executive MBA benefit from the combined alumni networks of two leading European institutions. This dual connectivity offers:
Broader reach across the EU and UK business ecosystems
Enhanced executive presence in European markets
Access to leadership forums and events hosted by both universities
This is especially valuable for professionals operating across borders or managing multinational portfolios.
The Durham Difference
Durham’s alumni network is not just extensive—it’s collaborative, responsive, and mission-driven. Whether you’re exploring new industries, launching a venture, or looking to recruit talent, the Durham MBA alumni community is a lifelong resource for leadership, mentorship, and momentum.
Admissions Process and Entry Requirements
Admission into the Durham MBA—whether full-time or executive—is a competitive yet holistic process. The university seeks candidates who demonstrate leadership potential, professional achievement, academic capability, and a clear motivation for pursuing an MBA at this stage of their career.
Who Should Apply for Durham MBA?
Durham MBA applicants are typically:
Early to mid-career professionals (for Full-Time MBA)
Experienced managers or executives (for Executive MBA)
Interested in career transformation, industry change, or leadership acceleration
Internationally minded and comfortable in a collaborative, multicultural setting
Aligned with Durham’s values of integrity, global awareness, and responsible leadership
Entry Requirements
Full-Time MBA (12 months)
A good UK honours degree or equivalent international qualification
Minimum 3 years of post-graduation work experience
GMAT/GRE: Not required, but may be requested at the school’s discretion
English proficiency (if applicable):
IELTS: 7.0 overall (with no component below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 102 or equivalent
Strong professional references, resume, and personal statement
Durham-EBS Executive MBA (24 months)
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Minimum 5 years of relevant work experience, preferably with leadership responsibilities
Demonstrated career progression and strategic thinking
A high level of English proficiency for academic and business contexts
Employer support or flexible schedule to accommodate weekend modules
Application Components
A complete application includes:
Online application form via Durham University’s portal
Updated CV/resume
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Two references (preferably one academic and one professional)
Personal statement (500–1000 words), covering:
Career achievements and challenges
Goals for pursuing the MBA
Why Durham is the right fit
English language test scores (if required)
There is no application fee for the full-time MBA.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a video or in-person interview with admissions staff or faculty members. The interview assesses:
Communication skills and executive presence
Career clarity and MBA fit
Leadership potential and cultural alignment
Motivation and contribution to the Durham community
This is also your opportunity to ask questions, discuss funding, and clarify expectations about the program.
Application Timeline
Durham operates on a rolling admissions basis, with recommended deadlines for international students due to visa timelines.
Round | Recommended Deadline |
Round 1 | November – December |
Round 2 | January – February |
Round 3 | March – April |
Final Round (International) | June |
Final Round (UK/EU) | August |
Tip: Applying early increases scholarship consideration and ensures ample time for visa processing.
Visa & International Support
Durham provides full support for international students, including:
Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
Visa documentation and guidance
Access to pre-departure briefings, housing services, and arrival support
Orientation sessions tailored for global students
With clear admissions standards, flexible pathways, and support at every step, Durham welcomes motivated professionals ready to make their next big move.
Conclusion: Is Durham the Right Fit for You?
Choosing an MBA program is about more than rankings or location—it's about alignment. If you're seeking a business education that is rigorous yet personalized, international in outlook, and grounded in real-world application, the Durham MBA could be your ideal platform for growth.
Whether you pursue the Full-Time MBA in the UK or the Durham-EBS Executive MBA, both paths are designed to transform professionals into global leaders. The program’s blend of academic excellence, hands-on consulting, global exposure, and strong alumni support makes it a compelling option for ambitious professionals from around the world.
Why Choose Durham?
Triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) with global academic credibility
Flexible pathways for career switchers, entrepreneurs, and future executives
International consulting experience and boardroom simulations
One-on-one career coaching and strong post-MBA employment outcomes
Competitive tuition fees and robust scholarship support
Dual-degree Executive MBA option with a strong European footprint
A collaborative, tight-knit community that lasts well beyond graduation
Who Thrives Here?
The Durham MBA is best suited for:
Early- to mid-career professionals ready to lead
Executives seeking to elevate their strategic perspective
International applicants looking for strong ROI and post-study work opportunities
Career switchers with a clear vision for their next move
Leaders who want more than technical skills—they want impact, ethics, and global readiness
Durham's programs are built not just to educate—but to transform. They empower graduates to lead with insight, integrity, and international scope.
If you're ready to accelerate your career and challenge yourself in a program that values leadership, global thinking, and personal growth, Durham may be exactly the business school you're looking for.
Durham Full-Time MBA FAQs
Is Durham University good for an MBA?
Yes. Durham’s MBA is triple accredited and ranked among the top 100 globally, known for academic strength, leadership development, and global exposure.
What is the duration of the Durham MBA (Full-Time)?
The full-time MBA at Durham University lasts 12 months, starting in September each year.
How much does the Durham MBA cost?
Tuition for the 2024–25 intake is £40,000 for all student categories—UK, EU, and international.
What is the average salary after completing the Durham MBA?
Average post-MBA salaries range from £60,000–£90,000, depending on industry, location, and prior experience.
Is GMAT required for the Durham MBA? No, the GMAT is not mandatory.
However, a GMAT score (average ~650) may strengthen your application.
What is the average work experience of Durham MBA students?
Students typically have 3–10 years of experience, with the average around 6 years.
What are the specialization pathways in the Durham MBA?
Students can choose from three pathways: Entrepreneurship, Consultancy, or Technology.
What is the acceptance rate for the Durham MBA?
The MBA has a moderate acceptance rate, estimated around 30–40%, based on competitive holistic criteria.
What is the ranking of the Durham MBA?
Durham ranks 86th globally in the Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2025 and is among the Top 10 UK MBAs.
Is Durham MBA good for international students?
Yes. Durham offers visa support, global cohorts, and access to the UK’s Graduate Route visa post-study work scheme.
What is the class profile of Durham MBA students?
The 2023 class had 128 students from 38 countries, with a gender split of 45% women and 55% men, and an average age of 31.
Is Durham considered a Tier 1 or elite university?
Yes. Durham is a Top 10 UK university and widely considered elite, with strong global reputation and research output.
Does Durham University offer MBA scholarships?
Yes. Merit-based and diversity scholarships are available for international and domestic students.
Is Durham an affordable place to live for MBA students?
Yes. Durham is considered one of the UK’s most affordable cities, with average rent far lower than London.
Can Durham MBA students work after graduation?
Yes. International students can work in the UK for up to 2 years on the Graduate Route visa.
Does Durham have a strong alumni network?
Yes. Durham boasts 36,000+ Business School alumni across 140+ countries, offering strong global networking.
Are there real consulting projects in the Durham MBA?
Yes. Students work on a Strategic Business Project, solving real-world problems for client organizations.
Is there an option to launch a startup during the MBA?
Yes. The Entrepreneurship Pathway supports venture creation and business planning, including mentorship.
What are the English language requirements for Durham MBA?
IELTS: 7.0 (no component below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT: 102, for non-native English speakers.
Does the Durham MBA include international exposure?
Yes. The Global Business Experience includes international study trips and consulting projects.
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