MBA Business Management in the Global Food Industry
Managers with an international perspective of major agricultural and food markets are in demand; sourcing and supply in the food sector is becoming increasingly competitive and complex. Career paths are open to managers who can operate confidently in the multinational setting and who have a corporate vision wider than purely domestic markets.
This MBA has been developed to create the calibre of manager required to fill vital roles in this complex and dynamic global industry. The course welcomes students worldwide to share cultural and managerial experience. The ideal student will have a good Honours degree or equivalent and normally at least two years of work experience.
Who is the Course for?
The MBA is a practical qualification, heavily industry oriented, with a solid academic underpinning. It caters for students who expect to reach senior manager positions in the food and agribusiness sector where international trade is a major component. It would also suit academics and advisers, planners and consultants in business or government agencies. For non-EU citizens, there is the added benefit of contact with the European market place, creating career opportunities and commercial trade links. Learning outcomes are aimed at creating postgraduates who the food and agribusiness industry wants; with a command of how business works in an international environment, and competence in communications.
The MBA can be studied part-time over two, three, or four years. You are able to choose the pattern, in consultation with the Programme Manager, which best suits you. It can also be studied via online distance learning through our partner RDI, a leading distance learning provider. More information on studying by distance learning can be found at our distance learning page.
How is the Course Organised?
The taught part of the course comprises eight modules. Five of these are core modules normally delivered jointly with the other Masters students studying business management. Three focus modules and a team project, combine to complete the taught course.
Core Modules
- Business Strategy
- Personal and Organisational Change
- Marketing, Planning and Strategy
- Economics and Policy
- Financial Management
- Team Project
Focus Modules
- Food Chain
- International Business
- Dissertation
What is the Learning Style?
Each module has a core of formal lectures, complemented by seminars, workshops and co-operative work. Case study and group project work play a significant role in the teaching approach. The seven taught modules run over two terms from October to March. The eighth module, the team project, will be carried out during the first six weeks of the summer term. The dissertation will also commence during the summer term and will be submitted by 1st May the following year.
Assessment
You are assessed using a combination of coursework and examinations, with seven modules being assessed by April each year. The team project is assessed on the presentation and report made by your team to the company concerned during May. The dissertation is marked by the supervisor and second marker as well as being approved by the external examiner.
Entry Requirements
You will be expected to have:
- The normal minimum entry requirement will be an Honours degree at upper second level or an equivalent academic qualification from a comparable international institution.
- A minimum of two years' work experience with managerial responsibilities.
- Mature candidates with significant relevant work experience and lower academic qualifications may also be considered for entry, following personal interview with the Course Manager.
- If your first language is not English, we will accept the International English Language Test (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.5 average with no element below 5.5.
- If you have other qualifications, including overseas awards and alternative English language qualifications, you are advised to contact Admissions to discuss the suitability of your award for entry onto the course.