We live in times of unprecedented change and competition. No longer can the architecture profession rely solely on creative skills. Competitive and economic pressures mean that  business/commercial acumen is the essential partner of creative ability.

The Bradford Architectural and Construction MBA, delivered in conjunction with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is an exciting means by which professionals can improve both commercial skills and an appreciation of the competitive world in which they now firmly operate.

Delivered principally by distance learning, the programme offers a really flexible approach to learning, one which can be effectively combined with daily working life.

The programme is organised around three areas. First, foundation courses in the essential business disciplines of Accounting, Economics, Operations, Marketing, Managing People, Business Research, Corporate Finance and Strategy. Second,  sector specific residential courses in Law and Sustainability in the Built Environment and sector distance learning course in Project and Practice Management. Third, a 12-15,000 word Management Project designed to tackle a pressing and practical issue.

An MBA is awarded on achievement of 180 credits. 30 credits can be imported through RIBA Part 3 and CPD portfolio (see “Apply” for more details). Thereafter a Post Graduate Certificate is achieved with 60 credits, a PG Diploma with a further 60 and the full MBA with 180.

Students will greatly benefit from the collaborative alliance between RIBA, known for quality, reliability and distinction in architecture and construction for over 175 years and Bradford University School of Management, the UK's longest established university-based business school, consistently ranked as the number 1 business school in the North, top 10 UK, top 30 European, and top 95 in the world (FT).

In partnership with RIBA, a limited number of scholarships worth £1,000 each will be offered to RIBA members to mark the launch of the programme (see “Funding/Scholarships”) for more information)..

2-6 years

The programme of study is broken down into three stages.  Each stage of the course provides a qualification that can be utilised alongside a portfolio that evidences creative flair, knowledge of construction alongside legal and business acumen.  Full details of modules studied.

Bradford University School of Management is highly ranked by the Financial Times. In the latest (2010) European Business school rankings, it was ranked:

• Number 1 in the North
• 9th in the UK
• 33rd in Europe

The Bradford MBA is ranked within the top 100 MBAs in the world, and also carries the prestigious AMBA accreditation. The School is also accredited by EQUIS and is in the process of gaining AACSB accreditation.

To be eligible to study for the Bradford MBA you will need:

• A good first degree or your sponsor's proof of ability to undertake the MBA. If you do not have a first degree we may ask you to take our on-line Bradford Test to demonstrate your suitability for the programme.
• At least 3 years of relevant workplace experience and a second degree depending on the Architectural school attended e.g. BArch or MA.  Other relevant qualifications/experience in the construction industry may also be considered.
• GMAT score of 600 or above
• To be able to demonstrable your ability to study for a post graduate qualification in English. This can be through:
  • English as your home language
  • OR minimum of a 6.5 score on IELTS test of English, 580 in written TOEFL or 240 in computer-based TOEFL (applicants using the Internet-based TOFEL test are required to obtain a score of 94 or better)
  • OR evidence of use of English in your current employment
• To provide two references including one from your current employer

However, Bradford University School of Management recognises that there are experienced and able managers who may not fulfil normal requirements.  Such candidates are welcome to apply and are considered individually on merit.