The University of Gloucestershire’s MBA Business Administration (Masters Stage) – MBA Top-Up is designed for professionals who already hold a postgraduate diploma in business or management and are looking to take the next step toward a full MBA qualification.
This course offers a practical and focused route to achieving a Master’s degree in just one year. It’s perfect for those aiming to advance their careers, move into senior leadership roles, or deepen their understanding of strategic business operations on a global scale. The programme blends academic theory with real-world application, encouraging students to think critically about current business challenges and develop solutions that make a real impact.
A key feature of the course is the final dissertation, which allows learners to explore a business topic relevant to their interests or industry. With support from experienced tutors and access to the university’s resources, students are well-equipped to produce work that adds value both academically and professionally.
Throughout the programme, you’re taught by research‑active and business‑savvy faculty, with input from guest speakers and the opportunity to apply real‑world case studies and consultancy scenarios. As a culminating piece of work, the dissertation allows you to rigorously investigate a strategic management challenge or opportunity of your choosing, contributing to both your professional development and the wider body of business knowledge.
Whether you’re already in a management position or looking to move up, the MBA Top-Up provides the tools, confidence, and recognised qualification to help you stand out in today’s competitive business environment.
To enrol in the MBA Top‑Up (Master’s Stage), applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- Postgraduate diploma (120 UK credits) in business, management or closely related field (e.g. IDM Global PDBA), or a recognised professional or postgraduate qualification at Level 7.
- Management or supervisory experience: ideally at least 2 years, though applications are assessed on individual merit.
- Degree qualification: Many UK home applicants also hold a 2:2 honours bachelor’s degree or higher.
- English language: International/EU applicants must demonstrate a minimum IELTS 6.0, with no band lower than 5.5, or equivalent.
Recognition of prior learning or professional experience may allow flexibility for mature students without traditional academic backgrounds.
To complete MBA Business Administration (Masters stage) (MBA Top) you must pass 60 credits from the following:
| Sr# | Unit Title | CATs |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dissertation | 60 |
| 2 | Online Dissertation | 60 |
Qualifications Details
Module Title: Dissertation
| Brief Description | The dissertation gives students the opportunity to carry out an independent research project focused on a topic relevant to management and business. It is designed to help students explore a specific issue in depth, drawing on relevant theories, models, and philosophies from the business field. Through this process, students will collect and analyse primary and/or secondary data, critically applying academic concepts to real-world business challenges. The project encourages a thoughtful investigation that not only demonstrates academic knowledge but also applies it within the context of practical business decision-making. This analytical approach allows students to contribute original insights to the broader field of management and business studies. Additionally, the dissertation includes a reflective component, enabling students to critically evaluate their own learning experience and research journey, helping them grow both personally and professionally. |
| Indicative Syllabus | The Dissertation module is structured in two key parts: a Research Methods workshop and the independent dissertation project. Students begin by participating in the Research Methods component, during which they will develop and submit a detailed research proposal. Only after this stage is approved can they proceed to the dissertation itself. The Research Methods workshop is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in research design and academic inquiry, and it focuses on three main areas: Understanding Research in Context: Students explore the role and purpose of research within a wider academic and professional setting. Key topics include research philosophies and approaches, the importance of theory, as well as key concepts such as validity, reliability, generalisability, research strategies, and ethical considerations. Postgraduate Learning Skills: This section offers practical training in core academic skills, including literature and data source reviews, critical writing, referencing, the use of digital tools, and reflective writing practices. Research and Professional Techniques: Students are introduced to specific research and consultancy methods relevant to the business and management field. Topics include formulating research questions, setting objectives, planning investigations, gaining access to data, tailoring proposals for academic or professional audiences, collecting and analysing data, and presenting findings effectively. This module ensures students are well-prepared to undertake rigorous, meaningful research that contributes both academically and professionall |
| Learning Outcomes | Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of relevant theory by applying it to data analysis, with the potential to further develop theoretical insights for higher-level academic achievement. 2.Evaluate and compare different research methodologies within the field of management and business, including the underlying assumptions of each approach. 3. Construct well-reasoned and evidence-based arguments that critically assess alternative research perspectives. 4. Design effective research strategies suited to various professional and academic contexts, with careful consideration of ethical principles and responsibilities. 5.Select and apply appropriate research methods, taking into account issues such as validity, reliability, and the generalisability of findings. 6.Collect and manage data effectively to meet both academic research standards and the practical needs of organisations. 7.Analyse and interpret both qualitative and quantitative data, demonstrating awareness of methodological rigour and limitations. 8.Communicate research findings clearly and professionally, adhering to academic conventions in both written and oral formats. 9.Reflect critically on their research process and learning journey throughout the dissertation. 10. Produce a comprehensive academic dissertation that justifies the choice of research methods and demonstrates an understanding of various research designs and techniques. |
| Learning and Teaching Activities | Scheduled Contact Hours: 31 Independent Learning Hours: 569 |
| Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide) | 001: 10% Assignment: Individual: Research Proposal 1,500 words 002: 80% Dissertation / Major Project: Final Dissertation 15,000 words 003: 10% Assignment: Individual: Reflective Paper 1,500 words |
Module Title: Online Dissertation
| Brief Description | The dissertation is a self-directed research project that enables students to explore a topic of significance within the field of management and business. It provides an opportunity for in-depth investigation, allowing students to critically evaluate and integrate relevant business theories, models, and philosophies. By engaging in a structured process of enquiry using primary and/or secondary data, students will apply academic concepts to real-world business contexts, enhancing their understanding of practical decision-making. This analytical approach bridges theory and practice, encouraging students to generate insights that contribute meaningfully to the wider field of business and management. In addition, a reflective component is built into the dissertation, giving students the chance to critically assess their learning experience and personal development throughout the research process. |
| Indicative Syllabus | The Dissertation by Distance Learning module is designed to support students in completing an independent research project while studying remotely. It is structured around two key components: a series of research methods preparatory videos and the individual dissertation project. To ensure students are well-prepared, the first stage requires submission of a detailed research proposal before progressing to the main dissertation. This proposal forms the foundation for the student’s academic investigation. The preparatory research methods content is delivered through a set of structured video resources, covering three core themes: Understanding Research in Context This section encourages students to critically explore the methods and purposes of research within a broader academic and professional setting. Topics include the role of theory, research philosophies and approaches, strategies for conducting SMART dissertations, and key ethical considerations in research. Postgraduate Academic Skills Students receive guidance on essential learning skills for success at postgraduate level. Topics include how to review literature and data sources, write critically, work with data, and develop reflective writing practices. Research Methods and Techniques for Practice This section focuses on the practicalities of designing and conducting research within business and management. Topics include defining research questions and objectives, planning enquiries, negotiating access to data, understanding the differing requirements of academic and professional research audiences, and learning methods for data collection, analysis, and presentation of findings. Together, these elements equip students with the knowledge and tools needed to complete a rigorous, well-structured dissertation that contributes to both academic understanding and professional practice. |
| Learning Outcomes | Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1.Demonstrate the ability to understand, reflect on, and apply theoretical frameworks to data analysis, with potential to extend or develop theory for higher-level academic performance. 2.Critically evaluate and compare alternative research approaches within the field of management and business, including the philosophical and methodological assumptions underlying them. 3.Construct well-reasoned, evidence-based arguments to critically assess and justify differing research claims. 4.Design and formulate effective research strategies for diverse academic and professional settings, with a strong focus on ethical considerations. 5.Identify and apply suitable research methods, ensuring attention to key issues such as generalisability, validity, and reliability. 6.Gather and manage data to meet both academic standards and practical organisational needs. 7.Analyse and synthesise qualitative and quantitative data using appropriate analytical techniques. 8.Communicate findings effectively in both academic and professional formats, adhering to appropriate disciplinary conventions. 9.Critically reflect on their research journey, evaluating their personal learning and development through the dissertation process. 10.Produce a substantial, academically rigorous dissertation that demonstrates clear understanding and justified application of a range of research methods and approaches. |
| Learning and Teaching Activities | Scheduled Contact Hours: 10 Independent Learning Hours: 590 |
| Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide) | 001: 10% Assignment: Individual: Proposal 1,500 words 002: 80% Dissertation / Major Project: 15,000 words 003: 10% Assignment: Individual: Reflective Paper 1,500 words |
This MBA Top-Up programme is ideal for professionals who already hold a relevant postgraduate qualification and are seeking to complete their full Master of Business Administration degree.
- Postgraduate diploma or Level 7 qualification holders
If you already hold a 120‑credit postgraduate diploma, such as a Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership (e.g. IDM, CMI), this Top‑Up route lets you convert that into a full MBA in just six months full-time or twelve months part-time. - Experienced professionals in supervisory or managerial roles
The course particularly suits individuals who have at least two years of management/supervisory experience—perhaps team or project leads—seeking career advancement in areas such as strategy, leadership, consulting or general management. - Specialists or functional experts aiming for strategic leadership roles
Those with deep expertise in an area—finance, marketing, IT, HR, etc.—but looking to develop broader strategic thinking and a general management business toolkit to move into senior roles. - Recent postgraduate diploma graduates seeking an MBA credential
If you’ve completed your postgraduate diploma and want that all-important MBA title—to stand out to employers, gain entry to CMI Chartership, or apply for competitive positions—this is a rapid and accredited pathway. - Time‑conscious learners seeking flexibility
Delivered with an initial short Research Methods induction followed by dissertation/project work, the programme supports block‑release or remote study, ideal for working professionals balancing study with other commitments. - Career-switchers or international applicants needing formal academic recognition
For career changers or individuals whose earlier qualifications (or equivalent professional practice) align with Level 7 but who lack a traditional MBA, this Top‑Up provides both academic rigor and a respected international degree.
This programme is designed for motivated professionals, academic diploma holders and specialists ready to transform their current qualification into a globally recognized MBA award, positioning you for leadership, strategic analytical roles, or doctoral pathways
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