As one of the UK's most popular student cities and a major centre for business, innovation, and education, Manchester is an excellent choice for students in any field. Here, we'll look at why it's a great place to study business at undergraduate, postgraduate, or MBA levels.
| Business School | Undergraduate | Postgraduate/MBA | Notable Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alliance Manchester (UoM) | ✅ | ✅ MSc, MBA | Research-led, consulting, analytics |
| MMU Business School | ✅ | ✅ MSc, MBA | Practical business, leadership |
| Salford Business School | ✅ | ✅ MSc, MBA | Industry links, digital innovation |
| Greater Manchester (Bolton) | ✅ | ✅ MSc, MBA, DBA | Entrepreneurship, global healthcare |
| UA92 Business School | ✅ | ❌ | Sports, marketing, digital business |
| BPP Manchester Centre | ✅ | ✅ MSc, MBA | Private, specialised management pathways |
Why Study Business in Manchester?
As one of the most vibrant and forward-thinking cities in the UK, Manchester is a great option for students regardless of their studies. It's also one of the best places to study business in the UK.
What makes it so good for business is its rich industrial heritage, thriving modern economy, and the many businesses currently calling Manchester home, from global corporations to start-ups.
Manchester has a substantial student population and several respected business schools where you can study internationally recognised qualifications, including management, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
Students also enjoy the lifestyle, transport links, internships, networking events, and graduate opportunities once they finish their course.
Top Reasons to Study Business in Manchester
Alliance Manchester Business School (University of Manchester)
Though many probably think of studying business in London rather than elsewhere, they should know that the Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS) was founded in 1965, making it one of the UK's first business schools.
It's part of the University of Manchester. It is renowned for its research-led teaching and strong industry connections in the local area and further afield.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BSc in Management
- BSc in International Management
- BSc in Accounting
- BSc in Finance
Postgraduate Degrees (MSc)
- MSc in Management
- MSc in Business Analytics
- MSc in Finance
- MSc in International Business and Management
- MSc in Digital Transformation
MBA Programme
- Full-time MBA
Undergraduate applicants usually include AAA grades at A-Level, while postgraduate applicants need a 2:1 from a UK university or overseas equivalent.
Take a virtual look around the University of Manchester in this video.
Manchester Metropolitan University Business School
Manchester Metropolitan University Business School (MMUBS) is located in the heart of Manchester and offers a range of business and management programmes.
Typically, its undergraduate programmes require 120-128 UCAS points, BBB A Level grades, and C/4 grades in GCSE English language and mathematics.
For postgraduate programmes, students require a 2:2 or above in their undergraduate honours degree or significant management experience.
MBA programmes also require a 2:2 or three years of relevant work experience at a managerial level.
You could also choose to study business in Birmingham, which boasts many of the same advantages as Manchester.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BA (Hons) Business Management
- BA (Hons) International Business Management
- BA (Hons) Business Administration and Management (Top-Up)
Postgraduate Degrees
- MSc Management
- MSc International Business Management
- MSc/PgDip/PgCert Place Management and Leadership
MBA Programme
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Salford Business School (University of Salford)
Salford Business School is part of the University of S and is. It's known for its industry-focused approach to business education.
It emphasises real-world learning and innovative thinking that prepares students for an evolving business landscape.
It typically requires 104-112 UCAS tariff points (BCC-BBC) and C/4 grades in English and Maths at GCSE.
Postgraduate programmes require 55% in a bachelor's degree or the higher bracket of a 2:2 degree.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BSc (Hons) International Business
- BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- BSc (Hons) Business with Economics
Postgraduate Degrees (MSc)
- MSc Digital Marketing
- MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- MSc Human Resource Management
- MSc International Business
- MSc Management
- MSc Project Management
- MSc Operations Management and Business Analytics
- MSc Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management
MBA Programme
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
University of Bolton: Greater Manchester Business School
You can find the Greater Manchester Business School at the University of Bolton. This institution features a range of business, accounting, and law courses from undergraduate to doctoral studies.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BSc (Hons) Business Management (Top-Up)
- BSc (Hons) Business Management (Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship)
- BSc (Hons) Retail Business Management (Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship)
Postgraduate Degrees
- MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation
- MSc International Management
- MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MBA (Global Healthcare Management)
- DBA (Doctor of Business Administration)
GMBS typically asks for 96-112 (CCC-BBC) and C/4 grades in GCSE English and Mathematics.
A UK honours degree 2:2 or equivalent in a relevant subject is required for their postgraduate programmes.
The MBA programme requires a 2:2 degree or above and two years of relevant work experience.
UA92 Business School (University Academy 92)
The UA92 Business School is a modern higher education institution. It's part of University Academy 92, which was co-founded by Lancaster University and the Class of '92, a group of former Manchester United footballers.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Accounting
- BSc (Hons) Business Management with Marketing
- BSc (Hons) Accounting and Business
- BSc (Hons) Sports Management
- BSc (Hons) Digital Marketing
UA92 doesn't offer postgraduate programmes, but the undergraduate programmes typically require 104-120 UCAS points or BCC A-Level grades.
There are also alternative entry routes like foundation years for students who don't meet the direct entry requirements.
The campus is in Old Trafford, Manchester, and the courses are co-designed with industry partners like KPMG, Microsoft, and Manchester United.
BPP University Business School – Manchester Centre
BPP University Business School is a private institution that offers programmes in law, accountancy, business, nursing, and technology.
The Manchester Centre is in the St. James' building on Oxford Street and just two minutes from Manchester Oxford Road train station.
If your surroundings are important to you, you may also want to consider studying business in Edinburgh, one of the most beautiful cities in the UK.
Undergraduate Degrees
- BSc (Hons) Business Management
- BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
- BSc (Hons) Digital Marketing
Postgraduate Degrees
- MSc Management
- MSc Management with Data Analytics
- MSc Management with Digital Marketing
- MSc Management with Project Management
- MSc Management with International Business Law
MBA Programme
- International Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Usually, 112 UCAS points (BBC A-level grades) and a C/4 grade in English language and Maths at GCSE are required.
The postgraduate programmes require a 2:2 Honours degree or equivalent.
Choosing the Right Business Programme
Now that you have a better idea of the business schools in Manchester, you need to start thinking about the programmes and which would be the best for you.
Level
Firstly, you'll need to narrow your choices to your level. If you're still in school or haven't completed an undergraduate degree, don't worry about postgraduate degrees for now.
Those finishing school or college should look solely at undergraduate degrees. Once you have your degree or are approaching the end of your programme, you can start thinking about master's programmes.
For postgraduate students, you must consider whether you'll look to MBAs or MSc programmes. The MBA (Master of Business Administration) programmes are great for mid-career professionals and allow them to develop strategic thinking, leadership, and management skills.
Full-time, Part-time, Online
Consider whether you go for full-time, part-time, or online study options. If you have other commitments that won't allow you to study full-time, there are plenty of business schools in and around Manchester with flexible study options.
Accreditation
Be sure to consider whether your programme is accredited by professional bodies, such as ACCA, CIMA, CIM, or AMBA. These accreditations can help with employability.
If you're looking for top-ranked business schools, studying business in Oxford or Cambridge is recommended.
When deciding between programmes, compare course content, entry requirements, and industry links. Use school websites and open days to get a real sense of what's on offer.
Applying to Business School in Manchester
Applying to any business school in Manchester is relatively straightforward, but the process does depend on the level you're applying for.
Undergraduate Applications
Undergraduate applications are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), with applications typically opening in September and the deadline in January.
Postgraduate Applications
Postgraduate and MBA applications are usually made directly to the university through its website. Different universities and business schools will have multiple intakes each year, most in September and January.
Most universities offer pre-application advice, international student support, and virtual open days, so don’t hesitate to use them!
Living and Studying in Manchester
Home to over 100,000 students, Manchester has a lively and inclusive student community.
The city also offers plenty of things to do, including live music, theatre, sports, galleries, markets, cafés, bars, and clubs.
There's something for everyone, from indie gigs in the Northern Quarter to football at Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium.
Student unions also have clubs, societies, and events around the year where people can make new friends and settle into the city.
One of Manchester's main advantages over other places, including London, is the cost of living. This is relatively low compared to other cities in the UK, with the average student spending between £900 and £1,200 per month.
With such a large student population, accommodation is also available from private landlords or through university-managed halls of residence. Just make sure you apply for accommodation early.
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