UK Business Schools Take Centre Stage at the Heart of Europe

Professor Michael Luger, Director of Manchester Business School (MBS), explains why there's never been a better time to choose a European MBA. Previous economic downturns have traditionally heralded a surge in applications, as people see a natural opportunity for an on-campus career break. And according to recent figures from EQUIS many European schools have already reported a rise in applicant numbers. In fact, some might argue that there's never been a better time to study at a European business school.

Traditionally European MBA programs may have lacked the brand recognition of their US counterparts, but that's changing fast.  Europe's increasingly dynamic business environment, improvements to curricula and growing corporate demand for employees with international experience are attracting top-notch candidates from all over the world. 

Anyone in business, whether in an SME or large multi-national company has to be comfortable dealing with clients, customers, suppliers and governments all around the world. Goods flow more freely, people are more mobile and national boundaries are increasingly less important.  

In short, we live in a global age and it's imperative that MBAs are comfortable working in an international context. Generally speaking European MBAs tend to involve more travelling and intercultural electives - giving them an instant advantage over more traditional programmes.

There is an increasing emphasis on using business for social benefit and if you are looking for an MBA that tackles social issues, European business schools are leading the way with a wealth of new courses on corporate social responsibility, social entrepreneurship and doing business in developing countries.

MBS has recently been selected to host the University of Manchester's Sustainable Consumption Institute, funded by Tesco. It brings together experts from many different areas of environmental work: climate science, technology, economics and consumer behaviour and will launch later in the year. MBAs will benefit from engaging in live projects through the Centre - putting the business theory they learn into practice.

All excellent business schools should play an active role in the global and regional economy - engaging with businesses to ensure students benefit from real world best practice.

The North West, and in particular Manchester, has long been recognised as one of the UK's most dynamic places to study because of the excellent interaction between its universities and industry.

There's no doubt that strong MBA programmes benefit from links with the private sector and MBS takes advantage of Manchester fast becoming one of the world's most important cities for research, development, innovation and academic excellence. The original modern city, Manchester is now firmly recognised as one of Europe's premier business locations. It has outstanding commercial, cultural and creative activities.

Many MBA graduates use their qualification as a springboard into new sectors. As an international centre of excellence, the city is home to a wealth of blue chip corporate services firms - giving MBAs instant access to a wealth of recruitment opportunities.

Knowledge transfer and innovation is key to the growth and success of any business. The strength of the innovative process in Manchester has lead to the development of a number of high-value niche specialisms in areas such as creative industries, biotechnology, software development, ICT, electronics, environmental technologies, chemicals and textiles.

Manchester also has a particularly strong heritage of research and this filters directly through to teaching at MBS. We encourage faculty to engage with global and regional businesses to solve real operational issues through consultancy and research projects - giving our MBAs access to very latest thinking.

Regardless of where you choose to study and the state of the market, deciding to take an MBA is a huge commitment and emphasis must be placed on identifying the programme that best fits your needs - in terms of the level of your work experience, programme content and of course, your career objectives.

Genning up on business theory will only take you so far, so it's essential to choose an MBA with a high level of live projects, which replicate the real world business challenges you will face in every day life.

The 18-month Manchester MBA gives students time to take more real-time projects. In particular, the ten-week International Business Project where MBAs deliver live consultancy for clients such as American Express and Cadbury Schweppes. Students also benefit from more electives - broadening their knowledge in wide areas of business, and have more time to do a semester abroad - improving their intercultural skills.

When the going gets tough, employers become more discerning and look closely at what additional value you can bring to a role. This is key when choosing a business school and it's vital that you select an MBA that will enhance your skill set and take you in the direction that you want.

The most effective MBA programmes have a diverse international mix and attract professionals with strong work experience, from a variety of sectors. Studying for an MBA gives you the opportunity to widen your knowledge pool by tapping into the diverse expertise of your colleagues. With this in mind, the top MBA programmes generally demand at least five years work experience, ideally positioning you to get the most from an MBA.

Choosing an MBA that requires a high level of work experience also gives you the chance to establish an extensive global network of contacts that will be invaluable when sharing best practice and recruitment opportunities, in your future career.

Taking a career break to incorporate the rigorous demands of a full-time MBA often isn't practical.  Flexibility is key and a part-time MBA opens up opportunities for those seeking to enhance their career, whilst remaining at work. The best business schools offer MBA programmes with flexible structures that cater for substantial shifts in workload and international employment moves.

Wherever you choose to study and whatever type of programme you opt for, it's worth remembering that MBAs aren't a career panacea. However in an increasingly competitive market place an MBA, from a well-respected business school, sets you apart by giving you the business agility to succeed.