The University of Oxford's MBA, offered by the Saïd Business School, is renowned for its acclaimed curriculum and reputation, emphasising leadership, global perspectives, and entrepreneurship. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, featuring diverse students from various backgrounds and Oxford's extensive alumni network and connections with industry leaders provide exceptional opportunities for career advancement.
The one-year Oxford MBA is designed to develop responsible business leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges. Learn more below, and if you would like to study in the UK, contact our education experts today.
Why Study the Oxford MBA?
1. Learn at a renowned global business school
The University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School is among the best B-schools. It blends tradition and innovation. As a young and entrepreneurial business school deeply embedded within the world’s most prestigious university, it offers cutting-edge education and groundbreaking research. These efforts aim to transform individuals, organisations, business practices, and society. The school is dedicated to preparing students for successful business careers and harnessing collective expertise to address pressing global issues such as demographic change, natural resource scarcity, and technological challenges.
Saïd Business School is globally recognised, holding accreditations from AACSB and EQUIS – EFMD and membership in the Global Network for Advanced Management. It also earned the Athena Swan Bronze Award in 2018. As part of the top-ranked University of Oxford, which secured first place in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, Saïd offers a world-class business education and access to extensive global networks. The school’s programmes are highly ranked, with accolades in Accounting and Finance (4th in the world) and Business and Management (3rd in the world) from QS and Times Higher Education respectively.
2. Varied course curriculum
The core curriculum of the Oxford MBA comprises several essential courses designed to build a strong foundation in business principles. These courses are:
- Accounting: Develops understanding of financial reporting, essential for evaluating a company's financial health and decision-making.
- Analytics: Enhances applying statistical methods and decision technology in business scenarios.
- Business Finance: Focuses on investment valuation, portfolio management, and understanding financial markets.
- Firms and Markets: Applies microeconomic principles to business decisions and industry dynamics, extending to macroeconomic implications.
- Marketing: Covers contemporary marketing strategies, emphasising digital and technology-enabled approaches.
- Organisational Behaviour: Explores leadership and management of individuals, teams, and organisations, focusing on personal leadership development.
- Strategy: Examines the causes of variation in organisational performance, covering competitive, corporate, global, and innovation strategies.
- Technology and Operations Management: Introduces key operations and process management concepts, aiming to leverage them for competitive advantage.
These core courses incorporate practical learning, case studies, and real-world applications, preparing students to become global business leaders capable of addressing world-scale challenges. The curriculum is complemented by various electives, allowing students to specialise in areas aligned with their career goals and interests.
3. Different programme options
Saïd Business School offers three distinct MBA programmes to develop your business, leadership, and strategic skills:
- Oxford MBA: A one-year, full-time programme providing a comprehensive business education. Located in Oxford, it costs £78,510.
- Oxford Executive MBA: A part-time course lasting 22-24 months, designed for experienced professionals to realise their leadership potential. It includes both Oxford and international components, with a cost of £117,080.
- Oxford 1+1 MBA: A two-year programme combining a master's degree with a one-year MBA, offering a deeper specialisation alongside the MBA. It is a full-time degree based in Oxford.
General entry requirements include:
- At least five years of managerial experience.
- An undergraduate degree (ideally 2:1 or above) or equivalent professional qualification.
- Alternatively, a very strong fast-track employment history may be considered.
- Completing the GMAT (Graduate Management Admissions Test) or the GMAC Executive Assessment Test.
4. Diversity and inclusivity
Saïd Business School champions diversity and inclusivity, with a truly international 2023-24 cohort of 97% international students representing 63 nationalities. The diverse student body includes individuals from Africa (11%), East Asia (15%), Europe (11%), Latin America & the Caribbean (3%), the Middle East (5%), North America (12%), Oceania (5%), South Asia (23%), and South East Asia (14%). This rich cultural mix promotes a dynamic learning environment, encouraging varied perspectives and global insights essential for today's interconnected business world.
5. Scholarship options
Saïd Business School offers a variety of MBA scholarships to support and attract diverse talent. Oxford MBA scholarships provide financial assistance and recognise exceptional candidates based on various criteria.
Scholarship | Value | Eligibility Criteria |
---|---|---|
Forté Fellowships for women |
Up to £30,000 per fellowship |
Open to female candidates. |
Leo Tong Chen Scholarships |
£30,000 |
Must ordinarily reside in China, the United Kingdom, the USA, Australia, or New Zealand. |
Saïd Business School Foundation Scholarships |
Up to £30,000 |
All MBA applicants are eligible—preference for candidates of African, Middle Eastern, and Latin American nationality. |
The Laidlaw Scholarships |
Full MBA course fees |
Open to female candidates. Available at Reuben College only. |
Oxford Saïd Future Leaders Scholarships |
Up to £40,000 |
All MBA applicants are eligible. |
6. Skill-based teaching
The Oxford MBA equips students with both fundamental and real-world skills. Core courses help students develop logical, lateral, and independent thinking abilities. Industry-specific electives help shape and define career goals, empowering students to become global leaders. The course emphasises practical skills such as teamwork, leadership, entrepreneurship, conflict management, negotiation, and strategy building, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate and succeed in the global business environment.
Study MBA at Oxford
Are you interested in studying for an MBA at Oxford University? Arrange a free consultation to begin your journey today.
FAQ
Can I do an MBA without a GMAT at Oxford University?
The GMAT or the GMAC Executive Assessment Test is generally required for Oxford MBA programmes. However, exemptions may be available for highly experienced candidates; contacting the recruitment team for guidance is best.
Can international students apply for scholarships or financial aid?
International students can apply for scholarships and financial aid. Oxford Saïd offers a variety of scholarships, some of which are specifically available to international students.
How does the Oxford MBA support entrepreneurship or startups?
The Oxford MBA supports entrepreneurship and startups through its Entrepreneurship Centre, providing access to mentors, networking opportunities, funding resources, and practical learning experiences such as the Entrepreneurship Project.
What are the accommodation options available for MBA students at Oxford?
MBA students at Oxford can choose from various accommodation options, including university-owned graduate housing, private rentals, and college-affiliated accommodations, ensuring a range of choices to suit different needs and preferences.
What distinguishes the Oxford MBA from other top global MBA programmes?
The Oxford MBA is characterised by its integration within the world-renowned University of Oxford, its emphasis on addressing global challenges, its diverse and international cohort, and its strong focus on leadership and entrepreneurship. The degree combines academic rigour with real-world application, providing a comprehensive and transformative business education.