Overview
The MBA (Top-Up) at Arden University is designed for individuals looking to enhance their existing qualifications and advance their careers in management. This globally recognized qualification allows you to build upon your prior academic achievements and gain the skills necessary for senior management roles across various industries. In just a year of part-time study, you will delve into business strategy development, organizational management, and leadership skills.
Our curriculum goes beyond traditional business education, incorporating real-world case studies and experiences from industry leaders. You will engage in practical learning from the outset, enabling you to make immediate contributions to your workplace and enhance your professional trajectory.

Arden University is a progressive, UK government-regulated higher education provider offering career-focused distance and blended learning degrees to 40,000+ global students. With physical campuses in major UK cities and Berlin, Arden removes traditional barriers to education through 100% online flexibility and an innovative, exam-free assessment model focused on practical, real-world skills. Developed alongside top industry employers and named the 2023 EducationInvestor "Higher Education Institution of the Year," Arden is built to accelerate career success.
Accreditations: BPS, AACSB, ACCA, CIMA, CMI, APHEA, APM, CIPD, ILM
Entry requirements
- 120 credits at Level 7 in a business/management award, such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Business, or an equivalent international qualification.
English requirements
If your Level 7 qualification was taught in English, this can serve as your proof of English proficiency. Alternatively, an English Language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each component) is required if English is not your first language.
Career opportunities
Graduating with an MBA (Top-Up) equips you to tackle senior leadership challenges in both public and private sectors. The skills acquired during this program are highly sought after by employers, giving you a competitive edge in the job market and preparing you for advanced roles in diverse industries worldwide.
Modules
Transformation Capstone Project (60 UK Credits / 30 ECTS)
How do we assess you?
A big part of your online MBA (Top-Up) work will be the opportunity to create and take ownership of a detailed piece of research relating to a management issue. To back your development, Arden will provide you with academic support to make sure you have the skills and resources you need to successfully complete the assessments. Your tutor will also be able to give you suggestions and tips for improvement - and help you learn how to apply your newly-acquired skills to real life settings. A variety of methods are used to assess your progress, allowing you to demonstrate your strengths as you study. These assessments include:
Case studies
Proposals
Dissertation
Accreditation
This course is accredited by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), awarding a CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice and granting Foundation Chartered Manager Status upon graduation.
Why this programme
Arden University offers a flexible online learning environment, allowing you to study from anywhere in the world. With a strong focus on employability and practical skills, this program is designed to fit into your busy life while providing the support you need to succeed.
Online Delivery Overview
Arden University’s online courses are 100% remote with no physical attendance required.
The Learning Platform
ilearn cloud campus: Access virtual classrooms and lectures.
Zoom integration: Chat with tutors during scheduled seminars.
Kindle support: Read study materials on your device.
Learning Materials
Free digital library: Thousands of free academic resources.
Full research access: EBooks and journals are included.
No textbook fees: All required readings are built-in.
Support & Community
Tutor feedback: Receive regular academic guidance.
Unitu community: Connect with other online students.
Module message boards: Discuss topics directly with classmates.




