International MBA Program

A’amir Taqvi

The single most important decision I have made in my life was to study for my EBS MBA. Having now graduated from the full-time on-campus programme (and graduating with a specialism in Strategic Planning), I have progressed into the DBA programme offered by the school in their Centre for Strategy Development and Implementation. In my mind and (more importantly) the minds of many employers, Edinburgh Business School is THE school for an MBA in strategic planning. More than that, the books wholly contain the most contemporary content with cutting edge theories and models explained and developed in such a way that, irrespective of your background, you will be able to fully understand and utilize it throughout your career. This is very important when it comes to the enjoyment of learning and retention of what I have learned. I found the course material so useful infact, that I keep the original black boxes on an easily accessible shelf nearby for quick referencing during work.

I now work for a local authority in Scotland, in their Economic Development services for the community; managing and executing strategic action plans developed with joint strategy partners including voluntary, private and public sector agencies. It involves creating a strategic fit and alignment with European economic development strategies right down to the British, Scottish and then finally the local area plans. The competencies I gained just from the invaluable “black books" is used day-in and day-out on my job, and I foresee it being invaluable in my future career.

Likewise, I’ve even benefited from the creditability just progressing on my DBA has given me - let alone what I will gain from the final award. And the streamlining of the degrees (and flexibility of the courses) makes it so very easy to go from the MBA to the MSc/DBA, allowing almost a ‘2 for the price of 1’ in obtaining the degrees. The degrees are great value for money and I highly recommend the entire EBS programme - especially if you are intending to gain a credible Doctorate title in business, all while doing it flexibly from your everyday life and work schedule!

Christopher J Hughes

I wanted to study for the MBA because my training to date had been very narrowly focused on the financial area of the companies business. If I was to progress further with my career I had to move into a more cross functional role.

I started studying for the MBA with Edinburgh Business School because the literature suggested that the course material would cover everything I needed and that although help was on hand should I need it, there was potential to complete the entire course from home.

I was very impressed with the course material and found that I used very little of the additional support (I used the internet library and chat room once or twice only) with a clear scope of work I set myself a tight deadline to achieve the MBA within three years spending between two and three hours a day.

Administrative areas were very simple and easy to understand and the staff at EBS were always courteous and prompt with responses.

It was only when I qualified that I visited the campus.

The difference to my career was immediate. I achieved the promotion I had sought and had the confidence to carry out the tasks required.

Christine Payne

This course of study was by far and away the most difficult piece of studying that I have ever done. I would also have to say that it has been the most rewarding.

I embarked on my MBA because basically I was a technology person working in an economic development environment with Scottish Enterprise.

My first degrees was chemistry and mathematics. Having a good grasp of technology meant that I could relate to clients on “techy" matters but my business skills were sadly lacking, and this was stopping me from optimising my interaction with companies.

It seemed obvious to me that an MBA would be the best to way to overcome this.

As I progressed through the course work, module by module, I began to see how the whole picture came together –how strategy dictated marketing, how financed affected accounting and so on.

I have learned so much from this course and fortunately because of my job I have been able to put most of it into practice virtually immediately. I know that my performance in my job is now vastly improved.

I would recommend the course very highly but only to those whose private life is such that it could accommodate the huge amount of time required– time which I grossly underestimated.

Claire Hill

Edinburgh Business School campus has expanded since I began studying for my MBA in 2002.

It has been great to meet new people from Scotland / other countries and networking.

There has been a good selection of optional courses and my favourite was Human Resources.

I have enjoyed both the practical side and going on nights out.

I would recommend doing an MBA to anyone but it is hard work and im glad its come to an end for me as its being a long 4 years.

One of my goals was to complete an MBA as you can study various courses to suit your interests and new optional subjects are being introduced.

I have really enjoyed my time at Edinburgh Business School and my 1.5 hours travelling each way has been worthwhile.

Deborah Thompson

Carling don’t do MBAs, but if they did, I’m sure it would be like doing one with the Edinburgh Business School. Imagine deciding you want to do an MBA on a Monday, and sitting on your couch reading through your first module by Friday. By this stage you don’t have to have decided which of the nine modules you will be studying – you can have ordered just one, or all nine, or anything in between. The modules themselves are very readable and clear, with well-worked examples and test questions. You can study them at home, in the bath, on the train or even in your lunch hour. And boy, are they addictive! I found once I started I couldn’t put them down.

When you have read and understood them; and feel confident enough to prove it, you simply apply to sit the relevant paper – at a venue to suit you, in one of four “exam taking weeks" spread throughout the year. After that it’s back to studying for the next subject, whilst keeping one eye out for the postman to deliver those keenly anticipated results. You can take as many papers at one time as you wish and take as long as you need to prepare for them (within a maximum of seven years from registration.) When it’s all done and you have nine scores of 50% or above, you can head off to Edinburgh for a delightful ceremony and a few days with the parents! Oh, and when you get back to work, the prospects for promotion suddenly seem brighter, you can surreptitiously add those coveted three letters onto your business card, and ... well; mine’s a pint please barman! (Oh and by the way; it doesn’t do your marriage prospects any harm either!!)

Gillian Bell

I studied my MBA with EBS from 2000 – 2002 on a part-time basis and thoroughly enjoyed the course.

I was attracted to EBS because it allowed on site study over weekends. I was going to be doing my MBA on a part-time basis and really wanted a way of focusing on learning and not worry about getting away from work to make evening classes! I visited EBs before taking the course and was very impressed by the state of the art technology and learning environment.

The weekend studies encouraged for team building ( I am still in touch with many of the friends made) and the ability to leave work behind and focus on learning for a weekend. It was a fantastic experience doing the MBA at Heriot Watt as the classes and standard of lectures are very high. Case studies are used in the main part which help bring situations to life and assist you in applying knowledge.

On completing my MBA enabled me to transfer industry from Insurance to Hotels. Previously I worked as an Operations Manager for an insurance company and then I on completion of the course I became an Operations Director for Hilton Hotels Corporation.

Hilton said they were looking for someone who had both experience and business educational background – the MBA certainly got me the interview and subsequently the job!

On a person level it was a lot of fun although a lot of hard work. It gave me confidence in my abilities and gave me a lot of understanding of all aspects of business from marketing to accounts ... skills I now put to use every day!

Ian Tenner

Having completed two previous degrees at Heriot-Watt I was familiar with the campus making studying for my MBA at EBS a natural choice. Coupled with recommendations from colleagues the flexibility of the course was a huge attraction. In my case this flexibility allowed me to study courses out of sequence having missed part of the first term. It also meant that when my job moved to London I was able to complete my exams at the London centre, rather than having to travel back “up the road".

Utilising everything from conventional lectures to bespoke simulations of Shipping and economic models the course format and quality of learning material was excellent. Classes were small enough to address individual concerns without precluding, often lively, group debate. Despite the complexity of the subject matter the level of support available was first class. An example of this was the Derivatives option. This is a case where obtaining a distinction in something initially so daunting could not have been achieved on effort alone.

The lecturers were both experienced and willing to take the time to answer individual questions. In most cases providing additional, voluntary, study workshops between the end of each course and the exams.

The modular basis of the Specialism I studied allowed me to tailor the elective parts of the course to match my needs. This also meant that I was more readily able to bring back what I had learned and apply it in the workplace.

Anyone considering undertaking an MBA while in full term employment will understand the scale of commitment required, both by oneself and those around you. I would neither have managed without the support and understanding of my wife, or the quality of the EBS course itself.

Krish Narain

I found the course enormously useful for my career development. The core units provided a good basic grounding in business skills and theory. The elective courses such as competitive strategy provide a more focused skill-set for my particular needs. The basic understanding of how businesses work and the needs of managers and employees, management by objectives and reporting skills has enabled me to communicate through all levels of small and large companies.

The flexibility in when and how fast you take the units was immensely useful, especially as my first child was born in the June exam week 3 years ago. With this flexibility simply deferring the exams 6 months was easy and stress-free. Given a busy working schedule and a busy family life this course fitted well with my needs.

Another welcome aspect was the international input from authors from institutes around the world, this gave a very balanced and rounded view fo someone like myself who is an international Sales manager, which was very useful.

The on-line tutition tools were becoming very useful towards the end f my studies and they di offer a level of support for distance learners which was missing from the earlier paper based courses.

Marc Abbott

I began studying for my EBS MBA whilst working for bp back in 1999; I also had a 6 month daughter at that time. The primary reasons for choosing EBS were reputation, flexibility and the support network offered which was crucial for me as I was undertaking the course on a distance learning basis.

Early on into the studying my family expanded and a became a dad for the second time however a serious medical condition with my newborn son meant that I had to take a year out of studying for the MBA. Resuming after a year proved difficult but with the support of my family and employer I was able to progress through the course and most importantly pass the exams. In January of 2003 I had two exams remaining to pass and to make it just a bit more difficult I decided to change jobs and take up a consultancy position with an Aberdeen company this transitional period made the remaining exams much more difficult than I had assumed.

I finally completed the EBS MBA in November of 2004 and opted to graduate in July 2005 at Edinburgh it was truly a day to remember and made all the effort worthwhile. Now in 2006 and thanks primarily to the EBS MBA I have achieved one of my lifetime goals of living and working internationally, in January 2007 my family and I will emigrate to Alberta, Canada where I will take up new employment with Shell Canada.

Looking back I can wholeheartedly state that the EBS MBA was a life changing experience, very stressful at times, but worth every minute and it has proved to be the cornerstone of my career progression. I would recommend EBS to anyone who is seriously considering undertaking an MBA.

Mark Francis

When I was thinking of doing my MBA I did not think that it was possible to complete my 7 courses in 18 months. I was really impressed by the flexibity that I had to do some courses by distance learning and others part time whilst working full time. My part time courses were completed in a first class teaching facility with very good lecturers with market experience. I also liked the ability to pay for courses as I went along which did help my finances. Having completed the course 2 years ago I am now able to make use of the opportunities that have presented themselves with my employer.

Mark Sobczak

Studying at Edinburgh Business School provided me with not only a memorable experience, or a network of people whom have proved invaluable since graduating, but also practical and powerful aspects of business.

The courses were very relevant, with material being practical and delivered at an appropriate level by experienced and recognized experts in their particular area.

The facilities provided a learning opportunity that was second to none, whilst allowing a casual, constructive sense of informality to allow myself and others to grow and develop our skills.

The Business School and, in particular, the MBA programme provided an opportunity to meet like-minded professionals, which has proved invaluable as we have progressed in each of our respective careers although still staying in touch.

Ana Lucia Cristea

I studied an Edinburgh Business School MBA through West London College in Central London graduating in July 2008. It was a very interesting and reasonably challenging experience at the end of which my chances of getting a well paid job and the opportunities for career progression have significantly increased.

The tutors were well prepared, the supporting manuals and materials very comprehensive combining theory, examples and practical case studies- basically all you need for being well prepared for the exams. As a word of advice I would say that the exams are not easy - so you have to be well prepared and have good exam techniques and time management skills in order to pass.

The mandatory subjects were well combined so that it gives one thorough knowledge and a good understanding of the skills needed in order to efficiently run a business.

I would recommend this MBA programme to anyone. It is flexible and good value for money, especially if done through a good college.

Jayshree Shah

Don't be fooled to think that the EBS program is an easy option, you will have to be very disciplined and work hard to successfully complete the course requirements.

Finishing the program is a very satisfying experience.

I found that EBS was very supportive throughout the program and the online help is fantastic.

Lorraine Mohammed

I started studying with EBS by the distant learning program, and later in 2007 moved to the UK and then to the Riccarton campus. From the beginning I found the non teaching staff very helpful, and this was key to helping me settle down with my studies and use the tools available. Once I got into my studies the online tools and interaction with various professors provide invaluable guidance and help in grasping various topics and overcoming hurdles.

On campus, there is the added benefit of face to face interaction with the professors and other students, which I feel takes the learning experience to another level and helps build a meaningful network. The facilities are top notch and very conducive to studying, I love the break-out rooms! The campus itself is quite special; it not massive but it is spacious, very green and lush, you feel as if you are studying in a national park. If you prefer energy the campus pub has a good vibe and my personal favorite was treating myself – after a bout with the books to a Starbucks cappuccino in the café and taking in the news.

What excited me from the beginning was how practical the EBS MBA program was; you had to understand the theory and background but the program pushed you to use it in projects, and when you answered you exam questions you really needed to know how to apply the information you gathered in your studies to have a quality pass. However, above all the single most important aspect of my experience at EBS were the simulation workshops that came with the Economics and Strategic planning modules; these really help to put academic knowledge into practice and has taught me a great deal about management style and running a business.

Nicholas Ross

I was working as an IT Analyst in the financial sector, and had been looking for a study option outside of work to broaden my skills and knowledge. I happened to have a conversation with the Head of IT at the firm, who attested that his MBA was the best career move he had made. When selecting a school, the appeal of Edinburgh Business School was twofold.

Firstly, the internationally popular distance learning study route had a very good reputation. Secondly, it offered good value relative to other local universities - and despite preferring the distance learning study route, I did want to study with a local institution in order that I could have easier access to the faculty for support.

As someone who would be staying in full time employment, and with a baby on the way, the flexibility to study as and when I could (I took a six month break following the birth of my son) was fantastic.

Any distance learning course stands or falls on the quality of the written materials provided, as well as on the support provided to students on campus or online. I found both the coursework and online support forums to be extremely good, with the quick and helpful responses of tutors online being particularly noteworthy.

Upon completion of the MBA I immediately found that more prospective employers and their agents were keen to speak with me than had previously been the case. There were a number of opportunities to go and work in London, but family ties meant I was keen to stay in Edinburgh and I secured a role at Standard Life Investments in January 2008.

Before I started the MBA, the advice given to me was that you get out of the qualification what you put in – and that would be my advice to anyone considering taking one on today. It is a significant commitment in terms of both time and resources, but one that has the potential to repay with interest.

Phillip Ochama

It was the best decision of my life when I chose the MBA programme at Edinburgh Business School, Heriot – Watt. It was a hugely enriching and invigorating experience to spend time with the lecturers and other students understanding the range of issues that affect all professionals from formulating to realising organisational strategies.

As well as making a number of friends and contacts from throughout the world, I learnt that, whilst there are no straight roads, all students face different kinds of challenges, concerns, stresses and strains. Addressing these issues through case studies and sharing experiences in the class in a lively and friendly manner was both hugely stimulating and rewarding. The course facilitated me in relating my work directly to the different business / management models, this in turn helped me to get promotions.

The course was entertaining, valuable and challenging but, most of all, great fun. This is because of the wide choice of courses the EBS MBA programme offers.

I would highly recommend EBS MBA.

Sanna Darboe

First things first, I would very much like to seize this opportunity to thank EBS and whoever is involved in allowing me to gain an invaluable education and experience and most importantly to be a graduate of this highly regarded institution.

This as I regard is a life changing achievement and am sure will very much contribute to my career progression.

It has always been an aspiration for me to one day be in a senior position in a challenging business environment and as such, today's business environment needs highly talented individuals who are dynamic and confident in their role as decision makers.

After completing my professional qualifications in accounting and finance I decided to do a Masters in Business Administration program to enable me to realize my ambitions. The choice of which MBA to go for was an easy one for me after speaking to one of my ex colleagues who went through similar experiences and after looking through the choice of courses to take and with the exemptions given to me which reduces the number of courses for me.

The quality of this MBA program is supplemented by the choices available in terms of the courses to sit and the flexibility in when to take and how many to take at a time not forgetting to mention the materials available in hand and online, this is second to none.

I feel I have really benefited from the program, courses like Economics, Project Management, Organisational Behavior, Marketing and many more have given me enhanced potential to one day become a manager in my own right.

I would like to conclude by once again thanking everyone at EBS and to mention that my graduation day was one of the best days in my life and if not the best ceremonies I've ever witnessed.

Smita Sanyal

I joined Edinburgh Business School (EBS), Heriot Watt University in January 2006 as a MBA student. I opted for MBA with Marketing specialism to gain in-depth knowledge and exposure in Business Management. After searching through different universities and their course structure, I found EBS the most appealing. The course structure and modules were very challenging and exhaustive.

This course is different from other MBA courses because it provides a detailed insight into the different core modules like Marketing and Finance which are the building blocks of every organization. This attracted me towards this degree and EBS the most.

The MBA degree from EBS helped me to acquire an edge personally and professionally in terms of Time and People Management. It helped me to utilize my theoretical knowledge into the practical environment. I could confidently oversee the projects from conceptualization through to successful and timely completion. The marketing strategies learnt during MBA helped me to increase sales and gain an edge over the competitors within companies like GEA and HSBC.

The faculty and staff at EBS were very cooperative and supportive. Their encouragement and advice throughout my MBA tenure has helped me achieve this degree with Grade 'A' in Finance and Marketing Communications. I feel proud to be al Alumnus of this prestigious institution.

Robin Fowler

I started studying 10 years ago to confirm to myself that I had a broad grounding in business. Family life and work intervened at many times to put my studies on hold, but the EBS staff never forgot me and encouraged me to continue.

With my family older and undertaking higher education I somehow found the time and resources to make that final push to complete the MBA by taking a module at each diet. This demanded tenacity and application whilst undertaking a very demanding job.

As a senior strategy/finance manager, a lot of what I was dealing with on a day to day basis had a relevance to the compulsory and elective modules I was studying, which in turn added new techniques or insight into my decision taking. So this was a course that could immediately be applied to the real world.

My advice to anyone considering this course is to go for it. Its not any easy option, but success really does demonstrate your ability to commit, project manage your time, and perseverance to achieve goals as well as exposure to many disciplines within the business world.