International Environment, Hands-On Learning Define Manchester Met

Manchester Metropolitan University, with roots tracing back to 1889, has a triple-accredited Business School offering 80+ courses including an MBA, and several postgraduate degrees such as a specialized master’s degree in Sport Directorship. Manchester Metropolitan’s Business School holds accreditations from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Association of MBAs (AMBA), and the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), placing it in the top 1% of accredited business schools worldwide. The business school also holds recognition in the Business School Impact System, the Principles of Responsible Management Education, the Small Business Charter, the United Nations Academic Impact, the Global Business School Network and the Network of International Business Schools.

“We know that U.K. degrees and qualifications are globally recognized, and many employers and academics worldwide really value the quality and standards of U.K. education,” says Katharina De Vita, who is the Faculty Deputy Director of Education focusing on Business and Law at Manchester Metropolitan. “And our institutions in the U.K. are held to strict standards by the government, therefore students know they’re getting the best teaching, support and resources available because it is closely monitored.” Indeed, the TEF Gold status (2023-27), top 15 ranking in England (2024 NSS), and position as UK market leader in Apprenticeships showcases the institution’s dedication to educational excellence.

THE BENEFITS OF AN INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

De Vita says that Manchester Metropolitan’s Business School provides an international environment for students, which can significantly expand their horizons, giving them an international outlook and a global network that can set them apart in the job market. De Vita, herself, studied and works internationally and has seen the benefits within her own life. “It has shaped my view of the world and the benefits of these experiences extend beyond academic learning,” she says.

“By just immersing themselves in the cultural and economic context, students gain a broader understanding of global markets and business practices,” De Vita continues. That’s relevant when you’re studying business because businesses are increasingly operating on an international scale.” 

Specifically, to the U.K., De Vita, who is originally from Germany, says her own studies were greatly helped by simply speaking and studying in English. “That’s just the business language globally,” she explains. “And in a more personal way, studying here fosters personal growth, resilience, and independence. I think those qualities are really appreciated by employers, and studying abroad shows adaptability and the global awareness that employers would like to see.”

MANCHESTER A HUB FOR GLOBAL BUSINESS AND INNOVATION, INCLUDING FINTECH

For Manchester, specifically, De Vita says it’s a welcoming, accessible, and multicultural city that is also known as the “birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.” As a city, Manchester ranks 27th globally and third in the U.K. in the QS Best Student Cities annual ranking. “That’s reflective of the quality of education and the lifestyle that you can have here in Manchester,” De Vita says, noting the city’s more affordable living compared to London. “So you have a cosmopolitan environment, but for a bit more affordable prices when it comes to living in the city.” 

Manchester continues to be a hub for innovation and industry, De Vita says. Part of that innovation includes the growth of the financial technology (FinTech) sector. The school also offers a specialized master’s degree in Financial Technology, highlighting its commitment to growth in this area. “We have the fastest-growing FinTech sector, and are home to six tech unicorns. So it’s one of the top startup hubs in the U.K., which helps create that learning environment.”

De Vita says, “it makes perfect sense” for Manchester Metropolitan to offer its one-year FinTech degree program. “But I think what is key is that we’re having our FinTech program taught by a mix of industry professionals and academics,” De Vita says. “And that ensures not only that we are bridging practical application, but also that we are enriching it with cutting-edge research in that area.”

Group work and case studies are a major part of the program, De Vita says. Students are placed on teams with other students who have culturally diverse backgrounds, as well as different professional backgrounds and expertise areas. “That is something that is very enriching for students when it comes to peer learning and developing a network that they can tap into in the future,” De Vita notes. 

STUDENT-FOCUSED AND HANDS-ON LEARNING ARE PRIORITIES

Student-focused, hands-on learning is also a major part of Manchester Metropolitan’s ethos. Work- integrated learning is embedded in all of the Business School’s programs, De Vita says. “Which means students have the opportunity to apply subject-specific knowledge and do that within an authentic or real-world setting so they can develop the skills and attributes that they need to succeed in their future career,” De Vita explains, noting that work-integrated learning can take place on-site, fully remote, or a hybrid format.

De Vita says “We also focus on work-integrated learning at an international level. Our GoGlobal Study Tours are immersive experiences that run throughout the year, where a key focus is engaging with industry partners to tackle real business challenges in diverse global contexts”.  The program takes place during week six of the semester, and some initiatives include leaving campus to visit partner schools in Athens, Paris, Barcelona, and other locations. “These are opportunities for students to leave the physical campus and see a different place where they engage in international activities,” De Vita says. 

Another unique hands-on learning experience is the International Enterprise Internship Program, which allows students to shadow a successful entrepreneur. “The program fosters skills such as problem solving, communication, adaptability, and gives access to local alumni network, which is particularly interesting for those who want to expand their professional network and build relationships a bit more,” De Vita says. “The initiative aligns with our goal to develop graduates that have a global mindset and to succeed in a competitive business environment, and provide them with entrepreneurial skills and familiarize them with a career journey in that space.” 

Next, De Vita says Manchester Metropolitan is a student-centered university. “We place students at the heart of everything that we do,” she says. “We focus on students’ wellbeing and also offer really excellent academic as well as pastoral support. Our approach is research-informed, ensuring that students benefit from the latest thinking and innovations in their fields. We strive to ensure that students in the business school achieve their full potential.”

One way the school does that is through personalized learning. “We recognize that students are individuals and we consider that they have their personal strengths and ambitions, and this informs the way we support them,” she says. “We also consider and anticipate emerging opportunities and challenges. Every student studying within the business school develops skills, knowledge, and attributes that are necessary for the future job market, whether that involves skills around AI, empathetic leadership, adaptability, or conflict resolution. We try to work with the industry very closely to ensure that our programs are current, and we deliver knowledge and skills that are relevant for the future job market.”