MBA Top-Up at University of Sunderland

Programme overview

The MBA Top-Up is for professionals who already hold a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Management Studies or another equivalent postgraduate qualification. This course allows you to build on your existing experience and qualifications to achieve a full MBA. You can choose to complete either 60 or 90 credits, depending on your previous study. This will give you a flexible route to finish your MBA in a way that suits your goals and commitments.

Department: Business and Management | Duration: 7 months full-time; 7 months distance learning | Study mode: online | Intake: October 2026, October 2027 | Location: Sunderland, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Modules; If you're studying the 90-credit top-up course, you'll study one of the 30-credit MBA core modules. You'll then complete the 60-credit research project. The module you study will depend on when you start and your entry qualifications. MBA Research Project (60 credits)+.

Career pathways

The course is hands-on and will build on your existing managerial experience while helping you develop the practical skills needed for the next stage in your career. It’s an investment in yourself that can lead to a higher salary, promotion opportunities, increased employability, and greater flexibility in today’s fast-changing job market.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

This course converts a standard master’s level qualification to an MBA. Therefore, a relevant postgraduate or equivalent professional qualification is a requirement to apply. This course supports career acceleration for applicants with suitable academic qualifications. We'll consider all levels of practical work and work experience. This includes applications from candidates with pre-graduation or limited/no work experience post-degree if you can demonstrate that you'll benefit from this course. You also need three passes at GCSE grade C or above. This must include maths and English language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number. If you've studied for a GCSE that has a numerical grade, you'll need to achieve a grade 4 or above.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,000 a year (2026/27). University fee table Source

International applicants: GBP 10,000 a year (2026/27). University fee table Source

Intake: October 2026, October 2027

Duration: 7 months full-time; 7 months distance learning

Apply through the official page: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/postgraduate/mba-top-up#apply

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