How can you ace an application for the University of Liverpool Management School MBA? BusinessBecause speaks to Julie Byrne, MBA coordinator at the management school, to find out
The University of Liverpool Management School is a respected business school. It is one of an elite group of institutions worldwide that hold the gold standard ‘triple crown’ accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS, and the Liverpool MBA program achieved Tier 1 Status in CEO Magazine’s 2022 Global MBA Rankings.The School of Management takes an innovative approach to the graduate management degree, offering a football industries MBA as well as a Generalist Liverpool MBA.
Both Liverpool MBAs help students build strategic leadership capabilities to prepare them for modern workforce dilemmas such as balancing technological advancements and economic growth with sustainability and social responsibility. It also places an emphasis on interpersonal skills and students’ development of empathetic leadership skills.
The school’s innovative programs and accreditations make it coveted. So how can you have the best chance of successfully applying to the Liverpool MBA? BusinessBecause caught up with Julie Byrne, MBA coordinator at Liverpool School of Management to learn how to ace your MBA application.
What does the MBA application look like?
Our MBA students must meet our criteria of having a bachelor’s degree with an overall grade of UK Second Class Upper (or equivalent elsewhere in the world), meet our English language requirements (if English is not the applicant’s first language) and most importantly, they must possess a minimum of three years substantive managerial experience. This could be managing budgets, projects, or people. We also accept non-graduates who have a minimum of five years managerial experience; however, these applications are assessed in a slightly different way.
For a standard application, one of which can be completed online via How to apply - University of Liverpool we would also ask applicants to provide us with specific documentation so that an initial assessment can be made. This includes things like their full academic transcripts, degree certificate, a CV, personal statement and the like. (The website has full details.)
For applicants coming through the non-standard route, we, for example, could assign an academic assignment to ensure that candidates who have not completed a degree before are able to cope with the academic demands of an MBA.
What does the University of Liverpool look for in MBA applicants?
The University of Liverpool offers two campus-based MBA programs: the Liverpool MBA and the MBA Football Industries program. For both, we are looking for people who are willing to learn and engage and make a difference not just to themselves through the learning experience, but also a difference to others and the world around them.
Our MBA students come from all over the world and from all different backgrounds. It may be that students wish to start their own business, or move into a more senior strategic role, change sector or country they work in. Our MBA programs are highly ranked worldwide and we therefore expect the calibre of our students to be the same.
We put a lot of emphasis on the personal statement and look into four key areas: your interest and experience in this subject area, your reasons for choosing this particular program, your future aim or career plan, and how the program of study enables you to achieve this.
What’s the biggest mistake you can make in an MBA application?
The biggest mistake people make is not providing the documents that we need in time for a decision to be made on an application. The other is missing sections out and not completing the form correctly. Also, requesting a scholarship for which your program is not eligible. My general advice would be to read all the information available to ensure that the program is going to give you what you need for your future.
With personal statements, we receive so many that are too generic and broad. They should link clearly to your experience and your future. We want clear career plans and for you to start with the end in mind.
Finally, applicants not proofreading their essays. We sometimes get applications citing other universities!
What are the strangest things you have seen in an MBA application?
School certificates – I’ve had certificates provided from applicants’ school days where they have come third in the three-legged race, and other such sporting activities. I realize it may have been an achievement that they’re proud of but have no bearing when applying for an MBA or any other master’s level program!
What should candidates expect from the interview?
Normally we don’t call people for interviews. We get a lot of applications each year and the process is very competitive. Therefore, we assess applications based on the documents provided. So, it very important to stand out in your personal statement and provide everything we need as early as possible to secure your place.
Tell us one thing about the Liverpool MBA application process that most people wouldn't know?
That unlike quite a lot of universities, we don’t charge candidates for making an application, it’s free.
We are also very proud to say that the turnaround in MBA decision times can be really quick. If an application is submitted with all the documents required, the decision can be turned around within 24 hours. Obviously, if not all of the documentation is provided, then the process can slightly take longer.
It’s also worth knowing that the Management School has a number of scholarships available, and if candidates meet the criteria for these scholarships, no separate application is required, they will be automatically considered.
Student Reviews
University of Liverpool School of Management
My experience in UOL
Well I won't tell you about all the great things about this university. But I'll just tell you my honest experience about it.
I have visited almost all the places here. This university knows how take care of their students. Be it any aspect, be it career and placement department, be it societies, be it organising committees, they know what all issues a student can face and they are ready with the solutions already.
Professors here are so welcoming. You can literarily bother them ample number of times but they will still be so nice with you. They actually put a lot of efforts to make letures more fun. They try their best to focus on each and every student and check if they are comfortable or now.
Coming to the offerings. They know that there will be a lot of international students and there will be a lot of issues they will face in adjustment over here. So they organised a lot of events, distributed a lot of free vouchers just to make students feel welcomed over here.
Trust me if you are looking for a Uni for yourself or for someone, do add this one on your priority list.
Fantastic school
The lecturers are incredibly experienced in their field of study, and it shows when they teach. They know what they are talking about, and that instills a level of trust that you have made the right choice coming to this university. They are supportive and charismatic - exactly how lecturers should be!
The accommodation is all fantastic too. Homely, comfortable, so close to campus. Even Greenbank, which is a 15 minute bus journey from campus, has its perks (heavily discounted bus pass - from £400 to £60 and free gym membership).
There are so many societies too! Literally one for everything. During the society fair, they were all so welcoming which is so great to see.
The lecture theatres are all top-notch too. It feels so modernistic. It really feels like I have had a big step up from sixth form to university. I made the right choice by coming to UoL!
Original RedBrick Review!!
The Marketing Course at this uni a great course with exceptional industry connections - for example a brand assessment centre from The Hut Group and an assessment centre at Anfield Football Stadium! The campus is great as it is all connected and everything can be found there - so whether you are a Starbucks or Cafe Nero kind of person the campus has everything. Freshers is great with campus tours, city walks and course talks to connect you with fellow coursemates. Halls was also a great experience - I loved the halls packs where you can get free tshirts, baking kits and we even got free dominoes pizzas!!
Enjoyed every aspect of it!
My experience studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool has been amazing! All the lecturers and students have been so lovely and helpful. The management school building is my favourite place to study. I would recommend studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool because the content is so engaging and the assignments are creative.
Quality
Perfect learning methodologies and curriculums, the most i liked about my learning experience with University of Liverpool is the professionalism, in delivering the subjects and helping the students gaining more knowledge.
Amazing course
The marketing course at UOL is great the lecturers are helpful and provide in-person and online resources to succeed in assignments, and the careers department is extremely helpful. The modules are all relevant and have expanded my understanding of the marketing industry and consumer behaviour, social media and so on
The Best Experience
Currently in my Second Year studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool. Due to the big student culture in Liverpool, you soon feel completely at ease and at home. Staff are extremely helpful - there is always opportunities to ask for additional support/guidance. Each module is clear and well organised - this definitely helps in first year when it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with the new workload. It’s very easy to find your way around due to it being a campus university as everything is in close proximity. I lived at Greenbank accommodation in my first year and the staff are so helpful and make you feel very well settled. There is a huge community feel and the modules are interactive meaning making friends is much easier and a lot less intimidating. If you’re considering attending this university and I honestly couldn’t recommend more - you’ll have the best experience!
Culture
One of my favourite things about this university is the diversity of its people. I met so many different people during my time here, from all different backgrounds and experiences. Not only did these people provide me with insight and knowledge into their own cultures and beliefs, they also allowed me to learn about and understand different ways of life that I would have otherwise never been exposed to. The tutors were also incredibly supportive on this course and allowed me to excel.
Great university!
I did my undergrad in film studies at LJMU and I honestly could not recommend it enough. It has the perfect mix of practical and theory work that prepares you for any job possible in the film industry, from lighting tech to AD. The university lecturers were also very attentive, and I felt comfortable enough with them to seek their help if I ever had an issue or concern, academic or personal. LJMU gave me experiences I would not have got anywhere else, offering summer placements completely free that broadened my horizons. The fact the campus is interspersed around the city also makes it very convenient.
Law Program
UoL has been a great school to attend so far. I attend UoL's campus in the Cayman Islands, Truman Bodden Law School. Being on such a small island, it has been great with the personal face-to-face with lecturers in understanding topics.
My experience in UOL
Well I won't tell you about all the great things about this university. But I'll just tell you my honest experience about it.
I have visited almost all the places here. This university knows how take care of their students. Be it any aspect, be it career and placement department, be it societies, be it organising committees, they know what all issues a student can face and they are ready with the solutions already.
Professors here are so welcoming. You can literarily bother them ample number of times but they will still be so nice with you. They actually put a lot of efforts to make letures more fun. They try their best to focus on each and every student and check if they are comfortable or now.
Coming to the offerings. They know that there will be a lot of international students and there will be a lot of issues they will face in adjustment over here. So they organised a lot of events, distributed a lot of free vouchers just to make students feel welcomed over here.
Trust me if you are looking for a Uni for yourself or for someone, do add this one on your priority list.
Fantastic school
The lecturers are incredibly experienced in their field of study, and it shows when they teach. They know what they are talking about, and that instills a level of trust that you have made the right choice coming to this university. They are supportive and charismatic - exactly how lecturers should be!
The accommodation is all fantastic too. Homely, comfortable, so close to campus. Even Greenbank, which is a 15 minute bus journey from campus, has its perks (heavily discounted bus pass - from £400 to £60 and free gym membership).
There are so many societies too! Literally one for everything. During the society fair, they were all so welcoming which is so great to see.
The lecture theatres are all top-notch too. It feels so modernistic. It really feels like I have had a big step up from sixth form to university. I made the right choice by coming to UoL!
Original RedBrick Review!!
The Marketing Course at this uni a great course with exceptional industry connections - for example a brand assessment centre from The Hut Group and an assessment centre at Anfield Football Stadium! The campus is great as it is all connected and everything can be found there - so whether you are a Starbucks or Cafe Nero kind of person the campus has everything. Freshers is great with campus tours, city walks and course talks to connect you with fellow coursemates. Halls was also a great experience - I loved the halls packs where you can get free tshirts, baking kits and we even got free dominoes pizzas!!
Enjoyed every aspect of it!
My experience studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool has been amazing! All the lecturers and students have been so lovely and helpful. The management school building is my favourite place to study. I would recommend studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool because the content is so engaging and the assignments are creative.
Quality
Perfect learning methodologies and curriculums, the most i liked about my learning experience with University of Liverpool is the professionalism, in delivering the subjects and helping the students gaining more knowledge.
Amazing course
The marketing course at UOL is great the lecturers are helpful and provide in-person and online resources to succeed in assignments, and the careers department is extremely helpful. The modules are all relevant and have expanded my understanding of the marketing industry and consumer behaviour, social media and so on
The Best Experience
Currently in my Second Year studying Marketing at the University of Liverpool. Due to the big student culture in Liverpool, you soon feel completely at ease and at home. Staff are extremely helpful - there is always opportunities to ask for additional support/guidance. Each module is clear and well organised - this definitely helps in first year when it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with the new workload. It’s very easy to find your way around due to it being a campus university as everything is in close proximity. I lived at Greenbank accommodation in my first year and the staff are so helpful and make you feel very well settled. There is a huge community feel and the modules are interactive meaning making friends is much easier and a lot less intimidating. If you’re considering attending this university and I honestly couldn’t recommend more - you’ll have the best experience!
Culture
One of my favourite things about this university is the diversity of its people. I met so many different people during my time here, from all different backgrounds and experiences. Not only did these people provide me with insight and knowledge into their own cultures and beliefs, they also allowed me to learn about and understand different ways of life that I would have otherwise never been exposed to. The tutors were also incredibly supportive on this course and allowed me to excel.
