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Traditional MBA Programmes
versus
the Hillsford MBA

The Masters of Business Administration (MBA) remains one of the most highly valued qualifications in the world.

It is usually both an intellectually and financially daunting programme.​

Our programme is different.

Traditional High MBA Costs

The cost of MBA programmes in the UK can vary significantly depending on the institution and the specific programme.

Generally, tuition fees for online MBA courses range from £17,000 to £60,000. 

Additional expenses, such as books and materials can further increase the overall investment in an MBA.

As a result, students often need to evaluate their budget carefully, consider financing options - and usually conclude that the Return on Investment is impossible to make.

We're different. 

Hillsford's MBA Cost Advantage

Our Programme is MUCH more affordable - because we offer you a Two Stage Process.

If you study with a university for an entire MBA - costs become extortionate. If you access a university 'Advanced Entry MBA' or 'MBA Top-Up' programme you pay a reasonable sum (e.g. £3,500) to study one module (60 credits) and then graduate with an MBA Degree Certificate equal to everyone else.

To be eligible for these programmes you need a Level 7 Post-Graduate Diploma of 120 Credits.

Hillsford Business School is accredited to teach, assess and award this Level 7 Post-Graduate Diploma of 120 Credits. Our costs are lower than a university, and so we can pass on those savings to you: our students and customers.

Because we have many years experience with this qualification and leading MBA programmes in the UK university system, we also provide you with the skills and training that  you need to succeed with the transition to a university for an 'Advanced Entry MBA' or 'Top-Up MBA' programme.

Learn More About the Hillsford MBA

Traditional Entry Barriers to an MBA

Most universities in the UK have specific entry requirements for MBA programmes, which includes having an Undergraduate degree.

 

Additionally, many institutions seek candidates with relevant work experience, often requiring a minimum of three to five years in a managerial or professional role.

 

Some programmes may also require applicants to submit GMAT scores, a lengthy and time-consuming personal statement, and letters of recommendation, which contribute to a significant amount of stress and hassle ahead of application - and of course the university may just reject your application after all of this (and any non-refundable fees for application have been paid).

Hillsford's Open Door for MBA Students

So long as you are aged over 21 years old and have English as a first language / professional working capability: you're accepted!

You do NOT need a first degree. 

We have a very short enrolment form where we learn more about you and your background, any specific concerns you may have about study and so on.

 

We do not require any fees, letters of recommendation or personal statements. 

Shortcomings with Traditional MBA Programmes

Some of the shortcomings of conventional Masters of Business Administration (MBA) programmes include:

  • Limited starting points in the year (some of which can be postponed at very short notice)

 

  • Difficult to access Learning Management Systems (LMS), including those that work poorly on mobile devices​

  • No flexibility in terms of speeding-up / slowing or pausing studies if work or life changes

  • Slow and unhelpful communications with academic staff

  • A lack of supportive guidance to enable assignments to achieve the highest grades

  • Promised extensive global networks which do not materialise

  • Poor overall value for money

Hillsford's MBA Care & Quality Focus

As well as eliminating the problems above, ​we at Hillsford Business School deliver additional value: 

  1. Mindset Coaching session at the outset and throughout your studies with us (unique to our centre) 

  2. Confidence-building Study Skills programme and live support 

  3. Friendly and supportive tutors – and a dedicated Head of Pastoral Care and Mindset Coach

  4. Live Q&A sessions 

  5. Timely email responses 

  6. WhatsApp check-ins for your cohort 

  7. Professor-produced multimedia slide decks to support each assignment 

  8. Study guide to enable completion in 1 year 

  9. Curated academic literature resources to support assignments 

  10. Templates to support essay planning 

  11. Feedback on assignment plans ahead of submission 

  12. Transition support for 'Advanced Entry MBA' / 'MBA Top-Up' university dissertation

  13. Complete your studies in 13 - 24 months 

Academic Study is Easier Than You Think

Professor Milyan 'Mils' Hills and Dr. David 'Finny' Finnegan MBE in conversation about why academic study is easier than you think!

Modern Architecture

Read About the Value of an MBA

If you'd like to learn more about why a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) is such a valuable, transformative and future-proofing qualification: please follow the link below.

© 2025 by Milyan Hills and Lindsey Ford 
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Hillsford Consulting and Training Ltd. (T/A Hillsford Business School)  is a limited company registered in England and Wales.

Registered number: 15983738.

Registered office: 71-75 Shelton St, London WC2H 9JQ
United Kingdom.

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