Course Description

The MBA Health and Social Care at ARU London is designed for ambitious professionals who aspire to advance their leadership and management capabilities within the health and social care sector. This course provides an in-depth understanding of strategic management alongside practical insights into the complexities and ethical considerations of healthcare service delivery.

As one of the largest and most vital industries in the UK, the health and social care sector continues to evolve rapidly, with a growing need for highly skilled leaders who can manage change and drive innovation. This programme equips students with the knowledge and skills to lead policy, strategy, and service improvement across public, private, and voluntary sectors.

Taught by experienced academics and professionals with extensive backgrounds in health and social care, the MBA combines theoretical frameworks with real-world case studies to ensure that learning is directly applicable to contemporary practice.

What You Will Learn
The MBA Health and Social Care provides comprehensive coverage of the key disciplines and challenges facing healthcare management today. Students will learn to:

  • Analyse and apply strategic management theories to health and social care organisations. 
  • Evaluate governance frameworks and financial models that shape healthcare services. 
  • Lead teams effectively and manage human capital in a complex, multi-disciplinary environment. 
  • Utilise data analytics for decision-making and performance improvement. 
  • Examine ethical and social issues impacting health and social care delivery. 
  • Conduct advanced research and apply findings to professional practice through a Postgraduate Major Project.

Why study this course?

  • Develop advanced managerial and leadership skills specifically tailored for the health and social care industry. 
  • Learn from experienced lecturers with professional backgrounds in healthcare management and policy. 
  • Gain access to modern facilities, including lecture theatres, libraries, and study pods designed for postgraduate learners. 
  • Study in London, offering proximity to major healthcare organisations and industry events. 
  • Receive personalised academic and employability support from ARU London’s dedicated services. 
  • Join a diverse learning community that encourages collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

  • Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
  • International Baccalaureate
  • High School Level Qualifications
  • Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

You’ll be able to test your skills and knowledge informally before you do assessments that count towards your final mark. You can get feedback on all practice and formal assessments so you can improve in the future. With our MBA Health and Social Care, you'll learn about essential healthcare management disciplines like business planning and finance, project and operations management, healthcare service improvement, and leadership. These are some examples:

  • Written assignments and analytical reports 
  • Presentations and group projects 
  • Examinations 
  • A Major Project or dissertation focused on healthcare or social care organisational issues

Modules

  • Postgraduate Study Skills, Research Methods and Ethics
  • Finance and Governance in Health and Social Care
  • Data Analytics and Demand Management
  • Leadership and Human Capital Management in Health and Social Care
  • Strategic Management, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship in Health and Social Care
  • Postgraduate Integrative Project

Study & Career Progression

The MBA Health and Social Care is ideal for individuals seeking senior leadership positions in healthcare management, policy, and strategy. With the health and social care sector employing over four million people and continuing to expand, graduates of this programme will be well-positioned to advance their careers in both public and private organisations.

Potential career paths include:

  • Healthcare Manager 
  • Policy Advisor or Consultant 
  • Hospital Operations Manager 
  • Social Care Director 
  • Strategic Development Manager 
  • Health Service Improvement Lead 

Graduates may also choose to continue their academic journey by pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) or PhD in a related field.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

  • Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
  • Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan, it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
  • Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
  • Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled Students' Allowance if eligible.
  • Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.

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