What to expect when you study an online MBA with Sheffield Hallam University

For many ambitious professionals, an MBA is the next logical step toward leadership and career growth. But the idea of fitting study around a demanding job, family commitments, or international responsibilities can feel daunting. 

That is where Sheffield Hallam University’s online MBA comes in. Designed for working professionals across the globe, our programmes combine flexibility, academic excellence, and practical application, all delivered through a supportive online community. 

In a recent webinar, Dr. Cindy Wang-Cowham, Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management and Course Leader for online MBAs, shared an inside look at what studying with us is really like. 

1. Flexible study designed around you

Life does not wait for your studies, and our MBA does not ask you to put it on hold. With six start dates a year (September, October, January, March, April, and June), you can begin when it suits you. 

The programme runs on a carousel model, allowing you to take one module at a time. Each module typically lasts seven weeks, followed by assessment in week eight. Expect to commit around 21 hours per week, but with bite-sized activities like 10-minute micro-lectures, readings, and case studies, you can fit study into your schedule whether that’s over lunch breaks, evenings, or weekends. 

“I can manage my time and work studies around my work-life balance, which is great.” – Online MBA student 

Practical and applied learning

Our online MBA is not just about theory. While you will cover core areas such as strategy, marketing, finance, leadership, supply chain management, and digital business, you will also specialise in areas such as Healthcare Management, Human Resource Management, Project Management, Finance, or Psychology. 

The programme culminates in a consultancy project, a capstone module where you apply your learning to a real-world business challenge. Many students choose to focus on their own organisation, adding immediate value to their workplace while building skills for future career moves. 

This applied approach, combined with a global perspective and a focus on sustainability and inclusion, ensures you graduate with insights you can use straight away. 

3. No exams and a supportive assessment strategy

Exams are not always the best way to demonstrate your knowledge. That is why our MBA uses a different approach with one summative assessment per module. 

Assessments are varied, from reports and portfolios to presentations or short recorded videos, and you often have flexibility to choose the format that suits you. Along the way, formative activities such as quizzes, discussion boards, and case studies help you prepare, with feedback from tutors to guide you before the final submission. 

The result is assessments that reflect your professional context and support your growth, without the stress of traditional exams. 

4. A strong support network

Studying online does not mean studying alone. At Sheffield Hallam, you will benefit from our Learning Support Triangle: 

• Module Leader and Online Academic Tutor provide academic guidance and subject expertise 

• Student Success Coordinator offers non-academic support, from IT access to wellbeing 

• Course Leader oversees your overall journey 

You will also receive regular communication (two to three announcements per week with reminders, summaries, and tips), prompt responses to questions within 48 hours, and structured feedback on your work. 

Beyond the classroom, many students form their own WhatsApp groups and peer networks, adding another layer of community and support. For those with specific needs, including neurodivergent students, tailored adjustments and support are available. 

5. Who studies with us?

Our students are professionals and leaders from diverse backgrounds, including healthcare managers, HR specialists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and directors. Some are looking to move into senior leadership roles, while others want to pivot careers or gain international perspectives. 

The cohort is truly global. This diversity enriches discussions and case studies, giving you insights into business practices across different sectors and cultures. 

One student described their choice this way: 

“My role was originally meant to be a mix of managerial and clinical, but with cost-cutting pressures it became 100% clinical. I wanted to branch out in my career, and this MBA gave me the experience I could not get otherwise.” 

6. What our students say

The most powerful endorsement comes from our students: 

• “Everything is working very well for me. I am able to manage my time, and the topics are challenging, engaging, and offer valuable learning.” 

• “The instructor engagement and support has been brilliant. It is refreshing to see an announcement every few days and fast responses to questions.” 

These testimonials underline what makes Sheffield Hallam’s online MBA stand out: flexibility, engaging content, and a strong support system. 

7. Key takeaways

1. Ultimate flexibility with six entry points per year 

1. Applied learning that connects theory with practice 

1. No exams with one creative assessment per module 

1. Dedicated support network for academic and non-academic needs 

1. A global learning community with professionals from diverse industries and countries 

1. The same academic recognition as our on-campus programmes 

Ready to take the next step? 

Sheffield Hallam’s online MBA is more than a qualification. It’s an opportunity to transform your career, gain global insights, and join a supportive community of ambitious professionals. 

Watch the full webinar recording or explore our online programmes today!