Flexible Executive MBA
With a blended learning approach
of interactive in-person workshops combined with
self-study on and offline. The Flexible Executive MBA enables you to achieve your goals.
At a glance
- Triple accredited by the UK, European and US accrediting bodies (AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB)
- Workshops held once every two months
- Study with like-minded professionals from a wide variety of managerial backgrounds and industries
- Personal and professional development
- Optional overseas study trip in Stage 3 (subject to availability)
- Subject area(s)
- Business & Management
- Attendance
- Part-time
- Fee
- £34,500 (£29,325 with Early Bird discount)
- Course length
- 27 months
- Suitable for
- Mid-level and senior executives, entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders
Start dates
Overview
For experienced managers looking to develop their management and leadership competencies, the Henley Flexible Executive MBA delivers a world-class education effectively and conveniently. The course is structured to allow you to continue to work full-time and to study your MBA part-time connecting your learning to current global and relevant organisational issues. It’s ideal if you are unable to take significant time out of the workplace to study and want greater flexibility over how, when and where you achieve your MBA.
Why study at Henley
The Flexible Executive MBA is delivered through a blend of face-to-face workshops, activities involving peer-group learning and self-study. The programme incorporates both on- and offline study. Over the 27 months, individuals study and share experiences with like-minded professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds and industries. The course has a number of aims for its programme members, including:
- developing strategic, holistic and integrated perspectives on business, organisations and management
- integrating theory and practice through an approach that combines academic rigour with practitioner relevance
- providing personal development opportunities to support the development of individuals' management capability and capacity to work in and lead teams in different situations.
Who is the Flexible Executive MBA for?
- Mid-level and senior executives, entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders from across all industries who are managing people, processes or projects and making strategic business decisions.
- Those in, and aspiring to, senior leadership roles who want to broaden their technical and leadership skills and who perform well when studying at distance, online and with less face-to-face contact with staff and peers than on the more intensive Executive MBA – Global
- With a minimum of three years of management experience.
Work while you study
This Executive MBA is ideal if you are unable to take significant time out of the workplace to study. You’re able to gain greater flexibility over how, when and where you achieve your MBA.
Key benefits
Peer-to-peer learning
Allows you to study over 27 months to manage work and personal life
Study with like-minded professionals from a wide variety of managerial backgrounds and industries
Join Henley’s alumni network, one of the largest in the world
The module descriptions set out on this page are correct for modules being taught in the current academic year. Optional module listings are indicative and may be subject to change
Stage 1 Modules, Managing the Organisation
| Compulsory modules |
|---|
Managing Processes and SystemsLay the foundation for future success with a thorough grounding in the design and implementation of goods and services delivery. |
Managing Financial ResourcesNext, you will study how to effectively analyse, plan, control and monitor your organisation’s finances. |
Managing PeopleFrom our Helsinki campus, you will develop an awareness of the issues and practices that affect people management. |
Personal Development - Stage 1 (Flexible Executive)This module is a springboard into your successful and rewarding MBA journey. It comprises of two parallel streams that lay the foundations of your academic and personal development throughout the programme. A number of key study skills techniques will be introduced which will be important for your successful completion of the programme. It will introduce you to a number of themes around leadership and leadership skills that you will continue to develop throughout the whole MBA. It will also include an introduction to the Personal Development process, the second element of this module, which will continue throughout the MBA. The Personal Development process seeks to support and challenge you in all aspects of you growth whilst studying and is a catalyst for reflection on learning from all other modules and aspects of the MBA. The module aims to enable each student to: take control of their future direction, to pursue life and career goals, obtain maximum benefit for you and you organisations, reflect upon your own learning, performance and achievement and plan for personal, educational and career development. |
Stage 2 Modules, Making Choices: Context & Stakeholders
| Compulsory modules |
|---|
International BusinessThis module will provide insights into the variety of issues and challenges faced by managers of international firms in the global business environment. The aim is for programme members to develop an ability to understand the complexity of international markets and the capacity to successfully manage issues related to international business and strategy. A number of key frameworks will be introduced and applied in developing strategies for international expansion as well as strategies for managing complex operations across national, regional and global markets. The module also sheds light on the most recent developments in international business. |
Strategic MarketingNext, you will examine integral marketing strategies for the international stage. This module has a particular focus on ethical and socially responsible marketing strategies. |
StrategyThis module will enable students to understand and apply the fundamental principles of the strategic thinking process and also to gain insight into the variety of issues and challenges faced by managers of firms. By the end of the module you will be able to demonstrate a high level of ability and skill in strategic thinking, strategic analysis, synthesis and decision-making. You will be able to analyse and understand an organisation and its external competitive environment, assess an organisation''s internal value-creating activities and processes, and identify and evaluate appropriate strategic options for an organisation, assessing impact on competitive position and future performance. |
Reputation and ResponsibilityThe Reputation and Responsibility module will develop your knowledge and understanding of strategic reputation and responsibility management. You will engage in debate and discussion around issues of corporate responsibility, sustainability and governance and learn about key concepts of how relationships are built and stakeholder management. Students will be exposed to a range of tools for the analysis of perceptions related to reputation. |
Stage 3 Modules, Making an Impact
It is also compulsory for you to choose one elective module at this stage.
| Compulsory modules |
|---|
Leadership and ChangeAs you enter the final stage of your MBA degree, you will deepen your understanding of key leadership models. |
Management Research ChallengeThis is a project-based module, where you will investigate a significant management problem and produce a set of actionable solutions. Academic authors
Dr Ana Graça
Dr Lynn Thurloway
|
Elective Options
Please note that the International Study Visit is subject to availability.
A choice between the following:
| Optional modules |
|---|
International Study Visit Elective ModuleDestination and dates to be confirmed Please note that the International Study Visit is subject to availability. International trips are also subject to easing of international travel restrictions, and decisions on whether to run these will be made in accordance with Government and University guidance. |
Online Elective Modules
|
Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.
Our MBA programme has a particularly strong focus on themes of international business, leadership and corporate reputation. There is a real hands-on approach to learning, you work collaboratively with your fellow students and classes are taught by international faculty at the cutting edge of their disciplines.
Our MBA programmes combine the best in academic theory with practical, real-life projects. This means that as well as having an outstanding learning experience, you will be ready to put it all into practice immediately when you are back in the workplace.
At Henley, we recognise that you want to develop yourself to prepare for the challenges of business leadership, so within the programmes there is a continuous element of personal development and career development to support you throughout your journey.
On the Flexible Executive MBA programme, you may have the opportunity to go on an international study visit*, to an overseas location where Henley has a developed network and a strong footprint.
Everything above is informed by Henley's eminent reputation in teaching practising managers and in research excellence and application.
*subject to availability.
This programme is designed for experienced practicing managers, most of which already have nine or more years of managerial experience. Sharing your experience with fellow programme members enriches your learning.
To join this Henley MBA programme you will need:
- Three years' management experience
- Good degree or equivalent professional or international qualification*
- Evidence of competence in English - Certification of English proficiency at work (PDF)**
- You must be able to gain access to company data for assignment purposes.
How to apply
All applicants must submit:
- A completed online application form
- Up to date CV
- Personal statement
- Certified copies of degree certificates
- Two professional references
- English language test results or an English Proficiency at Work form, if applicable.
Please see the entry requirements and application form notes before submitting your application.
Application deadlines
| Flexible Executive MBA (September 2025) cohort | Important dates |
|---|---|
| Application deadline to qualify for Early Bird programme fee | Monday 31 March 2025 |
| Henley Executive MBA Director’s Awards Scholarship application deadline | Monday 14 July 2025 |
| Final application deadline | Monday 11 August 2025 |
| Programme start date | Monday 8 September 2025 |
If you are interested in applying for the September 2025 intake, please contact mba@henley.ac.uk to discuss your individual circumstances.
Terms and conditions
*A degree or the equivalent professional or international qualification is normally required; However we do welcome applications from candidates with exceptional management experience who may not meet all the formal criteria for admission. If you have a minimum of 5 year’s experience at a senior or strategic level with no degree, we would be happy to consider an application. Our Admission Panel reviews all non-standard applications for suitability.
**Candidates whose first language is not English will normally be required to meet one of the following conditions:
- Take an IELTS test and achieve an overall score of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in each element. The University also accepts a number of other tests instead of IELTS, please consult the equivalent English Language Tests and scores.
- Provide a satisfactorily completed declaration from a current employer (confirmation from a previous employer can be accepted if the applicant left that employer within 12 months of the programme application), confirming that they are required to work in English to a high level on a daily basis.
- Obtain a confirmation of satisfactory level of English language proficiency.
You are required to submit documentary evidence of your performance level with your application. Please indicate on your application form the qualification you have taken and the grade you obtained and attach the appropriate certificate.
The fee for the Flexible Executive MBA for 2025 is £34,500, reduced to £29,325 with Early Bird Discount
Please contact mba@henley.ac.uk for information.
Next intake
September 2025
Please see our September 2025 schedule. For any further information, please contact the MBA team at mba@henley.ac.uk.
Note: please answer all sections of the online application in full prior to submission. Leaving sections blank may delay the admissions process. For application support, please contact the MBA team.
Careers & Professional Development
We run additional professional development events online, for you to get involved in to build your network, deepen your knowledge and help you meet your career goals.
You can also book appointments with an experienced Executive Coach to discuss anything related to your professional development. Appointments are confidential and you can meet in person, over the phone or virtually.
One of the things you could talk to your Executive Coach about is your strengths, using StrengthscopeTM to help you understand:
- Your innate strengths
- The tasks and activities that are most likely to energise you and lead to high levels of engagement and productivity
- The likely consequences of using your strengths too much, too little or in a way that isn't appropriate for the situation
- The extent to which you apply your strengths optimally in the way you approach your work.
You will also have access to a range of online resources, such as:
- VMock – online CV building tool
- Alumni Extra – webinar library covering a range of professional development topics
- PayNegotiation – online training package.
Finding us
We pride ourselves on understanding the need to create an environment which is both relaxing and comfortable enabling work and study to be focused and effective. From our unique riverside location to our impressive amenities, we provide an ideal environment for meeting success.
How to find us (PDF-1.15 MB)
Sports facilities
Balancing busy work schedules with relaxation and exercise is an important aspect of our approach at Henley. The fully equipped Fitness Centre with views overlooking the beautiful grounds and River Thames has everything needed to restore a sense of well being.
Business facilities
At our Greenlands site we provide a variety of meeting rooms and conference facilities. Our rooms have been designed with an emphasis on practicality with many of our rooms benefiting from the latest presentation equipment to ensure that your meeting runs smoothly.
Conference Rooms
The conference rooms at Greenlands, Henley, all feature air conditioning, natural daylight and excellent acoustics, as well as state-of-the-art AV and presentation technology controlled by bluetooth touch screens, free WiFi access, laptop connections, networked PC and large screens. Our larger rooms also have repeater screens. Each conference room has access to dedicated syndicate and break-out rooms and refreshment areas close by. Stationery, flipcharts, photocopying facilities and whiteboards are included as standard.
Meeting Rooms
All syndicate and meeting rooms at Henley are fitted with a large screen, networked PC, whiteboards and have free WiFi access and laptop connections. River House 1-14 are also fitted with Copycam, allowing users to capture whiteboard notes at the touch of a button. Digital recorders, video and stills cameras are also available on request. All are laid out boardroom style.
Accommodation
We have 100 rooms including some with disabled facilities. All rooms are en-suite & include a safe, trouser press, laptop connection with free Wi-Fi access, direct dial telephone, satellite TV with radio, Molton Brown toiletries, tea & coffee making facilities and a hair dryer. Photograph of Thames Court accommodation.
Full English breakfast is served in our main dining room, which overlooks the River Thames. Our dedicated staff maintain the facility 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All guest rooms receive daily housekeeping services.
Dining
When it comes to dining, we offer you choice, quality and flexibility. We understand that you also want facilities that are conducive to networking, and dining arrangements that integrate seamlessly with the other aspects of your day. Henley is renowned for both its excellent standards of service and the high quality of cuisine. The chefs and their professional staff are able to offer the sophistication of a memorable evening dinner in the spacious dining room, with its views over the lawns down to the Thames.
Fresh, varied breakfasts are prepared by award-winning chefs and served each morning in the beautiful, riverside restaurant - the Heyworth Room.
Refreshments
Several tea and coffee areas are situated throughout the buildings, the Garden Common Room is situated beside the Heyworth Room and is open throughout the day and evening offering a wide range of Fairtrade drinks and a selection of biscuits. The bar is open each evening serving a full range of drinks.
Henley Conference Centre and Hotel
Set in its own 30 acre estate in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, alongside the River Thames, this magnificent Grade II Listed Building offers excellent conference, meeting and event facilities and provides a spectacular setting for any gathering. For more information about booking our beautiful facilities please visit the Henley Conferences website.
History of Greenlands
Records indicate that there has been a house on our Greenlands site for 500 years, although the house would have originally been much closer to the river.
Greenlands has been home to a series of notable families and individuals throughout its lifetime. These include Thomas Chaucer, son of Geoffrey Chaucer; Robert D'Oyley, Sheriff of Oxfordshire in 1573; Bulstrode Whitelock, Oliver Cromwell's Ambassador to Sweden and most recently WH Smith, who bought the existing house in 1871. Queen Elizabeth I is also known to have visited on more than one occasion, most likely when staying at her royal palace in Reading.
The site became the home of a new Administrative Staff College in 1946, first welcoming students in 1948. In 1952, after the unexpected death of Viscount Hambleden from whom the College leased the site, an opportunity to purchase Greenlands' 30 acres arose. The College was renamed Henley Management College in 1991, and following the 2008 merger with the University of Reading became Henley Business School. Today, the world-ranked Henley MBA, The Henley DBA and our executive education programmes are delivered at Greenlands.
Why choose Henley?
As one of the UK’s first business schools, Henley has been developing leaders for over 70 years. It’s not just about developing your professional skillset. Personal development is embedded in all our programmes and it is central to our Executive Global MBA.
We offer a special and unique learning experience. Our Greenlands campus and its 30 acres of beautiful parkland are situated on the banks of the River Thames.
Many students enjoy strolling by the river, cup of tea in hand, while they reflect on what they’re learning. The small cohorts of peers make it easy to strike up interesting conversations at any time.
At Henley, you’ll become a member of our community from day one. Community and collaboration are key to everything we do, and we’re known for our ‘syndicate’ method of study. This is a form of group learning that encourages students to draw from and reflect upon each other’s insights.
The benefits of studying at Henley Business School don’t stop after you graduate. You’ll become part of our vibrant alumni network of more than 100,000 business professionals, in 160 countries. This is a unique resource that will help build and support your career path.
Contact us
If you have any questions please get in touch.
Email: mba@henley.ac.ukTelephone: +44 (0)118 378 4520.
“It’s more than just an MBA; it’s a transformational experience. As a person you grow on so many levels. If you want a fulfilling personal growth experience where you’ll learn a lot about business but even more about yourself, then…”
I started my MBA while living in London and I completed it when in San Francisco! By the time I graduated, I had completely changed direction. Once the MD of a creative agency, I am now a Consultant and Adviser.
The Henley MBA experience is profound. The experience and remarkable honesty brought to Greenland’s by a range of mature, experienced managers allowed for huge cross-pollination of approaches and ideas.
