Executive MBA (AI)

Summary

Study level
Award
MBA
Part time
1 year+
Location
Online
Faculty of Business

What makes Arden University special?

Education
Education for everyone, everywhere
Whether you're constrained by location, cost, time, or other life commitments, we're passionate about giving you access to higher education that fits into your busy, modern life.
Where to study
You decide how and where to study
We offer a wide range of flexible undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in both our online and blended study modes.
Support
Full support both online and on-site
We're also proud to offer non-standard entry, meaning your work experience and previous qualifications are taken into account when assessing your application.
Employability
Strong focus on employability
You will gain in-depth subject knowledge and transferable skills that employers from a huge range of industries will value. Many of our courses at Arden are also accredited by leading professional bodies in the UK.

Course Overview

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a key driver of innovation, boosting productivity, and giving businesses a competitive edge across various industries. Managers who use AI tools can leverage predictive analytics to anticipate market changes, understand customer preferences, and prepare for potential disruptions. Arden’s Executive MBA (AI) is designed to equip managers and professionals with the strategic knowledge and skills needed to effectively use AI in business, regardless of their technical expertise. 

The specialised senior management conversion programme will immerse you in AI and its strategic applications. As businesses increasingly integrate AI into their existing ecosystems, future employers expect business management graduates to be well-versed in leveraging AI to drive the triple bottom line—people, planet, and profit. Our Executive MBA in AI will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to meet these expectations.  

No technical AI experience needed 

This Executive MBA programme is tailored for anyone looking to enhance their leadership and strategic management skills while acquiring the knowledge to leverage the growing use of AI in business. Combining core Executive MBA topics—like leadership, financial management, and competitive strategy—with practical AI applications such as big data and cloud solutions, this programme equips you to make immediate, impactful decisions in your organisation. Developed by industry experts, it ensures you're ready to lead in a tech-driven world from day one. 

Triple Accredited 

This course is triple accredited by three prestigious organisations: the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), and the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE). That means along with your MBA, you'll earn several additional qualifications: 

  • CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice 
  • ILM Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership 
  • IOEE Professional Extended Diploma in Business Innovation and Growth 

These credentials give you the expertise and professional recognition needed to excel in your future career. 

This is the perfect time to join the Executive MBA in AI, a programme that not only prepares you for leadership roles in today's rapidly evolving workplace but also positions you to thrive in the future. 

The UK’s number one Executive MBA as ranked by CEO Magazine
Exec MBA 2024

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Course details and modules

Just some of what you’ll learn on the course: 

Understanding AI applications: You’ll gain a solid grasp of AI technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics. This will help you identify opportunities for automating tasks, enhancing customer service, and analysing big data. 

Data-driven decisions with AI: You’ll learn how AI can improve data analytics, enabling you to make better decisions. For example, you can use AI to predict market trends, optimise supply chains, and personalise customer experiences, giving you a strategic edge. 

Innovating business models: The course emphasises the technical and strategic aspects of AI. You’ll gain the skills to innovate business models, drive digital transformation, and align AI with business goals, helping your company stay competitive. 

* This course focuses on AI management, making it accessible to everyone regardless of their technical expertise. Students will not be required to code or develop AI software, ensuring that anyone with an interest in AI can participate and benefit. 

Simon Henry

I’ve found that studying my degree online with Arden has given me a much more comprehensive foundation of knowledge around the topics I don’t often encounter in my work role, including financial decision-making, ethics and strategy. This knowledge will enable me to progress to more strategic roles in the future.

Simon Henry
MBA Online

Modules

  • Fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (20 credits) 
  • Competitive Strategy (20 credits) 
  • Analysing Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (20 credits) 
  • Leading Global Teams and Organisations (20 credits) 
  • Managing Digital Transformation & Innovation (20 credits) 
  • Financial Management (20 credits) 
  • Transformation Capstone Project (60 credits) 

How do we assess you?

This course is designed to showcase your strengths through various methods, including: 

  • AI Business Simulation 
  • Case Studies 
  • Reports 
  • Presentations 
  • Research Projects 
  • Business pitch competitions

Skills for your future 

The Executive MBA (AI) will equip you to drive significant improvements across various business functions through the strategic use of AI: 

  • Risk management: Analyse digital footprints and credit history, enhancing credit assessments and reducing bad debt. 
  • Customer relationship management (CRM): Personalise interactions and predict customer needs, increasing loyalty and sales. 
  • Customer experience: Analyse data to tailor offers, customise messages, and optimise touchpoints, boosting satisfaction and retention. 
  • Human resources: Streamline recruitment, predict retention, and enhance scheduling and productivity. 
  • Supply chain management: Forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimise logistics to save costs and improve efficiency. 

By integrating these AI-driven strategies into your organisation, you’ll be able to enhance performance and drive growth across multiple areas of the business. 

Study options

The course is available to students via online learning. This gives you the convenience of being able to study worldwide, providing you with the same high standards of teaching but with lower tuition fees.

Abdulrahaman Usman

As a mature student the key factors that I wanted when deciding which university was best for me was quality content, a flexible learning schedule, and programme accreditation. During my research I found that Arden really stood out, and I could study without having to give up my job.

Abdulrahaman Usman
Master of Business Administration

Part-time online learning

How does it work?

Studying this course online gives you the ultimate in convenience. You can enrol with Arden from anywhere in the world and study your degree from the comfort of home, without the requirement to attend classes in a physical location.

Our online students study their degree through ilearn, Arden’s university campus in the cloud. ilearn provides everything you need to study at university. It offers an integrated virtual learning experience, including your virtual classroom, lecture theatre, and access to our Library Portal. The portal includes an extensive digital library including thousands of journal titles, eBooks, and academic and industry databases which you can use to research your assignments and projects. All of these materials are provided to you free of charge and contain all the research information you’ll need to complete your degree with us.

ilearn is also integrated with Zoom, making it easier to chat with your course tutor during your scheduled seminar sessions. You can even integrate our study materials into your Kindle, making it possible to study wherever you have your Kindle handy.

Studying online doesn’t mean studying alone. As well as receiving regular feedback and guidance from your course tutor, you’ll be studying with like-minded students whom you can meet with through our Unitu community, and you’ll have access to community message boards to discuss your course and the topics being raised within it. We’ve even set up community boards embedded into each of the course modules so you can have discussions with your tutor and classmates on the topics you’re currently learning.

Online learning student’s resident in the UK can apply for a Maintenance Loan if they cannot attend their course in person because of a disability. Please find more information on our fees and funding page. If you're a student from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland you can find information on Living Cost Loans from your student finance body.

Learn more about online learning

Entry requirements

At Arden University we consider applications on a case by case basis. If you have significant work experience, have qualifications you have gained elsewhere, or a degree or qualification that isn't a clear pathway to this degree - we are more than happy to discuss your application.

What you need to study with us

Our aim is to make learning as accessible as possible by ensuring that you can study in a flexible and convenient way. That's why we keep our requirements simple. All you need is a laptop or desktop PC (we recommend one running the latest version of Windows), and a good internet connection. Through ilearn, our online university campus in the cloud, you'll be able to access your course calendar, support services, learning materials, and our online library containing thousands of ebooks, as well as tools for creating assignments, keeping notes, and collaborating with other students on your course.

This is a suitable conversion programme for graduates from various disciplines currently using or anticipating incorporating Artificial Intelligence into their business decision-making process.   

We consider applications on a case-by-case basis. If you have significant work experience, have qualifications you gained elsewhere, or hold a degree or qualification that isn't a clear pathway to this degree, we are more than happy to consider your application. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for our Executive MBA (AI), you should normally have: 

  • A UK Honours Degree at a minimum of second class (2.2) or equivalent. 
  • 2 years’ suitable work experience. 

English proficiency

  • Evidence you have previously studied in English; a letter to show that the Medium of Instruction was in English can be accepted. Alternatively, IELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in any element) *; or TOEFL iBT 90; or equivalent.  

Alternate entry routes 

  • Applicants with existing postgraduate business awards may be eligible for entry with advanced standing and will be considered through the APL process.    
  • Applicants with substantial managerial experience (typically 5 years) who can provide references and a detailed CV demonstrating their ability to successfully complete the programme may be admitted even if they do not have degree-equivalent qualifications. 

Course fees and funding

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Meet the faculty

Dr. Syed Ali Tarek PhD, MSc Oxf, SFHEA

Our dedicated faculty, with deep industry experience, is here to support you every step of the way. We are passionate about fostering a collaborative and dynamic learning environment where you can thrive. As part of our flagship EMBA programme, you’ll apply real-world skills, explore diverse global perspectives, and develop the leadership expertise needed to drive meaningful change. We look forward to welcoming you to Arden University.

Dr. Syed Ali Tarek PhD, MSc Oxf, SFHEA
Head of the Department, MBA and Executive Education

Career prospects

Graduates will gain a deep understanding of AI’s capabilities, applications, and ethical considerations, along with how to drive AI adoption within organisations. They will be prepared for roles that focus on leveraging AI for innovation, automation, and decision-making. 

What will the Executive MBA (AI) do for me?

Are you already in a management role and want to lead organisations in using AI for competitive advantage and growth? The Executive MBA (AI) will provide you with the skills you need to advance your career. During your studies, you will: 

  • Demonstrate your ability to harness AI technologies for strategic decision-making 
  • Showcase your skills in integrating AI into business processes 
  • Develop expertise in driving innovation and digital transformation with AI 
  • Boost your strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, preparing you for advanced roles in AI management and strategy 

What can I do after Arden University?

Roles in AI Management often involve integrating AI into business operations, leading digital transformation efforts, managing product development, or consulting on strategy. Potential positions include: 

  • Chief Transformation Officer  
  • AI Strategist 
  • AI Product Manager 
  • Risk Analyst 
  • Investment Strategist 
  • Marketing Manager 
  • Consumer Behaviour Analyst 
  • Compliance Manager 

Industry skills

Chartered Management Institute (CMI)

This course awards a CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice and offers CMI Full Chartered Manager Status *

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) promotes excellence in UK management and leadership. As the CMI possesses a Royal Charter, they are the only organisation in the UK that can award Chartered Manager status to their members – the gold standard in management. With 140,000 members, the institute aims to boost career development across the management sector and connect like-minded professionals.

As an Arden student, you’ll have free CMI Membership throughout your studies, giving you access to a range of additional resources including a mentoring service and invitations to networking events both online and offline.

Upon completion of this CMI-accredited course, you will be awarded CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership Practice and gain CMI Full Chartered Manager Status. This recognises you have the skills needed to be an effective manager, helping you stand out from the competition and start your management career journey - with a CMI qualification and a clear pathway to full Chartered Manager status.

*Upon completion of your course, the CMI award and level of chartered status awarded will depend on your level and length of study, whether you entered your course with Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL) or if any compensation is applied on your modules throughout the duration of study. If this criteria applies to you, you may receive one of the 2 different levels; an Award or Certificate.

The Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM)

This course is accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). You'll graduate with an ILM Level 7 Diploma in Leadership and Management.

The ILM is a professional membership body for leaders and managers, with a mission of inspiring great leadership through qualifications, training, and cutting-edge research. The institute is a globally recognised mark of quality for its members and provides valuable insights through its vast industry links and publications.

As an Arden student, you’ll receive free membership to the ILM for a year after your graduation, giving you access to over a thousand comprehensive learning resources, including webinars, videos, leadership assessment tools, a dedicated e-learning tool, careers advice, and networking opportunities.

The Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE)

This course awards the IOEE Professional Extended Diploma in Business Innovation and Growth

The Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs (IOEE) is the first learning institute dedicated to developing and recognising enterprise and entrepreneurial skills. Arden University has been recognised as an IOEE Academy and our courses are accredited. This demonstrates our commitment to enterprise and equipping students with the skills needed to set up and run their own business, work in a small enterprise, or bring entrepreneurial skills to a larger organisation.

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) membership

Arden University is a member of the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). AACSB International is a global association of leaders in education and business dedicated to supporting and advancing quality business education worldwide.

This membership reflects the fact that Arden University has successfully matched the high standards required by the AACSB, and enables the sharing of ideas and the exchange best practises between global business schools. Membership also gives our faculty members access to in-depth data and research to support the development of our courses and teaching methods, ensuring that we are able to provide you with the best possible university experience.

Business Graduates Association (BGA)

The BGA is a membership and quality assurance body. As a member, Arden University has signed up to the BGA Charter, committing their institution to responsible management practices and lifelong learning, positively impacting their students, communities, and the economy. This shows our students that we are demonstrating responsible management ourselves, as well as it being a central theme that runs through our own courses.

As Arden University is a member of the Business Graduates Association (BGA), students will receive complimentary BGA student and graduate membership. Through this membership, current students will have access to the BGA Career Development Centre, packed with interactive tools, e-learning content, partner discounts and the latest job opportunities. This is a lifetime access, which means students will continue to have access to these services even after they graduate.

enterprise incubator

Arden Enterprise Incubator

As an Arden University student, you’ll have access to the Arden Enterprise Incubator (AEI) online platform to support you in the area of entrepreneurship. Whether students are exploring the idea of setting up their own company or need help and guidance launching or growing an existing business, the AEI provides everything students need to kick start their entrepreneurial journey, as well as to support and empower them along the way.

The AEI has a wealth of resources available including monthly master classes, boot camps, podcasts, blogs, external events, and mentorship. Mentors include Arden University lecturers and industry experts, so our students receive the very best support and expertise.

 

LinkedIn Learning

All Arden students will have free access to LinkedIn Learning through the Library Portal. LinkedIn Learning is a video-based online learning platform offering over 16,500 expert-led courses across a wide range of subjects including business, technology, and creative skills.

With LinkedIn Learning, you can:

  • Pursue curated learning pathways aligned with our curriculum and your career goals.
  • Add value to your LinkedIn profile by showcasing your newly acquired skills.
  • Personalise content based on skills relevant to your chosen career path, interests and prior learning.