MANAGERS will have another opportunity to study for the world’s leading postgraduate management qualification without having to leave Guernsey. The GTA University Centre, with the University of Southampton, is planning to run a master’s in business administration programme from September.

Taught completely in-island by visiting tutors, the MBA is a high-quality programme, both academically rigorous and highly practical, exposing delegates to the latest management theories and practices.

It is a qualification still very much in demand and highly regarded by employers.

‘An MBA is still widely accepted as the gold standard in management qualifications,’ said Chris Edwards, programmes manager responsible for the course at the GTA.

‘It is the most recognised senior management programme and its key appeal is that it is applicable to individuals from a cross section of backgrounds.’

Mr Edwards was a member of the first group of 11 students to complete the qualification through the agency in 2006.

‘I thoroughly enjoyed the course and really benefited from learning with such a diverse group of fellow students,’ he said.

‘From experience, I can say that being able to study without having to leave the island was a huge advantage. Students have world-class academics coming to them rather than having to travel to the UK so the access to and relationships built with the tutors is second to none.’

It will be the third time the two-year course has been run in-island. The second one is due to be completed later this year.

This year sees the introduction of six bursaries, five from the university and one from the Confederation of Guernsey Industry.

Prospective students are invited to attend a presentation to be held by representatives from the university and the GTA at 12.30pm tomorrow at St James.

*To reserve a place, phone Mr Edwards on 721555.