How to identify a world-class business school | Top Universities
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How to identify a world-class business school

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Craig OCallaghan

Updated May 16, 2025
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Find a school offering academic excellence and a supportive environment

Sponsored by the University of Bath School of Management 

When comparing your available study options, there are several indicators to look for which will demonstrate if an institution is right for you.  

Does the curriculum excite you with its commitment to academic excellence? Is the institution at the forefront of research and academic innovation? Is there a global community of alumni and faculty to support and inspire you? 

Finding answers to these questions isn’t always straightforward, particularly if you’re unable to visit institutions in person or meet representatives face-to-face.  

We spoke to the University of Bath School of Management, one of the UK's premier institutions for business education, to learn more about the signs to look for when trying to identify a world-class business school. 

How to identify academic excellence

With a commitment to fostering innovation, leadership, and research excellence, the University of Bath School of Management offers a dynamic environment in which students thrive, combining world-class education with real-world learning opportunities. 

This commitment is captured by how well the School of Management performs in several rankings, including those published by QS. Rankings are a useful tool when researching institutions as they offer an unbiased, external perspective on the quality of teaching. 

However, rankings can’t tell you everything and it’s important to also spend time exploring the different courses and modules available at an institution.  

The Bath School of Management offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes. Curricula are designed to be both challenging and relevant, incorporating the latest research and industry trends. 

Whether you’re an experienced executive seeking to elevate your strategic capabilities or a rising professional aiming to accelerate your career trajectory, the School of Management offers programmes designed to meet your unique needs. 

Their Executive MBA is ideal for senior leaders who want to fit professional development around work commitments, while their full-time MBA is a one-year programme well-suited for ambitious professionals ready to make a significant career leap. 

The School of Management also offers a suite of one-year general and specialised master’s programmes for recent graduates, including Business Analytics, Marketing, Innovation & Technology Management, and Sustainability and Management.  

The unique feature of the School of Management MSc courses is that all students have the option of corporate engagement as part of their summer options. These provide excellent opportunities for students to put their academic learning into practice, build their CV and network, and gain professional skills. 

Every degree programme is tailored to meet the evolving demands of the business world, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your future career. 

How to identify a commitment to research

Studying in a research-led environment is not only deeply inspirational, it also ensures your course content is informed by the latest developments in your chosen area of study. 

At the University of Bath, the School of Management is a leading centre for research, with 93 percent of research submissions assessed as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ and 53 percent of all submissions meeting the highest possible standard in the latest Research Excellence Framework. 

These research initiatives address some of the most pressing issues in business and society, from digital security to sustainable development. The newly launched Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour exemplifies a commitment to cutting-edge research that has real-world impact. 

Faculty members are not only educators but also thought-leaders in their respective fields. Their research is frequently published in top academic journals, and they are actively involved in shaping business practices and policies.  

This strong research foundation enhances the learning experience, providing students with insights into the latest developments in business theory and practice. 

When comparing institutions, this is why it’s important to look at who will be teaching you and who is on the faculty as well as the topics you’ll be studying as part of your degree. 

How to identify a supportive student environment

At the University of Bath School of Management, student experience is a top priority. A range of services – including academic advice, career counselling, and wellbeing support – are available to help students achieve their full potential.  

Information about support services such as these can typically be found on a university’s website, allowing you to easily compare different institutions. 

Schools which are deeply committed to supporting their students, such as the University of Bath, will have dedicated teams who provide personalised support to help students navigate their career paths.  

Through workshops, networking events, and internships, students at the School of Management gain valuable practical experience and build connections with industry leaders. Strong ties with over 380 corporate partners offer students numerous opportunities to engage with the business community and gain insights into potential career paths. 

How to identify a global community of alumni

The benefits of attending a business school shouldn’t just be limited to your time while at university. The support offered by a global alumni network can be long-lasting and help you take crucial steps forward professionally. 

For over 50 years, the University of Bath has shaped leaders who excel in hundreds of organisations worldwide, and the school prides itself on its diverse and vibrant community.  

Students from around the world come to the beautiful UNESCO city of Bath to study, bringing a wealth of perspectives and experiences. This global outlook is reflected in a curriculum which emphasises the importance of understanding and navigating the complexities of the international business environment. 

Regular events, such as the Bath MBA & Master’s Insight series, alumni networking and skills series, provide opportunities for members of the community to connect, share experiences, and support each other. 

If you’re attending a university fair or open day, find out if a school supports their alumni community through similar events. You can also use LinkedIn to reach out to alumni and ask about their experiences.