Developing high-impact leadership skills for today’s professionals
The Cranfield Senior Leader Apprenticeship+ Executive MBA, in partnership with , is a part-time programme designed for experienced professionals looking to enhance their leadership potential without stepping away from their careers. This unique programme blends apprenticeship funding with the academic rigor of an MBA, providing a financially accessible, high-impact route to leadership excellence.Overview
- Start date19 March 2025
- Duration28 months
- DeliveryYou will be assessed through a mixture of exams, written projects and presentations. Taught in person for 3 consecutive days each month (Thursday - Saturday)
- QualificationMBA, PgDip
- Study typeExecutive / Part-time
- CampusCranfield campus
Why choose this programme?
Flexible learning
Designed for ambitious professionals, our part-time schedule allows you to balance work, study, and personal commitments. Engage in monthly, immersive learning blocks supported by Cranfield’s faculty, peers, and dedicated apprenticeship tutors.
Immediate real-world impact
Apply new knowledge and skills directly to your organisation, achieving measurable results as you study.
Social mobility and diversity in leadership
Cranfield is committed to advancing social mobility. This programme provides pathways for high-potential individuals to advance in leadership, including those without formal qualifications. Diversity in leadership is proven to drive organisational success and positive social change.
Programme structure
Two-part study journey
The programme is delivered in two stages: Part 1, encompassing the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship, and Part 2, leading to the Executive MBA. Eligible organisations can utilise the Apprenticeship Levy for Part 1, making this programme a valuable, cost-effective pathway to an internationally recognised MBA qualification.
Part 1: Building the foundations
Over 15 months, you’ll develop core leadership competencies and fulfil the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship standards, with a curriculum that enhances skills in leadership, business strategy, data analytics, operations management, and strategic innovation.
End-point assessment
The apprenticeship journey during Part 1 includes a five-month period which culminates in an End-Point Assessment, including a Strategic Business Proposal. Supported by your employer, this project allows you to demonstrate your new skills, knowledge, and behaviours through real-world applications.
Part 2: Elevating to executive leadership
Following the apprenticeship, you will then move on to the Executive MBA course. This is an advanced learning segment which focuses on strategic insight, innovation, and leadership, equipping you with the capabilities to lead effectively at the highest levels.
How you’ll learn
You will benefit from a mix of in-person classes, team-based projects, case studies and simulations. Monthly in-person sessions on campus allow for collaboration and networking while digital components provide the flexibility needed for busy professionals. You’ll receive guidance from dedicated apprenticeship tutors and our course directors and module leaders.
We are very proud of our programme and business school rankings.
Choose your pathway: Specialisations for every leader
The Cranfield Executive MBA allows you to follow elective pathways that complement your experience and follow your desired career pathway.
Commercial
Learn to craft strategies that drive business transformation, develop stakeholder management skills, and deliver impactful change.
Entrepreneurship
Develop entrepreneurial thinking, from launching new ventures to leading innovation within established organisations.
Finance
Build expertise in financial strategy, mergers, acquisitions, and corporate finance, empowering you to make data-driven decisions at a strategic level.
Programme benefits
Benefits to you, the student
Unlock your leadership potential
Our programme is designed to help you become a confident and strategic leader, prepared to step into higher-level roles and take on greater challenges. With the skills and knowledge you’ll gain through our SLA+ Executive MBA Programme, you’ll feel empowered to break through barriers, aiming for roles that truly match your ambitions.
Join an inspiring network of leaders
At Cranfield, you’ll connect with a vibrant community of fellow professionals, alumni, and industry experts. These connections become more than just contacts; they’re mentors, collaborators, and allies who can support your journey forward.
Real-world learning, real-time impact
Our hands-on approach allows you to apply your learning immediately. The practical knowledge you gain will help you make critical decisions and see results not just in the classroom but in your role, building both your expertise and your confidence.
Benefits to your organisation
Develop leaders who drive real impact
Your organisation gains professionals who are confident, strategic decision makers and can successfully take on greater responsibilities. This expertise doesn’t just elevate the individual; it enhances the entire team and helps future-proof the business.
Tackle today’s challenges with fresh thinking
Cranfield SLA+ Executive MBA’s applied learning ethos, enables learners to bring practical solutions to immediate business issues in their business environment. This approach enables learners to make a measurable impact from day one, translating theory into practice and bring outcomes that directly benefit the organisation.
A long-term investment in talent
Supporting employees on this journey shows a commitment to their development and demonstrates a dedication to inclusivity and social mobility. This investment pays off through higher motivation, retention, and a workforce ready to lead with a broader perspective.
Profile of a typical Cranfield SLA+ Executive MBA candidate
Typical demographics
Average age: 35-45 | Experience: 10-20 years | Gender split: 40% female 60% male
Background: Candidates typically hold senior roles or roles with substantial responsibility and aim to move into C-suite positions, to shift industries, or to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Career goals: The typical Cranfield SLA+ Executive MBA candidate is genuinely motivated to elevate their leadership impact, to transition into executive roles, and to drive transformation.
The Cranfield Senior Leader Apprenticeship+ Executive MBA in partnership with Grant Thornton is aimed at Senior Leaders with mid- to senior-level experience, who are looking to develop the skillsets required to lead a department or business.
- Minimum of five years' post-qualification work experience.
- A strong degree and/or a professional qualification or be able to demonstrate high levels of achievement, exceptional career progression or evidence of leadership potential through an interview with Cranfield faculty
- English language: full details of how you can meet this requirement can be found in our 'Entry Requirements' section.
Please note: a full assessment of your prior skills is required for all Apprenticeship applications, to ensure that candidates meet the requirements when drawing on the Apprenticeship Levy and that the apprenticeship is the most appropriate training programme for the individual.
How to apply
Next steps
Step 1
Speak with your employer and ask them to submit an on your behalf.
Step 2
Connect with for any queries.
Application deadlines
Expression of Interest: 10 January 2025
Application: 17 January 2025
