Today a plethora of awarding bodies and so called “universities” offer MBA’s in Sri Lanka that fail to provide the necessary criteria required of a qualification of this nature. They contain no substance in relation to developing the skills needed as a “real master of business” and the ability to contribute in strategic decision making.

Addressing this harsh reality, NIMS University, India, has launched an MBA , with a curriculum that is designed to develop effective decision-making skills, that incorporates practical applications with the latest management concepts and theories..

A state university approved by the University Grants Act, this seat of higher learning is one of the largest and most respected State Universities in North India. Launched as the National Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), today NIMS University has expanded into a leading multi-faculty university in India. Fields of study at NIMS University include medicine, engineering, management and technology, law, the arts, humanities and even nuclear engineering.

NIMS University launched its MBA in Sri Lanka through the establishment of the NIMS Sri Lanka Campus in July this year, in partnership with NEXT, a premier professional education institute in Sri Lanka. Having cemented its reputation as the leading Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM-UK) study centre in Sri Lanka, the NEXT Institute of Management also offers a selection of professional studies, postgraduate degrees, as well as providing corporate training and consultancy services.

Elaborating on the uniqueness of the NIMS MBA, a spokesperson for NEXT underscores the need for careful consideration prior to choosing one’s MBA programme.

“When choosing an MBA programme students must consider a number of factors including the awarding body, the course and its duration and what specialization is on offer, the faculty, assessment method and finally the investment needed..”

He stressed that while the validity and acceptance of the awarding body is a key factor, in terms of course content, it is best to opt for one that offers a minimum of 16-18 subjects and has specialisations. Another important criteria is that the faculties assessment method should include presentations, discussions and examinations. It is also essential that it should have ready access to relevant study material and databases.

Quality Education :

With the second batch commencing in early January 2012, the NIMS MBA conforms to globally accepted standards with 18 modules being covered over a two year period. It has specialisation options in finance, marketing, HR and operations, which culminates in the final project stage and dissertation.

Experienced lecture panel :

The team of lecturers consists of a panel that includes eminent visiting lecturers from the University of Colombo and Kelaniya and proven industry professionals such as CEO’s , Heads of Marketing , Financial Controllers and Corporate Trainers from leading blue chip companies. They provide a learning environment that allows students to integrate management knowledge and theories with practical and ethical business practices.

Added Value :

Among the many advantages to students who opt for this course, is a free membership to the American Centre. They can access its library facilities and databases; as well as other research facilities including Science Direct, JSTOR, Sage, Wharton and Cambridge . Delivered at an extremely affordable price, evening and weekend classes are conducted to coordinate with the schedules of working adults.

Eligibility criteria for the NIMS MBA programme offered at Next include a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification from a professional awarding body. Interested students could log on to www.next.lk for further information.

The MBA will appeal to both experienced managers who are keen to improve and enhance their practical and theoretical knowledge and for those about to enter work, wishing to broaden their understanding of business and management. With the NIMS MBA, one can be assured that they will gain the knowledge and experience to develop practical and effective management solutions to address the challenges faced in today’s business environment . This will give them a definite competitive edge and many growth opportunities in their careers, as these skills will be of particular value to many organisations that operate both on a global and national scale.