The Online Football Industries MBA (Online FIMBA) is a new, online MBA dedicated to the global football industry. As an MBA programme, it has a real business focus that management positions in football and sports demand.
Wherever you are in the globe, through our Online FIMBA programme, you’ll gain a critical awareness of football issues and the wider sports world, enabling your holistic development as a football or sports executive trained through our triple-accredited Management School.
Our Online FIMBA programme is based on our highly ranked on-campus Football Industries MBA which was established over 25 years ago. Offered part-time over two years, the programme combines the core MBA curriculum created by our world class faculty that includes modules in leadership, managing financial resources and marketing alongside specialist football modules.
The football specific curriculum has been designed by our academic staff from the Centre for Sports Business, a leading hub for sports business research and practice who bring expertise and industry experience from sports analytics, economics, governance and finance.
Our Director of Studies for the Online FIMBA programme introduces the programme and reasons why to apply:
We’re offering a range of scholarships for those students who are eligible starting in September 2026.
If you want to kick-start your career in football management or up your game in the sports business, this programme is for you!
Many of our candidates who join the FIMBA come from other sectors but have a lifelong passion and ambition to work in the game or start their new business within the football industry.
Typically, you will have a minimum of 3 plus years work experience in a professional or managerial capacity. Those who do not hold a degree or the required degree classification yet have extensive professional experience (more than 5 years) and/or a postgraduate qualification are encouraged to apply. For more information about eligibility, please get in touch with the MBA team at ulmsmba@liverpool.ac.uk.
This is a part time, online course for 24 months, offering the flexibility to study in your own time, from anywhere in the world.
More details can be found under Teaching and Assessment.
Our students come from a wide range of sectors, industries, backgrounds, countries and cultures. Read our campus-based students’ stories and find out more about why they chose the Management School, highlights of the programme to date, and valuable advice if you’re considering an MBA.
Our campus based Football Industries MBA features in the top 30 global and top 5 European SportBusiness postgraduate course rankings for 2025.
If you already hold an MBA or are working in the industry and would like to study the football-specific modules only, we offer a Certificate in Business Administration (Football Industries).
The University of Liverpool Management School is one of an elite group of institutions worldwide to hold the gold standard ‘triple-crown’ accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
The 24 month full-time programme consists of 12 compulsory modules followed by an MBA Impact Project. 180 credits are taken in total.
There are eight modules in year one.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL INDUSTRY (ULOL763) | 10 |
| LEADERSHIP THEORY AND PRACTICE (ULOL847) | 10 |
| FINANCIAL REPORTING AND ANALYSIS (ULOL701) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The 24 month full-time programme consists of 12 compulsory modules followed by an MBA Impact Project. 180 credits are taken in total.
There are eight modules in year one.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MARKETING IN THE DIGITAL AGE (ULOL842) | 10 |
| SPORT GOVERNANCE AND THE LAW (ULOL721) | 10 |
| INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AND THE GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT (ULOL849) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The 24 month full-time programme consists of 12 compulsory modules followed by an MBA Impact Project. 180 credits are taken in total.
There are eight modules in year one.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| SPORTS MARKETING AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT (ULOL829) | 10 |
| SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE (ULOL822) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The 24 month full-time programme consists of 12 compulsory modules followed by an MBA Impact Project. 180 credits are taken in total.
There are four modules in year two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FOOTBALL ECONOMICS AND ANALYTICS (ULOL804) | 10 |
| INNOVATION AND STRATEGIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP (ULOL704) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
The 24 month full-time programme consists of 12 compulsory modules followed by an MBA Impact Project. 180 credits are taken in total.
There are four modules in year two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FOOTBALL AND FINANCE (ULOL724) | 10 |
| BECOMING A FOOTBALL EXECUTIVE (ULOL824) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MBA IMPACT PROJECT (ULOL823) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching and assessment
The learning, teaching and assessment strategies for all online programmes are aligned with the three University of Liverpool hallmarks of research-connected teaching, active learning and authentic assessment – as well as the three University of Liverpool Graduate attributes of confidence, digital fluency and global citizenship.
You’ll take modules totalling 120 credits, with the dissertation or consultancy based project completed at the end of your studies being worth 60 credits. You’ll be supported by your academic supervisor during the dissertation or consultancy based project.
You’re required to complete 180 credits to achieve a full MBA. Subject to meeting specific criteria outlined by the University, you’ll graduate with a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
How you’ll study
Studying online allows you to study in your own time and from wherever works best for you – whether that is from your home, during your lunch hour or anywhere else you have internet access.
With online FIMBA, you can study in your time and wherever through live and recorded sessions. All our online programmes are delivered through Canvas, the University’s Virtual Learning Environment, enabling you to thrive in a flexible and engaging hybrid approach.
Key features include:
Canvas provides a flexible, engaging learning environment that combines the benefits of online study with the interactivity of traditional classrooms.
Assessments
Assessments will reflect the University’s hallmark of authentic assessment, which may include report writing, reflective practice, research projects, individual or group presentations and a business simulation exercise that each represent the kinds of tasks you would be expected to undertake in a professional setting. There is also one exam (delivered online) within the Managing Financial Resources module.
The weighting of individual components will vary from one module to another. All assessment information is included within the module handbook at the start of each module.
Online learning experience
We will support your online learning experience with high-quality learning materials and resources, which can all be found on Canvas.
Typically, your learning experience will include the following:
On average, you will need to dedicate a minimum of 15-20 hours of study per module, per week.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Mario was passionate about football from a young age and completed his campus-based Football Industries MBA in 2016. He is now a FIFA Licensed Football Agent. Watch his story below.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
FIMBA is the one and only MBA with a focus on football, worldwide. It provides the who’s who of football industry professionals and lecturers, giving you the chance to be part of the strongest and most diverse football network.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Dedicated MBA careers support
Whatever your experience as a manager and whatever your professional ambitions, you’ll be supported with your future career planning from the very first week.
FIMBA is at the centre of one of the best existing global networks in the football industry, with alumni working for the top football/sports clubs, governing bodies, media and commercial organisations in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa.
Some of our most recent graduates are now working in:
INTERESTED IN HOW OUR ALUMNI HAVE PROGRESSED?
Find out how Mario achieved his long-term goal of becoming a football agent following his graduation from the FIMBA programme in 2016. You can also read more of our alumni stories.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Part-time place, per year - £14,000
Part-time place, per year - £17,750
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27. Please note, the fee for this course includes one international study trip to a European destination, including accommodation and excursions. The fee does not include any additional costs associated with the trip, such as flights and visa applications. The School cannot guarantee that visa applications connected with the study trip will be successful. Fees will not be refunded to students who do not participate in the international study trip.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Please note that this scholarship is only available for those starting The Liverpool MBA, Football Industries MBA (campus based) or Online Football Industries MBA starting in September 2026 and January 2027. If you’re an MBA offer holder, with four or more years of professional or managerial experience and a strong academic background, you could be eligible to receive a discount of 50% off your tuition fees.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | Professional experienceMBA Candidates are normally expected to have a minimum of 3 years’ work experience in a professional or managerial capacity. This should be evidenced by providing a copy of your current CV detailing your experience and achievements to date (this may include examples of key projects, managerial responsibilities, or leadership). Please ensure that you include dates of employment and job titles on your CV. Preference will be given to those who can demonstrate that they have strong business and management experience. QualificationsCandidates will normally be expected to hold a 2:1 Honours degree (which may be in any discipline) from a UK university, or an equivalent professional qualification from a similar non-UK institution. Non-graduates who possess extensive professional experience (more than 5 years) and/or a postgraduate qualification are encouraged to apply. Non standard entry Non standard entry relates to applicants who may not hold a degree or the required degree classification, but may have appropriate experience. We would still encourage applications if you have:
Each application is considered on a case-by-case basis and will include an informal, online interview with the MBA team. The interview is an opportunity to discuss your suitability for the MBA programme, as well as your experience and interest in the MBA programme. Applicants should apply via the normal route. For more information on the non-standard entry process, please contact ulmsmba@liverpool.ac.uk. Personal statementThe personal statement encourages applicants to write around 200 words for each of the following sections:
GMAT scoreA GMAT score is not a mandatory requirement; however, we do encourage candidates who have undertaken the examination to submit their scores for consideration alongside other criteria during the admissions process. We look for a balanced score across all components of the GMAT and will only accept scores which are still valid (attained within the last 5 years) by the time of entry to the programme. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 15 June 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions